Head Riding Instructor

Position Overview

The New York Equestrian Center is seeking a certified, experienced, and energetic Head Riding Instructor to lead our lesson program and inspire riders of all ages and abilities. This is a leadership role responsible for program quality, instructor development, student progression, and the client experience on horseback. NYEC serves a broad community — from young beginners to competitive adult riders — and our Head Instructor is the face of that program.

Key Responsibilities

Instruction & Curriculum Deliver private, semi-private, and group lessons for all age groups and ability levels (beginnerthrough advanced/competitive) Design and implement structured lesson plans and student progression curriculum Conduct regular student skill assessments and communicate progress to families Teach summer camp, after-school programs, and holiday sessions as scheduled Oversee the therapeutic riding program; PATH-Intl certification strongly preferred

Staff & Program Leadership Hire, supervise, schedule, and mentor all junior riding instructors and lesson staff Establish and enforce safety standards for all mounted and unmounted activities Lead staff training and professional development; document staff competencies Coordinate with the Barn Manager on horse scheduling, suitability for lessons, and horse health

Client Relations & Business Development Serve as the primary point of contact for lesson clients, parents, and program inquiries Manage lesson bookings, scheduling, and client retention Represent NYEC at local and regional horse shows; escort students to competitions Support student recruitment efforts and community outreach programs Identify opportunities to grow the lesson program, including clinics and special events

Qualifications

Required

CHA certification or equivalent (ARIA, USDF, USEA) Minimum 3–5 years teaching experience (all ages and levels) Current First Aid/CPR certification Experience supervising and developing junior instructors Excellent communication skills with children, adults, and families Proficiency with scheduling/booking systems (Google Suite or similar) Preferred

PATH-Intl certification (therapeutic riding) Existing client base or established student following Competitive show record or USEF/USHJA experience

Experience with summer camp and youth programming Bilingual English/Spanish Background in equine management or stable operations Benefits:

Employee discount Work Location: In person

Employment Type: Full-Time, Year-Round

Reports To Facility Owner / Director

Compensation $55,000 – $70,000 annually (+ per-lesson bonus structure negotiable)

Benefits: Health benefits, continuing education support, horse board negotiable

Schedule: Must include weekends; peak hours evenings and weekends