Equine Programming Intern

Location: Granger

The Equine Program Assistant Internship at Jester Park Equestrian Center provides hands-on experience within a public equine facility. This internship is designed for individuals interested in equine management, recreation, education, or nonprofit programming who want to better understand how equine services are

structured, operated, and delivered to the community.

Interns will work alongside experienced staff to learn the operational framework behind multiple equine programs, including public trail riding, summer youth camps, Veteran and driving programs. Emphasis is placed on understanding program flow, safety standards, staffing structure, and overall guest experience within a high-volume public setting.

Throughout the internship, participants will assist with daily operations, support program preparation and execution, and gain exposure to the behind-the-scenes planning that supports successful equine programming. Interns will also develop professional skills in communication, teamwork, time management, and public engagement in a dynamic environment.

This internship offers a well-rounded experience that blends equine care, program support, and operational learning, providing valuable insight into both the horse and human sides of a public equestrian center.

Not just riding horses - learn how equine programs are built, run, and sustained.

Under the direct supervision of a specified Unit Manager, assists in performing duties as assigned in accordance with the student's educational program and the needs of the unit to which the student is assigned; and to perform related duties as assigned. Assists in varied assignments such as technical/professional work, research, analysis, and other duties as assigned.

* Performs routine work pertinent to the subject area to which assigned such as administration, natural resources, environmental education, community outreach, parks advocacy, parks planning, construction and maintenance, equestrian, and leisure services.

* Specific work assignments depend on the terms of the student's educational program and the unit to which the student is assigned. Examples of work to be performed in each division or area include:

* Administration- data entry; meeting attendance and documentation; correspondence development; operating office equipment and computer software

* Community Outreach- content creation for websites, social media, and print materials; digital asset management; special event assistance

* Parks Advocacy- general park maintenance and facility upkeep;
Park Ranger job shadowing; actively participate in visitor services

* Parks Planning- GIS data entry and mapping, design development, field visit/site condition assessment, written reports, and presentations

* Equestrian Center- equine feeding and grooming; facility maintenance; public programming

* Leisure Services- day-to-day contact with venue/event participants; event planning and execution; marketing and communications; hospitality

* Performs related duties as assigned.

* Basic knowledge of the concepts of the field to which the internship applies.

* Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing.

* Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

* Ability to apply knowledge gained through formal education to situations encountered in the work setting.

* Ability to operate equipment, machinery, computer/software, office equipment, etc. as needed.

* Enrollment at a post-secondary school in coursework relevant to the duties of the unit to which assigned.

Special Requirements

* A criminal background check is required.

* A valid State of Iowa driver's license is required.

Polk County is committed to providing a diverse work environment that is representative, at all levels, of the citizens we serve. Equal opportunities are available to all applicants and current employees regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship status, mental or physical disability, or any other applicable characteristics protected by law.

Polk County believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our success in serving and empowering our community and to our continued commitment to be one of the nation's most innovative public institutions.