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Horseback Riding Instructor Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Walk On

Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Barrington, IL · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Select and evaluate appropriate horses for therapeutic riding programs * Train, supervise, and coordinate volunteers during lessons * Collaborate with occupational, physical, and speech therapists to ...

Posted today

Walk On

Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Barrington, IL · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Select and evaluate appropriate horses for therapeutic riding programs * Train, supervise, and coordinate volunteers during lessons * Collaborate with occupational, physical, and speech therapists to ...

Posted today

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Horseback Riding Instructor information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$15

$26

How much do horseback riding instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for horseback riding instructor in Illinois is $15.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $16.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a horseback riding instructor?

A Horseback Riding Instructor teaches individuals how to ride and properly care for horses. They provide guidance on riding techniques, safety procedures, and horse handling for beginners to advanced riders. Instructors may also train students for competitions, trail riding, or therapeutic riding programs. Their responsibilities include evaluating riders' skills, developing lesson plans, and ensuring horse and rider safety. Some instructors specialize in specific disciplines, such as dressage, jumping, or western riding.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a horseback riding instructor?

A typical day for a Horseback Riding Instructor includes planning and conducting riding lessons, assessing students’ progress, and ensuring the safety and well-being of both riders and horses. Instructors often manage horse care, prepare equipment (tack), and may assist with stable maintenance or administrative tasks related to lesson scheduling. Collaboration with other staff, trainers, and sometimes parents or guardians is common, especially in larger facilities or riding schools. Flexibility and adaptability are important, as lesson content and the workday may shift depending on weather, horse availability, or student needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the horseback riding instructor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horseback Riding Instructor, you need a solid understanding of horsemanship, riding techniques, safety protocols, and experience handling horses, often complemented by certifications such as PATH International or CHA instructor credentials. Familiarity with lesson planning, training aids, tack equipment, and barn management systems is also valuable. Strong communication, patience, and motivational skills help instructors effectively teach students of varying ages and skill levels. These competencies ensure a safe, engaging, and educational environment for both riders and horses, fostering skill development and client satisfaction.

How can I become a horseback riding instructor?

To become a horseback riding instructor, you typically need to gain riding experience, obtain relevant certifications such as those from the Certified Horsemanship Association or equivalent, and develop teaching skills. Many instructors start as stable staff or riding students before pursuing instructor certification and gaining teaching experience in a stable or riding school environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Horseback Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Horseback Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois are:

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What cities in Illinois are hiring for Horseback Riding Instructor jobs?

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Horseback Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horseback Riding Instructor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $32,683 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Walk On

Barrington, IL • On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

About the Role:
Walk On in Barrington, IL is looking for a passionate and dedicated Therapeutic Riding Instructor to join their team! This is a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals through the healing power of horses. If you're driven by purpose and love equine-assisted therapy, we want to hear from you. We are open to part or full time.

Responsibilities:
  • Plan, develop, and deliver therapeutic riding lessons tailored to each rider's individual needs and goals
  • Assess rider progress and adjust lesson plans to support physical, cognitive, and emotional development
  • Ensure the safety of all riders, volunteers, and horses during sessions
  • Maintain accurate documentation of rider evaluations, session notes, and progress reports
  • Select and evaluate appropriate horses for therapeutic riding programs
  • Train, supervise, and coordinate volunteers during lessons
  • Collaborate with occupational, physical, and speech therapists to support integrated treatment goals
Requirements:
  • PATH Intl. (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship) certification preferred or willingness to obtain
  • Prior experience in therapeutic riding, equine-assisted activities, or adaptive horsemanship
  • Strong horsemanship skills and experience working with a variety of horse breeds and temperaments
  • Ability to work with individuals with physical, cognitive, or emotional disabilities
  • CPR/First Aid certification required or ability to obtain upon hire
  • Excellent communication, patience, and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and perform physical tasks related to horse care
About Us:
Walk On is a trusted therapeutic horsemanship program based in the beautiful equestrian community of Barrington, IL, dedicated to transforming lives through equine-assisted activities. Our riders and their families love us for our compassionate, individualized approach and the incredible bonds formed between people and horses. Our team is passionate, supportive, and united by a shared mission to empower every individual who walks through our barn doors.