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Horse Rider Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Pomponio Ranch

Rider/FEI Groom

Rancho Santa Fe, CA · On-site

$28 - $34/hr

Exercise, flat, and condition horses at a high level in alignment with the program and lead rider's instructions * Prepare horses for training sessions and competition, including warm-up rides and ...

Pomponio Ranch

Rider/FEI Groom

Rancho Santa Fe, CA · On-site

Prepare horses for training sessions and competition, including warm-up rides and light schooling ... Communicate clearly with the lead rider on horse performance, behavior, soundness, and readiness

HARRIS FEEDING CO

Pen Rider (24928)

Coalinga, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

The Pen Rider will move, sort, and pull cattle that require treatment throughout the feedlot on ... Maintain cleanliness of horse facilities and tack. * Act in accordance with all applicable safety ...

Harris Ranch Beef Company

Pen Rider (24928)

Coalinga, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

The Pen Rider will move, sort, and pull cattle that require treatment throughout the feedlot on ... Maintain cleanliness of horse facilities and tack. * Act in accordance with all applicable safety ...

Menlo Circus Club

Riding Instructor

Atherton, CA · On-site

Riding Instructors work with the horse and rider to help them bond as a pair. Duties include sharing techniques and teaching riders how to communicate with their horse. In addition, Riding ...

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

CA

$50K/yr

If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted horseback patrols through rough and remote terrain in an assigned sector along the United States ...

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)

CA · On-site

$50K/yr

If selected as a Mounted Patrol Inspector (also known as a Tick Rider), you will make unassisted horseback patrols through rough and remote terrain in an assigned sector along the United States ...

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Horse Rider information

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$5

$17

$33

How much do horse rider jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse rider in California is $17.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.39 and $22.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Horse Rider, you need strong equestrian skills, a good understanding of horse behavior, physical fitness, and often prior experience or training in horseback riding disciplines. Many employers prefer riders who have certifications from organizations such as the British Horse Society (BHS) or United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), and who are familiar with tack and stable management tools. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills for working with both horses and people, such as trainers or owners. These abilities ensure safety, effective training, and high performance in diverse riding environments.

What is a horse rider?

A Horse Rider is a professional who rides and trains horses for various purposes, such as competition, racing, or performance shows. Their duties include exercising horses, improving their skills, and ensuring their well-being. Horse Riders may work in equestrian sports, racing, or entertainment industries. They often collaborate with trainers, owners, and veterinarians to maintain the horse's health and performance. Depending on the role, they may also assist in caring for and grooming horses.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a horse rider?

A Horse Rider’s daily responsibilities commonly include grooming and preparing horses, exercising them through riding sessions, and sometimes assisting with training or rehabilitation programs. Riders often work closely with trainers, grooms, and stable managers to ensure horses are fit, healthy, and ready for their respective activities, such as competition or leisure rides. The role may also involve monitoring horse health, reporting issues to veterinary staff, and helping with basic tack maintenance. Depending on the setting, Horse Riders may participate in events or client demonstrations, contributing to the overall success of the equestrian team.

How much do horse riders make a year?

The annual income of horse riders varies widely based on experience, location, and employment type. Professional equestrians, such as trainers or competition riders, can earn from $20,000 to over $100,000 annually, while those working at stables or as hobbyists typically earn less or may be unpaid. Certifications, skills, and the level of competition or clientele influence earnings in this field.
What are the most commonly searched types of Horse Rider jobs in California? The most popular types of Horse Rider jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Horse Rider jobs in California? For Horse Rider jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Horse Rider jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Horse Rider jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Horse Rider jobs? Cities in California with the most Horse Rider job openings:
Horse Rider jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horse Rider job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,115 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Rider/FEI Groom

Pomponio Ranch Stallions

Rancho Santa Fe, CA

$28 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW


Pomponio Ranch is seeking a Rider/ FEI Groom to support our show jumping program. This is a role designed for someone who can independently ride, manage, and prepare horses at a high level, while also handling grooming responsibilities.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Exercise, flat, and condition horses at a high level in alignment with the program and lead rider's instructions
  • Prepare horses for training sessions and competition, including warm-up rides and light schooling as directed
  • Execute rehabilitation and conditioning rides as prescribed by the veterinarian and/or lead rider
  • Maintain consistency in each horse's program both at home and while traveling
  • Communicate clearly with the lead rider on horse performance, behavior, soundness, and readiness
  • Perform all FEI-level grooming duties independently, both at home and while traveling
  • Tacking, untacking, bathing, clipping, braiding, and overall presentation of horses
  • Oversee daily horse care including feeding, basic health monitoring, and turnout coordination
  • Maintain organization and cleanliness of tack, equipment, and horse areas
  • Travel domestically and internationally (including Europe) as the sole person responsible for assigned horses
  • Ensure horses are properly prepared, managed, and show-ready throughout the competition cycle
  • Support veterinary and farrier visits, including follow-through on care plan


QUALIFICATIONS

  • Minimum 5 years of FEI experience
  • Must be able to travel 30-45 weeks of the year.
  • Proven experience riding and exercising show jumping horses
  • Ability to manage multiple horses independently, both at home and while traveling
  • Strong horsemanship and attention to detail in both riding and care
  • Comfortable working independently while also collaborating with a high-performance team


Benefits:Health, Dental, Vision, Housing, 401k, PTO.

Apply