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Professional Equestrian information

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How much do professional equestrian jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional equestrian in the United States is $15.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $16.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In the field of professional equestrianism, top-level trainers, show jumpers, and event riders can earn around $2,000 or more per day through competitions, sponsorships, and private lessons. These roles often require extensive experience, high-level skills, and a strong reputation in the industry. Earnings vary based on success, location, and client base.

What are professional equestrians?

Professional equestrians are individuals who earn a living by riding, training, and competing with horses. They may participate in various equestrian sports such as show jumping, dressage, eventing, or horse racing. Besides competing, they often train horses, coach riders, and may manage stables or equestrian facilities. Their work requires extensive knowledge of horse care, riding techniques, and the ability to work long hours, often including weekends and travel to competitions. Professional equestrians typically have years of experience and may hold certifications or awards in their chosen discipline.

What is the difference between Professional Equestrian vs Horse Trainer?

AspectProfessional EquestrianHorse Trainer
CredentialsEquestrian certifications, riding experienceTraining certifications, riding skills
Work EnvironmentRiding arenas, stables, competitionsStables, training facilities, farms
Industry UsageCompetitive riding, show circuits, sponsorshipsTraining horses, improving skills, preparing for shows

While both roles involve working with horses, a Professional Equestrian primarily competes and performs in riding events, often requiring advanced riding skills and certifications. A Horse Trainer focuses on training and conditioning horses, preparing them for various disciplines or competitions. The roles overlap in riding skills and industry environments but differ in primary responsibilities and career focus.

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

To thrive as a Professional Equestrian, you need advanced riding skills, in-depth knowledge of horse care, and often formal training or certification from recognized equestrian organizations. Familiarity with specialized tack, competition rules, and safety equipment is essential, along with experience using horse management software. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure both rider and horse perform safely and effectively, achieving success in training or competitive environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professional equestrians in maintaining peak performance for both horse and rider throughout the competition season?

Professional equestrians often face the challenge of balancing training intensity with the need for rest and recovery for both themselves and their horses. Managing travel, varying competition environments, and the physical and mental well-being of their horses requires careful planning and adaptability. Additionally, equestrians must continually update their knowledge of best practices in horse care, nutrition, and injury prevention to ensure consistent high-level performance. Strong teamwork with grooms, trainers, veterinarians, and other support staff is essential for overcoming these challenges and achieving success in the competitive arena.

What are the highest paying equestrian jobs?

High-paying equestrian jobs include professional riders such as show jumpers, dressage riders, and eventers who compete at the top levels, often earning significant prize money and sponsorships. Equine trainers, especially those working with elite or competitive horses, and equine surgeons or veterinarians with specialized skills also tend to have higher salaries. Additionally, owning and managing riding schools or training facilities can be lucrative for experienced professionals with a strong reputation.

What is the 20% rule in horse riding?

The 20% rule in horse riding refers to the guideline that riders should keep their hands and elbows relaxed, allowing for a smooth and consistent contact with the horse's mouth, which accounts for about 20% of effective communication. It emphasizes maintaining a balanced seat and gentle aids to promote the horse's comfort and responsiveness. This rule helps riders develop better control and harmony with the horse during training and riding sessions.

What is the best paying equine job?

The highest-paying equine jobs are typically those of professional trainers, especially those working with high-level show horses or in elite racing, and equine surgeons or veterinarians specializing in advanced surgical procedures. These roles require extensive experience, specialized skills, and often advanced certifications, and they can offer six-figure salaries depending on location and clientele.
What cities are hiring for Professional Equestrian jobs? Cities with the most Professional Equestrian job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Equestrian jobs? The most popular types of Equestrian jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Equestrian jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Equestrian jobs include:
Professional Equestrian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Equestrian job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Part Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,209 per year, or $16 per hour.
Equestrian Assistant Program Manager

