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Horse Riding Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Horse Riding Instructor information

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How much do horse riding instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse riding instructor in the United States is $16.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Horse Riding Instructor do?

A Horse Riding Instructor teaches individuals or groups how to ride horses safely and effectively. They provide instruction on riding techniques, horse care, and stable management, catering to riders of all skill levels. Responsibilities may also include assessing riders’ abilities, creating lesson plans, and ensuring the safety of both riders and horses during lessons. Instructors often work at riding schools, equestrian centers, or offer private lessons. Their goal is to help students improve their riding skills and confidence while fostering a positive relationship with horses.

What are some common challenges horse riding instructors face when working with students of varying experience levels?

Horse riding instructors often work with students ranging from complete beginners to advanced riders, which means adapting teaching methods and communication styles to suit each individual's needs. A key challenge is ensuring safety for less experienced riders while keeping lessons engaging and appropriately challenging for more advanced students. Instructors also need to assess each student's progress and confidence, manage group dynamics, and maintain a positive learning environment for everyone. Regular collaboration with stable staff and horse owners is essential to match riders with suitable horses and ensure the animals' welfare during lessons.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Horse Riding Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horse Riding Instructor, you need strong expertise in horsemanship, riding techniques, and equine care, usually demonstrated by professional certifications such as BHS or CHA qualifications. Familiarity with safety standards, training aids, and first aid certifications are typically required. Patience, effective communication, and the ability to motivate students are essential soft skills for fostering a positive learning environment. These competencies ensure safe, effective instruction and help riders progress while maintaining the welfare of both students and horses.

What is the difference between Horse Riding Instructor vs Horse Trainer?

AspectHorse Riding InstructorHorse Trainer
CertificationsEquine or riding instructor certifications, CPR, first aidHorse training certifications, such as Certified Professional Horseman
Work EnvironmentRiding schools, equestrian centers, lesson arenasTraining facilities, stables, farms
Primary FocusTeaching riding skills to students of all levelsTraining horses to improve behavior, performance, or specific skills
Employer & Industry UsageEquestrian centers, riding schools, clubsPrivate farms, training facilities, equestrian centers

While both roles involve working with horses, a Horse Riding Instructor primarily teaches riding skills to students, whereas a Horse Trainer focuses on training horses to enhance their performance or behavior. Both roles require specific certifications and are essential in the equestrian industry, but they serve different purposes within the horse care and training spectrum.

More about Horse Riding Instructor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Horse Riding Instructor jobs? The most popular types of Horse Riding Instructor jobs are:
What states have the most Horse Riding Instructor jobs? States with the most job openings for Horse Riding Instructor jobs include:
Infographic showing various Horse Riding 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 $33,728 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
EQUINE SPECIALIST / HORSE RIDING INSTRUCTOR

EQUINE SPECIALIST / HORSE RIDING INSTRUCTOR

Rite of Passage

Cedar City, UT

$18/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Rite Of Passage rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

82nd of 231 rated social care providers


Job description

Join a group of passionate advocates on our mission to improve the lives of youth!  Rite of Passage Team is hiring a Part-Time Equine Specialist at Falcon Ridge Ranch in Virgin, Utah
 
Falcon Ridge Ranchis a residential treatment program provides a safe, supportive and nurturing environment for vulnerable young women who are referred from juvenile courts and social service agencies both locally and across the country. The youth enter the program with a history of abuse, neglect, trauma, substance abuse, mental illness and violence. They graduate from Falcon Ridge Ranch as educated young women who have overcome challenges and have demonstrated making healthy choices for themselves and for their future.
 
Pay: $18.00 per hour.
 
Perks & Benefits: As a part time employee you are eligible for On-the-Spot Bonuses, Ram Bucks, Longevity Awards, Free Meals on Shift, Free Uniforms, Working Advantage Discount Program. 
 
What you will do: As a Riding Instructor you will be responsible for giving riding lessons to students through a variety of methods both in groups or one-on-one. You will teach proper care of horses, safe handling and safe riding practices. You will manage the care and maintenance of facilities and riding equipment. You will provide a physical environment that is safe, clean, and free of any hazards.
 
To be considered you should: ~ Be at least 21 years of age ~ High school diploma or equivalent required ~ Must meet the requirements to be an eligible ROP driver ~ Must possess a current State Driver’s License and have an acceptable driving record for the past three (3) years ~ 3 to 5 years of experience working with horses ~  Be able to pass a criminal background check, drug screen, physical, and TB test ~ Be able to pass a search of the child abuse central registry.
 
Schedule: Part-Time, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, 7:00 am to 3:00 pm. (24 hours). May fluctuate.  
 
Apply today and Make a Difference in the Lives of Youth!
 
After 40 years of improving the lives of youth, we are looking for passionate advocates to continue the legacy of helping young people become successful adults. As a Equine Specialist, you will have the unique opportunity to create a positive, safe, and supportive environment for the youth we serve while building a career rich in growth opportunities and self-fulfillment.
 
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About Rite of Passage

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rite of Passage is a Nevada‑based nonprofit youth services provider founded in 1984 and headquartered in Minden, NV. It operates a national continuum of evidence‑based, trauma‑responsive programs‑including residential treatment centers, day schools, therapeutic foster care, prevention and reunification services, charter/day school education, and mentoring‑based family preservation initiatives‑serving around 2,000 youth daily across 15 states. As of 2025, the organization is led by co‑founder and CEO Ski James Broman and holds CARF Three‑Year Accreditation, affirming its program quality and compliance with national standards.

Industry

Individual, family and community social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minden, NV, US

Year founded

1984

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