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Equine Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... clinical instructor experience in an academic setting, will be given preference. โ€ข Clinical ... equine clinical practice, are required Physical Demands * Ability to operate standard office ...

Three to four years of post-graduate clinical experience, including a large animal/surgery rotating internship and/or clinical instructor experience in equine surgery in an academic setting will be ...

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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 Jun 10, 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.

What is an Equine Instructor?

An Equine Instructor is a professional who teaches people how to ride and care for horses. They provide instruction on riding techniques, horse handling, safety procedures, and basic horsemanship skills. Equine Instructors may work with riders of all ages and skill levels, from beginners to advanced. They often work at riding schools, equestrian centers, or private stables, and may also prepare students for competitions or certifications.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 65% Full Time, and 35% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $40,021 per year, or $19.2 per hour.
Assistant Manager of Equine Programs

Assistant Manager of Equine Programs

Achievement Centers for Children

Strongsville, OH โ€ข On-site

$17.15 - $20.91/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Recreation Programs
Full-Time | Camp Cheerful
Hourly Rate: $17.15 $20.91

At Achievement Centers for Children, we empower children with disabilities and their families to thrive. For more than 75 years, weve provided life-changing services across Northeast Ohio through education, therapy, family support, and recreation programs.

Our therapeutic horsemanship program at Camp Cheerful provides children and adults with disabilities meaningful opportunities to build confidence, independence, and connection through equine-assisted services.

We are seeking an Assistant Manager of Equine Programs to support daily program operations, lead volunteer coordination efforts, and provide therapeutic riding instruction.

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about horses, enjoys mentoring volunteers, and wants to make a meaningful impact through adaptive recreation programming.

What Youll Do Volunteer Leadership
  • Recruit, onboard, train, and schedule volunteers
  • Maintain volunteer records, hours, and compliance documentation
  • Support volunteer engagement, recognition, and retention efforts
  • Manage volunteer communication systems, including scheduling platforms
Program Instruction
  • Independently teach beginner and adaptive riding lessons
  • Conduct rider assessments
  • Provide lesson support and step into volunteer roles when needed
  • Ensure a positive and safe experience for participants and families
Equine & Barn Operations
  • Support horse care, conditioning, and appropriate horse utilization
  • Help maintain safe, clean, and organized barn and arena spaces
  • Monitor tack, equipment, and facility needs
Safety & Compliance
  • Maintain adherence to PATH Intl. standards
  • Document incidents, injuries, and safety concerns
  • Support overall risk management and safe program operations
Community Engagement
  • Support fundraising events, outreach efforts, and community partnerships
What Were Looking For Required Qualifications
  • PATH Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) certification or ability to obtain shortly after hire
  • Minimum three years of equine instruction experience
  • Minimum two years of leadership, training, or volunteer coordination experience
  • Strong horsemanship knowledge, including horse behavior and conditioning
  • Experience working with individuals with disabilities
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform physical barn-related tasks
  • Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
  • Current First Aid/CPR certification or willingness to obtain
Preferred Qualifications
  • Bachelors degree in a related field
  • Previous therapeutic horsemanship experience
  • Previous volunteer management experience
  • Advanced PATH certification
Why Join Achievement Centers for Children?
  • Mission-driven work that changes lives
  • Opportunity to work with horses in a meaningful therapeutic setting
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Collaborative team environment
  • Unique role combining leadership, recreation, and equine services
Make an Impact

Through therapeutic horsemanship, participants build confidence, independence, and joy.

Join Achievement Centers for Children and help create transformative experiences at Camp Cheerful.

Achievement Centers for Children is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce.