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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS
This individual will function as a member of the Penn State Extension – Franklin County 4-H team, collaborating with the 4-H educators and other staff in the Penn State Extension Office in Franklin County. Major responsibilities include implementing and ensuring industry standards are met in teaching therapeutic riding lessons, training therapeutic riding instructors, selecting and schooling program horses. In carrying out the assigned duties, the individual will work directly with other part-time Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center staff, volunteers, and the Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center Advisory Council. This position is administratively responsible to the Penn State Extension 4-H Youth Development Educator in Franklin County and the Penn State Extension Business Operations Manager.
Specific Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the Advisory Council to develop long-term strategies and annual plans that support the sustainability and growth of the program.
- Lead and manage public relations and fundraising initiatives, including website and social media oversight, community networking, and public presentations.
- Actively evaluate and implement operational efficiency measures to streamline operations to optimize resources, including Penn State 4-H staff.
- Collaborate in the development of the annual budget, oversee accounts payable and receivable, and complete all required financial paperwork in accordance with Penn State policy.
- Recruit, train, and evaluate therapeutic riding and driving instructors annually. Address performance concerns and, if necessary, manage dismissal procedures.
- Conduct parent/guardian meetings on participant objectives, teaching methods, and progress in instruction. Participate in horse selection decisions in collaboration with the Stable Manager and Lead Riding Instructor.
- Participate in horse selection decisions in collaboration with the Stable Manager and Lead Riding Instructor.
- Annually review and update the following in coordination with the 4-H Educator: Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center Policy and Procedures Manual, Parent Handbook, Volunteer Handbook, and Rider and Volunteer Application Forms.
- Assist in coordinating volunteer training and lesson scheduling with instructors, the Barn Manager, and the Volunteer Coordinator.
- Provide guidance and support to the Stable Manager regarding horse care, including feeding, veterinary, farrier, and dental services.
- Under the direction of the 4-H Educator, provide on-site supervision for the following Therapeutic Riding Center personnel: Volunteer Coordinator, Stable Manager, Riding Instructors, Facilities & Maintenance Volunteer.
- Collaborate with the 4-H Educator to address and, if necessary, dismiss volunteers who violate the Penn State 4-H Volunteer Leader Code of Conduct.
- Engage in ongoing professional development related to the therapeutic riding program.
- Attend Advisory Council, Operations Committee, and Penn State Extension – Franklin County staff meetings. Co-develop meeting agendas with the Advisory Council President and Operations Committee Chair.
- Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the 4-H Youth Development Educator or Area Business Operations Manager to support program success.
Requirements, qualifications, and/or competencies:
Education & Certification
- Bachelor’s degree in Equine Facilitated Therapeutics, Business Administration, or related field preferred.
- PATH International or CECTH Therapeutic Riding Instructor Certification preferred.
- Proven success in fundraising and public relations.
Interpersonal & Communication Skills
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with volunteers, youth, families, and the general public.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Technical & Confidentiality Skills
- Experience with zSuite, SIMBA, and Outlook software preferred.
- Proficiency in information technology and digital communication tools.
- Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
Organizational & Teamwork Abilities
- Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
Schedule:
- Approximately 24 hours per week.
- Flexible schedule required, including availability for some evenings and weekends.
Compensation:
The starting rate for this job is $25/hour
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.
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