Job Opportunities

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, creates connections with our guests while providing an outstanding experience and ensuring the safe operation of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s attractions. Will work in a variety of locations throughout the park, including but not limited to: Zip the Zoo and Zoom the River Zip Line Adventure Course. Works within a team, with small groups of guests over an extended period, to facilitate an efficient, fun and safe zip line experience.  Routinely performs and practices tasks such as inspections of attractions and equipment, harnessing, and emergency procedures. Will effectively make judgement calls about guest participation and communicate with the public about Riverbanks’ exhibits, attractions, services and policies. Will assist with other duties as assigned. Reports to the Attractions Supervisor.  

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma and demonstration of responsible job experience. Safety training/adventure-based programming knowledge and some college education preferred. Must be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Must demonstrate good decision-making and the ability to work well with a team and individually. Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions at great heights. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. and be able to stand for long periods of time. Must successfully complete paid on-site training and work an apprenticeship on Riverbanks’ zip line course in order to continue employment.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, creates connections with our guests while ensuring the safe operation of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s attractions. Will work in a variety of locations throughout the park, including but not limited to: the Riverbanks’ Tram Shuttle. Works within a team to greet guests waiting in line, load and unload passengers, and operate a multi-car tram to provide efficient, fun and safe transport to and from the west side of our property. Routinely performs and practices tasks such as inspections of attractions and equipment, safe driving habits, and emergency procedures. Will effectively make judgement calls about the tram’s operation and communicate with the public about Riverbanks’ exhibits, attractions, services and policies. Will assist with other duties as assigned, including working evening tram events.  Reports to the Attractions Supervisor.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma and demonstration of responsible job experience. Must be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Must demonstrate good decision-making and the ability to work well with a team and individually. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, be able to lift 50lbs. and be able to sit/stand for long periods of time. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Leads summer camp educational programs.  Curriculum topics include, but are not limited to: zoology, botany, ecology, conservation, behavioral science, and other natural & physical sciences. Supervises and motivates groups of 15-25 children (between the ages of 4 and 13 years old) per week.  Enthusiastically presents planned activities and leads zoo and garden tours in an age-appropriate manner that is fun and engaging.  Manages group behavior and demonstrates a passion for nature and children. Acts as a positive role model for campers, parents, and fellow staff, inspiring progressive conservation actions throughout activities and lessons.

Education and Experience: Must be enrolled in a degree-seeking education program, with one to two years experience working with children in an educational or instructional setting (formal or informal teaching, camp staffing, tutoring, coaching, lessons, etc.) or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Must have a good knowledge of natural science.  Must possess or be eligible for a valid S.C. driver's license.  Must have and be able to provide proof of current CPR/First Aid certification and a negative TB test by the first day of training.  

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Leads summer camp educational programs as needed.  Curriculum topics include, but are not limited to: zoology, botany, ecology, conservation, behavioral science, and other natural & physical sciences. Supervises and motivates groups of 15-25 children.  Enthusiastically presents planned activities and leads zoo and garden tours in an age-appropriate manner that is fun and engaging.  Manages group behavior and demonstrates a passion for nature and children. Acts as a positive role model for campers, parents, and fellow staff, inspiring progressive conservation actions throughout activities and lessons.  Days and times may vary.

Education and Experience: Must be enrolled in a degree-seeking education program, with one to two years experience working with children in an educational or instructional setting (formal or informal teaching, camp staffing, tutoring, coaching, lessons, etc.) or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Must have a good knowledge of natural science.  Must possess or be eligible for a valid S.C. driver's license.  Must have and be able to provide proof of current CPR/First Aid certification and a negative TB test by the first day of training.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, provides operational support to the groundskeeping staff while also carrying out routine groundskeeping duties. The Senior Groundskeeper will act as the day-to-day, hands-on, direct support for the Grounds Department staff.   Oversees, and participates in, routine maintenance and upkeep of park facilities.  Works with other shift leads to ensure effective communication channels are maintained and routine and project work is performed. Operates trucks, forklift, blowers, man-lift, and various grounds maintenance tools to perform tasks.  The Senior Groundskeeper will assist the Environmental Services Management team with various administrative tasks and provide training to new staff. Reports to the Environmental Services Manager.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 21 years of age with a HS diploma. Some college education and previous supervisory experience preferred, or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must demonstrate professionalism, customer service experience, leadership skills and strong communication skills.  Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, be able to lift 50lbs. and be able to walk long distances repetitively. Must possess a valid S.C. driver's license.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, creates connections with our guests while ensuring the safe operation of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s attractions. Will work in a variety of locations throughout the park, including but not limited to: Sky High Safari and the Wild Adventures Climbing Wall. Handles both cash and cashless Point of Sale transactions. Routinely performs and practices tasks such as inspections of attractions and equipment, harnessing, and emergency procedures. Will effectively make judgement calls about guest participation and communicate with the public about Riverbanks’ exhibits, attractions, services and policies. Will assist with other duties as assigned. Reports to the Attractions Supervisor.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma; 6 months of guest service work experience (preferred). Must be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Must demonstrate good decision-making and the ability to work well with a team and individually. Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions at great heights. Must be able to lift 50 lbs. and be able to stand for long periods of time.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, maintains security of Riverbanks grounds, picnic area, and parking lots. Patrols and monitors gate entrances and exits. Provides security services during non-public hours for special events. Maintains good customer service and strives to achieve excellent public relations. Assists visitors by providing directions, locating missing persons, assisting stranded motorists, locating lost personal property, handling complaints or inquiries, providing first aid, etc. Prepares and maintains required reports.  Controls keys and locks for all Riverbanks facilities and property. Weekend availability preferred but not required. Must also be available to work evening and special events as needed. Reports to the Senior Public Safety Officer and the Public Safety Manager.

