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Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Riding Instructor

Webster, NY · On-site

$18.50/hr

... horseback riding lessons with the ability to teach group lessons * Ability to positively interact with participants, volunteers, staff, and community at large * Ability to lift over 50 pounds is ...

The Horseback Trail Guide provides exceptional guest service and frontline support for customers ... Be comfortable riding and guiding for up to 6 hours each shift. * Ensure the safety of all guests ...

Riding Horses in the Mountains * Tips WE ARE HIRING FOR OUR 2024 SEASON We are a family owned business operating on the grounds of the YMCA of the Rockies. We offer guided horseback riding tours ...

We offer guided horseback riding tours through Rocky Mountain National Park and our rides range from a one hour ride to an eight hour ride. We are open March through October. Job would entail care of ...

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Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide information

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$19

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How much do volunteer horseback riding guide jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer horseback riding guide in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Volunteer Horseback Riding Guides face, and how can they prepare for them?

Volunteer Horseback Riding Guides often encounter challenges such as managing groups of riders with varying skill levels, ensuring the safety of both participants and horses, and adapting to changing trail or weather conditions. Preparation involves developing strong communication and leadership skills, familiarizing oneself with horse behavior and emergency procedures, and staying physically fit for outdoor work. Successful guides are proactive in assessing risk and providing clear instructions to riders, which helps create a positive and safe experience for everyone involved.

What is the difference between Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide vs Volunteer Equestrian Instructor?

AspectVolunteer Horseback Riding GuideVolunteer Equestrian Instructor
CertificationsBasic riding safety and first aidAdditional riding instruction certifications often preferred
Work EnvironmentOutdoor riding areas, farms, or ranchesIndoor or outdoor riding arenas, equestrian centers
Employer & IndustryResorts, therapeutic riding programs, farmsEquestrian schools, therapeutic riding centers
Common Search IntentVolunteer riding roles, outdoor equestrian activitiesTeaching riding skills, equestrian education

While both roles involve working with horses and outdoor environments, Volunteer Horseback Riding Guides primarily assist riders and ensure safety during trail rides or outdoor activities. Volunteer Equestrian Instructors focus more on teaching riding techniques and improving rider skills. The certifications and work settings overlap but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are Volunteer Horseback Riding Guides?

Volunteer Horseback Riding Guides are individuals who assist with leading horseback riding sessions, often for therapeutic, recreational, or educational programs. They help ensure the safety of riders, especially those with little experience or special needs, by walking alongside or guiding the horse. Their responsibilities may include preparing horses, assisting riders to mount and dismount, and providing encouragement and support during rides. Volunteers receive training to handle horses safely and to work with diverse participants. This role is ideal for people who love animals and want to contribute to their community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide, you need a solid understanding of horse care and handling, basic riding skills, and often a certification in first aid or equine safety. Familiarity with tack and riding equipment, as well as the ability to follow stable protocols, is important for ensuring safe rides. Strong communication, patience, and a friendly demeanor help build trust with riders and create a positive experience. These skills are essential to ensure the safety of both riders and horses, foster enjoyable outings, and maintain a supportive environment.
More about Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide jobs
What cities are hiring for Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide jobs? Cities with the most Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Horseback Riding Guide jobs? The most popular types of Horseback Riding Guide jobs are:
What states have the most Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide jobs? States with the most job openings for Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide jobs are:
Infographic showing various Volunteer Horseback Riding Guide job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Horseback Riding Instructor (59200)

Horseback Riding Instructor (59200)

Exceptional Family Resources

Chittenango, NY • On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

ARISE at Doc Marshall Farm is seeking a knowledgeable and compassionate Part-Time Horseback Riding Instructor to join our team. This position supports our adaptive and therapeutic riding program for children and adults with disabilities.
The ideal candidate will bring strong horsemanship skills, a passion for inclusive instruction, and the ability to lead and support volunteers in a positive, welcoming farm environment. This role is perfect for someone who loves horses and wants to make a meaningful difference through adaptive riding.
If you're excited to be part of an amazing team of fellow horse lovers and advocates for inclusion, we encourage you to apply today!
Job Responsibilities:
• Evaluate riders and identify contraindications to horseback riding
• Match horses with riders, based upon knowledge of the equines and of the rider's abilities, experience level, etc. for the best riding experience
• Attend trainings to enhance the quality and scope of the riding program
• Ensure a safe atmosphere for riders, volunteers, spectators, staff and horses
• Work with Adaptive Riding Instructor to ensure safe, smooth-running sessions
• Work with participants to ensure progress toward goal attainment and document progress
• Re-assess participant goals and needs on a regular basis
• Update volunteer coordinator of needs for current and future volunteers
• Give direction to assistant riding instructor and volunteers
• Other duties as assigned
Required Skills / Capabilities:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Working knowledge of therapeutic riding
  • Working knowledge of horse health
  • Ability to recognize lameness and/or equine illness
  • Able to assist riders in mounting as part of a two-person lift from ramp
  • Certified or Licensed OTA or PTA preferred but not required
  • CHA (Certified Horsemanship Association) Certification a plus
  • Must be willing to seek certifications regarding qualifications of an OTA, PTA and/or CHA
  • Current PATHIntl. CTRI Certification a plus. If not currently certified, must be willing to pursue certification through PATHIntl
  • Successful completion of pre-employment screenings

Education and Experience:
  • Must complete background checks as required, including OPWDD/Justice Center fingerprinting, child abuse and sex offender registries
  • Completion of all required trainings and refreshers
  • Able to monitor the activities of campers who have varying abilities and disabilities
  • Meet the physical demands (walking, running, bending, lifting, and assisting campers with meals, washing hands, toileting, exerting 50 pounds of force to assist with lifts, transfers and other hygiene needs
  • Proof of immunizations per NYS DOH strongly preferred (2 Measles, Mumps, Rubella doses; 1 Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis vaccine booster dose within last 10 years; and 2 varicella vaccine doses)

Physical Requirements Essential for Safe and Effective Job Performance
  • Ability to successfully remain sitting or working at a desk for prolonged periods.
  • Vision sufficient to keep a New York State Driver's License and constant use of a computer.
  • Speech and hearing sufficient for normal communication.
  • Ability to successfully work on a computer as a significant responsibility.
  • Full range of motion to move safely in the office and outside locations which may not have accommodation.
  • May be needed to put away office supplies and transport event materials. Must be able to lift, push, pull, walk, stoop, reach in all directions to move freely and quickly within any area.
  • Must be able to lift or move items necessary for events and other related activity.
  • Finger manipulation and hand coordination for constant computer use.
  • Ability to travel in your own vehicle to all job-related out-of-office functions or meetings as needed.
  • Ability to report on time and remain for overtime as needed.