ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Assistant Horse Riding Instructor Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch

Be Seen First

Seasonal Wrangler - Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Maintain barns, corrals, tack, and riding equipment * Assist with ranch operations as needed * Help ... Qualifications: * Strong horseback riding skills and confidence handling horses * Previous ...

Jackson HealthPros

Travel Cath Lab Tech

Goodyear, AZ · On-site

$2.2K - $2.9K/wk

Earn full time pay and benefits while you assist physicians and other Cath lab personnel in ... horseback riding. Goodyear Ballpark, the spring training home of the Cleveland Guardians and ...

NVA

Emergency Veterinarian

Litchfield Park, AZ · On-site

We will have a brigade of partnering Technicians, Assistants and Doctor Assistants. Our whole team ... and horseback riding, as well as golf at the Tres Rios Golf Course. There is also a hidden gem ...

All JobsHorse Riding Instructor JobsAssistant Horse Riding Instructor JobsAssistant Horse Riding Instructor Jobs in Phoenix, AZ

Assistant Horse Riding Instructor information

What are some common challenges faced by Assistant Horse Riding Instructors when working with beginner riders?

Assistant Horse Riding Instructors often encounter challenges such as helping beginners overcome fear or nervousness around horses, ensuring clear communication of foundational riding techniques, and maintaining safety for both riders and animals. Patience and adaptability are essential, as each learner progresses at their own pace and may require different teaching approaches. Instructors also need to collaborate closely with the lead instructor to provide consistent feedback and support, fostering a positive and encouraging learning environment.

What are Assistant Horse Riding Instructors?

Assistant Horse Riding Instructors help lead riding lessons, supervise students, and care for horses at riding schools or stables. They typically work under the guidance of a qualified instructor, assisting with lesson preparation, safety checks, and beginner instruction. Their responsibilities may also include grooming horses, tacking up, and helping riders of all ages improve their skills. This role is ideal for individuals with strong horse handling skills who are interested in teaching and equestrian care.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Horse Riding Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Horse Riding Instructor, you need a solid understanding of horsemanship, basic riding techniques, and often an equine-related qualification or instructor accreditation. Familiarity with stable management software, safety protocols, and first aid certification is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and an encouraging attitude are valuable soft skills for effectively teaching and motivating students of all ages. These competencies ensure safe lessons, promote student progress, and foster a positive learning environment.

What is the difference between Assistant Horse Riding Instructor vs Riding Instructor?

AspectAssistant Horse Riding InstructorRiding Instructor
CertificationsTypically requires riding certifications, CPR, first aidSame as assistant, often with additional teaching certifications
Work EnvironmentAssist in lessons, support senior instructors, work at riding schools or stablesLead lessons, instruct students independently, work at riding schools or equestrian centers
ResponsibilitiesSupport instructor, supervise students, ensure safetyPlan and deliver riding lessons, assess student progress, ensure safety

The main difference between an Assistant Horse Riding Instructor and a Riding Instructor is that the assistant supports and assists with lessons, while the riding instructor leads and conducts lessons independently. Both roles require similar certifications and work in equestrian environments, but the riding instructor has greater responsibility and autonomy in teaching.

What are the most commonly searched types of Horse Riding Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Horse Riding Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Horse Riding Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Assistant Horse Riding Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Horse Riding Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Horse Riding Instructor jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
Assistant Horse Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Horse Riding Instructor job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Seasonal Wrangler - Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch

Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch

Mesa, AZ • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Be Seen First

After you apply to this job, you can share why you’re interested to jump to the top of the candidate list.

Job description

Seasonal Wrangler - Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch

Spend your season riding through the Sonoran Desert while creating unforgettable experiences for guests.

Dates: September - April 2026/2027 AND December - April 2026/2027

Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch is looking for enthusiastic, experienced horse people to join our team of Wranglers. If you enjoy working with horses, meeting new people from around the world, and thrive in the outdoors, this is an opportunity to be part of a Unique Arizona Ranch experience.

