Part-Time | Cave Creek, Arizona DOE

The Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor is responsible for planning and delivering safe, effective, and engaging adaptive riding lessons for individuals with diverse physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.

Guided by PATH Intl. standards and Horses Help's mission, the CTRI collaborates with staff, volunteers, and families to support participants goals, protect horse welfare, and create a positive, inclusive enviroment. The role brings together horsemanship, instruction, and compassion to create meaningful equine-assisted experiences.

Participate in evaluations for new riders as assigned, following Horses Help evaluation protocols.

Collaborate with the Program Supervisor to develop goals for each participant based on input from caregivers, therapists, and school IEPs.

Develop and implement individualized lesson plans aligned with participant goals and Horses Help documentation standards.

Maintain measurable session objectives and weekly progress notes, and summarize progress at the end of each session.

Submit documentation to the Operations Director in a timely manner, including horse-care records, lesson notes, incident reports, and horse-usage information.

Maintain equipment and facilities to support safety and program quality.

Monitor equine behavior and well-being before, during, and after sessions.

Advocate for each horse’s needs by adjusting or stopping activities that may cause stress or discomfort.

Evaluate and select appropriate horses for program use.

Assist with the training and exercise programs for horses used in assigned lessons.

Select, maintain, and properly fit tack for lessons.

Maintain the cleanliness and organization of lesson supplies.

Provide volunteers with guidance and support related to safe equine handling and session protocols.

Help create a culture of respect and learning in which volunteers feel confident and supported.

Serve as a role model for ethical horsemanship and compassionate teamwork.

Support the safe and effective delivery of equine-assisted services while upholding Horses Help’s mission, vision, and values.

Maintain PATH International accreditation standards.

Participate in center events as able, including the minimum number identified in annual performance goals.

Maintain confidentiality and sensitivity toward all campus guests.

Current PATH Intl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor, Supervising Instructor, or Mentor certification.

Ability to maintain all PATH Intl. certification and continuing-education requirements.

Current First Aid and CPR certification, or the ability to obtain certification within 30 days of hire.

Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Equine Science, Education, Special Education, Therapeutic Recreation, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field. Equivalent education and experience will be considered.

At least one year of experience providing adaptive riding instruction for people with physical, cognitive, sensory, or developmental disabilities.

Ability to adapt instruction to each participant’s needs, abilities, and goals.

Experience or training in trauma-informed care, neurodiversity-affirming practices, and person-centered services.

Experience working with autistic individuals, veterans, or people with behavioral-health needs.

Experience working with nonverbal participants or people who use augmentative and alternative communication.

Knowledge of sensory regulation and adapted instruction.

Experience collaborating with therapists, caregivers, Equine Specialists, volunteers, and program staff.

American Sign Language or bilingual English and Spanish skills are a plus.

Work takes place in an equine environment and may include exposure to changing outdoor weather conditions.

Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and complete physical tasks associated with lessons and horse care.

Some evening and weekend availability may be required.

Must be able to move throughout the campus while carrying or transporting equipment.