Psychiatrische Universitätsklinik Zürich
Egg b. Zürich
Specialist in Equine-Assisted Therapy
- 05 November 2026
- 40 – 60%
- Permanent position
- German (Fluent)
- Egg b. Zürich
About the job
The Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich (PUK) is one of the leading psychiatric clinics in Switzerland. With over 2,500 employees, we are committed daily to the holistic treatment and care of people with mental illnesses. As a university clinic, we combine clinical expertise with research and teaching - in a working environment characterised by interdisciplinary collaboration, trust, and personal responsibility.
For our innovative and nature-based offering "Sandgrueb Animal- and Nature-Assisted Therapy" in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychotherapy at the Egg location, we are looking immediately or by arrangement for two committed individuals as
Specialist in Equine-Assisted Therapy
40-60% (or by arrangement)
Your Tasks
- Conducting as well as targeted preparation and follow-up of equine-assisted therapy sessions and experiential education in the stable, including individual adaptation to patient needs
- Systematic observation and comprehensive documentation of behaviour, development, and therapeutic progress of children and adolescents
- Professional training, targeted balancing work, and ensuring the health maintenance of therapy horses as well as preparation of the setting
- Coordination and organisation of assignments and holiday cover for riding therapists/educators to ensure seamless, smooth operation in close coordination with stable routines
- Training, balancing work, and health maintenance of therapy horses
- Regular professional exchange with the core team (ward, case management, school) as well as active support of scientific accompanying research (Messerli Foundation)
Your Profile
- Completed training in riding pedagogy/riding therapy, Equine Assisted Learning or comparable (e.g. SG-TR, PI-CH, Equi-Motion)
- Proven solid experience in dealing with children and adolescents with mental illnesses in a therapeutic setting
- Strong relationship and communication skills
- Resilience in crises as well as great enjoyment of interdisciplinary teamwork amidst an active stable and therapy operation
- Independent and solution-oriented working style as well as high resilience
- Willingness to actively participate in development processes
Our Offer
- Shaping innovation: Participation in pioneering research and development projects
- Together for people: Interdisciplinary collaboration for holistic psychiatric care
- Strong in the team: Appreciative cooperation and mutual support
- Future provision with added value: 60% employer contribution to the pension fund
- Sustainably on the move: Participation in the ZVV BonusPass or general subscription
Contact:
Veronika Mailänder Zelger
Chief Physician
+41 58 384 70 00
is happy to assist you with any questions.
We look forward to your application!
