Hunt Seat Coach/Instructor (Onsite, Full-time, 11-months)

Wilson College is seeking a passionate and experienced Hunt Seat Coach/Instructor to lead our varsity IHSA Hunt Seat Team and teach academic equitation courses within our respected Equestrian Studies Program. This full-time in-person role offers the opportunity to mentor student-athletes support academic excellence and make a meaningful contribution to a vibrant hands-on equestrian community.

Based at our state-of-the-art on-campus Equestrian Centerwhich includes two indoor arenas an outdoor arena and three barnsyoull be part of a collaborative team dedicated to excellence in equine education. In addition to coaching and instruction the position involves recruitment curriculum support and horse care responsibilities.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Coaching Responsibilities:

• Provide instruction guidance and feedback to riders of all skill levels in both training and competition settings.
• Serve as Head Coach of Wilsons IHSA Hunt Seat Team managing all aspects of the program including practice scheduling competition preparation travel to away shows and team development.
• Plan organize and oversee IHSA competitions hosted at Wilsons Equestrian Center.
• Ensure compliance with all policies and regulations set forth by Wilson College and the Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA).
• Assist in the development and execution of a strategic recruitment plan for prospective student-athletes.
• Monitor the academic progress and eligibility of student-athletes in coordination with campus support services.
• Participate in the schooling and care of the horse herd and support maintenance of tack equipment and facilities as needed.
• Foster student growth through mentorship community engagement and the promotion of high standards in conduct and sportsmanship.
• Attend departmental meetings complete administrative responsibilities and represent Wilson College in a professional and positive manner.

Instructional Responsibilities:

• Teach 23 hunter/jumper equitation (EQT) courses per semester (up to 6 annually) for riders of varying skill levels.
• Assist with other equine-related courses as needed.
• Develop and maintain course syllabi aligned with student learning outcomes and accreditation standards.
• Participate in program assessment and curriculum development.
• Ride train and re-school horses as needed.
• Contribute to recruitment for the academic program and assist with camps and community lessons.

COMPETENCIES:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Effective time management and multitasking ability.
• High level of professionalism and sportsmanship.
• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset.
• Passion for mentoring students and supporting their academic athletic and personal growth.
• Strong organizational skills and adaptability.

POSITION TYPE AND EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

• Full-time 11-month position (August 1 May 31) aligned with the academic calendar. Between June 1 and July 31 employees are expected to work 20 additional days scheduled at the discretion of the supervisor.
• Standard work schedule is 40 hours per week typically Monday through Friday during daytime hours. Additional evening and weekend hours are required to support practices competitions events and operational needs.
• Evening and weekend work is a regular requirement of the position.
• Designated as essential personnel during College closures and must be available to respond as needed.
• Outside employment or teaching unrelated to Wilson College is permitted only during off hours and must not interfere with the fulfillment of primary job responsibilities.

TRAVEL:

• This position requires regular travel during the academic year to attend IHSA competitions recruiting events and other off-campus activities related to the Hunt Seat Team. Travel includes both day and overnight trips primarily on weekends.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelors degree required; Masters degree preferred
• Demonstrated successful collegiate coaching and recruiting experience in Hunt Seat equitation
• Experience teaching equine-focused courses at the college level
• Prior experience in a collegiate or educational equestrian setting
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Front Rush and social media platforms used for recruiting

Or an equivalent combination of education and experience

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS:

• The candidate must be able to drive College vehicles including towing horse trailers and adhere to all Wilson College driving policies.
• A valid drivers license and completion of the Colleges driver safety certification are required.
• Must pass a comprehensive three-part background check including criminal history child abuse clearance and FBI fingerprinting

At Wilson College we value our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health well-being and professional growth. Full-time on-site employees enjoy:

• Robust Health Benefits: Including medical dental and vision coverage plus college-paid basic life and long-term disability insurance.

• Spending Account Options: Access to employee-funded Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for both healthcare and dependent care needs.

• Retirement Planning: A Defined Contribution Retirement Plan with TIAA to help you plan for the future.

• Educational Benefits: Tuition remission for employees and their families for undergraduate graduate and certificate programs as well as access to Tuition Exchange scholarships through a national consortium of colleges.

Wilson fosters a supportive collegial work environment that prioritizes work-life balance. Employees benefit from:

• Generous paid time off including vacation sick leave personal days and 13 paid holidays.

• Paid parental leave bereavement leave (including miscarriage and stillbirth) jury duty and more.

• Flexible dining options and free access to our on-campus fitness center.

• An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support and resources.

As a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit employer Wilson College employees may also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.