Equestrian Program Lead Assistant

Equestrian Program Lead Assistant

Salary

$19.00 - $20.00 Hourly

Location

Jester Park Equestrian Center, 11171 NW 103rd Court, Granger, IA

Job Type

Part-Time (less than 30 hours/wk)

Job Number

C26-23B (7139)

Department

Polk County Conservation Board

Opening Date

07/19/2026

Closing Date

8/30/2026 11:59 PM Central

FLSA

Non-Exempt

Bargaining Unit

N/A

Hours

TBD

Bargaining Unit

Not Applicable

Salary Grade

N/A

Location

Conservation Board

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Turn your love of horses and the outdoors into an unforgettable experience for others. As a Guided Trail Ride Lead, you'll lead riders through Jester Park, support a strong team, and help create safe, confident, and memorable adventures on horseback.

Under general supervision, provides instruction on safe riding practices and techniques, horsemanship, and the proper care and treatment of horses to the public during programming. Schedules use, maintains records related to wellness, driving, and/or riding program activities; assist in the development and implementation of programs; assists in the care of horses, cleaning of stalls, and removal of manure. Reports to the Equestrian Services Team Lead as directed.

Illustrative Examples of Work

1. Provides both individual and group instruction on safe horsemanship practices and techniques, grooming, saddling, and related horse care, and horse behavior to persons with varying experiences and familiarity with horses; demonstrates mounted and unmounted techniques as needed; provides suggestions to participants to improve their skills.

2. Selects and prepares horses for programs, assessing each horse to determine its suitability for the type of program being offered and the experience level of the participant; continually evaluates and identifies any potential behavioral or health issues impacting the horses suitability for programs and takes remedial action as necessary.

3. Develops and implements for individual and group programs ranging from basic to advanced riding skills and horsemanship instruction; modifies plans as required to adjust to the participants needs and previous experiences.

4.Collects, maintains, and prepares documents and records including but not limited to release forms, participant attendance, horse health and behavior, and facilities and premises safety.

5. Assists with monitoring and evaluating facilities and premises to ensure they are safe and well maintained; identifies safety hazards; takes immediate corrective action and/or brings hazards to the attention of appropriate staff to eliminate hazards; terminates program if necessary to protect the rider and/or the horse.

6. Brushes, trims, and curries coat of horses; inspects horses for evidence of disease and injury; administers medication and treats horses in accordance with instruction from the Barn Supervisor.

7. Maintains stalls including water and feeding equipment; feeds, waters, and exercises horses; clean horse quarters and removes manure from paddocks, arenas, and grounds.

8. Assists with monitoring volunteers in existing work methods and proper use of materials and equipment to ensure conformance with acceptable standards.

9. Assists in implementing events, recreational programs, educational programs, and wellness programs as needed.

10. Provides assistance and information to the general public.

11. Operates some heavy equipment in the maintenance of the facility such as a skid loader, tractor, gator, or pick-up truck and trailer.

12. Performs related duties as assigned.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Knowledge of proper care and grooming of horses and common horse disease and injuries.

Knowledge of instructional techniques.

Knowledge of horse behavior.

Knowledge of safe horseback riding practices and techniques.

Skill in horseback riding or driving.

Ability to effectively demonstrate proper riding or driving and horse grooming techniques to persons with varying riding experience and familiarity with horses.

Ability to develop both individual and group programs tailored to the needs, experience, and goals of the participant.

Ability to effectively adjust to new or changing techniques in working with horses and/or riders.

Ability to identify disease, injury, or behavior problems of horses.

Ability to identify potential safety hazards and take appropriate action.

Ability to remain standing for extended periods of time.

Ability to successfully match riders with suitable horses.

Ability to monitor the work of volunteers.

Ability to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.

Ability to collect information, maintain accurate records, and prepare reports.

Ability to establish and maintain

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, representatives of other organizations, volunteers, and the general public.

Ability to administer medication in accordance with instructions from the Barn Supervisor.

Ability to work outside in varying weather conditions.

Ability to lift and carry hay, feed, supplies weighing up to 50 pounds.

