DEPARTMENT: Mercer County Equestrian Center
SALARY: $19.25 – $21.25 per hour, DOE
LOCATION: Pennington, NJ
POSITION(S) AVAILABLE: 1
SCHEDULE: 10–15 hours per week (current program schedule; may include Sundays, Mondays, and Fridays) PART TIME
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Adaptive Riding Instructor plays a vital role in delivering high-quality equine-assisted programs at the Mercer County Equestrian Center (MCEC). Located on 243 acres in Pennington, NJ, MCEC provides English riding lessons, adaptive riding, equine-assisted therapies, and educational programs for the public year-round. The Adaptive Riding Instructor oversees adaptive riding classes, supporting both public participants and Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) equestrian athletes.
This position ensures lessons are safe, inclusive, and aligned with Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) and Special Olympics standards. The Instructor works collaboratively with management, staff, and volunteers to maintain a positive learning environment, support program growth, and promote equine welfare.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Assess potential new clients for program suitability and establish individualized participant goals.
- Design and deliver safe, engaging, and effective adaptive riding lesson plans tailored to participant needs.
- Facilitate weekly private or group adaptive riding sessions, providing strength-based coaching and inclusive instruction.
- Maintain accurate records of participant progress, attendance, cancellations, and intake paperwork.
- Recruit, train, and supervise volunteers to support program delivery.
- Ensure equines are handled respectfully and that horse welfare and safety are prioritized during lessons.
- Inspect, maintain, and properly store tack, equipment, and supplies; report issues and recommend replacements.
- Monitor and respond to participant or volunteer incidents, completing reports in a timely manner.
- Coordinate with the Director/Assistant Director and instructional team to ensure program quality and communication.
- Uphold MCEC safety protocols and industry best practices.
- Support Special Olympics New Jersey athletes as a registered volunteer/coach.
- Maintain professional certifications, continuing education, and knowledge of equine care and adaptive riding standards.
REQUIREMENTS:
EDUCATION & CERTIFICATION:
- PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) or Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) Instructor of Riders with Disabilities (IRD) certification (current) or actively pursuing certification.
- Registered as a Special Olympics coach/volunteer (or willing to register immediately upon hire).
- First Aid, CPR, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification for child and adult.
EXPERIENCE:
- Strong background in riding, horsemanship, and equine care.
- Experience with adaptive riding, equine-assisted activities, or therapeutic instruction preferred.
- Familiarity with equine health, behavior, equipment, and safety practices.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
- Ability to create individualized participant goals and adjust instruction for a range of abilities and diagnoses.
- Strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
- Effective time management, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
- Ability to remain calm, professional, and focused under pressure.
- Commitment to MCEC's mission and dedication to participant and equine safety.
- Reliability, consistency, and a steady professional presence.
BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH MERCER COUNTY:
Mercer County is committed to supporting the well-being and growth of all employees, including part-time staff. While benefits may vary based on hours worked and union affiliation, part-time employees may be eligible for:
- Access to select health and wellness programs
- Participation in the Defined Contribution Retirement Program (DCRP), where applicable
- Opportunities for training and professional development
Access to employee support services and participation in county-sponsored initiatives
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Mercer County EEO/ Civil Service Statement & Residency Requirements:
Mercer County is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, disability, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.
As a Civil Service employer under the State of New Jersey, all candidates must comply with New Jersey Civil Service Commission regulations and guidelines. Mercer County residency is required. Non-residents must establish residency within one (1) year of employment.
Mercer County is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws, specifically in accordance with the New Jersey State Policy Prohibiting Discrimination in the Workplace .
