Become a professional groom in 6 Simple Steps

How to become a professional groom – 6 simple steps

by Kelly wallace Horne

At any stage in your life, deciding on or changing a career pathway is a very tall order. We have to identify a working life that is enjoyable, that we are not only capable of but are likely to be good at, and that will sustain us financially and provide for our retirement. It’s hardly surprising that so many of us passionate horse lovers opt for a career with horses! So many young horse lovers stand on the threshold of their adult life envisaging a long future of playing with ponies every day and being paid to do it. What’s not to love?! Well, quite a lot actually – living the dream can soon become very disenchanting… unless you do it right!

Just as good grooms have the pick of the best jobs, good employers have the pick of the best grooms. So the burning question is, how can you be that groom?

1. Build and preserve your CV

For many, if not the majority of equine grooms, their first paid experience of working with horses will involve taking the first or only opportunity that presents itself, then going where the tide takes them from there on in. This potluck approach to getting jobs isn’t necessarily wrong, but it isn’t likely to bring you the best the equine industry has to offer you. There are plenty of good grooms jobs out there – The Grooms List by Caroline Carter Recruitment regularly recruit for well-paid jobs with generous salary packages and they nearly always go quickly, often with very little advertising! How? Because when we know who the good grooms are and what they are looking for we can start “matchmaking” pretty much from the get-go. So to be in with a good chance, first and foremost we need to know you are looking so you need to be registered with us, and we need details of what you’ve done previously and your future requirements and desires. When we have this information we know to contact you as soon as a suitable job becomes available (and you need to answer your phone or call us back, and quickly!) This is how potluck grooms miss out, because they would need to be in the right place at the right time to even know about the best jobs – you would be extremely lucky to repeatedly stumble across good jobs by chance.

Professional grooms DON’T leap into new jobs willy-nilly. By taking the potluck route you are jeopardising your equine CV. Each job that turns out to be a wrong move for you means you will probably be moving on again within no time. Your CV will soon resemble a chequerboard of short-lived jobs, telling future prospective employers that you’re probably not going to be with them long, and you probably aren’t worth their time-investment in settling you into their yard, let alone training you up, and your aspirations of being a successful, professional groom will be pushed out of your reach.

Professional grooms DO discuss having a job trial before deciding to accept or reject a prospective job. A job trial could prove to you that you would not enjoy the job after all. You also must understand the importance of job longevity. When you take a new job you really need to remain in that job for at least 12-18 months. Anything less than that risks spoiling (and ultimately destroying) your CV. Always closely examine why you are leaving your job, when you are leaving it and what can be done to rectify or improve your situation within your current role.

2. Be honest and stay safe

You don’t need equine qualifications to build a career in the equine industry, but they certainly are a benefit. Whether you choose to gain qualifications or not, when you start working with horses and especially if you are a school leaver, please don’t be under the illusion that you will be able to walk into a top equine job based on your years in the Pony Club, or how many horses/ponies you’ve owned throughout your life. No matter how much you’ve done or what great experience you’ve got, having your own horses and ponies is in no way comparable to working for someone else. An employer is going to want to see evidence, or at least have reassurance on how well you perform within a team, how you time-manage and prioritise your daily tasks, how you apply initiative when things go off-schedule and how you perform under pressure etc. Professional grooms with an established equine CV will be able to give prospective employers references from previous equine employers as evidence of their skills and abilities that are required to do the job. When starting out you need to be mindful of this and be prepared to agree to legal compromises regarding your salary expectations and the responsibilities you will hold within your job.

Building your equine career inevitably involves stepping outside of your comfort zone at times. “Punching above your weight” may seem necessary for progression, but ensure you do this in a realistic, sensible way. When considering what appears to be a dream job move that offers real career progression, make sure your potential employer is aware of your limitations and lack of experience in certain areas. Whilst there are many job vacancies that require someone who can just get on with the job, there are plenty of employers who are quite happy to help you broaden your skills set and progress your equine career. Make sure you discuss this at your enquiry/interview stage, strongly consider arranging a job trial before committing to a career move, and ensure both you and your prospective employer are clear on both party’s expectation and requirements and that this is laid out in writing before your start date. Don’t wing it, you have too much to lose.

Professional grooms DON’T big up their experience and ability in order to get a chance at career development. By doing this you are not only gambling with your equine career but quite possibly yours, and other people and horses’ safety too, if you are not prepared for all aspects of the new job.

For example, if you’ve previously worked at a Riding School or Livery Yard where you have plaited a horse up for a local show, you can’t big this up in order to get a job as a competition groom for a professional, international competition rider. You will most likely be a huge hindrance to the team on show days and you could come unstuck when handling big, fit, powerful, excitable competition horses. Your lack of skill and experience will be painfully obvious AFTER you’ve moved to your new job and you risk finding yourself back job hunting in no time and in turn you risk your CV becoming the chequerboard described in point 1, with all the associated consequences. Rather than your bold job move furthering your equine career, your aspiration of being a successful professional groom will be pushed further from your grasp.

