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Horse Riding Trainer Jobs in Fallbrook, CA (NOW HIRING)

Prepare horses for training sessions and competition, including warm-up rides and light schooling ... Proven experience riding and exercising show jumping horses * Ability to manage multiple horses ...

Horse Riding Trainer information

See Fallbrook, CA salary details

$5

$22

$27

How much do horse riding trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse riding trainer in Fallbrook, CA is $22.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.93 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a horse riding trainer do?

A horse riding trainer is a professional who teaches individuals how to ride horses safely and effectively. They provide instruction on proper riding techniques, horse care, and safety practices. Trainers may work with beginners learning the basics or with advanced riders looking to improve their skills for competition. They also help riders develop confidence and a strong bond with their horses. In addition, horse riding trainers often assess both the rider's and the horse's abilities to tailor lessons to their specific needs.

What are some common challenges horse riding trainers face when working with new students?

Horse Riding Trainers often encounter challenges such as helping new riders overcome fear or nervousness around horses, communicating complex riding techniques in an accessible way, and adapting lesson plans to suit varying skill levels and learning styles. Additionally, trainers must ensure safety for both horse and rider while fostering a positive learning environment. Building trust between the student and the horse, as well as maintaining patience and encouragement, are crucial for successful outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a horse riding trainer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horse Riding Trainer, you need expertise in equine care, riding techniques, and instructional methods, often supported by certifications from organizations like the British Horse Society or the Certified Horsemanship Association. Familiarity with tack and stable management systems, as well as safety protocols, is crucial for both rider and horse welfare. Strong communication, patience, and motivational skills help trainers effectively teach students of varying abilities and build trust with horses. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring safe, enjoyable learning experiences and fostering long-term rider and horse development.

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

AspectHorse Riding TrainerHorse Groom
CredentialsEquine certifications, riding experienceBasic horse care knowledge, grooming skills
Work EnvironmentRiding arenas, stables, training facilitiesStables, barns, outdoor paddocks
Employer & IndustryEquestrian centers, riding schools, private trainersStables, farms, riding schools
Primary FocusTeaching riding skills, training horsesGrooming, cleaning, maintaining horse health

While both roles work closely with horses, a Horse Riding Trainer focuses on teaching riding techniques and training horses, requiring specialized riding certifications. A Horse Groom primarily handles horse grooming, care, and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in equestrian settings but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

What job categories do people searching Horse Riding Trainer jobs in Fallbrook, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Horse Riding Trainer jobs in Fallbrook, CA are:
What cities near Fallbrook, CA are hiring for Horse Riding Trainer jobs? Cities near Fallbrook, CA with the most Horse Riding Trainer job openings:
Infographic showing various Horse Riding Trainer job openings in Fallbrook, CA as of July 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 $46,460 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Therapeutic Riding Manager

Helen Woodward Animal Center

Rancho Santa Fe, CA โ€ข On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

THERAPEUTIC RIDING MANAGER
Full Time (Weekends required)
Salary: $75,000 to $90,000 (Commensurate with experience)
DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES FOR THERAPEUTIC RIDING MANAGER:
Manage every aspect of a well rounded Therapeutic Riding program, ensuring safety and quality in all facets of the program. Manage recruiting, hiring, motivating, training and evaluating department personnel. Recruit and maintain adequate client base. Must be able to run a business minded program while following budget guidelines, setting attainable goals and overseeing purchasing to stay on budget. Oversee efficient and safe volunteer program. Maintain positive relations with clients and/or parents. Ensure completion of organized and updated client records and evaluations. Oversee the development and implementation of standards, procedures, and guidelines for lessons and follow-up. Manage intake of horses and maintain a high level of care for the horses, including updated medical records, evaluation of their suitableness for program, recruiting/evaluation of potential new horses for the program and finding homes for horses who are retiring from program. Keep abreast of new therapeutic riding ideas and concepts, disabled service laws and guidelines, and mentor instructors with such information. Available for donor or corporate presentations as requested from Development department. Work with Development in creating donor lists and providing information. Solicit and secure sponsorships for annual horse show, and some scholarships as needed. Ensure completion of all departmental reports (budget, strategic reports, Board Reports), communications, and meetings. Enforce Center policies and procedures with staff. Regularly update supervisor on current significant issues. Participate in Center activities as needed or required. Follow safety and sanitation policies throughout facility in order to maintain HWAC standards of excellence. Maintain compliance with HWAC policies and procedures. Participate in Center activities and events as required. Complete other assignments as required. Represent HWAC standards of professionalism.
POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
PATH certified instructor. Two years work experience at a Therapeutic Riding facility required. Two years management experience recommended. Working knowledge of all PATH standards and procedures preferred.
Most posses a strong horse background with knowledge in both western and english disciplines. Barn management and horse show experience recommended. A strong riding background is required and the ability to train horses at a basic level. Must be able to work with a team of instructors to improve teaching skills and be able to give constructive criticism for lesson improvement.
Employee must demonstrate ability to work effectively with others (including co-workers, customers, and others) by sharing ideas in a constructive and positive manner; listening to and objectively considering ideas and suggestions from others; keeping commitments; keeping others informed of work progress, timetables and issues; and addressing problems and issues constructively to find mutually acceptable and practical business solutions.
Employee must demonstrate regular and consistent attendance and punctuality.
As this position may require occasional driving duties, employees must possess a valid Driver's License. Employee must complete a Driver Information From and provide a recent DMV driving record report to be kept on file, as well as proof of insurance.