Wilson College is seeking a passionate and experienced Hunt Seat Coach/Instructor to lead our varsity IHSA Hunt Seat Team and teach hunter/jumper equitation courses within our well-established Equestrian Studies Program. This full-time, in-person position offers the opportunity to mentor student-athletes, support academic excellence, and contribute to a dynamic and collaborative equestrian community.

Based at our state-of-the-art Equestrian Center—featuring two indoor arenas, an outdoor arena, and three barns—the Coach/Instructor will oversee all aspects of the IHSA Hunt Seat Team, including practice planning, competition preparation, travel to shows, and team development. Responsibilities also include planning and managing IHSA competitions hosted at Wilson and ensuring compliance with all IHSA and college policies.

The instructional portion of the role includes teaching 2–3 equitation courses per semester for riders of varying skill levels, assisting with other equine-related courses as needed, and participating in curriculum development and program assessment. The Coach/Instructor will also contribute to recruitment efforts for both the athletic and academic programs and support campus outreach through camps and community lessons.

Additional duties include assisting with horse care and schooling, supporting tack and facility maintenance, and collaborating with faculty and staff to create a safe, educational, and student-centered environment. The ideal candidate is a skilled equestrian professional with strong leadership and communication skills, a commitment to humane horse care, and a passion for teaching and mentorship.

Qualifications & Competencies

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

Position Details

• Full-time, 11-month role (August 1–May 31), plus 20 workdays scheduled between June 1–July 31
• Standard schedule: 40 hours/week, typically Monday–Friday daytime hours
• Regular evening and weekend hours required for practices, competitions, and events
• Considered essential personnel during College closures
• Outside employment allowed only during off-hours and must not interfere with job responsibilities

Travel

• Regular travel during the academic year for IHSA competitions, recruiting events, and related activities
• Includes day and overnight trips, primarily on weekends

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
• Collegiate Hunt Seat coaching and recruiting experience
• Experience teaching equine-focused courses at the college level
• Preferred: experience in a collegiate or educational equestrian setting
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Front Rush, and social media platforms for recruiting

Additional Requirements

• Must be able to drive College vehicles, including towing horse trailers
• Valid driver’s license and completion of College driver safety certification required
• Must pass background checks: criminal history, child abuse clearance, and FBI fingerprinting

At Wilson College, we value our employees and offer a comprehensive benefits package to support your health, well-being, and growth. Full-time, on-site employees receive:

Health coverage (medical, dental, vision), plus college-paid life and long-term disability insurance.

Access to HSAs and FSAs for healthcare and dependent care.

A Defined Contribution Retirement Plan with TIAA.

Tuition remission for employees and families, plus Tuition Exchange scholarships.

Generous PTO: vacation, sick, personal days, 13 holidays, and paid parental and bereavement leave (including miscarriage/stillbirth).

Free on-campus fitness center access and flexible dining options.

An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, employees may also qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).