Horse Jobs – Riding Instructor

Generally found in larger facilities with many animals, the riding instructor works alongside the trainer to coordinate training of the animals and their riders.

Previous Knowledge

This is a position which benefits from previous teaching experience, knowledge of a specific discipline and a strong communication skill set.

Good With People & Animals

The ability to work with animals and people simultaneously and attention to detail are fundamental aspects of a good riding instructor.

Job Description

Their main responsibility is teaching people to ride horses through a variety of methods, either in groups or one-on-one. Often an instructor will teach students the entire process from cleaning the feet to mounting properly to the intricacies of their chosen discipline.

In addition instructors often accompany their riders to and coach them through competitions and events.

This position also requires collaboration with the trainer to address behavioral issues and establish exercise routines specific to the requirements of their riders.

In smaller establishments, the riding instructor can encompass horse training and barn management duties in addition to teaching riders.

Responsibilities

• Teaching general horsemanship principles & skills
• Teaching students to ride in groups or individual lessons
• Working through behavioral issues (often for both horse and rider)
• Preparing riders for competition & shows
• Competition / show planning, enrollment and organizing
• Accompanying riders to competitions & shows
• Coaching during competitions & shows
• Daily operations of riding school
• Care, exercise & behavior of lesson horses
• Scheduling of lessons

Requirements

Formal schooling is not a requirement for a riding instructor position, however larger stables will often expect riding instructor credentials or certification.

This is a position which will rely heavily upon previous teaching experience, strong horsemanship skills and even success as a professional rider.

Resources

A few places to start if you are interested in a career as a riding instructor.

• British Horse Society
• Certified Horsemanship Association
• American Riding Instructor Certification Program

The Right Job For You?

If this isn’t your dream job, there is a long list of different careers that involve horses. Each one requiring a different skill set, schooling requirement and amount of contact with the animals.

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