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Equestrian Riding Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Purpose The Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care ...

Purpose The Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care ...

PurposeThe Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care ...

Showing results 21-40

Equestrian Riding information

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$23

How much do equestrian riding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for equestrian riding in the United States is $16.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.94 and $17.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an equestrian rider, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Equestrian Rider, you need strong horsemanship, balance, physical fitness, and a deep understanding of horse behavior, often supported by formal training or certifications from recognized equestrian bodies. Familiarity with tack and equipment, stable management systems, and safety protocols is typically required. Patience, discipline, and effective communication—both with horses and team members—are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure safe, effective riding, enhance horse performance, and promote a positive training environment.

What is the difference between Equestrian Riding vs Horse Trainer?

AspectEquestrian RidingHorse Trainer
CredentialsRiding certifications, riding school experienceTraining certifications, horse behavior knowledge
Work EnvironmentRiding arenas, stables, competitionsTraining facilities, stables, outdoor training areas
Industry UsageEquestrian sports, leisure ridingHorse development, performance improvement

Equestrian Riding focuses on riding skills and participating in equestrian activities, while Horse Trainers specialize in training horses to improve behavior and performance. Both roles require knowledge of horses and riding, but their primary goals differ: riding proficiency versus horse development.

What is equestrian riding?

Equestrian riding, also known as horseback riding, involves the skill of riding, driving, or vaulting with horses. It encompasses a range of activities from recreational riding to competitive disciplines such as dressage, show jumping, and eventing. Riders learn to communicate with their horses through cues, develop balance and coordination, and ensure proper care and safety for both themselves and their horses. Equestrian riding can be enjoyed as a hobby or pursued professionally in competitions.

What are some typical challenges faced by equestrian riding professionals during daily training sessions?

Equestrian riding professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting their training approach to suit different horse personalities and skill levels. Building trust and effective communication with each horse is essential, which requires patience and consistent practice. Additionally, riders must stay attentive to their own physical fitness and safety, as well as ensuring proper care and conditioning of the horses. Managing weather conditions and maintaining focus during long hours can also be demanding, but these challenges contribute to continuous learning and growth in the field.
More about Equestrian Riding jobs
What cities are hiring for Equestrian Riding jobs? Cities with the most Equestrian Riding job openings:
What states have the most Equestrian Riding jobs? States with the most job openings for Equestrian Riding jobs include:
Infographic showing various Equestrian Riding job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,947 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Equestrian Center Riding School Instructor

Ken-Caryl Ranch

Littleton, CO • On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Job Title: Riding School Instructor
Reports To: Riding School Manager
Starting Pay Range: $25.00 per hour for private lessons, $35.00 per hour for group lessons; paid on a bi-weekly basis
Employment Classification: Variable Part-Time (0 - 19 hours per week), Non-Exempt
Application Closing Date: August 7, 2026
BENEFITS SUMMARY:
Ken-Caryl Ranch Master Association employees' eligibility for benefits varies by employment classification. Regular and Variable Full-Time employees receive healthcare benefits, employer-paid dental and vision insurance for the employee, life & AD&D insurance, and long-term disability insurance. Regular Full-Time, Variable Full-Time and Regular Part-Time employees also enjoy retirement benefits, paid time off, and paid family medical leave. Variable Part-time and Seasonal employees may be eligible for paid family medical leave and paid-sick leave.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Riding School Instructor is responsible for teaching students of all ages and skill levels in both Western and English riding styles, with a strong focus on safety, horsemanship, and foundational riding techniques. The instructor plays an essential role in developing lesson plans, guiding students through proper horse care, and promoting a positive, safe learning environment for all participants.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Teach beginner-level Western and English riding lessons in a clear, supportive manner while prioritizing safety.
  • Teach and guide students in riding techniques, horse care, and equine behavior.
  • Develop and implement individualized lesson plans for riders of all levels.
  • Manage lesson scheduling and rescheduling calls promptly and professionally.
  • Maintain a safe riding environment and adhere to safety protocols.
  • Provide basic horse care, including feeding, blanketing, and simple healthcare (i.e., ointment application, medicine, simple wound care) on a rotating schedule with the team.
  • Supervise and care for horses, including feeding, grooming, and saddling.
  • Help with barn tasks such as sweeping, keeping tack organized, and maintaining a clean school barn.
  • Conduct regular checks of equipment and tack to ensure safety.
  • Assist with riding school activities such as summer camps, birthday parties, and pony rides, with availability during holidays and weekends.
  • Support the organization at events such as competitions and clinics.

OTHER DUTIES:
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Requirements
REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Previous experience in teaching beginning riding lessons in both Western and English disciplines is required.
  • CPR and first aid certification required.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Must be a minimum of 18 years of age or older.
  • Must shadow senior instructors before solo teaching.
  • Able to lift 50 pounds or more (e.g., assisting with emergency dismounts or lifting students).
  • Comfortable blanketing horses during winter month on a rotating schedule.
  • Strong understanding of student safety and barn safety protocols.
  • Be mindful of maintaining a positive, family-oriented atmosphere with clients.
  • Strong communication skills and a commitment to maintaining a positive, respectful work environment.
  • Willing to assist in summer camp teaching, special events, and school-organized activities.
  • Capable of maintaining professionalism and positive customer interactions.

WORK AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
This position requires work in a variety of locations and conditions, including but not limited to the Equestrian Center.
Working Environment
  • Moderate physical activity will be required frequently.
  • Work will occasionally be required outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat/cold.
  • Work may be required under hazardous and adverse conditions, including, but not limited to, slippery and uneven surfaces and proximity to moving mechanical equipment.
  • Use of sensory activities, such as talking, seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling (identifying objects by touch), depth perception and color vision will be required frequently.
  • Be able to work evenings, holidays, and weekends as needed.

Physical Requirements
  • Ability to lift, move and carry objects in excess of fifty (50) pounds frequently.
  • Ability to stand, walk, sit, kneel, stoop, bend, lift, squat, push, pull, crawl, jump, slide, climb, pinch, grip, reach overhead, reach away from body, and perform repetitive motions.

Candidates are subject to pre-employment criminal background and DMV record review (if applicable), along with possible reference checks.
This Employer Participates in E-Verify.
Salary Description
$25.00/hr private lessons, $35.00/hr group lessons