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Horse Riding Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chesapeake Therapeutic Riding, Inc. (CTR)

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Program/Client Manager

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

... riding instructor or instructor in training as required by the Professional Association of ... Through the kindness of benefactors, volunteers, and horses, CTR's riders and families find hope ...

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How much do horse riding instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 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 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 3% Summer. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,728 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Easter Seals Florida Inc

New Smyrna Beach, FL • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description

$17.00 to $19.00 per hour for non-certified, $20.00 to $22.00 per hour for certified/dual certified


Part-Time position working 20 to 29 hours per week, Monday through Thursday


Do you have a passion for horses and a heart for helping others thrive? Easterseals Florida is looking for a Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) to join our team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities through therapeutic riding.


In this role, you'll provide PATH International-compliant riding instruction in a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment while helping riders build confidence, skills, and independence. You'll work closely with riders, families, volunteers, and fellow staff to support each participant's cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being.


If you're a compassionate professional who enjoys working with horses, people, and a mission-driven team, we'd love to hear from you. Come be part of a program where every ride can help change a life.


What You'll Do

  • Provide therapeutic riding instruction following PATH International standards
  • Create, track, and celebrate individualized rider goals and progress
  • Supervise, mentor, and support volunteers during riding sessions
  • Assist with equine care and overall barn operations
  • Build positive, trusting relationships with riders and their families
  • Help foster a welcoming, respectful, and team-oriented environment


What We're Looking For

  • High school diploma required
  • Current PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) certification
  • At least three (3) years of hands-on equine experience
  • At least one (1) year of formal horseback riding teaching experience
  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
  • Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with staff, volunteers, and professionals
  • A flexible, energetic, and resourceful team player with sound judgment and integrity
  • Willingness to work additional hours as needed
  • Ability to meet our approved driver qualifications in order to drive your personal vehicle, as required, for program-related needs (minimum age of 21 and good driving history)


Easterseals Florida has been rated a Great Place to Work (2020 - 2025) by our employees! We provide services daily that are leading the way to 100% equity, inclusion and access for people living with disabilities, families and communities. Working at Easterseals is more than just a job - it's an opportunity to be part of something bigger! If you want to translate your talent, your passion, and your commitment to help people with disabilities, families and the community, you might be exactly what we are looking for.


Easterseals Florida is a Drug Free Workplace (DFWP).


Easterseals Florida is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.


Easterseals Florida is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact our HR department at (407) 629-7881, hr@fl.easterseals.com, 2010 Crosby Way, Winter Park, FL 32792.


Under the directive of Florida House Bill 531, our organization utilizes the Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse. More information regarding the background screening requirements for this position can be found on the Florida HealthSource Background Screening website or at this specific link: https://info.flclearinghouse.com


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