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Penn State University

Part-time Franklin County 4-H Therapeutic Riding Center Program Director

Penn State University, Frankfort, Kentucky, United States

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Part‑time Franklin County 4‑H Therapeutic Riding Center Program Director Join to apply for the Part‑time Franklin County 4‑H Therapeutic Riding Center Program Director role at Penn State University.

Application Instructions

Current Penn State employee (faculty, staff, technical service, or student): log on to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here.

Current Penn State student (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State: log on to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here.

If you are not a current employee or student, click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

Job Description and Position Requirements This individual will function as a member of the Penn State Extension – Franklin County 4‑H team, collaborating with the 4‑H educators and other staff in the Penn State Extension Office in Franklin County. Major responsibilities include implementing and ensuring industry standards are met in teaching therapeutic riding lessons, training therapeutic riding instructors, selecting and schooling program horses. In carrying out the assigned duties, the individual will work directly with other part‑time Franklin County 4‑H Therapeutic Riding Center staff, volunteers, and the Franklin County 4‑H Therapeutic Riding Center Advisory Council. This position is administratively responsible to the Penn State Extension 4‑H Youth Development Educator in Franklin County and the Penn State Extension Business Operations Manager.

Specific Responsibilities

Collaborate with the Advisory Council to develop long‑term strategies and annual plans that support the sustainability and growth of the program.

Lead and manage public relations and fundraising initiatives, including website and social media oversight, community networking, and public presentations.

Actively evaluate and implement operational efficiency measures to streamline operations to optimize resources, including Penn State 4‑H staff.

Collaborate in the development of the annual budget, oversee accounts payable and receivable, and complete all required financial paperwork in accordance with Penn State policy.

Recruit, train, and evaluate therapeutic riding and driving instructors annually. Address performance concerns and, if necessary, manage dismissal procedures.

Conduct parent/guardian meetings on participant objectives, teaching methods, and progress in instruction. Participate in horse selection decisions in collaboration with the Stable Manager and Lead Riding Instructor.

Annually review and update the following in coordination with the 4‑H Educator: Franklin County 4‑H Therapeutic Riding Center Policy and Procedures Manual, Parent Handbook, Volunteer Handbook, and Rider and Volunteer Application Forms.

Assist in coordinating volunteer training and lesson scheduling with instructors, the Barn Manager, and the Volunteer Coordinator.

Provide guidance and support to the Stable Manager regarding horse care, including feeding, veterinary, farrier, and dental services.

Under the direction of the 4‑H Educator, provide on‑site supervision for the following Therapeutic Riding Center personnel: Volunteer Coordinator, Stable Manager, Riding Instructors, Facilities & Maintenance Volunteer.

Collaborate with the 4‑H Educator to address and, if necessary, dismiss volunteers who violate the Penn State 4‑H Volunteer Leader Code of Conduct.

Engage in ongoing professional development related to the therapeutic riding program.

Attend Advisory Council, Operations Committee, and Penn State Extension – Franklin County staff meetings. Co‑develop meeting agendas with the Advisory Council President and Operations Committee Chair.

Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the 4‑H Youth Development Educator or Area Business Operations Manager to support program success.

Requirements, Qualifications, and/or Competencies Education & Certification

Bachelor’s degree in Equine Facilitated Therapeutics, Business Administration, or related field preferred.

PATH International or CECTH Therapeutic Riding Instructor Certification preferred.

Proven success in fundraising and public relations.

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with volunteers, youth, families, and the general public.

Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Technical & Confidentiality Skills

Experience with zSuite, SIMBA, and Outlook software preferred.

Proficiency in information technology and digital communication tools.

Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.

Organizational & Teamwork Abilities

Highly organized, self‑motivated, and capable of working independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

Schedule

Approximately 24 hours per week.

Flexible schedule required, including availability for some evenings and weekends.

Compensation The starting rate for this job is $25/hour.

Background Checks / Clearances This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

EEO is the Law Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

Seniority Level Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type Part‑time

Job Function Other

Industries Higher Education

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