Professional grooms DO discuss honestly their limitations, strengths and weaknesses, the skills they need to improve and the elements of the job they enjoy and excel at. When considering a new job do discuss having a job trial before deciding to accept or reject a prospective job. A job trial could prove to you that you would not enjoy the job after all, or prove to your potential new employer that you are a good fit for their yard, and they will be more accepting of any short-fallings as you take your step up the career ladder with them.

3. Be sensible in your life choices

Professional grooms DON’T bite off more than they can chew and are realistic in fitting their job around everything else in their life. This goes back to the potluck approach outlined earlier in this article. If you take on more than you can realistically manage on a daily basis you risk over-stretching yourself, you will not achieve a sensible work:life balance, and you will probably not get the best the equine industry has to offer. Full-time jobs in the equine industry are notorious for being long hours and hard work, so taking on more than you can fit in and manage it is not going to work.

Professional grooms DO consider the potential consequences of everything they do. Here are a few key examples:

Generally speaking, the further afield you’re prepared to go to take the perfect equine job for you, the more perfect equine jobs you will have to choose from. The more you limit the geographical radius for your job hunt the more you limit your possibilities and job opportunities.
Having horses/dogs/pets of your own has both positive and negative effects on the job opportunities open to you. Ensure you take these consequences on board BEFORE jumping in and taking on another fur-friend. You can read more about taking a horse and pets to a new job here.
Never jump ship when you could, by discussing issues with your employer, make things work where you are. Whatever you do today will affect lots of tomorrows when it comes to getting the best jobs in the equine industry. Getting the best jobs in the equine industry is not simply a matter of a good job hunt, it’s about everything you’ve done in each and every job you’ve had leading up to your current situation.

4. Know there are no shortcuts to becoming a knowledgeable and experienced groom

Professional grooms DON’T cram as many different types of jobs in various disciplines in as short a space of time as possible. This doesn’t convince future potential employers that you’re a very experienced, diverse groom, but it probably will convince them that you will not stick around long (check back at point 1: preserve your CV!)

Professional grooms DO choose a realistic career pathway. For example, if you’ve quite enjoyed working as a dressage groom don’t simply jump to being a polo groom for 6 months because the opportunity has arisen and you fancy a change. Stick at your job for at least 12-18 months THEN consider your next career move, not whether you fancy a change or not. If you wish to dip your toe in the water of other sectors of the equine industry consider short-term/temporary/seasonal positions as a legitimate way to build up more diverse experience without damaging you CV by job-hopping. You may have more diverse career options available to you than you think, so it is always worth having a chat with one of our knowledgeable and approachable recruitment consultants. Do contact us for a friendly, no-obligation chat.

5. Nudge things along where necessary and appropriate

Professional grooms DON’T let things drift. For instance, don’t be afraid to remind your employer that it is your 18th/21st/25th birthday next month and, if you are paid the National Minimum Wage, you require a pay rise to meet legal requirements.

Professional grooms DO keep up with adjustments to the National Minimum and Living Wage rates and the accommodation offset rate, any agreements made between themselves and their employer (this works both ways), and how progression within their existing job can benefit both them and their employer. If you feel something is lacking or wrong in your current job role or the flow within your team, or that there is room for you to develop within your existing place of employment, don’t be afraid to broach the subject with your employer. Don’t wait for your employer to notice, or offer you new opportunities. Showing keen and expressing a desire for success is rarely, if ever, a bad thing!

6. Understand that no one “owes” anyone anything

OK, I heard you just say “No professional groom works for nothing!” and you are correct. What I mean is, no one owes you anything and you don’t owe your employer anything beyond your terms of employment and honourable and decent behaviour. Neither an offer to work, or of employment is a favour, it is a business-like transaction between employer and employee.

Professional grooms DON’T agree to work for someone cash in hand/for less than the National Minimum or Living Wage/in return for accommodation, training, or favours.

Professional grooms DO bear in mind that it doesn’t matter how long you’ve been working for someone, how pally you may have become with them and/or their team or family, it doesn’t matter how much out on a limb you may have gone, or what your friends think, in simple terms your association with your employer is a lawful contractual arrangement.

Ensure you have EVERYTHING laid out in a Written Statement of Employment BEFORE your start working for anyone, even if you consider them to be a friend. You wouldn’t buy or rent a car without knowing what you’re getting and the price of it, so why should employers and employees? Again, this cuts both ways. Taking on a new groom is as much an investment to the employer as the groom. You are stepping into their corner of the world and they are welcoming you into it. A potential employer will be assessing the pros and cons of hiring you as a groom, just as much as you are assessing the pros and cons of taking their job.