Training and Experience

• Graduation from high school, and two years of experience with the care and working of horses, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which will have provided the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• Certification from an equestrian institution such as PATH, EAGALA, or CHA preferred.

Special Requirements

• Candidate must pass a post-employment offer physical examination and Physical Capacity testing to ensure candidate meets the essential physical requirements of the position as shown on the attached Physical Capacity Profile.

• A criminal background check is required.

• A drug screen is required prior to final offer of employment.

• Certification in CPR/AED and First Aid is required within six months of hire.

• Candidate must be able to work a flexible schedule including evenings, weekends and holidays.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Check with Polk County to determine if benefits are available.

01

[ED11] Are you a high school graduate with a diploma or an equivalency certificate (GED)?

• Yes
• No

02

[WS7] Are you able to work weekends and holidays?

• Yes
• No

03

[WS13] Are you willing to work variable hours, including some evenings, weekends, holidays, or other irregular hours?

• Yes
• No

04

[E54] Are you knowledgeable in operating manure spreader equipment?

• Yes
• No

05

[D1] Do you currently have a valid Iowa Drivers License?

• Yes
• No

06

[D2] Do you have the ability to obtain/maintain a valid Drivers License issued by the State of Iowa?

• Yes
• No

07

[WS2] Are you willing and able to respond to emergency requests after regular or irregular workdays and on-call emergencies on nights, weekends, and/or holidays?

• Yes
• No

08

[P3} Do you have the ability to perform work involving the lifting and carrying of materials regularly? [SELECT ALL THAT APPLY]

• weighing 50 - 100 pounds
• weighing up to 60 pounds
• weighing up to 50 pounds
• weighing up to 30 pounds

09

[E9] What are your total years of experience in the management/supervision of barn support staff?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

10

[E10] How many years of experience do you have providing riding instruction?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

11

[M3] We require a cover letter to be attached to your application. Have you attached your cover letter?

• Yes
• No

12

[M2] We require a resume to be attached to your application. Have you attached your resume?

• Yes
• No

13

[E22] Are you experienced in operating the following equipment? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

• Hand tools
• Power tools
• Mowers
• Acetylene torch
• Trailers
• Pressure washers
• Weed Eaters
• ATVs
• Custodial Cleaning Equipment
• None of the above

14

[D4] Do you currently have a Class A CDL?

• Yes
• No

15

[ED14] Selecting all certifications in equestrian instruction you are currently certified in?

