Current jobs related to Military Horse Grooming Technician - Windsor, Windsor and Maidenhead - Ministry of Defence

Position Overview

The Ministry of Defence employs a diverse workforce, including approximately 7,000 Civil Servants within the Army Top Level Budget (TLB) across various locations. Our team comprises professionals from numerous fields, contributing to essential operations for the Army.

This role presents a unique opportunity to provide exceptional care for the horses involved in significant state ceremonial events in central London and nationwide. As a key member of our team, you will play a vital role in ensuring the horses of the Household Cavalry Mounted Unit are well-cared for and impeccably presented during important public engagements.

We are dedicated to maintaining high standards of equine welfare and seek individuals who thrive in a collaborative environment to deliver the necessary care and maintenance for our horses. This dynamic position is both rewarding and allows you to utilize your equestrian skills to support critical national objectives.

Due to the ongoing care required for the horses, this position entails a commitment of 36 hours per week, distributed over six days.

Key Responsibilities

Successful candidates will be tasked with grooming, clipping, handling, feeding, and exercising Military Working Horses. A genuine passion for ensuring these animals receive the highest level of care and attention is essential, particularly in preparing them for ceremonial duties.

Additionally, the role includes assisting the veterinary and farriery teams, which involves restraining and managing various horse breeds and administering basic daily treatments, including medication and physiotherapy exercises.

You will have the opportunity to exercise and train the horses, engaging in activities such as roadwork, cantering, lunging, and supporting rehabilitation programs. Maintaining the cleanliness of stables and ensuring compliance with Health and Safety standards is also a critical aspect of this role.

Given the flexible and dynamic nature of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, the ability to work independently with minimal supervision while meeting tight deadlines as part of a dedicated team is essential.

Fixed-term Appointment

This position is a Fixed-term Appointment as an Army Horse Groom. Your responsibilities will align with those outlined in this job description. This appointment is temporary, lasting for a specified period. Should you be a permanent MoD civil servant and successfully secure this Fixed-term Appointment, you will transition into the role under a Temporary Transfer.

Qualifications and Experience

To uphold the high-quality care standards expected for our horses, it is crucial that our grooms:

• Hold a Level 2 BHS qualification in Riding and Grooming or an equivalent qualification (such as a Level 2 Equine Animal Care and Welfare Apprenticeship).
• Possess recent and relevant experience in horse grooming, demonstrating the ability to ride horses of varying temperaments and undertake physically demanding tasks.
• Exhibit a proven capability to present horses to a high standard, including skills in trimming, clipping, and mane and tail management.
• Be competent in performing a range of stable duties.
• Show a strong commitment to equine welfare.

Due to the continuous care required for the horses, a four-week shift pattern involving weekends and public holidays will be necessary, with the potential for overtime in unforeseen circumstances.

While a full UK driving license is desirable, it is not a formal requirement for this position.

Professional Development Opportunities

The Ministry of Defence is committed to offering a variety of professional and technical development opportunities, supporting staff in their career advancement.

In this role, there may be opportunities to pursue the Level 3 BHS qualification or equivalent to further your career development.

Benefits

Alongside a competitive salary, the Ministry of Defence contributes significantly towards your membership in the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. The Army values its employees and promotes flexible working arrangements to support a healthy work/life balance.

Additional benefits for Army Civil Servants include:

• 25 days of paid annual leave, increasing to 30 days after five years of service.
• A highly competitive pension scheme.
• Opportunities for personal and professional skill development.
• Alternative working patterns for many roles.
• Access to the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), a complimentary service designed to foster a productive and healthy work environment.
• Enhanced parental and adoption leave.
• 6 days of special leave per year for volunteering activities.

We believe in the potential of every individual to make a difference and will support you in your learning and career advancement, including pathways to professional body membership and modern apprenticeships.

The Ministry of Defence is dedicated to providing a safe and healthy working environment for all staff, promoting a smoke-free workplace and supporting those who wish to quit smoking.

We may contact you regarding your experience with our recruitment process to enhance our customer satisfaction.