Job Description

Boutique, private, 12 horse classical dressage and sales operation offers a one to two year contract position, designed for someone serious about starting a career in the equine industry. After one year, the Working Student will have the option to stay on for a second year as an Assistant Trainer. Candidate should be a competent, at minimum intermediate rider, comfortable in a variety of English disciplines, and enthusiastic to learn more about French Classical Dressage. Most important is that the candidate is able to care for the horses to a high standard, and comfortable with sole-charge horse management.

Our prior Working Students have gone on to be professional riders, assistant trainers, FEI grooms, barn managers, instructors, and saddle reps, you are welcome to speak with them about their experience here.

Working student compensation package includes multiple lessons per week, the opportunity to show (free of charge if it's on LOTW horses), private apartment including all utilities, and $250 per week stipend to start (drops to $200 per week if you choose to board a horse). In year two, the Assistant Trainer receives $250 per week plus free board for one horse, including basic feed and farrier services (supplements, vet care are not included) or $300 without a horse. The Assistant Trainer also receives a 10% profit share of all horse sales as a bonus. Both the Working Student and the Assistant Trainer receive 2 weeks paid vacation, and a year end bonus.

Working schedule is 5 - 6 full days a week - hours per day highly dependent on the season, and what is happening that day (i.e. show or travel, vs. at home), but generally 8 until 6 with a lunch break. There are opportunities to make additional income. We consider anyone working for us family, and take pride in seeing our former working students excelling in the horse world at large.

Candidate must be able to perform stable duties (lifting up to 50 lbs, confidently handling horses on the ground), also help with occasional farm maintenance when needed (hay season, paddock and arena maintenance) and be a motivated individual who can work independently. Candidate should be able to demonstrate leadership, responsibility, communication skills. Willingness to learn and enthusiasm for the work are more important than experience. However some farm experience with tractors etc., would be an asset, plus a clean driving license. Any veterinary experience is also a plus.

The working student lives in a private furnished studio apartment. One pet is permitted, and though no deposit is paid we expect you treat the space respectfully. It includes a galley kitchen and a private bathroom, as well as a full closet and central heating and air. Utilities included.

Private, on-site housing, Non-smokers only, limited pets and zero tolerance drug policy. You will also have access to all estate amenities (gym, pool, tennis court etc.), access to farm vehicles; trucks and trailers. Weekly days off, other time off negotiable, paid holidays, and yearly bonus. Optional stabling and board for one horse including farrier (not included: vet bills, meds, supplements, feed that isn't currently carried here). 2 to 3 lessons per week, although often as many as 5, time permitting, and ample additional daily riding options. Opportunities to clinic and to show at both schooling and recognized USDF competitions. Access to our professional networks when you are ready to launch into the horse industry in earnest.

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