Equestrian Assistant Program Manager

National Ability Center

Park City, UT • On-site

$49K - $51K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Supervisor: Equestrian Senior Manager
Department: Equestrian Department
Location: Park City, Utah (on-site)
Compensation: $49,000 - $51,000 annual salary (depending on experience)
Join Our Team:
Join a passionate team where horses change lives every day. At the National Ability Center, the Equestrian Program Assistant Manager plays a vital leadership role in delivering exceptional adaptive and therapeutic equestrian experiences that empower individuals of all abilities to build confidence, independence, and joy. If you are an experienced equestrian professional who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys mentoring staff, values safety and program excellence, and is inspired by creating meaningful impact through horses, this is an exciting opportunity to help shape innovative programming while supporting a mission that transforms lives through recreation and adventure.
Job Summary:
The Equestrian Program Assistant Manager supports the Equestrian Team in the daily running of the equestrian program. This role includes the development, coordination, and administration of our therapeutic recreation and adaptive equestrian program. This position is crucial for ensuring smooth daily operations, assisting in program delivery, managing various aspects of program administration and working with the entire team to drive continued improvement. The Assistant Manager will work closely with the Senior Manager, instructor staff, volunteers, and participating families to enhance the overall effectiveness and impact of the program. This position is a full-time, year-round position with benefits, and it requires some weekend and occasional after-hours work, as needed.
Essential Duties:
  • Assist in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of all therapeutic and adaptive equestrian activities, events, special groups, and fundraisers as needed.
  • Serve as an instructor, help develop curriculum and rider progression guidelines established by the Senior Manager.
  • Supervise, train, mentor, and evaluate the instructors to include support in the development of annual goals, prioritizing needs, providing resources, and regular feedback.
  • Coordinate daily program schedules, including sessions, and various activities.
  • Work directly with the Equestrian Volunteer Coordinator, Equine Manager, and the reservation team to ensure that all scheduling needs are met and assist with the registration process.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records related to program participants, attendance records, lesson experiences, and progress notes.
  • Ensure adherence of safety protocols and compliance with organizational policies and industry standards, conducting safety checks of equipment, facilities, and practices for PATH accreditation to ensure the highest standard.
  • On call to assist with care of horses and barn chores as needed.
  • Delivers a positive, fun, and collaborative team working environment.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Work experience in Therapeutic Recreation, Sports Management, or a related field.
  • 3 years of supervisory experience in an equestrian program, riding experience, and horsemanship skills.
  • Ability to ride and school a wide variety of horses (i.e. English, Western, etc.); riding skill proficiency demonstration at a minimum: walk, trot/jog & canter/lope on a variety of horses and disciplines.
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification, or the ability to obtain (NAC will provide a free on-site course, if needed).
  • Valid Driver's License.
  • Must pass a pre-employment background check and be legally authorized to work in the United States. We do not sponsor employment visas or other immigration processes to attain or maintain employment eligibility.
  • Experience in therapeutic recreation or experience working with people with various disabilities, and open to ongoing learning opportunities that support adaptive thinking and educational growth.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Equine Science, Therapeutic Recreation, Sports Management, or a related field.
  • Certification in Therapeutic Riding Instructor (PATH Intl.) or equivalent.
  • Experience working with a non-profit organization.
  • Experience recruiting and managing volunteers.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong work ethic to accommodate multiple responsibilities and shifting priorities in a quick-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience to be able to lead by example, motivate a team, delegate tasks, and to mentor the Equestrian Instructors at varying levels of proficiency and experience.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and independently, showing creativity, communication skill, and innovation.
  • Excellent organizational and problem-solving skills, with the ability to prioritize work effectively and efficiently under pressure.
  • Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills and personality to engage with the participants, families, visitors, co-workers, and donors.

Working Conditions:
  • Must be able to lift and maneuver equipment weighing up to 75 lbs. while working around the barn and with the horses.
  • Must be able to stand for up to 6 hours, walk, and run on uneven surfaces to up to 2 or more consecutive hours including stooping, bending, and crouching with repetitive hand motions while providing riding instruction or facilitating other equestrian programming.
  • Must be able to work indoors and outdoors while interacting with the horses in various weather conditions, including extreme weather conditions.
  • Must be able to work weekends and after-hours work when required for special fundraising events, routine horse care, or emergency response.

Benefits:
  • Health Insurance with Health Savings Account
  • Employer Contribution to HSA
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Long-term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Voluntary Accident and Hospital Plans
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) annually
  • 11 Paid Holidays + 2 Paid Personal Days Annually (including a paid day off on your birthday)
  • 403(b) Plan with Employer Match
  • Parental Leave
  • Pet Insurance
  • Pro Deals with gear companies

Apply