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$8

$18

$36

How much do therapeutic riding instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for therapeutic riding instructor in Illinois is $18.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.81 and $21.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a therapeutic riding instructor do?

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?

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 as a therapeutic riding instructor?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois? For Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Therapeutic Riding Instructor job openings:
Therapeutic Riding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Therapeutic Riding Instructor job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,616 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor

Ray Graham Association

Burr Ridge, IL • On-site

$16.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Job Title: Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor
Job Summary:
We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor to join our team. As a Therapeutic Horsemanship Instructor, you will be responsible for providing therapeutic riding lessons to individuals with developmental disabilities. You will work closely with our clients to help them develop their horsemanship skills, improve their physical and emotional well-being, and achieve their personal goals.
Responsibilities:
- Develop and implement lesson plans that are tailored to the individual needs of each client
- Teach clients basic horsemanship skills, including grooming, tacking, and riding
- Monitor clients' progress and adjust lesson plans as needed
- Ensure the safety of clients, volunteers, and horses at all times
- Maintain accurate records of client progress and attendance
- Communicate regularly with clients' families and caregivers to provide updates on progress and discuss any concerns
- Participate in staff meetings and training sessions as required
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Horsemanship, Special Education, or a related field
- Certification as a Therapeutic Riding Instructor by PATH Intl. or equivalent organization
- Minimum of 2 years of experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities
- Strong knowledge of horsemanship and equine care
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Flexibility to work weekends and evenings as needed
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds. If you are passionate about helping individuals with developmental disabilities achieve their goals and improve their quality of life, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position.
Drug-Free Workplace Commitment
We are proud to be a drug-free workplace. All candidates must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to random testing throughout employment. We are committed to promoting a safe and productive environment for all employees.
Salary Description
$16.50

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