OK, so whatever stage you’re at in your equine career, you’ve made it as far as an equine recruitment website, which is great. This actually is a very good place to start and/or revisit throughout your career, no matter what age you are when you start out working with horses.

Although it may not appear so at first look, these 6 steps really are simple. You don’t need lots of qualifications, tons of experience or any special skills to become a professional groom, you just need to ensure being a groom is the right profession for you and your circumstances, build a good employment history and keep your eye on the ball as you go.

Employers

Jobseekers

Top Jobs!

JL117562 Switzerland – Immediate start: Home and Show Groom

Optimum Horses

Live in Switzerland

Job Description An international sport- and dealing-stable in Dielsdorf, Switzerland, is looking for a friendly, experienced and reliable person taking care to high level dressage and showjumping horses. Duties include grooming, tacking, therapies (massage rugs, ice, etc.), bandaging, bathing, trimming, clipping, plaiting, show preparation, show grooming, braiding, first aid, lunging, laundry, organizing of tack room, feeding and cleaning stalls. Accommodation details Very nice accommodation with own kitchen and bathroom. Benefits Competitive salary, social insurances, accident insurance, working contract and working permit for Switzerland

JL115908 East Sussex, Uckfield – Competition Rider/Instructor

Hurstwood Farm Equestrian Centre

Live in Live out East Sussex, UK

Job Description A fantastic opportunity for a competent competition rider: We currently have 4 competition horses for showjumping and eventing, one of these recently won Bicton 1m championships and has qualifications. 1 is an established showjumper competes at 1.20-1.30 with potential to go further and two youngsters with excellent bloodlines for eventing they have just started their careers and have been out showjumping so far. All expenses, entries etc paid for by the owner. We have 2 horseboxes one 7.5 and one 3.5 so must be able to drive. Teach on our Racewood eventing simulator, lots of fun helps riders to learn to ride so no bobbling about on horses backs! Can also do advanced dressage and jump pretty decent 1.20 courses xc and sj. Interactive screen and it generates feedback and produces a print out for rider position, balance, leg pressure and contact. BHS approved riding school with a lovely mix of horses and ponies but we are small only 7 riding school horses with regular clients. Nice easy stables – new Cheval Liberte, fully matted and drinkers. 5.5 days, 8am- 5pm Must drive and have own car. Salary negotiable for right person £24k – £30k, together with extra income for teaching on or off the simulator. Minimum Requirements Experience competing and coaching qualifications. High welfare standards. Accommodation details Sole accommodation if required. Self contained studio apartment or chalet type accommodation. Benefits Fantastic facilities and location 80 acre cross country course Latest technology horse simulator – can jump a course of 1.20m sj and xc New big airy barn type stables Pension 28 days Holiday

JL117224 Surrey – Groom/Rider (optional) required for professional Show Jumping Yard

SF Equine Ltd – Steven Franks

Live in Live out Surrey, UK

Rider / Groom A fantastic opportunity to work on a professional show jumping yard in the Surrey hills. We are seeking a very valued member who takes pride in their work and prioritises the care of the horses. To include all normal stable duties such as mucking out, lunging, tacking up, loading the horse walker, field turnout, clipping and managing day to day running of the yard. Option to ride if competent with fit, young competition horses. Good basic flatwork skills needed and experience within this field. This could be the ideal opportunity for someone to base and train with there own horses, alongside riding and grooming. We travel to national and International shows including Spanish tours. Must be confident handling fit, competition horses and stallions and to be able to take sole charge at times. We are looking for someone enthusiastic, responsible, reliable and hardworking to join our fun and friendly team. Must be willing to turn out to high standards. Clipping and plaiting would be an advantage but could be taught. An opportunity to join a fantastic team of horses and people. Purpose built modern indoor yard with great facilities. 5 day week. 7.30am to 5.15 with breaks and cake. Attractive salary with bonuses for loyalty and progression. This can be discussed further upon assessment of applicants CV. Flexible days off and paid holiday entitlement. Can be more home based if the candidate prefers as our other members of staff are flexible. Sole accommodation in a modern park lodge with private decking and views if required. Applicant can also live out if local. Previous staff members recommend and generally have stayed with us for many years. Minimum Requirements Experience with competition horses a bonus HGV is a bonus but not essential Accommodation details Residential Lodge Benefits Possibility of own horses for the right candidate Great opportunity to work with a variety of horses for a successful show jumping rider.

