JOB TITLE: EQUINE TRAINER
JOB OPENING: IMMEDIATE
ROLE SUMMARY:
The heart of this role is preparing and caring for EQUAL's horses so they are healthy, confident, and ready to support participants in our equine-assisted learning (EAL) programmes. By ensuring their wellbeing and programme-readiness, you play a vital part in enabling children, youths, seniors, families, and persons with special needs to experience sessions that build resilience, confidence, and social-emotional wellbeing.
ABOUT EQUAL:
Founded in 2015, EQUAL (an IPC charity) is Singapore's only nonprofit dedicated to equine-assisted learning. We partner with rescued and rehomed horses to deliver experiential programmes that empower vulnerable individuals, enhance social and emotional wellbeing, and foster stronger communities.
Each year, our herd of 15 therapy horses (9 large, 6 miniature) works with hundreds of participants from schools, social service agencies, and healthcare partners. At EQUAL, you'll find a mission-driven team, a supportive community, and the daily privilege of working in a peaceful, nature-rich environment alongside horses who change lives.
POSITION IN THE ORGANISATOIN
Reports to: Head of Animal Welfare & Operations
Works closely with:
- Stable Supervisor & Grooms
- Programme & Services Team (for EAL sessions)
- Volunteer Management Team
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Train, exercise, and condition horses to maintain physical health and behavioural readiness (e.g. lunging, walking, riding).
- Monitor horse wellbeing through daily inspections, grooming checks, and behavioural observation.
- Prepare horses for equine-assisted programmes (tacking/untacking, handling during sessions).
- Collaborate with Programme Instructors to ensure safe horseparticipant interactions.
- Supervise grooms as required by the Stable Supervisor.
- Maintain tack, equipment, and stable areas in safe, functional condition.
- Identify and address early signs of stress, injury, or behavioural issues in horses.
- Uphold EQUAL's welfare standards in alignment with animal-assisted therapy best practices.
- Support other animal welfare or programme-related tasks as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
The ideal candidate will bring:
- Significant experience (ideally 5+ years) in horse training, riding, and handling.
- Proven ability to handle horses safely, calmly, and consistently.
- A natural ease and comfort working closely with horses, with deep respect for animal welfare.
- Patience, honesty, and reliability when caring for animals and working with colleagues.
- Strong teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication skills.
- Comfort with flexible hours, including weekends and public holidays on rotation.
Preferred, but not required:
- Equine-assisted therapy or mental health-related certification.
- Valid MOE Instructor registration (or willingness to undergo training for registration).
- Experience working with rescued or rehomed horses in a welfare/charity setting.
- Basic first-aid for horses certification.
- We also welcome applicants with transferable skills (e.g., animal training, therapy, education, youth work) who are eager to learn and grow into the role.
COMPENSATION & BENFITS:
- Salary: S$2,600 S$2,800 per month, with 13th month Annual Wage Supplement (AWS).
- Annual leave, medical coverage, and CPF contributions.
- Professional development opportunities (e.g. training, certifications).
- Exposure to both equine management and social service programme delivery.
- A supportive, mission-driven work environment with a close-knit team.
- The daily privilege of working in a peaceful, nature-rich environment alongside therapy horses.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Based at EQUAL's stables (Thomson area, Singapore).
- Outdoor, physical work environment requiring regular handling of horses.
- Standard 5-day work week, with weekend/public holiday duties on rotation.
- Some evening or early morning duties may be required depending on programme schedules.
EQUITY & INCLUSION
EQUAL is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage individuals with non-traditional career paths or lived experiences to apply.
HOW TO APPLY:
If this role excites you, send us your resume and cover letter at [Confidential Information]by October 1, 2025.
Tell us why you'd like to work with our herd and communitywe look forward to meeting passionate trainers who want to make a difference.
