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Horse Riding Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Purpose The Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care ...

Purpose The Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care ...

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 ...

$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 ...

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 ...

Program Manager and CTRI

Elbert, CO · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

... Riding Instructor StableStrides is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization whose mission is to significantly improve lives through a connection with horses. We are a PATH Intl. Premier ...

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Horse Riding Instructor information

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How much do horse riding instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 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.

How do you 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 certification programs.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,728 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Equine Instructor

Heritage Schools, Inc.

Provo, UT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Equine Instructor

SCHEDULE: Thursday 12pm - 6:30pm, Saturday 9am-3pm, alternating Saturday evening, Sunday morning and evening feeds.There will be opportunities to fill in and the schedule may change depending on department needs.

Purpose

The Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care, and student mentorship to create safe, engaging, and therapeutic experiences. Working alongside therapists and the Equestrian Manager, the instructor helps students build confidence, responsibility, and emotional growth through meaningful interactions with horses.

Core Responsibilities
  • Teach therapeutic riding lessons and horsemanship to students of varying experience levels.
  • Partner with therapists to support individual and group equine therapy sessions.
  • Ensure the health, safety, and daily care of horses, including feeding, grooming, stall cleaning, and basic health monitoring.
  • Prepare horses, tack, and equipment for lessons while maintaining a safe riding environment.
  • Supervise students in the barn and model safe horse-handling practices.
  • Build positive, professional relationships that encourage student growth and support treatment goals.
  • Report facility or horse health concerns promptly.
  • Support the overall operation of the equestrian program and assist with additional duties as needed.
Qualifications
  • Experience with horse care, riding instruction, and horsemanship.
  • Previous teaching or therapeutic riding experience preferred.
  • PATH Intl., CHA, Parelli, or similar certification preferred.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting hay, cleaning stalls, and assisting riders.
  • Strong communication, patience, and relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to maintain professional boundaries while mentoring youth.
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.
  • CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Ability to work outside year round.
  • Experience driving a truck and trailer.
What We're Looking For
  • Passion for horses and helping youth succeed.
  • Strong horsemanship and safety awareness.
  • Calm, dependable, and patient under pressure.
  • Team player who collaborates well with therapists and fellow staff.
  • Organized, proactive, and committed to creating a positive learning environment.

If you're passionate about horses and believe in the healing power of equine-assisted experiences, we'd love to have you join our team. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth while working alongside a dedicated team in a mission-driven environment.