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Professional Horse Rider Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Lindy Farms

Thoroughbred Exercise Rider

Somers, CT · On-site

$52K/yr

Follow the trainer's instructions to prepare the horses for racing * Communicate with trainers ... Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced work environment. Requirements: * Have a ...

Lindy Farms

Thoroughbred Exercise Rider

Somers, CT · On-site

Follow the trainer's instructions to prepare the horses for racingCommunicate with trainers ... calm and professional in a fast-paced work environment.Requirements:Have a good attitude and ...

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Professional Horse Rider information

See Connecticut salary details

$5

$17

$32

How much do professional horse rider jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional horse rider in Connecticut is $17.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.96 and $21.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional horse rider?

Professional horse riders are individuals who ride horses as part of their occupation, typically in competitive events such as show jumping, dressage, racing, or eventing. They may work for stables, train horses, or compete on behalf of owners and sponsors. Their responsibilities often include training horses, maintaining their fitness, and developing riding strategies for competitions. Professional horse riders also ensure the well-being of the horses and sometimes assist with stable management or coaching less experienced riders.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional horse rider?

To thrive as a Professional Horse Rider, you need advanced equestrian skills, in-depth horse care knowledge, and ideally formal training or certification from recognized riding schools. Familiarity with riding equipment, safety gear, and competition rules, as well as experience using training aids and horse management systems, is important. Discipline, patience, strong communication, and the ability to build trust with horses and clients are standout soft skills in this field. These abilities are crucial for ensuring top-level performance, safety, and the welfare of both rider and horse in competitive and professional environments.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of a professional horse rider and how do they collaborate with other equestrian professionals?

As a professional horse rider, your daily responsibilities often include exercising, training, and caring for horses to maintain their peak performance. You may also be involved in planning and participating in competitions, monitoring horse health, and implementing individualized training plans. Collaboration is key; you’ll regularly work with trainers, grooms, veterinarians, and sometimes owners to ensure the horses' well-being and success. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, especially when preparing for shows or addressing any health or behavioral issues.

What is the difference between Professional Horse Rider vs Equestrian Coach?

AspectProfessional Horse RiderEquestrian Coach
CredentialsRiding certifications, competition experienceRiding certifications, coaching credentials
Work EnvironmentCompetitions, training stablesTraining facilities, riding schools
Employer & IndustryEquestrian events, stables, sponsorsRiding schools, private clients, clubs

The main difference is that a Professional Horse Rider primarily competes and performs in riding events, while an Equestrian Coach focuses on training and developing riders. Both roles require riding certifications and experience, but their daily activities and goals differ significantly.

How do I become a professional horse rider?

To become a professional horse rider, gain extensive riding experience through lessons and competing in equestrian events, and develop strong riding skills. Obtain relevant certifications or licenses if required in your region, and seek opportunities to work with experienced trainers or stables to build your expertise and reputation.

How much money do professional horse riders make?

Professional horse riders' earnings vary widely based on experience, competition level, and success. Top riders can earn six-figure incomes through prize money, sponsorships, and endorsements, while many earn modestly from coaching, training, or riding fees. Income often depends on skill, reputation, and the number of competitions entered annually.

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Professional Horse Rider jobs?

Cities in Connecticut with the most Professional Horse Rider job openings:

Professional Horse Rider jobs near you

Thoroughbred Exercise Rider

Lindy Farms

Somers, CT • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Thoroughbred Exercise Rider
Lindy Farms
Lindy Farms is a family-owned and operated farm based in Somers, CT. For the last 50 years, it has been dedicated to the principles and standards of Thoroughbred and Standardbred horse breeding/training/racing. Lindy Farm is committed to maintaining the highest care, maintenance, and health standards for the farm's horses and facilities.
Position Summaries:
The Thoroughbred Exercise Rider is responsible for executing the trainer's instructions and ensuring training is done to the satisfaction of the trainer.
Your Role:
  • Follow the trainer's instructions to prepare the horses for racing
  • Communicate with trainers, veterinary, and other staff on the horses
  • Maintains reasonable, regular, and punctual attendance consistent with Company policies, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and other federal, state, and local standards.
  • Adapts to changing duties, as required, based on business needs

Your Skills:
  • Horseback riding experience, racehorse experience preferred
  • Knowledge of horsemanship
  • Multi-tasking abilities
  • Good oral communication and organizational skills
  • Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced work environment.

Requirements:
  • Have a good attitude and participate as a member of the team.
  • Able to work a flexible schedule, including Saturdays and holidays.

Physical Demands:
Listed below are key points regarding the job's environmental demands and work environment. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
  • Required to use motor coordination with finger dexterity (such as keyboarding, machine operation, etc.), most of the workday.
  • Required to exert physical effort in handling objects up to or less than 75 pounds frequently.
  • Required to be exposed to a physical environment that involves dirt, odors, noise, weather extremes, or similar elements.
  • Clarity of vision
  • Must be able to work alone or with a team.
  • Local travel

LF1
Lindy Farms, LLC EEO Statement: The Company is committed to and supports equal employment opportunity and affirmative action to all employees and applicants. Equal employment opportunity means equal treatment of employees and applicants without regard to the following legally-protected characteristics: race, color, religion, creed, sex (gender identity), pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, age, medical condition, genetic information (including characteristics and testing), veteran status, physical or mental disability status or any other legally-protected status.

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