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Horse Riding Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RFK Community Alliance

Lead Stable Staff

Lancaster, MA

$20/hr

Provide lesson support to the riding instructor as a leader or side-walker * Assist with the conditioning of horses. Key Qualifications and Skills * 5 years' experience working at a fully operational ...

RFK Community

Lead Stable Staff

Lancaster, MA · On-site

$20/hr

Provide lesson support to the riding instructor as a leader or side-walker * Assist with the conditioning of horses. Key Qualifications and Skills * 5 years' experience working at a fully operational ...

ymcafw

$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 ...

Miamioh

Assistant Director of Riding

Arena, WI · On-site

$45K/yr

Serve as additional instructor to youth teams, camps, and the horseback riding classes offered by the university. Assist in additional programming such as leases and horse showing outside of the ...

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How much do horse riding instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 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.

How much do horse lesson trainers make?

Horse riding instructors typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of students they teach. Many instructors supplement their income through private lessons, group classes, or working at multiple facilities.

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 is the 20% rule in horseback riding?

The 20% rule in horseback riding, including for riding instructors, suggests that riders should not increase their training intensity or duration by more than 20% per week to prevent injury and ensure gradual progress. This principle helps maintain rider and horse safety, especially when developing skills or increasing riding sessions. Instructors often advise clients to follow this guideline when planning training schedules or lessons.

What qualifications do you need to be a horse riding instructor?

To become a horse riding instructor, individuals typically need relevant riding experience, certification such as the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) or equivalent, and knowledge of horse care and safety procedures. Many employers also prefer candidates with teaching skills and first aid certification.

How can I become a horse riding instructor?

To become a horse riding instructor, you typically need to gain riding experience, obtain relevant certifications such as those from equestrian organizations, and develop teaching skills. Many instructors start as stable staff or riding students before pursuing formal instructor training and certifications, which vary by region and discipline.

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:
What job categories do people searching Horse Riding Instructor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Horse Riding Instructor jobs are:
Horse Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horse Riding Instructor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,728 per year, or $16.2 per hour.
Equestrian Instructor - Tues 4-8pm

Equestrian Instructor - Tues 4-8pm

Plainfield Park District

Plainfield, IL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Description

Ready to saddle up and share your love of riding?
Join our team as a Riding Instructor and turn every lesson into an adventure! We're looking for upbeat, passionate horse lovers who can create a positive, exciting experience for riders of all ages. Make a difference, have fun, and help others discover the joy of riding!


Hours are from 4pm-8pm Tuesdays.


GENERAL PURPOSE:

Responsible for providing quality riding lessons to participants.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provides a friendly and positive riding experience for all students.
  • Ensures that a variety of learning experiences are offered to students, introducing new topics and exercises when appropriate.
  • Expected to schedule individual and group lessons to maximize daily work schedule; Eight (8) lesson slots per workday is required. 
  • Works cohesively with other instructors, sharing of equipment and arena space.
  • Accountable for accurately completing student lesson paperwork, including release and information forms, record of attendance, payments and requests for non-payment. Notifies Manager of non-payment concerns.
  • Responsible for monitoring and assisting with student lessons; Assurance that safety and proper procedures are followed by students at all times according to Park District Policy.
  • Maintains an open channel of communication to the Equestrian Manager and informs of problems or potential problems (ie disruptive behavior, injuries, dangerous equipment) including undesirable behaviors; assists with documentation when necessary.
  • Accountable for proper rotation and use of lesson horses; adherence to safety and care of horses is of utmost importance.
  • Assists with training and correction of school horses at manager's direction.
  • Maintains a professional appearance and attitude while performing duties and while on park premises.
  • May be required to assist at NTEC horse shows, when necessary.
  • Responsible for completing incident reports when accidents occur; must contact Manager immediately to notify of situations.
  • Performs all job tasks within the rules and guidelines of the Park District's safety program.
  • Performs any additional related tasks as required.

Requirements

  • Five (5) years practical experience as a rider/student; concentration in English, Western, Dressage, and/or Hunter/Jumper disciplines.
  • Instructor experience in Ground, Walk/Trot and Beginning Canter lessons.
  • High School diploma preferred.
  • Valid driver's license preferred.
  • C.P.R., AED, and First Aid Certification required; or ability to obtain within three (3) months of hire date.
  • Experienced instructing on individual and group levels preferred.
  • Must be able to work with participants of all age and skill categories.
  • Ability to follow direction and work independently.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

All part time employees receive a free membership to our pool or fitness center at no cost!  


Apply