Equestrian Barn Supervisor

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County provides opportunities for people to connect with nature. We offer to the public 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and 6 nature and cultural centers. We have 6 million 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 its citizens."

Job Summary

This position coordinates stable operations, provides oversight of equine health care and coordinates the daily operations of the Danada Equestrian Center.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise assigned personnel in stable operations and horse care.
• Perform administrative and recordkeeping duties related to the facility and programs including horse health records.
• Coordinate the volunteer program, update the training manual, develop safety policies, organize recognition activities, and train volunteers.
• Plan, develop and conduct equestrian events and workshops.
• Facilitate procurement and upkeep of supplies, which involves the transportation of materials and District equipment among District sites.
• Oversee and coordinate all professional equine health care providers. Administer injections and monitor vital signs of horses. Perform basic and emergency care of horses.
• Coordinate the operation of the facility and perform related chores, such as fixing fences, mowing fields, and moving manure, which involves the operation of heavy equipment.
• Provide ongoing feedback, coaching, and counseling in a constructive manner, and confront challenging situations directly with a positive approach, aiming to support and mentor employees in their development and progress.
• Resolve and rectify issues, prioritize based on gravity and urgency, analyze the root cause, gather relevant information, develop and evaluate viable solutions, decide on the most effective and logical solution, and plan and execute implementation.
• Supervise staff, including hiring, scheduling, and assigning work, reviewing performance, and recommending salary increases, promotions, transfers, demotions, corrective actions, or terminations.
• 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:

• Technical Training in Equine Science/Management or related field; 4-6 years of related experience with 1-4 years of direct supervisory experience (Includes: training and coaching, responsible for preparing evaluation, assigning work, responsible for work of employee supervised); or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Ability to obtain a Class A (CDL) Commercial Driver's License within six (6) months of employment.
• Knowledge of stable operations and horse farm management, including pasture maintenance.
• Competence in developing, preparing, and delivering equestrian education programs to various age groups.
• Valid Driver's license in good standing.
• Must have and maintain CPR, AED, and First Aid certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
• Must have and maintain Illinois Mandated Reporter certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
• 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 farm 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.

Pay: $60,715 - $68,349 annually

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.