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Equine Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Equine Instructor SCHEDULE: Thursday 12pm - 6:30pm, Saturday 9am-3pm, alternating Saturday evening, Sunday morning and evening feeds.There will be opportunities to fill in and the schedule may change ...

Position Information Position Title Clinical Instructor-Equine Practice Job Summary Clinical Instructor position in Equine Practice. The successful applicant must have a commitment to the University ...

Equine Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

Promotes teamwork and collaboration among CORRAL instructors * Assist volunteer instructors with horse and rider challenges and concerns * Provides training for Equine Volunteers * Coaches volunteers ...

Equine Manager

Cary, NC · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

... Instructor/Equine SpecialistLeads equine component of the Riding AcademyCoordinates with the Programming Team to monitor the progress of each participant; designs equine lesson plans to meet riding ...

Equine Afficianado

New York, NY · On-site

$62K - $78K/yr

Relevant certifications in a specialized equestrian discipline (e.g., Certified Horseman, Advanced Riding Instructor, Equine Bodyworker, etc.) are highly desirable. * Expert Knowledge: Comprehensive ...

The Equine Specialist works under the direction of the Equine Program Manager (EPM) to ensure ... The ideal candidate will have a passion for horses, experience as an instructor/trainer, knowledge ...

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Equine Instructor information

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$7

$19

$50

How much do equine instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for equine instructor in the United States is $19.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Equine Instructor vs Horse Trainer?

AspectEquine InstructorHorse Trainer
CredentialsEquine-related certifications, riding experienceTraining certifications, riding skills
Work EnvironmentRiding schools, lesson programs, therapeutic ridingTraining facilities, stables, private farms
Employer & IndustryEquestrian centers, schools, therapeutic programsPrivate owners, training barns, equestrian facilities

While both roles involve working with horses, an Equine Instructor primarily teaches riding skills and provides lessons, often in educational or therapeutic settings. A Horse Trainer focuses on training horses for specific disciplines or purposes. The two roles share similar credentials and environments but differ in their core responsibilities and client focus.

What are some common challenges equine instructors face when teaching students of varying skill levels?

Equine Instructors often work with students ranging from absolute beginners to advanced riders, which can present challenges in tailoring lessons to individual needs while maintaining group cohesion and safety. Managing different learning paces, addressing varying degrees of confidence around horses, and adapting teaching methods are essential for effective instruction. Additionally, instructors must ensure that horses are matched appropriately to riders' abilities and stay attentive to both horse and rider welfare throughout lessons.

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

To thrive as an Equine Instructor, you need a solid background in horseback riding, equine care, and teaching methods, often with certifications like BHS or CHA. Familiarity with safety protocols, riding equipment, and lesson planning tools is crucial. Patience, clear communication, and the ability to motivate and adapt to different learning styles are outstanding soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, effective instruction and foster positive relationships between riders and horses, leading to successful learning outcomes.
More about Equine Instructor jobs

What states have the most Equine Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Equine Instructor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Equine Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,021 per year, or $19.2 per hour.

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Equine Instructor

SCHEDULE: Thursday 12pm - 6:30pm, Saturday 9am-3pm, alternating Saturday evening, Sunday morning and evening feeds.There will be opportunities to fill in and the schedule may change depending on department needs.

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, and student mentorship to create safe, engaging, and therapeutic experiences. Working alongside therapists and the Equestrian Manager, the instructor helps students build confidence, responsibility, and emotional growth through meaningful interactions with horses.

Core Responsibilities
  • Teach therapeutic riding lessons and horsemanship to students of varying experience levels.
  • Partner with therapists to support individual and group equine therapy sessions.
  • Ensure the health, safety, and daily care of horses, including feeding, grooming, stall cleaning, and basic health monitoring.
  • Prepare horses, tack, and equipment for lessons while maintaining a safe riding environment.
  • Supervise students in the barn and model safe horse-handling practices.
  • Build positive, professional relationships that encourage student growth and support treatment goals.
  • Report facility or horse health concerns promptly.
  • Support the overall operation of the equestrian program and assist with additional duties as needed.
Qualifications
  • Experience with horse care, riding instruction, and horsemanship.
  • Previous teaching or therapeutic riding experience preferred.
  • PATH Intl., CHA, Parelli, or similar certification preferred.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting hay, cleaning stalls, and assisting riders.
  • Strong communication, patience, and relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to maintain professional boundaries while mentoring youth.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Ability to work outside year round. 
  • Experience driving a truck and trailer. 
What We're Looking For
  • Passion for horses and helping youth succeed.
  • Strong horsemanship and safety awareness.
  • Calm, dependable, and patient under pressure.
  • Team player who collaborates well with therapists and fellow staff.
  • Organized, proactive, and committed to creating a positive learning environment.

If you're passionate about horses and believe in the healing power of equine-assisted experiences, we'd love to have you join our team. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth while working alongside a dedicated team in a mission-driven environment.