Equine Operations Manager

Position Summary

As part of the College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CFAES) team, the Equine Operations Manager manages the equine facility supporting teaching, research and Extension programs. Reporting to the Assistant Director, this role provides important oversight for Equine Operations. The Equine Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of equine production, ensuring the health and welfare of horses, biosecurity, productivity and profitability at the Multispecies Animal Learning Complex (MALC). This role involves managing daily operations, supervising and managing students, and maintaining compliance with health and safety regulations. This position supports academic teaching and research activities by coordinating animal use, assisting with data collection, and preparing animals and facilities for instructional and research purposes. The manager will collaborate with faculty, staff, and students to promote educational excellence and foster a collaborative team environment across the MALC and Waterman Agricultural and Natural Resources Laboratory, promoting effective communication, shared accountability, and alignment of operational goals to support integrated farm management.

Key Responsibilities

Equine Management

• Oversee daily care and management of horses including feeding and nutrition, grooming, turnout, and health monitoring.
• Coordinate veterinary and farrier care and maintain accurate health records for all horses.
• Recruit, train, and manage student employees. Schedule shifts and delegate responsibilities to ensure smooth operation.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and animal welfare standards.
• Manage scheduling and logistics for facility use, including classes, labs, and special events.
• Support teaching activities by preparing horses, equipment, and facilities for academic courses and labs.
• Collaborate with faculty to integrate practical equine management into the curriculum.
• Maintain inventory and order supplies including feed, bedding, and medical supplies.
• Collaborate with staff on the maintenance of barns, arenas, pastures, and related equipment.
• Assist with budget planning and cost control for equine operations.

Compliance & Biosecurity

• Ensure adherence to all local, state, and federal regulations regarding animal welfare, food safety, and environmental standards
• Work closely with the Biosecurity Manager to develop and enforce biosecurity protocols for equine operations.
• Train staff and students on biosecurity practices.

Education, Research & Innovation

• Support academic programs through experiential learning and may assist with hands-on instruction
• Coordinate research activities involving equine subjects, ensuring proper care and documentation.
• Promote a culture of biosecurity awareness and accountability Serve as a liaison between faculty, students, and external stakeholders regarding equine operations.
• Serves as a backup for the Livestock Operations manager, providing coverage and support during absences or periods of increased workloads.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Equine Science, Animal Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Minimum 35 years of experience in equine facility management.
• Strong knowledge of horse care, behavior, and health management.
• Experience working in an academic or teaching environment preferred.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays as needed.

Salary Range:$58,700-$77,200/annual. *The offer for this position will fall within this range based on internal equity, units available budget, and the candidates qualifications*

*This job profile is a Manager 1, Agriculture Administration (M1 level) on the career roadmap.*