Our wranglers are more than trail guides-they are hosts, storytellers, and ambassadors of the ranch. Every day is different, from caring for our horses to leading scenic rides through the beautiful desert landscape and helping guests create lasting memories.

Compensation: competitive hourly wage (based on experience) + tips. Potential for housing.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

An Incredible Setting: Nestled on the Lower Salt River, in the shadow of the Bulldog Cliffs.

A Meaningful Experience: Build connections with guests while sharing your passion for horses, Arizona History, and the unique desert environment.

A Great Team: Join a hardworking, supportive crew that values professionalism, hospitality, and a love from the outdoors.

What You’ll Do

As a wrangler, you’ll play an important role in creating a safe, enjoyable experience for both our guests and horses.

  • Feed, groom, catch, tack, and provide daily care for the ranch horses
  • Monitor horse health and recognize basic signs of illness or injury
  • Lead guided trail rides for guests of varying riding abilities while enduring safety and enjoyment
  • Share knowledge of the local desert landscape, wildlife, and ranch history during rides.
  • Provide clear riding instruction before each ride
  • Maintain barns, corrals, tack, and riding equipment
  • Assist with ranch operations as needed
  • Help create a welcoming atmosphere by interacting with guests throughout their stay

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for dependable, positive team members who are passionate about horses and enjoy providing exceptional guest experiences.

Qualifications:

  • Strong horseback riding skills and confidence handling horses
  • Previous experience working with horses in a ranch, stable, or trail riding environment
  • Basic knowledge of equine health and first aid
  • Excellent communication and customer service skills
  • Ability to work independently while also contributing as part of a team
  • Comfortable working outdoors in Arizona’s desert climate.
  • Flexible, dependable, and willing to help wherever needed.

Physical Requirements

  • Ability to lift and carry up to 100 pounds
  • Comfortable standing, walking, and riding for extended periods
  • Able to work in varying weather conditions, including heat and dust

The Details:

Housing: employee housing may be available. Due to the nature of the ranch operations, pets are not permitted.

Schedule: Wrangler schedules vary depending on ranch activities and the season. While a typical schedule will be provided, flexibility is essential, and overtime may be required during busy periods or as ranch operations demand.

Season: seasonal positions available, with opportunities for longer-term employment for the right candidates

If you’re looking for a rewarding job where you can combine your passion for the horses, the outdoors, and hospitality, we’d love to hear from you. Join the team at Saguaro Lake Guest Ranch and help guests experience the beauty of Arizona from the saddle.

Company Description

We are a historic guest ranch built in 1930 with a long tradition in showing guests from all over the world a little of the Old West. Sitting on the banks of the Salt River and in the shadows of the Goldfield Mountains, the ranch is located just 40 minutes northeast of Phoenix in the Tonto National Forest. The ranch has been owned by the same family for nearly 75 years.
Our 20 cabins have a rustic charm, each with their own bathrooms and yet purposefully lacking televisions or phones. Our main lodge is stunning with a four-sided fireplace in the living room and a real Saguaro cactus skeleton in the center of our dining room where we serve delicious meals made from scratch. Guests take part in a number of activities including horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, swimming in the pool, relaxing on their porch, or playing any number of games on the lawn.
We are a small Bed & Breakfast guest lodge along the lower Salt River with a distinct southwestern atmosphere. Along with our bed and breakfast guests, we also welcome corporate meetings, schools, weddings, and private family groups where we can serve all meals during their stay. With 20 guest cabins, we can accommodate up to about 60 guests depending on the dynamics of the group.
We offer horseback riding from Oct to May each year. To beat the heat, we offer kayaking, paddle boarding, and tubing in the summer months on the Lower Salt River, and kayaking on Saguaro Lake in the fall / winter and early spring. We encourage all of our employees to enjoy these experiences on their time off and offer employee discounts to do so. Just some of the perks of working at this lovely hidden gem in Mesa, AZ. The Ranch is a truly special place and we are looking for a special person to fill this position!