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Horseback Riding Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

The Medicus Firm

Otolaryngology Physician

Carbondale, IL · Hybrid

$20K/yr

Historic University town offering w inding horseback riding trails, scenic cycling paths, and over 20 golf courses invite year-round exploration. * Outdoor Adventures: Explore state parks: Giant City ...

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Horseback Riding information

See Illinois salary details

$9

$15

$26

How much do horseback riding jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for horseback riding 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 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 Illinois? For Horseback Riding jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Horseback Riding jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Horseback Riding jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Horseback Riding jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Horseback Riding job openings:
Horseback Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horseback Riding job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,683 per year, or $15.7 per hour.
Equestrian Instructor - Tues 4-8pm

Equestrian Instructor - Tues 4-8pm

Plainfield Park District

Plainfield, IL • On-site

Part-time

Posted 11 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