Working Student – Lusitano Breeding & Development
Wasatch Lusitanos – Petersburg, Tennessee
Wasatch Lusitanos is seeking a dedicated Working Student to join our training program in Petersburg, Tennessee, focused on developing Lusitano horses using a classical Portuguese approach.
This is a serious, hands-on opportunity to learn a time-tested system for starting and developing young horses, with an emphasis on correctness, sensitivity, and long-term soundness. Our program prioritizes the horse’s experience and development over speed or shortcuts.
Position Overview
The Working Student will be actively involved in the daily operations of a professional Lusitano breeding and training program. This role combines horsemanship, riding, horse care, and organizational responsibilities, with meaningful learning opportunities for the right candidate.
This is an immersive, full-time position that reflects the realities of a professional program, where consistency, attention to detail, and daily involvement are essential.
What You Will Learn
- Foundations of starting young horses using the Portuguese training methodology
- Development of balance, rhythm, and connection in sensitive horses
- Handling and management of Lusitanos from young prospects to trained horses
- Insight into a structured, professional breeding and training program
- Practical experience contributing to the development of horses at different stages
Responsibilities
- Daily equine care (grooming, tacking, observation of health and condition)
- Handling and working with young horses and stallions
- Assisting with horse starting and early training processes
- Riding horses appropriate to your skill level
- Supporting training activities and exercises under guidance
- Maintaining barn organization and overall stable efficiency
- Assisting with record keeping and basic administrative tasks
- Providing basic veterinary care, including bandaging wounds and administering medications
Requirements
- Basic experience with equine care and stable management
- Foundational riding skills required; dressage background preferred
- Confidence handling horses, including those that are energetic, sensitive, or young (including stallions)
- Patience, consistency, and a calm approach to horsemanship
- Willingness to learn and follow a structured training system
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively within a professional team environment
- Comfortable receiving direct feedback and adapting quickly
- Good basic computer skills (data entry, communication, organization)
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Comfort driving a horse trailer is a plus
Work Schedule & Environment
- Full-time position, typically 6 days per week
- Schedule varies based on training priorities, horse needs, and seasonal demands
- Participation in foal watch and other time-sensitive responsibilities may be required
- Physically active, hands-on role requiring reliability and consistent daily engagement
This is not a beginner position and is best suited to individuals already comfortable riding and handling young or sensitive horses.
Ideal Candidate
- Interested in building a strong foundation in professional horse starting and development
- Values a classical, methodical approach over quick results
- Self-motivated, reliable, and detail-oriented
- Comfortable riding and improving within a structured program
- Works well within a team, communicates effectively, and maintains high standards
Compensation & Housing
- $600–$800 per week, depending on experience and capability
- Full-time position (typically 6 days per week)
- Housing available (private living quarters trailer)
Growth Opportunity
This is a long-term opportunity for the right candidate, with potential for increased responsibility and advancement within the program.