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Professional Horse Rider Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

PENN Entertainment, Inc.

Outrider

Youngstown, OH · On-site

Rides after runaway horse to aid rider to regain control. * Catches any loose horses on the track ... Must meet professional appearance standards as prescribed by company policy. * Other duties, as ...

All JobsProfessional Horse Rider JobsProfessional Horse Rider Jobs in Ohio

Professional Horse Rider information

See Ohio 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 Ohio is $17.19, 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.
Professional Horse Rider jobs near you

Outrider

Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course

Youngstown, OH • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Introduction...

OverviewWe’re always looking for talent that believes in having fun. At PENN Entertainment, you’ll get to be a part of an exciting industry, where the days and nights are fast paced. You’ll work with an incredibly diverse set of coworkers driven by their enthusiasm for helping people find and have more fun. You’ll also get to work at a company that cares about your career growth and will help you get the support you need to expand your possibilities.
Initial placement within the salary range is based on an individual's relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our competitive Total Rewards package, which includes wellness programs designed to support our team members' financial, physical, and mental well-being. Specific benefits—such as day-one medical coverage, 401(k) matching, and annual performance bonus—may vary by position. Paid time off is earned according to the local policy and increases with the length of employment.
Click HERE to discover how we empower team members to grow, thrive, and advance in their careers.

Responsibilities

  • Must enforce the Racing Commission Rules of Racing while on the racetrack, writing reports of all violations that take place while on duty.
  • Arrives on sound trained horse at the appointed time to lead procession of horses in post-position order to starting gate.
  • Leads or trails the post parade of each live race, keeping horses in line for the parade and releasing them for "warm up" before the race.
  • If requested, arrives on suitable pony ready for work at the appointed time for opening the track for training during training hours.
  • Rides after runaway horse to aid rider to regain control.
  • Catches any loose horses on the track while on duty.
  • Diverts riders from competitor involved in accident on racetrack.
  • Assists horse ambulance workers to remove injured horse from track.
  • Must be available to work for any training or racing hours.
  • Grooms and cares for own horse.
  • Directly supervises all riders/pony personnel while they are on the track.
  • Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Racing Commission Rules of Racing policies and applicable laws.
  • Responsibilities include addressing complaints and resolving problems.
  • This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and team members may also be asked to perform other reasonable related duties as assigned. Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course reserves the right to revise or change job duties and responsibilities as the need arises with appropriate notification to Team Members.

Requirements

  • Must be an experienced rider and have held a pony rider license.
  • Must be able to catch loose or troubled horses while maintaining control of the pony being ridden.
  • Must be knowledgeable of the Rules of Racing.
  • Must have a thorough knowledge of horse racing.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft applications (Excel, Access, Word).
  • Must qualify for an Outrider’s license with Racing Commission.
  • Must be able to work in various weather conditions.
  • Must meet professional appearance standards as prescribed by company policy.
  • Other duties, as needed.
  • Physically mobile with reasonable accommodations including ability to push, pull, carry and lift up to 75 lbs., and the ability to push, pull, reach, bend, twist, stoop, stack, crouch, kneel and balance when performing job duties in varying work areas such as confined spaces. Team Members must be drug free.

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