Part-Time Rider – New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program
New Vocations is one of the nation’s largest racehorse adoption programs, helping retired Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds transition into second careers.
Company/Organization:
New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program
Position Type:
Part-Time
Category:
Equine Care & Training / Aftercare
Location:
Lexington, KY
Responsibilities & Duties:
Ride or exercise assigned horses according to New Vocations’ retraining program and individual horse needs
Assess horses’ abilities, temperament, and progress to help determine suitable second careers
Collaborate with trainers, barn staff, and management to ensure consistent care and training
Maintain accurate training notes and progress updates in the database
Assist in evaluating new arrivals and creating individualized retraining plans
Safely handle horses on the ground, including leading, grooming, tacking, bathing, and assisting with farrier/veterinary appointments
Participate in photo and video sessions for adoption listings
Communicate health, soundness, and behavioral observations promptly to management
Support general facility operations such as turnout, feeding, and other barn tasks as needed
Qualifications & Requirements:
Minimum 3 years of experience riding green horses; OTTB experience preferred
Knowledge of flatwork, basic dressage, and/or jumping
Ability to confidently handle a variety of equine temperaments
Strong commitment to humane, patient, ethical horsemanship
Physical ability to ride multiple horses daily and lift up to 50 lbs
Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license
Strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset
Preferred:
Experience retraining off-track racehorses
Experience in an adoption, aftercare, or equine rescue environment
Basic knowledge of soundness evaluation, conditioning, and equine nutrition
Required Key Skills:
Riding, Equine First Aid, Handling Youngstock, Lunging, Exercising, People Skills, Valid Driver’s License
Required Expertise:
Flatwork
Salary:
Part-time, exempt position with base pay starting at $15.00/hour, depending on experience
Benefits:
Flexible part-time schedule
Hands-on experience retraining OTTBs for second careers
Opportunity to grow skills in equine handling, training, and aftercare operations
What kind of on-the-job training or educational opportunities might be provided while employed in the position?:
Training in OTTB retraining methods
Opportunities to shadow experienced trainers
Exposure to adoption program operations and horse evaluation practices
Learning experience in equine behavior, conditioning, and career assessment
How and where to apply:
Submit an application and required materials through New Vocations’ online hiring portal.
Link: Apply Here
