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Horseback Riding Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Jackson Stables Inc

Wrangler/Trail Guide

Estes Park, CO · On-site

$2.1K/mo

Riding Horses in the Mountains * Tips WE ARE HIRING FOR OUR 2024 SEASON We are a family owned business operating on the grounds of the YMCA of the Rockies. We offer guided horseback riding tours ...

Jackson Stables Inc

Wrangler/Trail Guide

Estes Park, CO · On-site

We offer guided horseback riding tours through Rocky Mountain National Park and our rides range from a one hour ride to an eight hour ride. We are open March through October. Job would entail care of ...

Jackson Stables Inc

Wrangler/Trail Guide

Estes Park, CO · On-site

We offer guided horseback riding tours through Rocky Mountain National Park and our rides range from a one hour ride to an eight hour ride. We are open March through October. Job would entail care of ...

AMN Healthcare, Inc.

Gastroenterologist

Durango, CO · Hybrid

$597K/yr

Plenty of outdoor activities, including whitewater rafting, biking, skiing, horseback riding, hunting, kayaking, rafting, hiking, snowmobiling, and rock climbing * Hike the San Juans, with thousands ...

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Horseback Riding information

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How much do horseback riding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for horseback riding in Colorado is $17.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What careers can you do with horses?

Careers with horses include equine veterinarian, riding instructor, stable manager, horse trainer, and groom. These roles often require knowledge of horse care, riding skills, and sometimes certifications or licenses. Working with horses can involve training, healthcare, breeding, or riding instruction in various settings such as stables, farms, or equestrian centers.

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

Professional horseback riding instructors often encounter challenges such as managing diverse student skill levels, ensuring rider and horse safety, and maintaining effective communication with both students and horse owners. Balancing group and individual instruction while adapting lessons to different learning paces is essential. Instructors can address these challenges by pursuing ongoing education, establishing clear safety protocols, and fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages feedback and continuous improvement.

How much do you get paid to ride a horse?

Pay for horseback riding jobs varies widely depending on the role, location, and experience level. In general, riding instructors or trainers can earn from $15 to $50 per hour, while stable hands or grooms may earn minimum wage or slightly above. Compensation may also include tips, room and board, or other benefits depending on the employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Horseback Riding Instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horseback Riding Instructor, you need comprehensive knowledge of equine care, riding techniques, and safety practices, often backed by certifications such as those from the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) or PATH Intl. Familiarity with tack and equipment, riding arena management, and first aid are essential technical competencies. Patience, clear communication, and the ability to motivate and reassure students are critical soft skills for this role. These skills ensure safe, effective instruction and foster a positive learning environment for riders of all levels.

What is the difference between Horseback Riding vs Equestrian Trainer?

AspectHorseback RidingEquestrian Trainer
Required CredentialsNone or basic riding certificationsRiding certifications, coaching credentials
Work EnvironmentRiding arenas, trails, farmsTraining facilities, stables, competition venues
Industry UsageRecreational riding, leisureTeaching, coaching, competition preparation
Common Search IntentLearning to ride, hobbyTeaching others, professional coaching

Horseback riding is primarily a recreational activity focused on riding skills, while an equestrian trainer specializes in teaching and coaching riders, often requiring additional certifications. The two roles share environments like stables and riding arenas but differ in purpose and credentials.

What is horseback riding?

Horseback riding, also known as equestrianism, is the skill and activity of riding, driving, or vaulting with horses. It can be done for recreation, sport, exercise, or work, and includes various disciplines such as dressage, jumping, and trail riding. Riders learn how to communicate with and care for the horse, develop balance and coordination, and practice safety techniques. Horseback riding can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, and it offers both physical and mental health benefits.

Can you make a career out of horse riding?

Horseback riding can be a career as a professional equestrian, trainer, instructor, or stable manager. Success often requires certifications, experience, and strong riding skills, with many roles involving working long hours and physical labor. Opportunities exist in riding schools, competitions, and the equine industry, but income can vary widely based on experience and specialization.

What careers involve riding horses?

Careers that involve riding horses include equine trainer, riding instructor, stable manager, jockey, and therapeutic riding instructor. These roles typically require knowledge of horse care, riding skills, and sometimes certifications or licenses, depending on the specific job and location.
What are popular job titles related to Horseback Riding jobs in Colorado? For Horseback Riding jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Horseback Riding jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Horseback Riding jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Horseback Riding jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Horseback Riding job openings:
Horseback Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horseback Riding job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,466 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Assistant English Riding Coach

Fountain Valley School of Colorado

Colorado Springs, CO

$3.0K/wk

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

The Assistant Coach reports to the Head Coach, the Assistant Coach shares the responsibilities for all aspects of the Riding Program. As well as reporting to the Director of Riding, the Assistant Coach collaborates with the Business Office and Facilities Department in fulfillment of facilities maintenance, program support and planning. A member of the Ranch Management or Riding Department must be on campus at all times in order to manage the herd. 

Duties and Responsibilities Include:   

  • Assist in the design, organization and delivery of riding curricula
  • Personally direct the riding program, providing daily lessons and activities
  • Regularly review program content to consider new programmatic opportunities
  • Train horses to be used in the riding program
  • Assist in scheduling and hosting competitions and shows
  • Assist in the organization and participation in field trips
  • Assist with the preparation for grading and end of seasons awards
  • Assist with horse management and upkeep of facilities
  • Availability on weekends and holiday to manage the horses
  • Collaborate with department members to develop an on-going project list
  • Provide and work with the Director of Riding to assist others to supply the following horse care
    • Blanket Horses
    • Order vaccination, worming and feed
    • Give vaccinations and worming
    • Supply simple veterinary needs on campus
    • Organize veterinary, dentist and ferrier visits
    • Supervise students in cleaning stalls, hauling hay, and hauling water
  • Assist and collaborate with arena upkeep and management
  • Collaborate with any program and show set-up
  • Assist with fencing needs, cleaning around facilities and trash removal
  • Assist with all areas of hay production
  • Assist with mowing, dragging arenas, and removal and disposal of manure
  • Represent FVS and the FVS Riding Program to local community organizations  and prospective families; follow-up with contacts to support student recruitment
  • Provide Interim support / participation as assigned
  • Collaborate in the organization of Family, Spring Celebration and Alumni Weekend riding activities
  • Maintain a CPR and First Aid certification
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications and Skills: 

  • Bachelor's Degree Preferred
  • 2 years experience working with/riding horses
  • Previous coaching experience preferred
  • Ability to work in group settings
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to manage sensitive and confidential situations with tact, professionalism, and diplomacy.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Working Conditions: 

  • Environment: outdoors working with high school students and horses
  • Physical demands: able to sit and stand and lift up to 80lbs for at least 8 hours per day, occasional after hours, weekend and/or weeknight obligations.
  • Working relationships: students, parents, outside vendors and all other employees  

Salary: $3,000 per season

Benefits: EAP, Use of campus, Sick time

Application Deadline: July 22, 2026

Apply