The Refuge, a Healing Place is looking for a PRN Equine Specialist to provide support to the equine program.  The Refuge is a residential trauma treatment center located on 96 acres in the Ocala National Forest and treats clients seeking treatment for trauma, substance use, eating disorders, other co-occurring behavioral health disorders.

PURPOSE STATEMENT:

Responsible for maintaining a clean, presentable, and safe environment in the stable area while supporting the health and well-being of the horses owned by the facility. 

Pay for this position starts at $20/hr and increases based on relevant equine work in behavioral health.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Involved in aspects of horse training each day and correct undesirable horse behavior using natural horsemanship techniques.
• Maintain farrier services for all horses owned by Sierra Tucson.
• Report repair needs of fences, pastures, horse stalls, and barn to the manager and assist in the repairs.
• Report any horse injuries or horse health concerns to the appropriate manager and recommend decisions for healthy horse care.
• Assess with manager the appropriateness of horse feed to ensure healthy diet for the horses and order and pick up feed.
• May support patients assigned to horse care exercises involving grooming.
• Work with additional equine staff to support the well-being of patients and the horses. 

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

• High school diploma or equivalent required. Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.
• Five or more years’ experience training and utilizing natural horsemanship techniques required.

LICENSES/DESIGNATIONS/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Valid Drivers License
• CPR and de-escalation/restraint certification may be required (training available upon hire and offered by facility).
• First aid may be required based on state or facility.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual’s characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.

REFHP