Education and Experience: High school graduate with one to two years experience as a security officer; or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must demonstrate professionalism, customer service experience and strong communication skills. Must possess or be eligible for a valid South Carolina driver's license.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the routine maintenance and upkeep of Riverbanks facilities. Works to maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout Riverbanks Zoo and Garden by following cleaning routines and responding to non-routine cleaning issues. Reports to the Environmental Services Manager.

Education and Experience: High school graduate or equivalent, with five to eleven months of experience in grounds maintenance, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.  Must possess a valid S.C. driver's license.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the routine maintenance and upkeep of park grounds and facilities. Works to maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Operates trucks, forklift, blowers and various grounds maintenance tools to perform tasks. Reports to the Environmental Services Manager.

Education and Experience: High school graduate or equivalent, with five to eleven months of experience in grounds maintenance, housekeeping, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.  Maintains a flexible schedule. Must possess a valid S.C. driver's license.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Facilitates the inclusion of campers with learning, behavioral or sensory needs that may require additional support for successful participation in Zoo Camp. Provides ongoing training, support and feedback to all camp staff and volunteers as well as support to designated and/or identified campers within the camp program, ensuring a safe, fun, and appropriate learning environment. Will keep camper’s parent/guardian informed about their child’s involvement in camp in advance of their designated week and throughout the week of attendance. Will work/coordinate with any camper aides provided by the family and accompanying campers. Communicates with the Education Coordinator on organizational support needed for camp staff and camper families. Conveys best practices and problem solving to camp staff. Assists with the development and modification of camp content to be inclusionary for diverse learners. Will record camper’s needs and successful supports implemented while attending. Counselor-Inclusion Specialists may provide direct support to a camper when needed and work within a camp group to facilitate camp activities and engage campers in experiences. Other projects and tasks may arise that are delegated or taken on by the Counselor-Inclusion Specialist, such as providing support to other special needs programs, assisting visitor services staff with a special needs visitor or group, or assisting camp leadership staff with program support. Must understand and respect the diversity of campers, is committed to positive behavior management, and makes the learning process engaging, fun, and driven by the individual camper. Acts as a positive role model for all campers, parents, and fellow staff, inspiring progressive conservation actions throughout activities and lessons. Days and times may vary.

Education and Experience: Must have or be in pursuit of a Bachelor's Degree in Special Education, or related field from an accredited college or university; or any equivalent combination of training and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. A minimum of one year of experience working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Experience working in an inclusion setting strongly desired. Experience with informal education and summer camp environment preferred. Must have a good knowledge of natural science. Must possess or be eligible for a valid S.C. driver's license.  Must have and be able to provide proof of current CPR/First Aid certification and a negative TB test by the first day of training. 

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, creates connections with our guests while providing an outstanding experience and ensuring the safe operation of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s attractions. Works in a variety of locations throughout the park, including but not limited to: Carousel, Farmyard, Train, Waterfall Junction, etc.  Routinely performs inspections of attractions. Handles cashless Point of Sale transactions. Communicates with the public about Riverbanks’ exhibits, attractions, services and policies. Reports to the Attractions Supervisor.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS Diploma; 6 months of guest service work experience (preferred).  Must be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Must demonstrate good decision-making and the ability to work well with a team and individually. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, be able to lift 50lbs. and be able to stand for long periods of time.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities:  Under direct supervision, provides an outstanding experience to Riverbanks’ guests and Society members. Works in various point of sale areas throughout the park, including ticket booths, information booths and entrance gates. Handles ticket and membership purchase transactions. Communicates with the public about Riverbanks memberships, exhibits, attractions, services, and policies. Reports to the Guest Services Manager and the Director of Guest Services.  

Education and Experience: High school diploma and 4-6 months of work experience in customer service or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Cashier experience, data entry and strong customer services skills are required. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions and be able to stand for long periods of time. Must be available weekdays and available to work evening and special events as needed.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Given objectives set by the Director of Facilities Maintenance, is responsible for operating, repairing, and maintaining Riverbanks LSS equipment, structures and facilities. Will ensure a safe work environment, while understanding the operation and interpretation of technical LSS equipment. Follows USDA, DHEC, OSHA, AZA, etc. standards in all areas.

