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Horse Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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$12 - $14/hr

Our traditional multi-activity camp provides options like STEM, arts, horseback riding, swimming ... Wranglers & Instructors help campers and guests build confidence, develop riding skills, and form ...

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Horse Instructor information

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$11.5K

$57.2K

$107K

How much do horse instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for horse instructor in the United States is $57,248.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $76,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Horse Instructor job?

A Horse Instructor is a professional who teaches individuals how to ride and care for horses. They provide instruction on riding techniques, horse handling, safety procedures, and proper equestrian etiquette. Horse Instructors work with riders of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced competitors. They may also train horses, prepare students for competitions, and ensure the well-being of both horse and rider. Depending on their expertise, they may specialize in disciplines like dressage, jumping, or western riding.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Horse Instructor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horse Instructor, you need strong equestrian skills, a solid understanding of horse behavior and care, and often formal certifications such as those from the Certified Horsemanship Association or British Horse Society. Familiarity with safety protocols, riding equipment, and training aids is commonly required in this role. Exceptional communication, patience, and motivational abilities help instructors effectively guide students of all skill levels. These qualities are vital for ensuring both safety and a positive learning environment in riding lessons.

How to become a horse instructor?

To become a horse instructor, you typically need experience working with horses, often gained through riding lessons, stable work, or equine-related jobs. Many employers prefer candidates with certifications such as those from the Certified Horsemanship Association or equivalent, along with strong riding skills and knowledge of horse care and safety protocols.

What is the 20% rule with horses?

The 20% rule in horse training suggests that a horse should be worked or trained for no more than 20% of its available time to prevent overexertion and stress. For horse instructors, understanding this guideline helps ensure proper training sessions that promote safety and well-being for both horse and rider.

How much does a horse trainer get paid?

Horse trainers typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working in high-end facilities earning higher wages. Pay can vary based on location, experience, certifications, and whether they work independently or for an organization.

What is the highest paid equine job?

The highest paid equine job is often that of a professional horse trainer or riding instructor with extensive experience, specialized skills, and a strong reputation. Top earners may also include equine veterinarians and those managing large breeding or training facilities, with salaries varying based on location, clientele, and certifications.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Horse Instructor?

A Horse Instructor typically spends their day planning and delivering riding lessons, ensuring the safety and progress of each student, and caring for the horses used during instruction. They assess rider abilities, tailor teaching methods for various skill levels, and provide feedback to help students improve. Instructors also maintain riding equipment, monitor horse health, and may participate in organizing equestrian events or competitions. Collaboration with stable staff, students' families, and sometimes veterinarians is also common to create a supportive and well-coordinated environment.

More about Horse Instructor jobs
What cities are hiring for Horse Instructor jobs? Cities with the most Horse Instructor job openings:
What states have the most Horse Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Horse Instructor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Horse Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Horse Instructor jobs are:
Horse Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horse Instructor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $57,248 per year, or $27.5 per hour.
Riding Instructor

Riding Instructor

Heritage Christian Services

Webster, NY • On-site

$18.50/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Heritage Christian Services rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview

Working in conjunction with Director and other Riding Instructors to facilitate a high-quality lesson program.

Pay for this position:  $18.50 / hour

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above range represents the organization's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting

Responsibilities
  • To teach assigned lessons and substitute when required while ensuring the safety of participants, volunteers and equines
  • To evaluate participants for appropriateness of unmounted/mounted lessons. Evaluations should take into consideration current standards.
  • To teach high-quality, goal-oriented, progressive, and safe ridden lessons
  • To provide high quality, safe and educational horsemanship experiences
  • Provide a creative learning environment for all
  • To work in collaboration with other instructors to provide a safe, creative and relevant program
  • To obtain PATH Intl Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor Certification and continue to improve upon skills
  • To create and maintain treatment plans, progress notes and other necessary documentation for participants
  • Effectively communicate with riders/parents/caregivers/family members to promote holistic care
  • To participate with training programs for horses
  • Evaluate safety of tack and equipment on a routine basis
  • To participate in daily horse routines including care and treatment
  • Assist Stables Facility Coordinator with horse care including, though not limited to, farrier, veterinary and other appointments.
  • Participate in scheduled meeting and special events
  • Follow industry standards
Qualifications
  • Minimum of a high school diploma
  • PATH Intl CTRI certification or ability to complete certification within first year of hiring

 

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Comprehensive knowledge of horses, horsemanship and care of horses
  • 3+ years' experience teaching horseback riding lessons with the ability to teach group lessons
  • Ability to positively interact with participants, volunteers, staff, and community at large
  • Ability to lift over 50 pounds is required

Our Commitment to Equity and Justice

 

We believe that people are entitled to dignity, respect, equity and justice. We champion a society that removes barriers. We reject racism and discrimination of any kind. We protest systemic and political inequities that marginalize people, recognizing that there is a history of structural racism in the United States. We will continue to learn and change to achieve justice. We know that strength comes from unity.

#IND123

Employment Type: OTHER

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