Jobs with Horses: 10 Equine Career Options for Lovers

Not many horse lovers are rich enough to be able to afford horses without working, but work often limits time off for racing, hunting or competing, especially during winter evenings when daylight is scarce. This dilemma means you can’t afford a horse without a job, but holding a job leaves little time for horse care or exercise. Finding a job with horses can be a rewarding solution that gets you closer to these magnificent animals and fits a working lifestyle.

Some fortunate individuals secure office jobs with weekends off to spend time with horses, but many find themselves working six days a week. Luckily, many equine yards offer positions that include free livery and use of facilities as part of your remuneration—ideal for genuine horse lovers wanting proximity to horses daily. This article highlights some typical jobs available in the equine sector and helps you understand what to expect.

1. Rider

If you’re a competent rider in any discipline, from racing to show jumping, you could seek a job as a rider. These roles vary by discipline and yard. Live-in riders may also be expected to groom horses without pay, so clarify duties and expectations beforehand. Off-season riding roles exist but are intermittent. Some trotting yards abroad offer good wages for exercising trotters, although trotting for extended periods is physically demanding and uncomfortable due to the gait’s unique motion.

2. Groom

The most common entry-level horse job is working as a groom, which usually requires no riding ability but a genuine love of horses and basic handling experience. Duties include mucking out, feeding, cleaning tack, and yard maintenance, plus additional tasks such as plaiting manes, washing rugs, and travel to shows. Long and irregular hours, particularly during competitions, mean grooms can work 14–16 hour days. Unfortunately, grooms are often underpaid and undervalued. Find employers with low staff turnover to avoid bad work environments.

3. Teacher

Teaching positions are primarily full-time in riding schools, focusing on beginners using well-trained but sometimes unenthusiastic horses and ponies. Lessons often involve repeating key phrases and foundational riding skills all day. Private lessons and mobile teaching can supplement income and involve work with livery yards or clubs. Reputation and word-of-mouth are essential in building a teaching client base.

4. Blacksmith (Farrier)

Modern farriery often involves portable forges to travel between yards, though some still practise traditional hot shoeing. Many courses across the UK teach farriery, and apprenticeships are a great way to gain practical experience. Pay during training can be modest compared to the skills acquired, but becoming a professional farrier offers a unique, hands-on horse career with a mix of physical and technical work.

5. Tack Shop Worker

Working in a tack shop connects you with the equine community without direct horse contact. These roles are relatively stable with reasonable hours and pay, allowing workers to care for their own horses and, occasionally, attend shows with the shop’s stall. While not a hands-on horse job daily, it keeps you involved with horse owners and the industry.

6. Odd Jobs Within the Equine Sphere

There are many lesser-known equine roles that might match unique skills or interests, including:

• Race track handler, assisting horses into stalls
• Feed and bedding reps travelling to yards showcasing products
• Betting shop staff but with limited horse contact
• Equine writers and photographers for magazines and websites
• Managers and secretaries at larger yards
• Tour guides for horse trekking abroad (language skills required)
• Nutrition specialists promoting supplements at events
• Sales roles for horse boxes and saddler crafts
• Show course builders and judges
• Artists specialising in equine portraits
• Designers of equestrian clothing
• Alternative therapy practitioners (acupuncture, massage, etc.)

Getting Started and Finding Jobs

Using word of mouth and networking remains one of the best ways to find equine jobs, as recommendations carry weight regarding character and ability. While classified ads and online job boards exist, they can be impersonal, and work realities may differ significantly. Always seek clarity on job roles, expected hours, and living arrangements before committing. A stable working environment is crucial for personal and equine welfare.

Conclusion

Working with horses offers varied career options, from riding and grooming to teaching and retail. Each role demands different skills and commitments but shares the reward of being close to horses. Whether starting out or seeking to specialise, embracing responsible and ethical work practices ensures the welfare of both you and the horses you care for.