Job DetailsJob LocationHRCA Rec Center at Southridge - Highlands Ranch, COPosition TypePart TimeSalary Range$15.00 - $28.00 HourlyJob CategoryBackcountry Wilderness AreaDescriptionJOB TITLE: Backcountry Wilderness Area Horse Camp CounselorFLSA Status: Non-Exempt(Seasonal: May to August)General Statement of Duties: Responsible for leading and coordinating daily horse camp activities and equine lessons for Camp Backcountry, fostering a safe, engaging, and educational environment for children.Supervision Received: Reports to the Equine Program Manager, Equine Program Coordinator, and other Backcountry Wilderness Area staff.Supervision Exercised:None. JOB DESCRIPTIONExamples of Duties: The following examples of duties are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.
- Care for HRCA-owned and leased horses and barnyard animals, including feeding, watering, and mucking.
- Supervise up to 14 children daily, ensuring their safety, engagement, and enjoyment.
- Teach age-appropriate lessons incorporating weekly themes such as trail riding, obstacle courses, and horse health.
- Facilitate educational and recreational outdoor activities and games tailored to the interests and abilities of campers.
- Actively interact with and engage campers during all Camp Backcountry programs.
- Supervise and participate in programs led by outside contractors, ensuring quality and camper safety.
- Maintain high standards of health and safety by adhering to all camp policies and procedures.
- Follow established procedures during camper check-in and check-out.
- Prepare the camp environment daily, including set-up and clean-up.
- Collaborate with fellow camp counselors and Backcountry Wilderness Area staff to achieve program goals.
- Maintain a positive and professional attitude in all weather conditions and situations.
- Attend all required staff meetings and training sessions.
- Respond effectively to emergency situations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Physical and Environmental Standards:
- Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions, including wind, rain, snow, heat, humidity, sun, and cold.
- Requires physical ability to traverse uneven terrain and perform tasks such as standing, walking, crouching, bending, kneeling, lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying up to 60 pounds unassisted.
- Vision requirements include near and far acuity.
- Manual dexterity is necessary for writing, typing, and operating tools or phones.
- Effective verbal communication and listening skills are essential for interacting with campers, parents, and staff.
QualificationsQUALIFICATIONSRequired Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
- Interest in, respect for, and ability to work with children.
- Basic knowledge of horse care, including feeding, watering, and injury care.
- Familiarity with horse breeds, anatomy, health, and care of domestic animals (or willingness to learn).
- Strong preference for experience in Western and English riding disciplines.
- Ability to adapt lesson plans to suit various learning styles and abilities.
- Strong work ethic and motivation to contribute positively to the camp environment.
- Excellent communication skills to engage effectively with campers, staff, and parents from diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent distractions.
- Previous childcare experience is preferred, with verification of up to 1,040 hours of work with school-aged children for candidates with prior experience.
- Current CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain prior to employment).
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record. Candidates 21 and older may be required to drive 15-passenger camp vans. Commitment to working a minimum of 7 weeks during the 11-week camp season (May 27 - August 8, 2025).
- Availability for mandatory staff training from May 19 - May 23, 2025.
Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.Benefits: Benefits for part time employees include Paid Sick Leave, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Discounts (30%) for Programs and Events, Referral Program, Recreation Center usage.401k plus company match and Health Insurance, Telehealth and Flex Plans after one year if the minimum hours requirement is determined. Education: High School Diploma preferred.Experience: Minimum of 2 years of equine experience, previous experience working with children highly desirable. Application Submittal Deadline: 01-31-2024$15-$18/hour - Entry level, minimum previous childcare or environmental education experience $18-$22/hour - Considered a lead under licensing requirements (over 460 hrs childcare experience. See Colorado State Licensing Rules and Regulations)$22-$25/hour - All of the above qualifications plus college degree and/or 3+ years professional experience$25-28/hour - All of the above qualifications plus college degree and or 5+ years professional experience EOE