Horse Care and Property Maintenance Specialist with Permaculture Development Opportunity

Job Title: Horse Care and Property Maintenance Specialist with Permaculture Development Opportunity
Location: Oregon Coast

Job Summary:
We are seeking a motivated, skilled, and passionate individual or couple (room for a family)  to join our farm as a Horse Care and Property Maintenance Specialist. This unique position offers not only the chance to care for horses and maintain a beautiful coastal property but also the opportunity to design, build, and manage an educational permaculture farm. The ideal candidate will have experience in equine care, property upkeep, and sustainable agriculture, as well as a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and education.

Key Responsibilities:

Horse Care:
Our approach to horse care centers around a track system designed to mimic the natural movement patterns and environment of wild horses. This system encourages consistent movement, social interaction, and diverse grazing opportunities, promoting physical and mental well-being. At the heart of our herd are three rescued mares, each with their own unique story and personality, who are thriving under this compassionate care model. We prioritize alternative and holistic approaches to equine health, incorporating natural hoof care, herbal supplements, bodywork therapies, and mindful observation to address each horse’s unique needs. Guided by the Being with Horses philosophy, we cultivate a relationship of mutual respect, trust, and understanding, recognizing horses as sentient beings with individual emotions and perspectives. This compassionate and integrative approach creates a harmonious environment where horses can heal, thrive, and live authentically.

Duties Include:
-Provide daily care for horses, including feeding, watering, and administering medications or supplements as needed.
-Monitor horse health, behavior, and safety, and report any concerns promptly.
-Maintain clean and organized stables, paddocks, pastures, and other equine facilities.
-Coordinate with veterinarians, farriers, and other equine professionals for emergency care.
-Maintain our state-of-the-art manure composting system

Property Maintenance:
Our property is a serene 22-acre retreat nestled along Slab Creek, with most of the land intentionally left wild to support local ecosystems and preserve its natural beauty. The land features two seasonal creeks and ongoing stream restoration projects, enhancing biodiversity and contributing to the health of the watershed. The property includes three dwellings and additional space to accommodate an RV or tiny home, offering flexible living options. Facilities include a horse barn designed for holistic equine care, a jiujitsu gym, and a yoga studio, creating a unique blend of opportunities for recreation, wellness, and connection with nature. This harmonious space embodies a balance between purposeful development and conservation, making it a perfect environment for living, learning, and growth.

Duties Include:
-Perform routine maintenance and repairs on fences, barns, and other property structures.
-Maintain pastures, trails, and other outdoor spaces, including mowing, weed control, and erosion management.
-Maintain various gardens around the property, which include veggies, medicinals, flowers, fruit bushes, and trees.
-Operate and maintain equipment such as tractors, mowers, and tools.
-Ensure the property is clean, safe, and visually appealing.


Permaculture Farm Development (Optional):

The farm presents an incredible opportunity to build an educational permaculture center on the foundations of a property that was a successful CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) operation for 13 years. With a rich history of sustainable food production, the farm offers a unique platform to create a space that teaches and demonstrates regenerative agricultural practices. The property includes 1-2 greenhouse spaces, ideal for year-round growing and experimentation with diverse crops. A key aspect of this opportunity is our partnership with a small independent school located just one mile up the road. Together, we could engage young minds in hands-on projects like gardening, composting, and ecological restoration, fostering a deeper connection to the land and sustainable practices. This is an unparalleled chance to combine sustainability, education, and innovation on the stunning Oregon Coast while nurturing the next generation of environmental stewards.

Duties include:

-Design and implement a sustainable permaculture plan tailored to the unique environment of the Oregon Coast.
-Build and maintain gardens, food forests, compost systems, and water conservation features.
-Collaborate on creating an educational space to teach permaculture principles to visitors and the local community.
-Educate and Inspire: Provide hands-on learning experiences for children and the local community, fostering a deeper understanding of permaculture principles, sustainable living, and environmental stewardship.
-Manage farm operations, including planting, harvesting, and food production.
-Pursue grants, partnerships, and outreach opportunities to support the farm’s growth and mission.

Qualifications:
-Proven experience in horse care, property maintenance, or a related field.
-Knowledge of permaculture principles, sustainable farming, or regenerative agriculture (preferred but not required).
-Ability to safely operate and maintain farm equipment and tools.
-Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
-Comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions and performing physically demanding tasks.
-Self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Benefits:
Competitive compensation (hourly or salaried, based on experience).
Housing options available on-site or nearby, depending on candidate needs.
Access to resources, mentorship, and space to develop the permaculture farm.
The opportunity to live and work on a beautiful coastal property while contributing to sustainable and educational initiatives.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their resume, a cover letter highlighting relevant experience, and a brief outline of their vision for a permaculture farm on the Oregon Coast. Applications can be sent to kelseyaleatherman@gmail.com.
Join us in caring for our equine companions, maintaining a breathtaking coastal property, and fostering a vision of sustainability and education through permaculture.