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Horseback Riding Instructor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Horseback Riding Instructor information

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$9

$16

$28

How much do horseback riding instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for horseback riding instructor in Chicago, IL is $16.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $17.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs for horseback riding instructors are rare, but some specialized roles such as equine therapy specialists, professional trainers, or those working with elite clients can earn around $2,000 per day, especially with significant experience, certifications, and a strong reputation. These roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and working in high-end or private settings. Most instructors earn less daily, but top-tier professionals in niche markets can reach this level of income.

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.

How can I become a horse 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 employers also require first aid certification and a good understanding of horse care and safety protocols.

What is a Horseback Riding Instructor job?

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 is the 20% rule with horses?

The 20% rule in horseback riding instructs riders to avoid increasing their horse's workload by more than 20% per week to prevent injury and ensure safe training. Horseback riding instructors often advise gradual training progress and proper conditioning to maintain the horse's health and performance.

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 much do you earn being a riding instructor?

The average salary for a horseback riding instructor ranges from $20,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the number of clients. Instructors often earn additional income through private lessons, group classes, and tips. Certification and teaching skills can also influence earning potential.
What are the most commonly searched types of Horseback Riding Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Horseback Riding Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
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What job categories do people searching Horseback Riding Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Horseback Riding Instructor jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Horseback Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horseback Riding Instructor job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,772 per year, or $16.7 per hour.
Equestrian Instructor - Tues 4-8pm

Equestrian Instructor - Tues 4-8pm

Plainfield Park District

Plainfield, IL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Description:

Ready to saddle up and share your love of riding?
Join our team as a Riding Instructor and turn every lesson into an adventure! We’re looking for upbeat, passionate horse lovers who can create a positive, exciting experience for riders of all ages. Make a difference, have fun, and help others discover the joy of riding!


Hours are from 4pm-8pm Tuesdays.


GENERAL PURPOSE:

Responsible for providing quality riding lessons to participants.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provides a friendly and positive riding experience for all students.
  • Ensures that a variety of learning experiences are offered to students, introducing new topics and exercises when appropriate.
  • Expected to schedule individual and group lessons to maximize daily work schedule; Eight (8) lesson slots per workday is required.
  • Works cohesively with other instructors, sharing of equipment and arena space.
  • Accountable for accurately completing student lesson paperwork, including release and information forms, record of attendance, payments and requests for non-payment. Notifies Manager of non-payment concerns.
  • Responsible for monitoring and assisting with student lessons; Assurance that safety and proper procedures are followed by students at all times according to Park District Policy.
  • Maintains an open channel of communication to the Equestrian Manager and informs of problems or potential problems (ie disruptive behavior, injuries, dangerous equipment) including undesirable behaviors; assists with documentation when necessary.
  • Accountable for proper rotation and use of lesson horses; adherence to safety and care of horses is of utmost importance.
  • Assists with training and correction of school horses at manager’s direction.
  • Maintains a professional appearance and attitude while performing duties and while on park premises.
  • May be required to assist at NTEC horse shows, when necessary.
  • Responsible for completing incident reports when accidents occur; must contact Manager immediately to notify of situations.
  • Performs all job tasks within the rules and guidelines of the Park District’s safety program.
  • Performs any additional related tasks as required.
Requirements:
  • Five (5) years practical experience as a rider/student; concentration in English, Western, Dressage, and/or Hunter/Jumper disciplines.
  • Instructor experience in Ground, Walk/Trot and Beginning Canter lessons.
  • High School diploma preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license preferred.
  • C.P.R., AED, and First Aid Certification required; or ability to obtain within three (3) months of hire date.
  • Experienced instructing on individual and group levels preferred.
  • Must be able to work with participants of all age and skill categories.
  • Ability to follow direction and work independently.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

All part time employees receive a free membership to our pool or fitness center at no cost!


Apply