• None
• PATH Int. - Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship: CTRI - Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor
• PATH Int. - Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship: Driving Instructor
• PATH Int. - Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship: Interactive Vaulting Instructor
• PATH Int. - Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship: ESMHL - Equine Specialist Mental Health and Learning
• EAGLA - Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association: Equine Specialist
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Assistant Instructor
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Level 1
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Level 2
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Level 3
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Level 4
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Master Instructor
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Assistant Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - English/Western Instructor, Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Assistant Trail Guide
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Level 1
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Level
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Level 2 Overnight Guide
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Level 3 Packing Guide
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Level 4 Wilderness Guide
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Assistant Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EWI - TRL - Trail Guide, Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: CMB - Combined English/Western Instructor & Trail Guide
• Certified Horsemanship Association: SES - Seasonal Equestrian Staff, Assistant Seasonal Equestrian Staff
• Certified Horsemanship Association: SES - Seasonal Equestrian Staff, Seasonal Equestrian Staff
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EFM - Equine Facility Manager, Level 1
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EFM - Equine Facility Manager, Level 2
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EFM - Equine Facility Manager, Level 3
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EFM - Equine Facility Manager, Level 4
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EFM - Equine Facility Manager, Assistant Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: EFM - Equine Facility Manager, Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: IRD - Instructor of Riders with Disabilities, Assistant Instructor
• Certified Horsemanship Association: IRD - Instructor of Riders with Disabilities, Level 1
• Certified Horsemanship Association: IRD - Instructor of Riders with Disabilities, Level 2
• Certified Horsemanship Association: IRD - Instructor of Riders with Disabilities, Level 3
• Certified Horsemanship Association: IRD - Instructor of Riders with Disabilities, Level 4
• Certified Horsemanship Association: IRD - Instructor of Riders with Disabilities, Assistant Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: IRD - Instructor of Riders with Disabilities, Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: VLT - Vaulting Coach, Assistant Instructor
• Certified Horsemanship Association: VLT, Level 1
• Certified Horsemanship Association: VLT, Level 2
• Certified Horsemanship Association: VLT, Level 3
• Certified Horsemanship Association: VLT, Assistant Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: VLT, Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: DID - Driving Instructor, Assistant Instructor
• Certified Horsemanship Association: DID - Driving Instructor, Level 1
• Certified Horsemanship Association: DID - Driving Instructor, Level 2
• Certified Horsemanship Association: DID - Driving Instructor, Assistant Certifier
• Certified Horsemanship Association: DID - Driving Instructor, Certifier
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Endurance & Competitive, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Dressage, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Dressage, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Dressage, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Driving, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Driving, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Driving, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Eventing, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Eventing, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Eventing, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Hunt Seat, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Hunt Seat, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Hunt Seat, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Hunt Seat on the Flat, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Hunt Seat on the Flat, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Hunt Seat on the Flat, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Mounted Patrol Training Officer, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Mounted Patrol Training Officer, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Mounted Patrol Training Officer, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Recreational Riding, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Recreational Riding, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Recreational Riding, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Reining, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Reining, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Reining, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Riding to Hounds, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Riding to Hounds, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Riding to Hounds, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Show Jumping, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Show Jumping, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Show Jumping, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Saddle Seat, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Saddle Seat, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Saddle Seat, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Side-Saddle, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Side-Saddle, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Side-Saddle, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Stable Management, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Stable Management, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Stable Management, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Western Dressage, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Western Dressage, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Western Dressage, Level 3
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Western Equitation/Pleasure, Level 1
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Western Equitation/Pleasure, Level 2
• ARIA - American Riding Instructors Association: Distance Riding: Western Equitation/Pleasure, Level 3
• USHJA - United States Hunter Jumper Association
• BHS - British Horse Society
• Pony Club
• Equine Studies Institute

16

[WS5] This position is year-round, working no more than 29 hrs/week. Are you available to work a flexible schedule year-round?

• Yes
• No

17

[E32] Have you supervised and evaluated the work of staff?

• Yes
• No

18

[ED15] Are you currently certified in First Aid and CPR?

• Yes
• No

19

[ED24] Do you have the ability to obtain and maintain certification in Forklift operation?

• Yes
• No

20

[E24] Are you highly efficient with following Microsoft Office Suite programs? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

• Word
• Excel
• Planner
• OneDrive
• Outlook
• PowerPoint
• OneNote
• SharePoint
• Microsoft 365

21

[E19] Do you have the ability to operate the following equipment safely and professionally? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

• Tractor (min. 50 hp)
• Skid-loader
• Mini Skid Steer
• Dump Truck
• Telehandler/Boom Truck
• Utility Vehicles (UTV)
• All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV)
• Excavator
• Forklift
• Truck and Trailer
• Bucket Truck
• Boom Truck
• Chipper
• Stumper
• Forestry Mower

22

[E50] Have you worked in a management capacity multi-function Equestrian Center?

• Yes
• No

23

[ED12] Please Indicate the highest level of education you have completed.

• High School/GED
• AS/AA
• BA/BS
• Masters
• Doctorate

24

[E51] What level do you consider yourself as a rider?

• Professional
• Expert
• Advanced
• Competent
• Novice
• Beginner

25

[M1] Are you 18 years of age or older?

• Yes
• No

26

[P2} Check all statements you can physically do:

• I can perform manual labor tasks in all types of weather conditions.
• I can climb ladders and work from heights.
• I can safely operate equipment such as hand tools, power tools, service vehicles, gators, tractors, custodial cleaning equipment, and pressure washers.
• I have the ability walk and stand for prolonged periods.
• I have the ability walk on uneven surfaces.
• I can operate vehicles equipped with a manual transmission.
• I can back equipment with a trailer attached.

