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Horse Riding Trainer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Dancing Horses Theatre

Horse Intern

Delavan, WI · On-site

$50 - $100/wk

If you are interested in learning bareback, trick riding and horse training from our professionals, this is the job for you! Job Details: * Will assist with all phases of horse farm operations plus ...

Goldfish Partners

Gastroenterology

Clinton, MO

$325K/yr

Signing bonus, guaranteed student loan repayment & a training stipend for up to 18 months! The ... Miles of trails for cycling, hiking, & horse riding. * Men’s & women’s golf ...

Goldfish Medical Staffing

Gastroenterology

Clinton, MO

$325K/yr

Signing bonus, guaranteed student loan repayment & a training stipend for up to 18 months! The ... Miles of trails for cycling, hiking, & horse riding. * Men's & women's golf associations, country ...

Goldfish Partners

Neurology

Clinton, MO

$260K - $325K/yr

Signing bonus, guaranteed student loan repayment & a training stipend for up to 18 months! The ... Miles of trails for cycling, hiking, & horse riding. * Men’s & women’s golf ...

Goldfish Medical Staffing

Urology

Clinton, MO

Signing bonus, guaranteed student loan repayment & a training stipend for up to 18 months! The ... Miles of trails for cycling, hiking, & horse riding. * Men's & women's golf associations, country ...

Goldfish Medical Staffing

Neurology Physician

Clinton, MO

$260K - $325K/yr

Signing bonus, guaranteed student loan repayment & a training stipend for up to 18 months! The ... Miles of trails for cycling, hiking, & horse riding. * Men's & women's golf associations, country ...

Agri Beef

Feedlot Pen Rider

American Falls, ID · On-site

Strong horse-riding ability/experience required * Keen ability to identify distressed and sick ... Minimum of six (6) months related experience and/or training * High school diploma or general ...

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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.
Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Helen Woodward Animal Center

Rancho Santa Fe, CA • On-site

$24/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

Therapeutic Riding Instructors Needed!
Therapeutic Riding Instructor-(Path) Helen Woodward Animal Center
Rancho Santa Fe, CA
$24.00/hour
Part Time (PT about 24 hours per week) (Includes weekdays, weekends (Sun required), and holidays as needed)
Are you passionate about developing a rider's potential through the dedicated practice of learning to ride, control, and bond with horses? Do you have experience providing equine-assisted services (EAS) for individuals with special needs? Is maintaining a PATH Int'l credentialed environment for riders, horses, instructors, and volunteers important to you? Then look no further, we have the opportunity for you!
There is nothing traditional about the service we provide to our community! As a Therapeutic Riding Instructor you will have a highly rewarding opportunity to help improve the lives of individuals each day! Helen Woodward Animal Center is one of only a handful of facilities in Southern California to be a certified member of PATH International.
This role is an ideal position for a registered-level instructor with PATH Int'l with several years' experience riding hours at an advanced level. The Therapeutic Riding Instructor opportunity will provide exposure to proper therapeutic techniques, Path Int'l safety standards, and building sincere connections within the San Diego community.
SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITES:
The Therapeutic Riding Instructor is responsible for ensuring the safety and welfare of riders, horses, and volunteers at all times during therapy sessions. This role will require an individual to be attentive, knowledgeable, and proactive towards a client's personal disabilities and behavioral tendencies.
The Therapeutic Riding Instructor is expected to prepare, coach to, and evaluate lesson plans in a manner consistent with the client's capabilities and progression. You may regularly be required to coordinate care with families, physical, and/or occupational therapists of your clients. As a part of this role you will also actively recruit and assist in the training of horse for the therapeutic program.
This role does not include managerial responsibilities, but you will lead and direct volunteers assisting with the program and therefore should promote a respect-first environment. A sense of teamwork is essential to success in this role. This individual should be willing and able to perform various therapeutic duties or customer interactions at any time with an energetic and professional spirit.
Ensure quality animal care and records are maintained in a manner that ensures accuracy, confidentiality, accessibility, and safe keeping.
Other requirements include:
  • Current PATH Intl. certification as registered-level instructor is required. Advanced or Mastery-level is preferred
  • At least 2 years of experience working or volunteering at a PATH Intl. Premiere Accredited Therapeutic Riding or Member Center
  • 3-5 years working with horses, advanced level of instructor-riding is preferred
  • Demonstrated experience in handling personnel concerns with urgency and professionalism
  • Reliable team player committed to building positive relationships and adapting to several roles and tasks when needed
  • Consistent record of attendance and punctuality
  • Solutions/results oriented and passionate about meeting individual and team goals
  • This position does require consistent physical activity including walking, standing, sitting bending, lifting and assisting children of young ages and reaching overhead. Candidates will spend up to 95% of the time working outdoors. This individual will be working in close proximity to animals therefore allergens and dander is present at all times
  • Driving duties are not a requirement in this role

Due to the nature of our clients and our work environment, a LiveScan fingerprint back ground check is required.
HWAC is an equal opportunity employer and dedicated to promoting an inclusive environment for all of our employees and prospecting candidates.

Apply