JL111960 Surrey – Head Groom for professional Show Jumping yard

SF Equine Ltd – Steven Franks

Live in Live out Surrey, UK

Head Groom / Yard manager A fantastic opportunity to work on a professional show jumping yard in the Surrey hills. We are seeking a very valued member who takes pride in their work and prioritises the care of the horses. To include all normal stable duties such as mucking out, lunging, tacking up, loading the horse walker, field turnout, clipping and managing day to day running of the yard. Option to ride if competent with fit, competition horses. We travel to national and International shows including Spanish tours. Must be confident handling fit, competition horses and stallions and to be able to take sole charge at times. We are looking for someone enthusiastic, responsible, reliable and hardworking to join our fun and friendly team. Must be willing to turn out to high standards. Clipping and plaiting would be an advantage but could be taught. An opportunity to join a fantastic team of horses and people. Purpose built modern indoor yard with great facilities. 5 day week. 7.30am to 5.15 with breaks and cake. Attractive salary with bonuses for loyalty and progression. This can be discussed further upon assessment of applicants CV. Flexible days off and paid holiday entitlement. Can be more home based if the candidate prefers as our other members of staff are flexible. Sole accommodation in a modern park lodge with private decking and views if required. Applicant can also live out if local. Previous staff members recommend and generally have stayed with us for many years. Minimum Requirements Experience with competition horses a bonus HGV is a bonus but not essential Accommodation details Residential Lodge Benefits Possibility of own horses for the right candidate Great opportunity to work with a variety of horses for a successful show jumping rider.

JL117159 Kent – Full Time or Part-Time Groom for Family Yard

Valley Farm Throwley

Live in Live out Kent, UK

Job Description Full or part-time groom required for outstanding established family yard on Kent North Downs, maintained to very high standard. 3 horses, excellent facilities – including new indoor school, 60 x 20 outdoor arena, round pen and horse walker. Occasional dog sitting (2 charming labradors). Kitchen, restroom and bathroom facilities for groom on yard. Earliest start date 1 July 2024 but possibly earlier. Minimum Requirements Experience of usual groom’s duties and of handling sports horses. Accommodation details Excellent self-contained, live-in accommodation available on the farm, a few minutes walk from yard. Parking available. Benefits Accommodation. Possibility of own horse. One pet allowed. Excellent pay and working conditions. Farm is in AONB with footpath access from farm to outstanding surrounding countryside. Other help kept e.g. for ground and arena maintenance. M2 (10 minutes) and M20 (20 minutes) easily accessible. Easy access to Faversham and Ashford.

JL117203 Cheshire, Northwich – Part Time, Live Out Groom and Instructor Required for Family Yard

Feldy Green Cottage

Live out Cheshire, UK

Job Description We looking for a a part time groom to look after our horse and two ponies and to also help our two children (8 year old boy and 3 year old girl) with there riding skills. Minimum Requirements Experience in teaching young children to ride. Drivers licence would be preferable to support with pony club events. Self starting Accommodation details Stable and access to an arena for horse is available. Benefits To Be Agreed, but terms will be favourable

JL110577 The Midlands – HGV Competition Groom/Rider (optional) Required. Young Rider Show Jumping yard

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out West Midlands, UK

CONFIDENTIALITY ASSURED *Salary IRO £40k totally negotiable depending on experience plus accommodation *Sponsorship available to suitably qualified non UK citizens *Partner, own horse and pets welcomed (but this is a role with lots of travelling home and internationally) Show Jumping Competition Groom required for a vacancy with a very ambitious and competitive family. Must be an experienced Show Groom in the UK and Internationally with an established referenceable record. Rider is a bonus but certainly not essential. Experienced driving 26t+ lorries and ideally articulated is key. 18 quality jumping horses and homebred/other young stock destined for a career in SJ/jumping all kept in top accommodation to the highest standards. Nice, flexible accommodation Great team environment with a young, energetic, motivated and progressive team. Top-class facilities Fairly flexible on the number of days worked, can work around anything between 5 and 6 but obviously will be straight through when away at shows You will be well looked after and treated as the professional you have worked hard to become in this very inclusive environment. Must have experience with handling stallions. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL108865 Germany – Calling all those with an adventurous spirit who would like to turbocharge their CVs?