27

[M6] We offer a variety of programs at Jester Park Equestrian Center. Which of the following programs would you be interested in your internship? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

• Guided trail rides for the public.
• Summer camps for children
• Equine assisted learning and therapy programs
• Team Driving programs

28

[WS8] How many hours per week are you looking to work?

• 5-10 hours
• 10-15 hours
• 15-29 hours

29

[WS1] We provide public programming Monday-Saturday from 7 am-8 pm, depending on the program. Select all your availability to work.

• Mornings
• Afternoons
• Evenings
• Split Shifts
• Weekends
• Holidays

30

[WS10] We provide public programming Monday-Saturday from 7 am-8 pm, depending on the program. Select all your availability to work.

• Saturdays
• Sundays
• Mondays
• Tuesdays
• Wednesdays
• Thursday
• Fridays

31

[M4] Polk County Conservation does not participate in dual employment with current employees of other Polk County units. Are you looking to transfer units?

• Yes
• No

32

[E4] How long have you ridden horses?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

33

[E7] How many years of experience do you have in professional care/boarding of horses?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

34

[E8] How long did you receive formal instructions for riding?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

35

[E12] How many years of experience do you have working for or within a public entity?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

36

[E13] How many years of experience do you have working with Veterans and /or in the field of mental health?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

37

[E14] How many years of experience do you have in leading or mentoring teenage youth?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

38

[E55] How many years of experience do you have working in Parks and Recreation or Agritourism?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

39

[E42] Please mark the areas of outdoor experience you have.

• Hiking
• Camping
• Fishing
• Archery
• Climbing
• Sking
• Snowboarding
• Biking
• Sledding/Tubbing
• Kayaking/Cannoning
• None

40

[D3] Do you have a clean driving record? (Select the option that applies)

• Clean Driving Record
• Less than 3 moving violations in the last 3 years
• 3 or more moving violations in the last 3 years
• 1 or more major moving violations in the last year (i.e., OWI, Reckless driving)
• 2 or more major moving violations in the last 5 years (i.e., OWI, Reckless driving)

41

[E26] Are you knowledgeable in basic computer use, such as email, typing, using a mouse or touchpad, navigating to and around programs, and troubleshooting?

• Yes
• No

42

[E25] Are you highly efficient with the following? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY

• Computer
• Scanner
• Multi-Function Printer
• Fax
• Point of Sale Systems
• Phone

43

[E43] What is your comfort level with riding a trained horse on a walk?

• Extremely comfortable
• Very comfortable
• Moderately comfortable
• Slightly comfortable
• Not at all comfortable

44

[E44] What is your comfort level with riding a trained horse on a trot?

• Extremely comfortable
• Very comfortable
• Moderately comfortable
• Slightly comfortable
• Not at all comfortable

45

[E45] What is your comfort level with riding a trained horse on a canter?

• Extremely comfortable
• Very comfortable
• Moderately comfortable
• Slightly comfortable
• Not at all comfortable

46

[ED16] Do you have the ability to obtain and maintain certification in First Aid and CPR?

• Yes
• No

47

[E52] What length of time were you in competitive horsemanship?

• 0 to 1 years
• 1 to 2 years
• 2 to 3 years
• 3 to 4 years
• 4 to 5 years
• 5 plus years

48

[WS3]{PT} you will work flexible hours as a variable-hour employee. Select all of your availability that applies.

• Monday - Thursday (6:00 am - 4:30 pm twice a week) & (6:00 am - 3:30 pm once a week)
• Tuesday - Friday (6:00 am - 4:30 pm twice a week) & (6:00 am - 3:00 pm once a week)
• Monday - Friday (6:00 am - 1:30 pm three times a week) & (6:00 am - 11:00 am once a week)
• Monday - Friday (7:00 am - 3:30 pm three times a week) & (7:00 am - 12:00 am once a week)

Required Question

Employer Polk County

Address 111 Court Avenue Suite 390 Human Resources

Des Moines, Iowa, 50309

Phone 515-286-3200

Website https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/polkia