Assistant Barn Coordinator

General Function

The Assistant Barn Coordinator reports directly to the Barn Coordinator and assists in whatever aspects are required.  This may include supervision, health and well-being of the horses and equipment, campers, participants and staff as they utilize the equestrian facilities.  This is a seasonal full-time position.

Know How

The Assistant Barn Coordinator position requires:

  1. Desired CHA certification or other nationally recognized horsemanship certification.

  2. Extensive knowledge and experience in taking care of horses and equipment, teaching riding techniques, teaching how to prepare the horses for rides and communicating with staff, veterinarians, the horse leaser and the general public.

  3. Ability to direct and move horses in and out of the barn and lift saddle and tack for horses – ability to lift at least 50 lbs.

  4. Demonstrated ability to supervise others.

  5. Demonstrated ability to work effectively with children and families.

  6. Age of at least 19 years old.

  7. A driver’s license and good driving record.

  8. Be available for emergency calls for emergencies in the event the Barn Coordinator is not available.

Principal Activities

The Assistant Barn Coordinator is responsible for:

  1. Assist the Barn Coordinator in the overall management of the equestrian center and the day and resident camp horse programs. 

  2. Provide supervision and support to the wranglers in the program.

  3. Teach lessons to the day and resident campers.  Lead trail rides and prepare trails for such activities.

  4. Prepare horses for camp activities – ride, train, saddle, groom, feed, clean-up stalls, etc.

  5. Live by, role model and teach the four principles of the Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center:  honesty, caring, respect and responsibility.

  6. In conjunction with the Barn Coordinator oversee the proper care of the horses and equipment, including caring for the horses on evenings and weekends.

  7. In conjunction with the Barn Coordinator, overseeing wrangler staff in teaching riding techniques, safety procedures, assessment of riding abilities, matching horses to campers and supervision of trail rides.

  8. Assist the Barn Coordinator in monitoring the equestrian center and trails for possible risks and hazards and communicating these to the maintenance staff or Director of Camping so they may be fixed.

  9. Present programs that showcase what riders have learned to their parents.  This may simply be a “meet your horse” evening during Family Night for day campers, to a mini “Horse Show” for Beginner and Advanced Wrangler programs for resident camp.

  10. Maintaining the health and safety of campers, members and participants is the #1 priority of the Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center at all times.

  11. Maintaining the health and safety of the horses is an integral part of this position.   Being able to modify programs because of adverse conditions is an important aspect of this position.  Identifying when a horse is ready to be ridden for a camp program, of if a horse needs to be worked by the staff to be ready for a camper.

  12. Assist campers and participants as they increase their understanding of their natural environment.

  13. Ensure that all applicable YMCA, ACA, local, state and federal regulations concerning the equestrian center are fulfilled.

  14. Recognize campers and participants for their personal growth, exemplary behavior and skill attainment.

  15. In conjunction with the Barn Coordinator provide feedback and support to Wranglers about their job performance on a continuous basis.

  16. Guide and direct staff, campers and participants toward their potential by creating a loving and supportive environment.

  17. Be flexible and assist in any and all areas of the Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center as needed and directed.

Effect on End Result

The effectiveness of the Assistant Barn Coordinator will be measured in part by:

  1. The achievement of the goals and objectives of the Sherman Lake YMCA Outdoor Center

  2. Campers have learned a new skill (achievement), made a new friend (relationships) and feel a sense of belonging.

  3. YMCA campers, members and participants having a happy, safe and rewarding experience.

  4. Each staff member and volunteer having a rewarding growth experience.

  5. Positive formal and informal performance reviews.