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Pony Handler Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NHC

PT Registered Dietitian

Maryland Heights, MO · On-site

$30.25 - $40.50/hr

... pony! We are proud to share we have a CMS 5 star rating. NHC HealthCare Maryland Heights offers a ... a Food Handlers Certificate or Sanitation Course, as required by state regulations. -May be ...

All JobsPony Handler Jobs

Pony Handler information

See salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do pony handler jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for pony handler in the United States is $17.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pony Handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pony Handler, you need knowledge of equine care, basic animal first aid, and experience handling ponies or similar animals, often supported by relevant animal care certifications. Familiarity with grooming tools, tack equipment, and safety protocols is essential. Patience, strong observation skills, and effective communication help handlers build trust with ponies and interact with owners or event participants. These skills ensure the safety and well-being of the animals while providing a positive experience for clients and animals alike.

What are some common challenges faced by Pony Handlers and how can they be addressed?

Pony Handlers often encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable animal behavior, ensuring safety for both ponies and people (especially children), and maintaining the physical well-being of the animals. Developing strong observational skills, patience, and quick reflexes is essential for addressing behavioral issues or emergencies. Building a rapport with each pony and staying up-to-date on best care practices can help handlers create a safe, enjoyable environment for everyone involved.

What are pony handlers?

Pony handlers are professionals responsible for the care, management, and safe handling of ponies, especially during events like pony rides, shows, or petting zoos. Their tasks typically include feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring the health of the ponies. Pony handlers also ensure that both the animals and people interacting with them are safe, often assisting children or beginners during rides. They must be knowledgeable about equine behavior and basic veterinary care. Good communication and patience are essential skills for this job.

What is the difference between Pony Handler vs Horse Groomer?

AspectPony HandlerHorse Groomer
Required CredentialsNone specific, basic animal handling skillsAnimal care certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentEquestrian centers, farms, rodeosStables, riding schools, farms
Employer & Industry UsageEquestrian facilities, entertainment, eventsHorse farms, riding schools, stables
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Pony Handler and a Horse Groomer lies in their focus. Pony Handlers primarily manage and handle ponies, often during events or shows, with less emphasis on grooming. Horse Groomers focus on cleaning, grooming, and maintaining the health of larger horses. Both roles require animal handling skills, but grooming certifications are more relevant for Horse Groomers. Employers in equestrian centers and farms frequently seek both roles, but their specific duties differ based on the animal size and care focus.

More about Pony Handler jobs
What job categories do people searching Pony Handler jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Pony Handler jobs are:
Pony Handler jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pony Handler job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $37,374 per year, or $18 per hour.

Outrider

Remington Park Racing and Casino

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Temporary

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

General Definition:
Outriders are responsible for the orderly conduct of horses, riders, gate crew and other participants on the race course during training and racing hours. The nature of the job requires close communication and cooperation and constant radio contact as necessary with the Head Outrider, Stewards, clockers, starting gate crew, gap attendants, ambulance services, track maintenance, track veterinarian, paddock judge and track management.
Essential Job Functions:
  • Patrols the racetrack during training hours to look for debris and foreign objects.
  • Opens and closes the racetrack to horse training at designated hours. Must be on the track prior to any horses.
  • Enforces training and equipment regulations on the track including:
  • Enforcing speed limit of the track.• Enforcing the direction horses should be going on the track.
  • Ensures that mounts are properly maintained by wearing the correct safety gear including protective vests, helmets, and boots.
  • Escort horses from the saddling paddock through the post parade, warming up and to starting gate at post time in a timely and orderly fashion and will remain on duty until all horses on that program have been returned to their handlers.
  • In the case of a loose horse, the outriders immediately implement safety procedures through radio communications to close the track and flash red light or siren until the loose horse is captured.
  • In the case of an injured horse and/or rider, the outriders immediately implement safety procedures through radio communications to close the track and flash red light or siren; protect downed horse and rider from other horses and riders; request horse ambulance and/or human ambulance as necessary
  • Notify personnel any horses that appear to may have a soundness problem, unruly horses
  • Maintain constant radio communications with the track officials and staff monitor track conditions for safety and request maintenance after ambulance(s) leaves the racetrack
  • The outriders must clear the track for the break in a timely manner.
  • Work with pony riders to ensure compliance with Remington Park policies and procedures, including the uniform dress code, and including applicable OHRC Rules and Regulations.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

Education:
  • Completion of high school diploma or GED

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Basic communication skills• Racing knowledge
  • Excellent horse-riding skills
  • Knowledge of training and track schedules
  • Be knowledgeable of procedures concerning safety and protocols on the racetrack and surrounding areas.
  • Emergency procedures for horse's, staff and participants
  • Proper horse and staff positions on the track
  • Ability to work a flexible and irregular schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays

Training and Experience:
  • 1-2 yrs. experience as an outrider or comparable position and handling horses. Must provide own horse/pony.
  • Must be an accomplished horseman or women.
  • Must be able to pass Title 31 Training

Licenses/Certifications/Other:
  • Must be able to pass a background check and receive a license or permit from any Regulatory Agency if applicable to perform the essential job functions
  • Must be able to complete a pre-employment drug test with a negative result

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