Instructor - Animal Program (Education)

Glade Run Adventures offers fun, therapeutic experiences for individuals with mental and/or physical challenges, including autism. Tailored to individual goals, participants of all ages can benefit from these unique interactive animal, horticulture and sensory park experiences.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS:
High school graduate (or equivalent) preferred.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

1. Must have audio/visual/verbal acuity to provide supervision for the clients and to perform essential job functions.
2. Ability to work outdoors in changing weather conditions.
3. Mobility and physical strength to perform all tasks of the program areas inclusive of instructing, riding, saddling, moving necessary equipment for lessons, and miscellaneous tasks around program area.

EMOTIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must have emotional stability to perform essential job functions.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

1. Must possess verbal and written communication skills.
2. Valid driver's license and acceptable driving record is required.
3. Must be able to adjust hours to job requirements.
4. Access to a telephone.
5. Pennsylvania State Police clearance, Pennsylvania Child Abuse History clearance and FBI clearance.
6. Demonstrated ability to adjust to change.
7. Demonstrated ability to work independently.
8. Demonstrated ability and willingness to ask questions if uncertain about specific job tasks or changes.
9. Must be able to identify with the Agency Mission Statement and support the Agency's Core Values.

KNOWLEDGE AREAS:

• Must possess a basic knowledge of equine behavior and psychology.
• Must possess in depth knowledge and experience with Western and English styles of riding.
• Demonstrate ability to work with individuals and small groups.
• Must possess an ability to communicate lesson and program information to a wide variety of individuals with patience and understanding.

CORE DUTIES:

1. Assist and instruct riding lessons and animal related activities for the clients of Glade Run Lutheran Services as well as clients from the community.
2. Assist and instruct horticultural activities for the clients of Glade Run Lutheran Services as well as clients from the community.
3. Work with the agency and program staff to develop the Therapeutic Animal and Horticulture Program through suggestions and implementation of development goals.
4. Assist with and provide required animal and plant care.
5. Assist and provide care for facilities, equipment, and supplies for the safety of all participants in the program areas.
6. Assist with training and supervision of client and community adult and junior volunteers for the safety of all participants in the program areas.
7. Complete required paperwork in timely manner.

OTHER DUTIES:

1. Demonstrate competence in the safe handling and moving of horses.
2. Demonstrate knowledge related to the care and treatment of horses and small animals.
3. Demonstrate initiative and follow-through to completion on all projects and assignments.
4. Honor a flexible schedule which meets the needs of the clients of Glade Run Lutheran Services.

Job Location
Zelienople, PA, United States

Position Type
Part-Time (10-20 hours per week with additional hours available during the summer during our Specialized Adventures Camps)

Who We Are: Founded in 1854 by the Rev. Dr. William Passavant in Zelienople, Pennsylvania, Glade Run has evolved over the years to meet the changing and increasingly challenging needs of children, adults and families throughout Western Pennsylvania and beyond. With a focus on education, mental health, autism, and unique therapeutic offerings, Glade Run has a long tradition of linking faith and service. Last year, Glade Run served over 5,000 individuals with impactful, innovative services in school, home, and community settings. Equal Opportunity Employer