PATH International CTRI – (Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor)

Ourlivesmadison; Darien (CT); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

Ourlivesmadison is seeking a part-time riding instructor to join SMILES, focusing on equine-assisted activities for clients with special needs. The role involves teaching classes, supporting volunteer coordinators, and maintaining documentation while meeting PATH International standards.

Responsibilities include horse care, records management, and participation in meetings and events. Candidates must hold CTRI, CPR/First Aid, and a valid driver’s license, with flexibility for evenings and

Qualifications

• Current PATH International CTRI certification required.
• Current CPR and First Aid certification.
• Strong equine handling knowledge and skills.
• Demonstrated ability in basic riding skills in English and/or western.
• Demonstrated ability to interface with diverse volunteers, clients and caregivers.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Dependability and responsibility history.
• Ability to be flexible and adaptable.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Must pass a background check.

Responsibilities

• Teach classes of up to six students, maintaining PATH and SMILES standards.
• Assist Volunteer Coordinator with training and volunteer interaction.
• Maintain client and class paperwork, attendance, and progress notes.
• Provide after-class horse and tack care, and keep facilities organized.
• Attend instructor/staff meetings and enrichment activities.
• Support events and activities as directed by leadership.

Skills

Equine handling

Interpersonal communication

Team collaboration

Adaptability

Riding (English/Western)

Education

High school diploma

PATH CTRI certification

CPR and First Aid certification

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

The PATH International CTRI organizes, implements, facilitates, and evaluates the interaction between horses and clients with special needs for the purpose of contributing to their cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being. The instructor will embrace the culture of the SMILES organization, value our rich history and work closely with volunteers and other staff. This position reports to the Program Coordinator/Lead Instructor.

SMILES MISSION

SMILES transcends traditional therapeutic methods by offering individuals with special needs the joy of participating in an equine assisted program which provides social, emotional, physical, and personal rewards.

POSITION SCHEDULE & HOURS

This is a part-time position averaging 20–30 hours per week. The schedule includes teaching classes two evenings per week and Saturday mornings, with additional daytime hours dedicated to program preparation, meetings, documentation, and other responsibilities that support SMILES’ equine-assisted services.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Teaching: Instructs classes of up to six students at a time.
  • Meet the qualifications and conduct classes in a manner that is in keeping with PATH International standards and SMILES policies and procedures.
  • Provide assistance to other Instructors as a Support Instructor as required.
  • Communicate and interact effectively with students, parents or caregivers, donors, and visitors.
• Volunteer Management
  • Assist Volunteer Coordinator with training(s) when requested.
  • Communicate and interact effectively with volunteers.
  • Participate in the celebration of National Volunteer Week.
• Documentation: Maintain all appropriate client and class paperwork.
  • Maintain and submit written class assignments noting student, horse, tack and volunteer assignments.
  • Maintain attendance records and report absent volunteers and clients to the office so follow-up contact can be made.
  • Create lesson plans as needed.
  • Maintain client progress notes in DonorPerfect (our CRM software).
  • File Occurrence Reports for any accidents or incidents.
• Horse & Facility Care
  • Provide after-class horse and tack care.
  • Clean and organize riding helmets after classes.
  • When required, water arena and complete barn chores as necessary.
• Professional Responsibilities
  • Maintain PATH certification through necessary continuing education requirements.
  • Attend mandatory instructor and staff meetings
  • Attend mandatory instructor enrichment.
  • SMILES plans multiple events throughout the year, and it is essential for employees to be in attendance and assist where needed or directed by Executive Director.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Current PATH International Instructor (CTRI) certification required

• To learn more about the CTRI certification process, visit the PATH Int’l website here: pathintl.org/certification/ctri/

• Current CPR and First Aid certification
• Strong equine handling knowledge and skills
• Demonstrated ability in basic riding skills in English and/or western.
• Demonstrated ability to interface and engage with diverse volunteers, clients and caregivers.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills
• Demonstrated history of dependability and responsibility
• Ability to be flexible and adaptable
• Ability to collaborate with and work within a team environment
• A valid driver’s license
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must be able to pass a background check

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

• Experience teaching horseback riding lessons

• Familiarity and experience with individuals with special needs

EDUCATION

• High school diploma

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Ability to work in extreme cold/hot/humid weather conditions
• Evening and weekend commitments are required.
• Reasonable accommodations may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions needed

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Must be able to stand/walk on rough terrain and cement for at least two hours

Other Duties as Assigned

Please note this job description is not a complete list of all activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Compensation

The part-time instructor position pays $20 to $25 per hour. Opportunities for salary increases are available.