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Horseback Riding Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Archway Physician Recruitment

Horseback riding is another popular pastime, with the park stables providing horses. Another attraction at the park is a wildlife exhibit which features animals native to West Virginia: black bears ...

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Archway Physician Recruitment

$50K/yr

Horseback riding is another popular pastime, with the park stables providing horses. Another attraction at the park is a wildlife exhibit which features animals native to West Virginia: black bears ...

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Horseback Riding information

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$16

$27

How much do horseback riding jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for horseback riding in Virginia is $16.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 jobs can I get working with horses?

Jobs working with horses include equine trainer, riding instructor, stable manager, groom, barn worker, and veterinarian. These roles often require knowledge of horse care, riding skills, and sometimes certifications or licenses, depending on the position. Working with horses typically involves physical activity and outdoor work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Horseback Riding jobs in Virginia?

For Horseback Riding jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Horseback Riding jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Horseback Riding jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Horseback Riding jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Horseback Riding job openings:

Horseback Riding jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horseback Riding job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,439 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Riding Instructor/Trail Guide

Salamander Hospitality

Middleburg, VA • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 hours ago

Posted today

Job description

Equestrian Attendant / Riding Instructor

Salamander Middleburg | Middleburg, VA
Full-Time | $18.00 per hour | Up to 40 hours per week + Service Charges & Gratuities

Salamander Middleburg is seeking an experienced Equestrian Attendant / Riding Instructor to join our Equestrian team at our luxury resort in Middleburg, Virginia. This full-time position is ideal for an experienced equestrian professional who enjoys horse care, riding instruction, trail riding, stable operations, and guest service.

The Equestrian Attendant / Riding Instructor is responsible for the daily care and well-being of our resort horses while creating safe, memorable riding experiences for resort guests of varying ages and experience levels.

What You'll DoHorse Care & Stable Operations

  • Provide daily care for resort horses, including grooming, bathing, feeding, watering, and exercising horses.

  • Clean stalls and perform routine barn and stable duties.

  • Clean, maintain, and properly store tack and riding equipment.

  • Monitor horses for signs of illness, injury, or changes in behavior and provide basic first aid when appropriate.

  • Maintain clean, safe, and organized equestrian facilities.

  • Assist with general barn, stable, and facility upkeep.

Riding Instruction & Trail Rides

  • Provide horseback riding lessons for beginner through intermediate riders.

  • Teach guests of varying ages and riding abilities using safe and appropriate riding techniques.

  • Lead private and group guided trail rides throughout the resort property.

  • Evaluate riders and appropriately match guests with horses based on ability and experience.

  • Provide exceptional guest service while maintaining a strong focus on rider and horse safety.

Children's Equestrian Programs

  • Facilitate pony rides and children's equestrian activities.

  • Provide a welcoming, educational, and safe experience for young riders and their families.

Safety & Equipment

  • Follow established equestrian and horse-handling safety procedures.

  • Maintain safe practices around horses, guests, equipment, and stable facilities.

  • Safely operate a small Utility Terrain Vehicle (UTV) as required.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent.

  • Must be 18 years of age or older.

  • Minimum 5 years of professional horse care and riding experience.

  • Experience providing horseback riding lessons to beginner and intermediate riders.

  • Strong knowledge of horse handling, grooming, stable care, tack, and riding safety.

  • Previous customer service or guest-facing experience.

  • Knowledge of classical riding and high-quality horsemanship standards preferred; willingness to learn required.

  • Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with guests, children, and team members.

  • Dependable and comfortable working in an active, outdoor environment.

Physical Requirements

This is a physically active position that requires the ability to:

  • Stand and walk for extended periods.

  • Bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, reach, and use hands frequently.

  • Work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.

  • Safely lift and move up to 75 pounds.

  • Perform routine horse care and stable duties throughout the workday.

Pay & Compensation

  • $18.00 per hour

  • Full-time schedule of up to 40 hours per week

  • Service charges and gratuities earned when teaching or facilitating eligible guest appointments

  • Bi-weekly pay

Benefits & Perks

Salamander Middleburg offers a comprehensive benefits and perks package for eligible team members, including:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

  • 401(k) Retirement Plan

  • Paid Time Off

  • Company-Paid Holidays

  • Complimentary Employee Meals

  • Complimentary Uniforms

  • Employee Access Privileges & Discount Programs

  • Friends & Family Discounts on room stays at Salamander properties

  • Discounts on dining, retail, spa, and resort amenities

Join the Salamander Middleburg Equestrian Team

If you are passionate about horses, horsemanship, riding instruction, and creating exceptional guest experiences, we invite you to apply to join the Equestrian team at Salamander Middleburg.

Salamander Collection is an equal opportunity employer. All aspects of employment including the decision to hire, promote, discipline, or discharge, will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy, genetic information, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

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