Equine Program Manager

JUNCTION CITY, KS

$44,000 ‒ $48,000 Annually

General Description:

Kansas 4-H Foundation's Rock Springs Ranch is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic individual to lead our horse herd care and equine program. As part of the Kansas 4-H Foundation, this role is key to shaping unforgettable experiences for campers and guests through thoughtful program design and hands-on herd management. We’re seeking someone who is highly organized, knowledgeable in horse care and pasture management, and an excellent communicator. If you’re excited about creating meaningful connections between people and horses in a beautiful ranch setting, we’d love to hear from you!

The Kansas 4-H Foundation is the 501(c)(3) fundraising arm for Kansas 4-H, the state’s largest positive youth development program, as well as Rock Springs Ranch, the state 4-H camp and conference center. The Foundation works with businesses, organizations, individuals and families who share a common desire to support a statewide effort of growing future leaders. Rock Springs Ranch is a 735-acre property located in the heart of the flint hills and is accredited by the American Camp Association.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Ranch & Herd Management:
    • Day-to-day care and support of the horse herd; feed, first aid, grooming, etc and keep horses in working condition
    • Update and facilitate Herd Management, Trail Management, and Pasture & Barn Management Plans outlined in collaboration with the Camp Director. 
    • Manage pasture rotation and water management to preserve our natural prairie surroundings
    • Identifying health and behavioral changes of the herd and communicating with staff any changes in care and/or procedures
    • Turning out and moving of horses as needed
    • Ensure equipment maintenance and safety
    • Ability to learn and handle basic machinery needed to perform job (e.g. skid steer)
    • Maintain Equine Stables and Equine areas in conjunction with Facilities and Grounds Dept.
    • Collaborate with Camp Director and other departments as needed
  • Develop & Enhance Equine Program:
    • Coordinate and teach trail riding and ground lessons
    • Work with all guests to provide a combination of trail rides, pony rides, horse meet & greets, etc.
    • Maintain and update staff training materials
  • Administration:
  • In collaboration with the Camp Director, build and monitor the equine budget
  • Scheduling of staff to support horse programming  with feeding, vet and farrier visits, etc.
  • Maintain herd and program records
  • Assist in producing special events and programs as needed
  • Hospitality Management
    • Serve in Manager on Duty (MOD) rotation for RSR guests 
  • Assist Camp Director as needed
  • Other duties as assigned by the Camp Director or Executive Director

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in animal science, equestrian science or equine administration or 5 years of recent related work experience 
  • Valid driver’s license and ability to drive with a trailer
  • Basic computer skills in Word, Excel and navigating the Internet
  • Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) Level 3 Herd Manager, CHA Day Ride Trail Guide, or  higher certification(s). Or ability to obtain within first 90 days of employment
  • Current certification in American Red Cross First-aid and CPR, or ability to obtain certification
  • Minimum of two years facilitating instruction in horseback riding
  • Minimum of two years caring for 8 or more horses in a herd environment
  • Ability to live on site or within 10 miles
  • Lift and carry a 50-pound bag of feed for a set distance of 30 feet.
  • Must be able to ride a horse for at least 8 hours per day.
  • Successful completion of criminal background check & drug test.

Qualifications

  • Ability to be flexible and adapt to changing priorities, work on multiple projects concurrently, prioritize own workload, and consistently meet deadlines.
  • Demonstrated ability to remain composed and deliver high-quality service in dynamic and occasionally high-pressure customer environments.
  • Professional, well-developed interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Self-driven, proactive, energetic, and enthusiastic personality.
  • Strong conflict resolution and customer service skills.

Benefits

  • $44,000 - $48,000
  • Private onsite housing & utilities
  • Meals provided when group is on site
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) including parental leave
  • 403b retirement plan with employer contribution and matching
  • Be a part of a positive and energetic work environment.
  • As the largest positive youth development organization, we value continuous learning and professional development opportunities.

Maintenance Laborer / Technician

Junction City, KS

General Maintenance & Repairs

  • Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs across facilities, including carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and basic HVAC work
  • Assist with preventative maintenance programs to extend the life of buildings, equipment, and infrastructure
  • Respond to work orders and maintenance requests in a timely and professional manner
  • Support troubleshooting and repair of camp systems (water, wastewater, mechanical systems)
  • Maintain outdoor spaces including mowing, trimming, landscaping, and debris removal
  • Assist with upkeep of trails, gathering spaces, and program areas across a large outdoor property
  • Support property needs such as snow removal, storm cleanup, and erosion control
  • Assist with setup and teardown for events, retreats, and camp programs (tables, chairs, equipment, fire rings, etc.)
  • Collaborate with program, hospitality, and housekeeping teams to ensure facilities are guest-ready
  • Safely operate and maintain tools and equipment such as mowers, tractors, power tools, and small engines
  • Conduct basic inspections and report repair or replacement needs
  • Maintain organized and clean workspaces, shops, and storage areas
  • Follow all safety protocols, including proper use of PPE
  • Identify and report safety hazards across facilities and grounds
  • Support compliance with applicable health, safety, and regulatory standards
  • Participate in trainings and emergency response procedures

Qualifications

Required

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Basic knowledge or willingness to learn maintenance skills (carpentry, plumbing, electrical, etc.)
  • Ability to operate or learn to operate maintenance equipment and tools
  • Valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. and perform physical labor in indoor and outdoor environments
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends

Preferred

  • 1+ years of experience in facilities maintenance, construction, landscaping, or related field
  • Experience working in camps, hospitality, or outdoor recreation environments
  • Familiarity with small engine repair, vehicle maintenance, or agricultural equipment

Key Competencies

  • Strong work ethic and reliability
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Problem-solving mindset and adaptability in a dynamic environment
  • Commitment to safety, quality, and attention to detail
  • Positive attitude and willingness to support overall camp operations

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

  • Work is performed both indoors and outdoors across a large (500+ acre) property with varied terrain
  • Exposure to weather conditions including heat, cold, and precipitation
  • Frequent standing, walking, lifting, climbing, and use of tools/equipment