Riding Instructor Jobs in Denver, CO (NOW HIRING)

Description

Job Title: Riding School Instructor

Reports To: Riding School Manager 

Starting Pay Range: $25.00 per hour for private lessons, $35.00 per hour for group lessons; paid on a bi-weekly basis

Employment Classification:  Variable Part-Time (0 - 19 hours per week), Non-Exempt

Application Closing Date: August 31, 2026

BENEFITS SUMMARY:

Ken-Caryl Ranch Master Association employees' eligibility for benefits varies by employment classification. Regular and Variable Full-Time employees receive healthcare benefits, employer-paid dental and vision insurance for the employee, life & AD&D insurance, and long-term disability insurance. Regular Full-Time, Variable Full-Time and Regular Part-Time employees also enjoy retirement benefits, paid time off, and paid family medical leave. Variable Part-time and Seasonal employees may be eligible for paid family medical leave and paid-sick leave.

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Riding School Instructor is responsible for teaching students of all ages and skill levels in both Western and English riding styles, with a strong focus on safety, horsemanship, and foundational riding techniques. The instructor plays an essential role in developing lesson plans, guiding students through proper horse care, and promoting a positive, safe learning environment for all participants.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Teach beginner-level Western and English riding lessons in a clear, supportive manner while prioritizing safety.
• Teach and guide students in riding techniques, horse care, and equine behavior.
• Develop and implement individualized lesson plans for riders of all levels.
• Manage lesson scheduling and rescheduling calls promptly and professionally.
• Maintain a safe riding environment and adhere to safety protocols.
• Provide basic horse care, including feeding, blanketing, and simple healthcare (i.e., ointment application, medicine, simple wound care) on a rotating schedule with the team.
• Supervise and care for horses, including feeding, grooming, and saddling.
• Help with barn tasks such as sweeping, keeping tack organized, and maintaining a clean school barn.
• Conduct regular checks of equipment and tack to ensure safety.
• Assist with riding school activities such as summer camps, birthday parties, and pony rides, with availability during holidays and weekends.
• Support the organization at events such as competitions and clinics.

OTHER DUTIES:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Requirements

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE:

• Previous experience in teaching beginning riding lessons in both Western and English disciplines is required.
• CPR and first aid certification required.

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be a minimum of 18 years of age or older.
• Must shadow senior instructors before solo teaching.
• Able to lift 50 pounds or more (e.g., assisting with emergency dismounts or lifting students).
• Comfortable blanketing horses during winter month on a rotating schedule.
• Strong understanding of student safety and barn safety protocols.
• Be mindful of maintaining a positive, family-oriented atmosphere with clients.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to maintaining a positive, respectful work environment.
• Willing to assist in summer camp teaching, special events, and school-organized activities.
• Capable of maintaining professionalism and positive customer interactions.

WORK AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires work in a variety of locations and conditions, including but not limited to the Equestrian Center. 

Working Environment

• Moderate physical activity will be required frequently.
• Work will occasionally be required outdoors in all weather conditions, including extreme heat/cold.
• Work may be required under hazardous and adverse conditions, including, but not limited to, slippery and uneven surfaces and proximity to moving mechanical equipment.
• Use of sensory activities, such as talking, seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling (identifying objects by touch), depth perception and color vision will be required frequently.
• Be able to work evenings, holidays, and weekends as needed.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift, move and carry objects in excess of fifty (50) pounds frequently.
• Ability to stand, walk, sit, kneel, stoop, bend, lift, squat, push, pull, crawl, jump, slide, climb, pinch, grip, reach overhead, reach away from body, and perform repetitive motions.

Candidates are subject to pre-employment criminal background and DMV record review (if applicable), along with possible reference checks.

This Employer Participates in E-Verify.