Equine-Assisted Services Facilitator

Overview

USU Equine Experience (a USU Extension program) is seeking a motivated Equine-Assisted Services Facilitator to support community-based programming in Cache Valley. This position will help facilitate equine-assisted programs focused on mental health, life skills coaching, and equine-assisted learning. If you’re passionate about using horses to create meaningful learning and growth experiences, we encourage you to apply and help expand equine-assisted services in Cache Valley.

 

The Facilitator will implement existing programming and collaborate with program leadership to develop new opportunities that expand the impact of equine-assisted services within the community. Approximately 5–8 hours per week, primarily during scheduled programming times (M-F, with some Saturday mornings). This job is posted as part of grant funding, so it will be seasonal, and when the funding runs out, there is no promise of renewal.

 

This position is ideal for an individual currently pursuing or already holding certification as a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL).

Responsibilities

• Facilitate equine-assisted services programming for community participants.
• Implement established program curriculum and activities.
• Assist with the development and expansion of new equine-assisted learning and mental health programming opportunities.
• Collaborate with multiple Utah State University departments, programs, and partners.
• Work as part of a team to maintain safe, effective, and engaging participant experiences.
• Follow PATH Intl. standards and best practices for equine-assisted services.
• Assist with horse handling, participant safety, and general program logistics.
• Assist with handling of paperwork, session notes, etc. under privacy and compliance guidance.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently pursuing or already certified as a Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL).
• Experience working with horses.
• Familiarity with PATH Intl. standards and safety practices.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate with diverse partners and university entities.
• Self-motivated and able to work independently when implementing programming.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience facilitating equine-assisted learning, mental health, or life skills programs.
• Experience developing curriculum or programming.
• Background in education, mental health, coaching, or related fields.

Required Documents

Along with the online application, please attach:

• Resume to be uploaded at the beginning of your application in the Candidate Profile under “Resume/CV”
• Cover letter to be typed/pasted at the end of your application

**Document size may not exceed 10 MB.**

Advertised Salary

$35.00/hr

ADA

Incumbents work outdoors in a farm/ranch environment and may not be protected from weather conditions, including exposure to extreme temperatures and changing weather. The incumbent may also be exposed to loud noises or vibrations from farm/ranch equipment and conditions that may affect the respiratory system, such as odors, dusts, mists, and gases. Work will involve regular interaction with horses and other livestock, and incumbents should be comfortable working around large animals. Bending and crouching may be required. Incumbents may be required to lift, push, and/or pull objects up to 50 pounds and to walk and/or stand for long periods of time on varied terrain.

College/Department Highlights

The Center for Equine-Assisted Services is an interdepartmental effort between USU Extension and the Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences to promote USU’s three main tenets: teaching, research, and Extension. Started in 2025, the CEAS provides opportunities for academic education, professional development, and community programming related to equine-assisted services. Learn more here: https://extension.usu.edu/ceas/

University Highlights

Founded in 1888, Utah State University is Utah’s premier land-grant, public service university. As an R1 research institution, Utah State is dedicated to advancing knowledge and serving the public good through innovative research and scholarly activities that are grounded in reciprocal engagement with local, regional, and global communities. USU prepares students to be active, civically engaged leaders who are prepared to address critical societal challenges. Dedicated to providing a high-quality and affordable education, USU remains a lead