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What does a typical day look like for a Therapeutic Riding Instructor?

A typical day for a Therapeutic Riding Instructor involves preparing horses and equipment, conducting adaptive riding lessons tailored to the needs of each participant, and maintaining detailed records of student progress. Instructors also work closely with volunteers, families, and allied professionals such as therapists or healthcare providers to coordinate and enhance each rider’s experience. Time is often dedicated to horse care, safety checks, and ongoing training on best practices in the field. Teamwork, flexibility, and a passion for empowering others are central to the role, with daily responsibilities varying based on program size and the needs of participants.

What is a Therapeutic Riding Instructor job?

A Therapeutic Riding Instructor teaches horseback riding to individuals with physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. They use adaptive techniques to help riders develop balance, coordination, confidence, and independence. Instructors ensure safety, assess rider progress, and tailor lessons to meet individual needs. They often work in collaboration with therapists, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Certification through organizations like PATH Intl. or CanTRA is typically required.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Therapeutic Riding Instructor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor, you need expertise in horseback riding, a solid understanding of equine behavior, and specialized training in adaptive riding techniques, often supported by certification from organizations such as PATH Intl. or similar bodies. Familiarity with equine care protocols and adaptive tack, as well as the ability to document rider progress, are important technical competencies. Outstanding interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to tailor lessons to individuals with diverse physical, cognitive, or emotional needs set exceptional instructors apart. These skills are essential to ensure safe, effective, and enriching experiences for participants while fostering their personal development and well-being.

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Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapeutic Riding Instructor job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% As Needed, 61% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Helen Woodward Animal Center

Rancho Santa Fe, CA • On-site

$24/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Therapeutic Riding Instructors Needed!
Therapeutic Riding Instructor-(Path) Helen Woodward Animal Center
Rancho Santa Fe, CA
$24.00/hour
Part Time (PT about 24 hours per week) (Includes weekdays, weekends (Sun required), and holidays as needed)
Are you passionate about developing a rider's potential through the dedicated practice of learning to ride, control, and bond with horses? Do you have experience providing equine-assisted services (EAS) for individuals with special needs? Is maintaining a PATH Int'l credentialed environment for riders, horses, instructors, and volunteers important to you? Then look no further, we have the opportunity for you!
There is nothing traditional about the service we provide to our community! As a Therapeutic Riding Instructor you will have a highly rewarding opportunity to help improve the lives of individuals each day! Helen Woodward Animal Center is one of only a handful of facilities in Southern California to be a certified member of PATH International.
This role is an ideal position for a registered-level instructor with PATH Int'l with several years' experience riding hours at an advanced level. The Therapeutic Riding Instructor opportunity will provide exposure to proper therapeutic techniques, Path Int'l safety standards, and building sincere connections within the San Diego community.
SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITES:
The Therapeutic Riding Instructor is responsible for ensuring the safety and welfare of riders, horses, and volunteers at all times during therapy sessions. This role will require an individual to be attentive, knowledgeable, and proactive towards a client's personal disabilities and behavioral tendencies.
The Therapeutic Riding Instructor is expected to prepare, coach to, and evaluate lesson plans in a manner consistent with the client's capabilities and progression. You may regularly be required to coordinate care with families, physical, and/or occupational therapists of your clients. As a part of this role you will also actively recruit and assist in the training of horse for the therapeutic program.
This role does not include managerial responsibilities, but you will lead and direct volunteers assisting with the program and therefore should promote a respect-first environment. A sense of teamwork is essential to success in this role. This individual should be willing and able to perform various therapeutic duties or customer interactions at any time with an energetic and professional spirit.
Ensure quality animal care and records are maintained in a manner that ensures accuracy, confidentiality, accessibility, and safe keeping.
Other requirements include:
  • Current PATH Intl. certification as registered-level instructor is required. Advanced or Mastery-level is preferred
  • At least 2 years of experience working or volunteering at a PATH Intl. Premiere Accredited Therapeutic Riding or Member Center
  • 3-5 years working with horses, advanced level of instructor-riding is preferred
  • Demonstrated experience in handling personnel concerns with urgency and professionalism
  • Reliable team player committed to building positive relationships and adapting to several roles and tasks when needed
  • Consistent record of attendance and punctuality
  • Solutions/results oriented and passionate about meeting individual and team goals
  • This position does require consistent physical activity including walking, standing, sitting bending, lifting and assisting children of young ages and reaching overhead. Candidates will spend up to 95% of the time working outdoors. This individual will be working in close proximity to animals therefore allergens and dander is present at all times
  • Driving duties are not a requirement in this role

Due to the nature of our clients and our work environment, a LiveScan fingerprint back ground check is required.
HWAC is an equal opportunity employer and dedicated to promoting an inclusive environment for all of our employees and prospecting candidates.

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