Description and Quaifcations

The Instructor/Guide for Horseback Riding (HBR) for Blackberry Farm/Blackberry Mountain will be an accomplished equestrian with a suggested minimum of 10 years in-depth experience in either English or western riding. Should be capable of a high level of equine handling and care, proficient in all skills described below, and capable of supervising Assistants. The Instructor/Guide must be an effective and positive communicator and teacher, capable of conversing with guests graciously.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

• Have an advanced understanding of equine psychology to handle horses in a busy and challenging environment safely
• Implement high safety standards
• Provide a Five Star experience for every guest
• Facilitate instruction appropriate to individual guests levels of ability
• Generate a sense of adventure and accomplishment through cross country riding, trail riding, carriage rides and driving, and instruction in and out of the arena
• Increase guest interaction with equines within the Farm experience and develop an awareness of the unique human/equine relationship via Natural Horsemanship techniques
• Be proficiently implementing and promoting all HBR offerings, including trail riding, Natural Horsemanship experiences, carriage driving and instruction, jumping, recreational riding instruction, pony time, full-day horse clinics, foxhunting, and special events
• Learn equestrian program trails
• Be proficient in all areas of equine care and management including recognizing signs of lameness or illness, assisting farrier and vet, implementing feeding schedules, and administering medications and first aid
• Maintain facilities, tack, and equipment in a professional manner
• Work effectively with all Team Members
• Promote sales in HBR
• Develop a working knowledge of Resort Suite scheduling software
• Be available to work weekends and holidays
• Maintain a valid Tennessee Driver License

Must comply with all company policies and procedures.

Regular and consistent attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position.

Must be able to work well with other Team Members, Managers, and interact with our guests.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

• None

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE

• Have an advanced understanding of equine psychology
• Be proficient in providing training and schooling sessions for resident horses
• High school diploma or equivalent

LANGUAGE SKILLS

• Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Must be able to communicate with guests, team members, and managers effectively

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

• Basic knowledge and understanding of math

REASONING ABILITY

• Must be able to resolve any issues regarding guests concerning the equestrian program
• Must be able to exercise judgment and make decisions based on job knowledge and awareness of company goals

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to operate a company vehicle or golf cart safely
• Must be able to work outside in all weather conditions

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• 4,200 acres of Blackberry Farm property

About Blackberry

Blackberry Farm and Blackberry Mountain are joined together with our core belief that our teams are at the heart of all we do. At Blackberry, we see ourselves as family, focused on our 18 foundations uniting us in our mission to support Legendary Hospitality, Memorable Experiences, and Generational Sustainability.

Blackberry Farm provides a world-class hospitality experience for our guests. Our attention to every detail, impeccable service, unique activity offerings, and outstanding cuisine have helped Blackberry Farm earn its pedigree as one of the most celebrated small luxury resorts in the world.

• James Beard Award Winner- Outstanding Service
• James Beard Award Winner- Best Wine Program
• Travel & Leisure Magazine- #1 Resort in North America
• Andrew Harper- #1 Food and Wine Resort
• Travel & Leisure Magazine- #1 Service in North America
• 4,200 Acre Working Farm setting the standard for Farm to Table Cuisine

Blackberry Farm is an Equal Opportunity Employer