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Horse Riding Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Miamioh

Assistant Director of Riding

Arena, WI

$45K/yr

... horse management and training, and management of student staff workload. Serve as additional ... Lunging and riding of horses to prepare them for students * Management of the horse turnout ...

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Horse Riding Trainer information

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How much do horse riding trainer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse riding trainer in the United States is $21.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.88 and $25.24 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.

How much does a horse trainer get paid?

Horse riding trainers typically earn between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of training provided. Experienced trainers working with competitive or high-end clients can earn higher wages, and many supplement income through lessons, clinics, or stable work.

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 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 a Level 1 or Level 2 riding instructor qualification, and knowledge of horse care and safety procedures. Many also pursue first aid certification and develop strong communication skills to effectively teach students of all levels.

What is the 20% rule in horseback riding?

The 20% rule in horseback riding refers to the guideline that riders should focus on improving no more than 20% of their skills or techniques at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed. For horse riding trainers, this means breaking down training sessions into manageable segments and gradually increasing difficulty to ensure effective learning and safety for both rider and horse.

How to get a job as a horse trainer?

To become a horse riding trainer, gaining hands-on experience through working with horses, obtaining relevant certifications such as equine training or riding instructor licenses, and developing strong communication and riding skills are essential. Building a network in the equine industry and demonstrating reliability and knowledge can improve job prospects.

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.

More about Horse Riding Trainer jobs
What cities are hiring for Horse Riding Trainer jobs? Cities with the most Horse Riding Trainer job openings:
What states have the most Horse Riding Trainer jobs? States with the most job openings for Horse Riding Trainer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Horse Riding Trainer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Horse Riding Trainer jobs are:
Horse Riding Trainer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horse Riding Trainer 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 $44,327 per year, or $21.3 per hour.
Riding Instructor

Riding Instructor

Heritage Christian Services

Webster, NY • On-site

$18.50/hr

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago

Heritage Christian Services rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Working in conjunction with Director and other Riding Instructors to facilitate a high-quality lesson program.
Pay for this position: $18.50 / hour
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above range represents the organization's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting
Responsibilities
  • To teach assigned lessons and substitute when required while ensuring the safety of participants, volunteers and equines
  • To evaluate participants for appropriateness of unmounted/mounted lessons. Evaluations should take into consideration current standards.
  • To teach high-quality, goal-oriented, progressive, and safe ridden lessons
  • To provide high quality, safe and educational horsemanship experiences
  • Provide a creative learning environment for all
  • To work in collaboration with other instructors to provide a safe, creative and relevant program
  • To obtain PATH Intl Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor Certification and continue to improve upon skills
  • To create and maintain treatment plans, progress notes and other necessary documentation for participants
  • Effectively communicate with riders/parents/caregivers/family members to promote holistic care
  • To participate with training programs for horses
  • Evaluate safety of tack and equipment on a routine basis
  • To participate in daily horse routines including care and treatment
  • Assist Stables Facility Coordinator with horse care including, though not limited to, farrier, veterinary and other appointments.
  • Participate in scheduled meeting and special events
  • Follow industry standards

Qualifications
  • Minimum of a high school diploma
  • PATH Intl CTRI certification or ability to complete certification within first year of hiring

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Comprehensive knowledge of horses, horsemanship and care of horses
  • 3+ years' experience teaching horseback riding lessons with the ability to teach group lessons
  • Ability to positively interact with participants, volunteers, staff, and community at large
  • Ability to lift over 50 pounds is required

Our Commitment to Equity and Justice
We believe that people are entitled to dignity, respect, equity and justice. We champion a society that removes barriers. We reject racism and discrimination of any kind. We protest systemic and political inequities that marginalize people, recognizing that there is a history of structural racism in the United States. We will continue to learn and change to achieve justice. We know that strength comes from unity.
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