Equestrian Assistant - Intermittent | Wheaton, IL

Detailed Information

  • Location: Wheaton, IL

  • Company: Forest Preserve District Of Dupage County

visitors each year. The District's mission is, " to acquire and hold lands containing forests, prairies, wetlands and associated plant communities or lands capable of being restored to such natural conditions for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure and recreation of it's citizens.

" Job Summary This position provides all aspects of daily animal care and maintenance of the Danada Equestrian Center, as well as participates with delivering equestrian programs to the public. This role assists in volunteer training and supervision to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for both horses and visitors. Essential

Duties and Responsibilities: Provide comprehensive daily care for horses, including cleaning, feeding, watering, grooming, and observation, first aid, routine medical treatments, and recording information.

Prepare and feed horse diets according to the supervisor's guidelines. Administer medication and provide medical treatment under the supervisor's direction. Monitor horse health by observing various indicators, report abnormalities, and provide end-of-shift notes. Recommends changes to diet, facility, herd organization, behavior, and other related matters to supervisor. Perform physically demanding tasks, such as moving bales of hay and straw, bedding, and feed bags, handling wheelbarrows,

hoses, and other equipment. Conduct minor repairs and upkeep as needed to maintain the facility's functionality and appearance.

Operate equipment, including tractors, manure spreaders, mowers, string trimmers, power tools, and hand tools, to perform various duties as required. Monitor the condition of the facility, equipment, and supplies. Manage equipment and supplies inventory and initiate work orders, supply orders, and emergency repairs as needed. Lead, train, and supervise volunteers in performing general duties, work groups, and special events. Actively participate in the development and delivery of educational programs. Engage with visitors and participants to informally share knowledge about equestrian care and related topics.

Collaborate with other District departments and external vendors when assigned to joint projects. Foster a working environment that promotes safe work habits; Become familiar with and observe all applicable safety rules, policies, and work procedures; Follow all safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of the District's safety and risk management program; Keep work area clean, orderly, and free of hazards; Immediately report all unsafe conditions and incidents. Maintain a supportive working environment and demonstrate a desire to exceed the expectations of internal and external customers.

Perform other duties as required. Requirements: High School Diploma/GED. 1-3 years of related experience in the daily care and handling of horses and maintenance of equipment, or equivalent combination of training and experience. Valid Driver's license in good standing. Knowledge of general equine care and handling methods, including behavior, anatomy, and the ability to recognize signs and symptoms of injury and illness. Understanding of occupational hazards and adherence to safe work practices.

Proficiency in working with tools and equipment, including power tools. Proficient in documenting observations in a thorough and objective manner. Effective communication skills, both verbally and in writing. Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, especially in engaging with others and responding to animal behavior problems and emergency situations. Comfort and competence in working with and around potentially dangerous machinery and equipment. Capability to work in close proximity to potentially dangerous and unpredictable animals. Strong interpersonal skills, allowing for courteous, respectful, and productive interaction with supervisors, fellow employees, volunteers, visitors, and participants.

Starting Pay: $20.43 - 22.32 an hour. Shift: Works on an as-needed basis during certain peak seasons or programs for a variable number of hours per week and a variable number of weeks per year. Hours for this position are not to exceed 940 hours in a 12-month period. The Forest Preserve District of Du Page County is an EEO employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, interaction, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, interactionual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

View Jobs by Category >>

Related Jobs