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Germany

If you have an EU or German passport or the necessary immigration status plus an adventurous spirit and would like to turbocharge your CV – we would like you to get in touch soonest *Salary £2047.71 per month/£24,572.52 pa annum/£472.54 pw (Euros equivalent) *Food/accommodation and utilities small charge *Must have an EU or German passport *Dog considered *Short-term contract positions (6-9 months available), as well as long-term jobs, are available *This employer is happy to consider junior and senior, experienced or less experienced This is a unique opportunity to work in a world-class performance horse yard/ auction site/ sales/youngstock /sales and competition yards and on the same employer’s Stud & AI laboratory (during the Stud season) . The Stud role during the season has 2 key elements: to look after broodmares and their foals. You would also be involved in vet checks and insemination, youngstock handling, stable management, feeding, health care, farrier, etc Grooms/Stud staff interested in working in their world-leading AI laboratory This position requires someone super meticulous and organised to fill and pack the orders for mares to be put in foal to their world-class stallions via AI you don´t need any horse or lab experience at all. Enthusiasm and dedication to work alongside the best horses, riders, and horse people. This opportunity would be GREAT FUN and a second-to-none experience which would enhance your career anywhere you choose at home and abroad. Outside of the season you may well work with young horses/competition horses/auction bound horses etc etc whatever you r preference vs the yards requirements at the time. All up for discussion. This really does offer a rare insight into world-class horses, world-class facilities, and a truly remarkable experience for any Groom or Stud Person seriously interested in getting to the top of their game. There are also considerable opportunities for advancement and promotion possibilities if you wish to remain in Germany. Please note: Medical aid – by law both employer and employee have to pay 50% Statutory sick pay – the employer pays for the first 6 weeks of medical insurance, after the 6 weeks they pay around 60-70% 3 meals per day will be provided when working on site, (one of which is a warm cooked meal), and the employee pays 163€ per month contribution All employment/immigration /legal administration – The employer will assist with this but there will be a joint responsibility between the employee and Employer. The agency, Caroline carter Recruitment Ltd. in its capacity as an introductory and not an employment agency, does not get involved with this apart from in terms of communication between employee and employer if requested in writing/email by the employee or employer Covid-19 – The employee must have had the 1st and 2nd doses but it is not mandatory to have had the booster. This will be at the employee’s discretion but the employer retains the right to restrict duties without it. Please call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL117026 Lanarkshire – Head/Home Groom with Riding, International Dressage Yard

Robyn Smith Dressage

Live in Live out Lanarkshire

Job Description This is a very specific role where it is important to find the right person as our yard is our home, our horses are our pride and joy and it is a position of great responsibility. We are looking for a full time, home groom to report directly to the owners and take sole charge/ care as required. We run a small, family yard with very high standards and attention to detail. Our horses range from broodmares and foals to our international Grand Prix dressage stallion as well as horses at various stages in between. We also take in a limited number of horses for training throughout the year. All usual yard duties and responsibilities are required in the running of the yard day to day as well as the specific needs of performance horses and broodmares and foals. Occasional help away at single day shows may be required but this role is primarily focussed on the health and happiness of all our horses at home, ensuring all of their needs are met. We pride ourselves in giving our horses the best care possible with no detail being too big or small and would like to find someone with the same ethos. Given the sole charge nature of this role, the ideal candidate will be someone who is happy working off their own motivation and does not rely on the “buzz’ of a large team around them day to day. Live in/ Live out as required. Whilst care will be the primary role the ability to assist with hacking, lunging and basic exercise is required particularly for when we are away at shows so a competent rider used to fit competition horses is preferred. Training as to how we do things and to refine skills will of course be provided. Please get in touch for a fully detailed job specification.

JL117000 Belgium – Home Groom/Rider (optional) for International Dressage Yard

Haras de La Huissiere

Live in Belgium

Job Description We are going to rent a wing in a professional stable in the Brussels region of Belgium (Lasnes). We are looking for a groom for a professional dressage rider who competes internationally and who participated at the Tokyo Olympics. We are looking for the home groom for 6 horses. The job entails managing the horses at home, mucking our the stables, tacking up the horses, putting the horses in the field and walker, hand walking them, lunging the horses, coordinating the various tasks such as feed order, farrier, vet, physio visits etc…. Lorry license is a plus but not absolutely necessary. We have 2 lorries – a large one and a small one. So some lorry cleaning or organizing may be involved. A flat is supplied at the yard. The groom needs to be able to work in EU – either as employee or as a consultant. We are looking for someone who wants to be a part of a dynamic, ambitious team who has the highest dreams to perform as well as possible including the participation at World Cups, 5* shows and even the Olympics. Minimum Requirements English or French speaker, live-in or out. Organized, reliable and a love and respect for horses. Accommodation details The job includes a flat in the yard/stable.

JL116974 Hertfordshire – Live in or out Home and Competition Groom/Exercise Rider, (optional). Eventing.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Hertfordshire, UK

*IRO £26K-£30K pa * beautiful, on site Accommodation available * Opportunity to travel to competitions *Small dog possible This is a lovely position to work alongside an owner/2* Event Rider and other team members at home but sole charge at competitions. The horses kept include 2x Novice horses, 2 x 2** event horses & 2 retirees. This position would suit someone with experience at the level and in the discipline. with initiative, enthusiasm, a GSOH OR a decent home Groom who would like to transition to become a competition Groom and is willing and able to learn the ropes. You should be able to: Work in a team and or take sole charge at home Sole charge at competitions (UK venues) Perform all aspects of stable management Provide a first-class standard of care, with a high level of attention to detail Turn out to a high standard Hack out, fit competition horses. Call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL116968 East Sussex – Groom/Rider (optional) for an International Dressage Rider.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out East Sussex, UK

