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Horse Riding Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

RFK Community Alliance

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 ...

Miamioh

Assistant Director of Riding

Arena, WI

$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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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:
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 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.
Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor

Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor

Ray Graham Association

Burr Ridge, IL • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Job Title: Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor
Job Summary:
We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor to join our team. As a Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor, you will be responsible for providing therapeutic riding lessons to individuals with developmental disabilities. You will work closely with our clients to help them develop their horsemanship skills, improve their physical and emotional well-being, and achieve their personal goals.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement lesson plans that are tailored to the individual needs of each client
- Teach clients basic horsemanship skills, including grooming, tacking, and riding
- Monitor clients' progress and adjust lesson plans as needed
- Ensure the safety of clients, volunteers, and horses at all times
- Maintain accurate records of client progress and attendance
- Communicate regularly with clients' families and caregivers to provide updates on progress and discuss any concerns
- Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Horsemanship, Special Education, or a related field
- Certification as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor by PATH Intl. or equivalent organization
- Minimum of 2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
- Strong knowledge of horsemanship and equine care
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Flexibility to work weekends and evenings as needed
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you are passionate about helping individuals with developmental disabilities achieve their goals and improve their quality of life, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position.
Drug-Free Workplace Commitment
We are proud to be a drug-free workplace. All candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to random testing throughout employment. We are committed to promoting a safe and productive environment for all employees.
Salary Description
$16.50

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