Facilities Supervisor

Mississippi State University; Starkville (MS); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Mississippi State University is seeking a full-time Equine Manager at the Horse Unit in Starkville, MS. Responsibilities include overseeing the horse herd, teaching equine training courses, and coaching the equestrian team. The ideal candidate should hold a Master’s degree in animal and dairy science and possess strong communication skills. The role requires extensive physical activity and flexibility in scheduling. Experience in horse handling and instruction is preferred, alongside a valid driver's license.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in animal and dairy science or closely related field.
• Experience riding and handling young horses.
• Experience instructing undergraduate courses and coaching students.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and manage care of the horse herd.
• Teach advanced equine training and riding courses.
• Serve as an equestrian team coach.

Skills

Communication skills

Equine farm operation knowledge

Team management

Education

Master's degree in animal and dairy science

Tools

Valid driver's license

Job description

Apply now Job no: 510499

Position type: Full-Time 12-Month

Department: 016600 - Foundation Herds

Location: Main Campus - Starkville, MS

Categories: Professional

Position Open Date: May 6 2026

Position Function

The management and operation of the Mississippi Agricultural and Forestry Experiment Station (MAFES) Horse Unit located at the H.H. Levick Animal Research Center. Teach advanced equine training and riding courses and leadership of the nationally recognized MSU IHSA Equestrian Team.

Area of Specialization

Horse Unit

Anticipated Appointment Date

July 16, 2026

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Supervise and complete activities associated with the care of the horse herd including general management of breeding animals.
2. Responsible for the care of the horse herd including feeding, foaling, health and foot care, record keeping, registration, billing, horse donation and sales, ordering of supplies, maintenance of pastures, fences, buildings, and minor repair of equipment.
3. Supervise students and be responsible for hiring of student employees and for time reports and records of the personnel under his/her supervision.
4. Assist and support faculty with instructional courses and research activities.
5. Coordinate with the H.H. Leveck Animal Research Center Facilities Manager to perform duties in other areas as needed.
6. Teach advanced equine training and riding courses.
7. Serve as an equestrian team coach including holding practice with undergraduate students, traveling to competitions, and hosting equestrian contests.
8. Work under the direct supervision of the faculty liaison for the Horse Unit and the Department Head.
9. Shifts will vary; the successful candidate will be expected to work weekends and holidays as needed, and the job requires flexible scheduling.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in animal and dairy science or closely related field.
• Licensure: Valid driver’s license.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience riding and handling young horses.
• Experience instructing undergraduate courses and coaching students.
• Ability to palpate, ultrasound, and artificially inseminate mares.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Candidates must have excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills and the ability to foster a collaborative and collegial atmosphere. Knowledge of equine farm operation and ability to manage people.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Considerable physical activity. Requires heavy physical work; heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 pounds. Work may involve moderate exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Mississippi State University is an equal opportunity institution. Discrimination is prohibited in university employment, programs or activities based on race, color, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, religion, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as a U.S. veteran, or any other status to the extent protected by applicable law. Questions about equal opportunity programs or compliance should be directed to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance, 231 Famous Maroon Band Street, P.O. 6044, Mississippi State, MS 39762, [phone].

Accommodation

In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act, if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation in order to apply for a position with Mississippi State University, please contact the Department of Human Resources Management at [phone] or [e-mail].

Application Instructions

All applicants must apply online at www.jobs.msstate.edu to be considered for this position. Attach college transcripts, resume, and cover letter to the online application. Any social security numbers included on requested transcripts should be redacted prior to submitting online. Three names of reference along with contact information should be submitted with the application.