* Remuneration negotiable IRO £25K pa (no accommodation charges and no bills) *Horse considered *Dog considered * Partner considered Lovely, professional Dressage Team is looking for a Groom/Rider (optional) for an International Dressage Rider. The soonest start required. This is a sole charge home and sometimes away position (competition Groom skills required) in a quiet yard with a small team so you must be someone who is happy with that and doesn’t need a large ‘buzzy’ team around them. You must be capable of sole charge/have good turnout skills /reliability and commitment/trustworthiness. Riding is offered if capable and training can be provided to develop also. The Rider competes mostly in the UK so you would be required to attend shows and perform competition Groom duties so prior experience in this area is preferable. The furnished accommodation is beautiful, a ground floor flat barn conversion with a garden. (Photos available for suitable candidates). These employers are proud members of the EEA and pride themselves on being at the forefront of good employment practices. Please call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL116773 Hertfordshire, Rickmansworth – Live Out Groom/Rider (optional) required for mixed discipline Livery Yard

Rosehall Farm

Live out Hertfordshire, UK

Job Description All usual daily yard duties. Minimum Requirements Looking for reliable team player that is hard working, enjoys working as part of a team. Some experience required but happy to train the right person. Must have good communication skills and happy to deal with livery clients. Accommodation details N/A Benefits Friendly, happy yard environment, training given, work as part of a fantastic team that has lots of experience and energy. Good rates of pay.

JL103713 Germany. Warmblood sport horses – Experienced or less experienced Stud and or AI laboratory Staff required.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Germany

Add considerable experience to your CV – why not consider as a short-term contract position (6-9 months available) as well as long-term jobs. If you have an EU or German passport, an adventurous spirit and would like to show what you are capable of or add to your CV, then this could be for you! *Salary £2047.71 per month/£24,572.52 pa annum/£472.54 pw (Euros equivalent) *Food/accommodation and utilities small charge * Must have an EU or German passport *Dog considered. One of the most professional performance horse yards in the world is looking to add to its team with two key Stud Roles to look after broodmares and their foals. You would also be involved in vet checks and inseminations, youngstock handling, stable management, feeding, health care, farrier, etc Grooms/Stud staff interested in working in their world-leading AI laboratory This position requires someone super meticulous and organised to fill and pack the orders for mares to be put in foal to their world-class stallions via AI you don´t need any horse or lab experience at all. This employer is happy to consider junior and senior, experienced or less experienced. Enthusiasm and dedication to work alongside the best horses, riders, and horsepeople. This opportunity would be GREAT FUN and a second-to-none experience which would enhance your career anywhere you chose in the future both at home and abroad. A rare insight into world-class horses, world-class facilities, and a truly remarkable experience for any Groom or Stud Person seriously interested in getting to the top of their game. There are also considerable opportunities for advancement and promotion possibilities if you wish to remain in Germany. Please note: Medical aid – by law both employer and employee have to pay 50% Statutory sick pay – the employer pays for the first 6 weeks of medical insurance, after the 6 weeks they pay around 60-70% 3 meals per day will be provided when working on site, (one of which is a warm cooked meal), the employee pays 163€ per month contribution All employment/immigration /legal administration – The employer will assist with this but there will be a joint responsibility between the employee and Employer. The agency, Caroline carter Recruitment Ltd. in its capacity as an introductory and not an employment agency, does not get involved with this apart from in terms of communication between employee and employer if requested in writing/email by the employee or employer Covid-19 – The employee must have had the 1st and 2nd doses but it is not mandatory to have had the booster. This will be at the employee’s discretion but the employer retains the right to restrict duties without it. Please call Caroline on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL116878 West Sussex – Long term Yard Manager/Groom required for FAMILY YARD

Private

Live in West Sussex, UK

Job Description Wonderful position at a family yard with sole charge of our horses/ponies. We offer onsite accommodation and competitive pay/benefits The ideal candidate will be competent, organised and flexible We’re looking for someone who will take pride in keeping the yard clean and tidy and to look after the horses as if they are their own. Flexibility within the role is a must – as the days can really vary! And we would ideally like to find someone who is looking for a long term role. All normal yard duties daily – we usually have 3 horses + 2 ponies. One weekend day at least. 5.5days/week. WE CANNOT ACCOMMODATE OWN HORSE CURRENTLY Must have driving licence. Can offer HGV training opportunity Experience working with children and ponies (and a good sense of humour!) required We offer a competitive package to the right person and very good working conditions Please only apply if you have the appropriate VISA/paperwork to live and work in the UK long term Please get in touch to find out more. Minimum Requirements Must have references and experience Driving licence required Accommodation details 2 bed sole use static home (very modern only a few years old and in great condition) Benefits Competitive salary, paid holiday and pension scheme

