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Horse Rider Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Horse Rider information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$17

$33

How much do horse rider jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse rider in Virginia is $17.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.44 and $22.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

How much do horse riders get paid?

Horse riders' pay varies based on experience, location, and type of employment. Professional equestrians can earn from minimum wage to several hundred dollars per day for riding or training, with some earning additional income through competitions, lessons, or stable work. Entry-level positions often pay around minimum wage, while experienced riders or those working in competitive or high-end settings can earn significantly more.

What are the most commonly searched types of Horse Rider jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Horse Rider jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Horse Rider jobs in Virginia?

For Horse Rider jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Horse Rider jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Horse Rider jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Horse Rider job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 32% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,285 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Riding Instructor/Trail Guide

Salamander Hospitality

Middleburg, VA • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Equestrian Attendant / Riding Instructor

Salamander Middleburg | Middleburg, VA
Full-Time | $18.00 per hour | Up to 40 hours per week + Service Charges & Gratuities

Salamander Middleburg is seeking an experienced Equestrian Attendant / Riding Instructor to join our Equestrian team at our luxury resort in Middleburg, Virginia. This full-time position is ideal for an experienced equestrian professional who enjoys horse care, riding instruction, trail riding, stable operations, and guest service.

The Equestrian Attendant / Riding Instructor is responsible for the daily care and well-being of our resort horses while creating safe, memorable riding experiences for resort guests of varying ages and experience levels.

What You'll DoHorse Care & Stable Operations
  • Provide daily care for resort horses, including grooming, bathing, feeding, watering, and exercising horses.

  • Clean stalls and perform routine barn and stable duties.

  • Clean, maintain, and properly store tack and riding equipment.

  • Monitor horses for signs of illness, injury, or changes in behavior and provide basic first aid when appropriate.

  • Maintain clean, safe, and organized equestrian facilities.

  • Assist with general barn, stable, and facility upkeep.

Riding Instruction & Trail Rides
  • Provide horseback riding lessons for beginner through intermediate riders.

  • Teach guests of varying ages and riding abilities using safe and appropriate riding techniques.

  • Lead private and group guided trail rides throughout the resort property.

  • Evaluate riders and appropriately match guests with horses based on ability and experience.

  • Provide exceptional guest service while maintaining a strong focus on rider and horse safety.

Children's Equestrian Programs
  • Facilitate pony rides and children's equestrian activities.

  • Provide a welcoming, educational, and safe experience for young riders and their families.

Safety & Equipment
  • Follow established equestrian and horse-handling safety procedures.

  • Maintain safe practices around horses, guests, equipment, and stable facilities.

  • Safely operate a small Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) as required.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.

  • Minimum 5 years of professional horse care and riding experience.

  • Experience providing horseback riding lessons to beginner and intermediate riders.

  • Strong knowledge of horse handling, grooming, stable care, tack, and riding safety.

  • Previous customer service or guest-facing experience.

  • Knowledge of classical riding and high-quality horsemanship standards preferred; willingness to learn required.

  • Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with guests, children, and team members.

  • Dependable and comfortable working in an active, outdoor environment.

Physical Requirements

This is a physically active position that requires the ability to:

  • Stand and walk for extended periods.

  • Bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and use hands frequently.

  • Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

  • Safely lift and move up to 75 pounds.

  • Perform routine horse care and stable duties throughout the workday.

Pay & Compensation
  • $18.00 per hour

  • Full-time schedule of up to 40 hours per week

  • Service charges and gratuities earned when teaching or facilitating eligible guest appointments

  • Bi-weekly pay

Benefits & Perks

Salamander Middleburg offers a comprehensive benefits and perks package for eligible team members, including:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

  • Paid Time Off

  • Company-Paid Holidays

  • Complimentary Employee Meals

  • Complimentary Uniforms

  • Employee Access Privileges & Discount Programs

  • Friends & Family Discounts on room stays at Salamander properties

  • Discounts on dining, retail, spa, and resort amenities

Join the Salamander Middleburg Equestrian Team

If you are passionate about horses, horsemanship, riding instruction, and creating exceptional guest experiences, we invite you to apply to join the Equestrian team at Salamander Middleburg.

Salamander Collection is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

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