Must have at least 3-years prior horsemanship experience to include, teaching of lessons, riding horses, horse care, tacking, and handling * Must display an overall willingness to do what needs to be ...
Must have at least 3-years prior horsemanship experience to include, teaching of lessons, riding horses, horse care, tacking, and handling * Must display an overall willingness to do what needs to be ...
Ranch Lesson Assistants & Instructors
Clinton, OH · On-site
$10.70/hr
Must have at least 3-years prior horsemanship experience to include, teaching of lessons, riding horses, horse care, tacking, and handling * Must display an overall willingness to do what needs to be ...
Ranch Lesson Assistants & Instructors
Clinton, OH · On-site
$10.70/hr
Must have at least 3-years prior horsemanship experience to include, teaching of lessons, riding horses, horse care, tacking, and handling * Must display an overall willingness to do what needs to be ...
Riding Instructor information
See Akron, OH salary details
$8.97 - $10.56
9% of jobs
$10.56 - $12.15
10% of jobs
$13.18 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.15 - $13.74
11% of jobs
The median wage is $14.57 / hr.
$13.74 - $15.32
40% of jobs
$15.87 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$15.32 - $16.91
17% of jobs
$16.91 - $18.50
7% of jobs
$18.50 - $20.09
2% of jobs
$20.09 - $21.68
1% of jobs
$21.68 - $23.27
1% of jobs
$23.27 - $24.86
1% of jobs
$24.86 - $26.45
1% of jobs
$8
$15
$26
How much do riding instructor jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for riding instructor in Akron, OH is $15.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.80 and $16.54 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a riding instructor do?
As a riding instructor, your primary responsibilities are to provide lessons to students. You often work with both the horse and the rider to teach them skills and help them bond as a pair. Your duties include sharing technique and teaching riders how to communicate with their horses. You also teach horse ownership skills, like saddling, grooming, and cleaning stables. Although no formal qualifications are required, you may need certification through an entity such as the American Riding Instructors Association (ARIA) or the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) to find employment. Other than horsemanship skills, you also need excellent communication and organizational skills.
What does a riding instructor do?
A riding instructor teaches individuals or groups how to ride horses safely and effectively. Their responsibilities include instructing students on proper riding techniques, horse care, and safety procedures. They may work with riders of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced, and can specialize in disciplines such as dressage, jumping, or western riding. Riding instructors also ensure the well-being of both the students and horses during lessons. They often work at riding schools, stables, or private facilities.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a riding instructor, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Riding Instructor, you need strong equestrian skills, knowledge of horse care, and relevant certifications such as BHS or CHA accreditation. Familiarity with safety protocols, tack and equipment, and lesson planning tools is essential. Patience, clear communication, and the ability to motivate and build trust with students are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure effective, safe instruction and foster positive learning experiences for riders of all levels.
What are some common challenges riding instructors face when working with students of varying skill levels?
Riding Instructors often work with students who have a wide range of abilities, from beginners to advanced riders. A common challenge is tailoring lessons to meet each student's individual needs while ensuring safety and engagement for everyone. Instructors must be patient, adaptable, and skilled at clear communication, as well as adept at managing group dynamics and addressing nervousness or fear in new riders. Building trust with both students and horses is essential, and progress may require creative problem-solving and ongoing assessment of each rider’s development.
What is the difference between Riding Instructor vs Horse Trainer?
| Aspect | Riding Instructor | Horse Trainer |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Riding certifications, teaching credentials | Horse training certifications, equine behavior knowledge |
| Work Environment | Equestrian centers, riding schools, stables | Training facilities, farms, stables |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Equestrian schools, riding academies, private lessons | Breeding farms, training yards, professional trainers |
While both Riding Instructors and Horse Trainers work with horses, Riding Instructors focus on teaching riders of all skill levels how to ride safely and effectively. Horse Trainers primarily work on training horses to improve their behavior, performance, or suitability for specific disciplines. The roles often overlap, but the main difference lies in their focus: rider education versus horse development.
More about Riding Instructor jobs
What are popular job titles related to Riding Instructor jobs in Akron, OH?
For Riding Instructor jobs in Akron, OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Akron, OH are hiring for Riding Instructor jobs?
Cities near Akron, OH with the most Riding Instructor job openings:
Ranch Lesson Assistants & Instructors
Clinton, OH • On-site
YMCA
6.1
Based on 1,991 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
577th of 783 rated non-profit organizations
People enjoy working here
Recommended by students
Recommended by parents
Respectful managers
Full-time
Re-posted 9 days ago
Job description
POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. This position assists in leading all equestrian staff members to provide a safe environment for all people by knowing, understanding, enforcing all safety policies. This position assists in leading all equestrian staff members to provide a high quality, engaging, and courteous environment for all.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become.We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality.We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential.We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Teach a variety of ages and disciplines using the CHA and the Equestrian Center Herd division standards to help students grow and learn using positive and safe techniques.
- Keep the ranch area free of all hazards and performing maintenance duties as needed. Responsible for the safety of participants in and around the ranch area.
- Responsible for properly tacking and grooming horses for trail rides and lessons
- Create a positive supportive environment for members, volunteers and other staff; leading by example to provide safe, effective, and fun equestrian experiences for all.
- Mounting and dismounting riders
- Cleans and inspects tack for wear and tear. Replaces or repairs when necessary.
- Teaches horsemanship and mounted lessons using positive and safe techniques.
- Communicate with staff, volunteers, and parents in a positive and supportive demeanor.
- Complete all required forms and documents completely and promptly.
- Complete all other jobs as assigned by Supervisor
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS | ABUSE PREVENTION:
Upholding the YMCA's commitment to the safety and well-being of youth in our programs is a core responsibility of all staff regardless of position.
- Attend required abuse risk management training.
- Adhere to policies related to boundaries with consumers.
- Adhere to procedures related to managing and supervising high-risk activities.
- Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
- Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:
- Communication & Influence: Understands the perspective of others and selects appropriate communication methods suitable to the individual needs of those receiving message. Interprets language effectively.
- Emotional Maturity - Acts in alignment with organizational values. Remains calm and objective. Accepts responsibility for behaviors. Leads with empathy for how words impact others. Accepts feedback.
- Inclusion: Embraces all dimensions diversity by treating all people with dignity, compassion and respect. Creates a safe environment in which others feel welcome and respected.
- Functional Expertise - Knowledge and Skill to do the job at a high level. Uses best practices and standards. Up-to-date knowledge and skills.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must have at least 3-years prior horsemanship experience to include, teaching of lessons, riding horses, horse care, tacking, and handling
- Must display an overall willingness to do what needs to be done with a positive attitude to provide the best experience possible for our campers, and guests.
- Must be able to saddle, bridle, groom, and have knowledge of general care of horses.
WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Indoor and frequent outdoor work, including all outdoor weather conditions with frequent exposure to dust, dirt, hay, mud and animal feed
- Frequently lifts and carries up to 50lbs
- Frequently assists child and adult riders up to 250lbs onto horseback
- The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate; but can occasionally be loud
- Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust
- Tasks that involve exposure to blood, bodily fluids/waste, or tissues; including those of barn animals
- Sitting and standing for long periods as well as stooping, squatting, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and climbing
- Walking up to 2 miles at a time without a break or rest
- Verbally communicates to groups and individuals in indoor and outdoor settings