JL116803 Hertfordshire – Full Time Competition Groom for Show Jumping Yard

Astwick Bury Farm

Live in Hertfordshire, UK

Job Description Looking for a keen enthusiastic individual to come and join our small family run yard. Must be someone who is open and friendly with good communication skills, and capabale of taking overall responsibilty of the horses. Someone who is organised and methodical with their work. You will be working with top quality showjumpers from young horses through to Grand Prix. We have 12 horses max with 3 full time members of staff. Job will require all usual yard duties, tack cleaning, bandaging, tacking up, also lunging and dealing with fit competition horses including young horses and stallions. You will be required to go to all the shows both international and national. Fun friendly team to work with, alongside lovely horses. Live in position is available Please contact me for more information about the position. Pay is dependent on experience but we are on the books here so will include holiday pension etc Accommodation details Fully kitted out mobile home Benefits Potential for a horse

JL116740 Wiltshire – Competition Groom for Showjumping Yard

Baydon House Farm

Live in Live out Wiltshire, UK

Job Description We are looking for a Competition Groom to join our friendly and family-run Show Jumping yard near Marlborough This is a fantastic opportunity for a full-time, work-proud and driven individual. Option to live-in for the right person with a competitive salary dependent on experience. We are looking for a team player willing to get stuck in and enjoy the role. Fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities within family run yard in beautiful surroundings and friendly environment. Minimum Requirements Applicant must be competent around high class horses as well as youngsters. Accompanying competitor on national and international tours; turning out to a high standard when home and away. Ideal candidate will have HGV licence but not imperative. Accommodation details Potential to live-in for the right candidate. Newly finished flat on the farm complete with open plan kitchen, one double bedroom and en suite bathroom. Benefits Competitive salary dependent on experience.

JL116732 Scotland, East Lothian – Groom/Au Pair (optional riding) for Family Yard

Muirton

Live in Live out Scotland, UK

Job Description I am looking for someone to help me with our small private yard of ponies. My 3 daughters are all doing Working Hunter and a small bit of flat showing and I am now requiring help for shows and show preparation. There will be general yard duties during the week too, but I am happy to give the candidate the beginning of the week off if they have been at shows during the weekend. Minimum Requirements Must be able to plait and turn out to a high standard. Must be a happy disposition, and get on with the children. Drivers license required Non smokers Accommodation details In a mobile home on the farm Benefits A use of a car will be provided if candidate does not have one. We are 20 mins from the centre of Edinburgh with easy access to trains.

JL116385 Cambridgeshire – Permanent, experienced team Groom/Rider for established and traditional Hunting yard.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Cambridgeshire, UK

Cambridgeshire – Permanent, experienced team Groom/Rider for established and traditional Hunting. *IRO £22K+accommodation (pay own electricity) *warm, cosy 1-bed apartment *Dog welcomed *Lots of riding on big, fit hunters *Great for experienced Groom or a chance to get some proper Hunt Yard experience on your CV! Lovely position available on a well-established, traditional family hunt yard within a beautiful estate. Fun, professional team renowned for being great at what they do. You will work hard but be treated well and have a very rewarding job! The position involves all grooming duties to a good standard. Lots of riding is available but you must be a strong confident good jockey, (horses ranging from 15.2-18.2HH and are fit and well). You will be taught to clip, plait (sew plaits) etc but if you already possess these skills even better. 5.5 days a week (Sunday off and half a day in the week) Hours are 6.30- 12. 30 and then just 1.5 hours in the afternoon (1.00 pm). Great facilities/menage/lunge pen/500 acres/excellent hacking. Call Caroline & the Team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruitment.com

JL116009 Gloucestershire, between Cirencester and Cheltenham – Live Out, Sole Charge Groom/Rider for Amateur Rider (Eventing, Dressage)

Withington Manor

Live out Gloucestershire, UK

Job Description Self-employed groom sought 3-5 hours a day, generally 5 days a week, to care for and manage three competition horses in a private yard between Cirencester and Cheltenham, Gloucestershire (GL54) We are seeking an enthusiastic, reliable, efficient, trustworthy person. The person needs to be capable of sole charge, with high standards and a good level of equine management, including fitness, and riding skills for hacking and schooling. Ability to clip, plait, and turn out to show/event standard is required. The role is for someone who is a good communicator, open minded to occasional equine complementary therapy, and adaptable to usual competition flexibility, with a sense of humour. Whilst there are usually people around, initiative and responsibility is required The person will be responsible for organising and booking the diary, for lessons, farrier, vaccinations, chiropractor, dentist, training and event schedules, alongside rider support. Minimum Requirements Average hours are 3 – 5 hours a day, minimum of 2, but need to be flexible and event days will be longer hours. There is an opportunity of additional work, alongside this role, in a large attached livery yard. Self employment required. This is a lovely and cheerful environment, with lovely horses, who are very much cherished, excellent facilities and outstanding hacking. Possibility of stabling your own horse on site. ***Start date is flexible – can start any time between now and June 2024, please contact and discuss***

JL113920 Hampshire, Nr Hook – Rider/Groom/Instructor (no formal qualifications required). Family Yard.

