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Horse Riding Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Menlo Circus Club

Riding Instructor

Atherton, CA · On-site

Riding Instructors work with the horse and rider to help them bond as a pair. Duties include sharing techniques and teaching riders how to communicate with their horse. In addition, Riding ...

Parker Palm Springs

Concierge

Palm Springs, CA · On-site

$21/hr

Makes arrangements for outside activities such as golf, horseback riding, hiking etc. * Makes arrangements for floral orders * Services * Provides copying and fax services

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Horse Riding information

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$5

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$26

How much do horse riding jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse riding in California is $21.03, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.59 and $24.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are horse riding jobs?

Horse riding jobs involve working with horses in various capacities, such as training, exercising, caring for, or competing with horses. Common roles include horse trainers, riding instructors, jockeys, exercise riders, and stable hands. These jobs require a strong understanding of horse behavior, riding techniques, and often involve early mornings and outdoor work. Many positions also involve teaching others to ride or preparing horses for shows and competitions. Experience with horses, good physical fitness, and a passion for animal care are important for success in this field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a horse riding instructor?

To thrive as a Horse Riding Instructor, you need strong equestrian skills, a deep understanding of horse care, and often certifications such as BHS or CHA accreditation. Familiarity with tack and stable management systems, as well as safety equipment, is typically required. Patience, clear communication, and the ability to motivate and instruct riders of varying skill levels are crucial soft skills. These competencies ensure effective teaching, rider safety, and positive learning experiences for students.

What are some common challenges faced by professional horse riding instructors, and how can they be addressed?

Professional horse riding instructors often face challenges such as managing diverse student skill levels, maintaining horse health and safety, and ensuring effective communication with both riders and stable staff. These can be addressed by developing adaptive lesson plans, staying up-to-date with equine care best practices, and fostering a collaborative team environment. Instructors also benefit from continuous professional development and building strong rapport with both students and colleagues to create a supportive and productive atmosphere.

What is the difference between Horse Riding vs Equestrian Coach?

AspectHorse RidingEquestrian Coach
Required CredentialsBasic riding skills, certifications varyAdvanced riding skills, coaching certifications
Work EnvironmentRiding arenas, outdoor fieldsRiding schools, training facilities
Employer & Industry UsageIndividual riders, riding clubsEquestrian centers, riding academies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Horse Riding involves personal skill in riding horses, often for recreation or sport. Equestrian Coach focuses on teaching and training others in riding techniques. While both roles require riding skills, coaches need additional certifications and work primarily in instructional settings. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths within the equestrian industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Horse Riding jobs in California?

The most popular types of Horse Riding jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Horse Riding jobs?

Cities in California with the most Horse Riding job openings:

Horse Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horse Riding job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,747 per year, or $21 per hour.

Riding Instructor

Atherton, CA • On-site

Menlo Circus Club
Golf Facilities • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Menlo Circus Clubexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description:

The Riding Instructor teaches horsemanship and safety skills to all ages under the direction of the Lead Riding Instructor. Riding Instructors work with the horse and rider to help them bond as a pair. Duties include sharing techniques and teaching riders how to communicate with their horse. In addition, Riding Instructors provide care to school horses. The position requires working inside and outside and may require prolonged exposure to dust, hay, mold, rain, sunlight, wind, and cold.


Must have unrestricted ability to work in the United States


Weekend work required


Requirements:
  • Teaches beginner through intermediate riders in the English style discipline, giving constructive feedback.
  • Schedules lessons, handles riding school inquiries and keeps clients informed.
  • Sets jump courses as needed to accommodate individual students.
  • Promotes a culture of safety, kind handling of horses, and teamwork. Adheres to and models USEF Safe Sport rules.
  • Reports any accidents or injuries that occur to the Lead Riding Instructor or Equestrian Operations Manager.
  • Plans, organizes, and executes camps, barn parties and other equestrian events. Tracks lessons and charges fees using POS system.
  • Ensures tack is kept clean and keeps tack room clean and orderly.
  • Rides and trains school horses as needed.
  • Cares for the well-being of school horses, including grooming and exercising, and assists during veterinary and farrier appointments as needed.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • Excellent horsemanship and English riding skills
  • Excellent English verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to be patient and kind while working with children
  • Proficient in Equine first-aid

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

  • Minimum 3 years teaching beginner through intermediate horsemanship and riding skills, including children.
  • Experience participating in equestrian competitive events preferred.
  • Riding Instructor/Coaching certification preferred.
  • Computer literacy preferred.
  • First-aid certification a plus.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to be on feet for up to 85% of shift.
  • Ability to lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 50 pounds, bend, stoop, squat, kneel, twist, and turn for prolonged periods of time.


Weekend work required



Must have unrestricted ability to work in the United States