Caroline Carter Recruitment Ltd

Live in Live out Hampshire, UK

*Salary £35,000 PA depending on experience and qualifications.*5 day week *Horse welcomed *Discretionary, generous end of year bonus *Overtime available *Very interesting role We have placed several staff with these employers over the years and most are still in situ with the feedback in all respects extremely positive. ‘Lovely family, a great place to work, nice people, more than fair remuneration Exciting Role on a small yard of 10 rare breed/schoolmaster horses for a really lovely private HNW family. The family reside in the UK seasonally and now needs an accomplished, calm, confident, self-starter with a passion for high standards of horse care and VIP client interactions to join the team. The daily role is inclusive of completing all yard jobs to a high standard, and exercising the horses both under saddle and in the carriage (opportunity to learn to carriage drive if not currently in your skillset). The horses need to be kept in a manner that keeps the horses suitably trained for their intended purpose and with a high level of turnout and yard. In the season the role is similar to a competition groom role, exciting and dynamic with different requests to fulfil on the main premises inclusive of pony riding, carriage driving, trekking, photoshoots, events and more! The ideal candidate would possess their HGV licence, but at minimum, the candidate will need to be confident driving a 3.5t and towing with a manual car and trailer with a willingness to obtain a HGV with the employer’s sponsorship longer-term. The candidate will need to be flexible regarding hours during the “season” the family are in residence as some events run into the evenings, this time is well remunerated and those that go above and beyond to make the residency period run smoothly are well rewarded with a very generous discretionary bonus at the end of the season. Daily working location is based in Hook, Hampshire, main estate based near Windsor, during the “season” you will be required to work from either/both locations. Could be live-in or live-out position but a relocation package is offered whereby the employer provides allowance for accommodation for 4 months, (giving time to look for own accommodation in the area). Amazing private facilities with space for 20 horses but family have <10 : International sized arena, own gallops and show jumps. Great hacking. Call Caroline and The Grooms List team on 0203 006 5730 or email info@carolinecarterrecruiment.com

JL115499 Herefordshire – Full-time Live-In Groom/Rider required for Private Estate

Private Estate, Herefordshire

Live in Herefordshire, UK

Job Description English family relocating from Scotland are looking for a live-in groom to start June 2024. This is a full-time position with the requirement to work ad hoc Saturdays or Sundays as needed. The applicant will be in sole-charge of two perfectly behaved cobs and three (pretty perfectly) behaved shetland ponies. The family are currently looking to acquire three further horses / ponies to add to their team. The private estate is a working farm with excellent equine facilities. There is an outdoor arena with show jumps, miles of off-road hacking and plans for an extensive cross country course. This is a very happy and family focussed home, with young children, dogs and other livestock. HGV 7.5 ton license preferable, but for the right candidate the family would sponsor the required training and qualifications. CVs and references will be required. Minimum Requirements All yard duties must be performed to a high standard. Applicant must be a sensitive and confident rider and happy to work through any schooling or behavioural issues. Due to the size of the horses, the family require a lightweight groom, ideally one who is able to exercise and school small stocky ponies. Candidate must be energetic, a team player, with good social skills and the ability to work harmoniously alongside other staff. The family are also looking for a positive, happy groom who would also really enjoy riding with (and teaching where needed) the younger members of the family. A DBS certificate will be required. Accommodation details Idyllic one-bedroom flat adjoined to the main house, overlooking the farm and parkland. This flat is in excellent condition and there is a strong expectation that this standard of accommodation will be maintained by the successful applicant. – Council tax paid for – Water and heating paid for (T&Cs apply) – All other utilities to be covered by the applicant Benefits For the right candidate, this position offers: – The opportunity to bring with them their own horse – The opportunity to bring with them a maximum of two well behaved small pets (indoor cats only) – The opportunity to use the family horse box for personal use (when not in use by the family) Pension as standard

How to become a professional groom – 6 simple steps

by Kelly wallace Horne

1. Build and preserve your CV

2. Be honest and stay safe

3. Be sensible in your life choices

4. Know there are no shortcuts to becoming a knowledgeable and experienced groom

5. Nudge things along where necessary and appropriate

6. Understand that no one “owes” anyone anything

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