• Conducts daily rounds of all pump rooms to inspect filters, pumps, motors, compressors, lights, fans, protein fractionators, and ozone units.
• Completes regular preventative maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and repair to analytical instrumentation, probes, and mechanical equipment.
• Maintains a clean and safe work environment, while utilizing a wide array of carpentry, mechanical, plumbing, and dive repair tools and various types of machinery and equipment.
• Builds, repairs, remodels, and/or replaces facilities and structures in the performance of duties. Assists in building new structures and renovating and repairing existing structures. Works with contractors on designing and retrofitting spaces for LSS.
• Routinely completes water quality diagnosing procedures and checkups using an array of analytical equipment, such as spectrophotometers, digital pH meters, gauges, etc.
• Coordinates LSS and water quality parameters with the animal care staff to establish and maintain an environment conducive to the health and well-being of the animal collection. Communicates any water quality concerns to the Curator and Veterinary Staff.
• Uses and maintains a centralized laboratory to perform water quality testing for the Penguin, Sea Lion, Grizzly, Otter, and Siamang exhibits. Prepares and maintains inventory, water quality logs and reports, and maintenance reports and requests.
• Determines necessary supplies/materials needed for tasks and to maintain inventory status. Receives bids, prepares requisitions, and orders stock.
• Serves as a member of the dive staff and participates in dive operations in positions of diver, tender, and DPIC (Dive Person In-Charge), as needed. Also participates in dive emergency exercises in various exhibits.
• Comprehends and follows the Riverbanks Dive Safe Practices Manual and contributes to content for revisions/updates.
• Maintains the Waterfall Junction Splash Pad and ensures all water quality parameters are within DHEC standards. Understands basic pool filtration and equipment.
• Effectively interacts and communicates with supervisor/team, employees, volunteers, Riverbanks guests, and various external groups/individuals (e.g. sales representatives, contractors, etc.). Collaborates with the animal care and maintenance staff to ensure the integrated delivery of LSS operation/maintenance for the safety and welfare of the animal collection.
• Must be available for on-call/weekend duty and for emergencies. Works beyond a 40/hour work week, as required. Some travel required to attend meetings, professional development opportunities or conferences (e.g. AALSO and AZA).

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Marine Science, Biological Sciences or a related field required. Experience with commercial LSS equipment, water quality testing equipment, and/or pool filtration and equipment preferred; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. AALSO Operator Level 1 desired. Open Water Dive Certification from a nationally accredited organization desired. Experience working in an AZA accredited institution preferred.

The ideal candidate will enjoy working within a collaborative environment and be a team player. Must be organized, detail oriented, and have excellent written and verbal communication skills with a very high standard for service. Will be able to handle multiple projects simultaneously and possess thorough knowledge of current computer applications to include MS Office Suite. Must be able to pass a dive medical evaluation and be able to lift and carry up to 70 lbs. repeatedly. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, runs errands to pick-up items already ordered by various departments, takes packages for shipment, receives and inspects supply deliveries and delivers orders to departments per schedule. Makes daily mail run and transports packages for shipment; makes other pickups and deliveries as required.  Maintains warehouse and provides assistance and information to other departments regarding warehouse related matters. Utilizes and operates various types of equipment such as a company vehicle, fork lift, computer, etc. Completes other duties and tasks as required. Reports to the Director of Facilities Maintenance.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma. Some college education is preferred. Must have exceptional communication and organizational skills and be self-motivated. Maintains a high standard for service and good communication with co-workers, guests, and vendors. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, lift up to 50lbs., and walk long distances repetitively. Maintains a flexible schedule. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under the general supervision of the Events Manager, is responsible for helping to ensure high quality night-time events and positive guest experiences. Assists with the coordination of all Riverbanks’ public and member events and festivals.

• Supports all stages of event planning and will physically assist with the set-up and break-down of all Riverbanks’ Signature Events.
• Works in partnership with human resources to ensure special event volunteers are placed and ready to support various areas of event operations.
• Maintains the ticketing database for events.
• Conducts research for events. Researches and reports on national and regional trends in attractions and special event production and marketing.
• Works in conjunction with the Events Technicians, maintains monthly timelines for events, and monitors the progress on a continuum.
• Cooperates with other zoo and garden departments to facilitate event success. Cultivates and maintains a positive working environment. Effectively interacts and communicates with employees, volunteers, and various external groups/vendors.
• Helps to maintain Riverbanks’ reputation for high quality events and aesthetics to advance the mission and encourage support of the zoo and garden.

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or HRTM preferred. Minimum of 18-24 months experience in event planning or HRTM industry is required; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. 

The ideal candidate will enjoy working within a collaborative environment and be a team player who will productively engage with others at varying levels of seniority. Outstanding organization, planning, and communication (written and verbal) skills are required in this role. Must be proficient with current computer applications to include MS Office Suite. Flexible for morning, after-hours, and weekend assignments. Must be able to work in all weather conditions, physically lift up to 35 pounds, and climb ladders on a frequent basis. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Service Systems Associates at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is now hiring outgoing, customer service oriented individuals. This position is is part-time seasonal. We are looking to fill positions for the hours of 9am-5pm Monday-Friday. Scheduling is flexible within limits. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions.

Compensation: Competitive wages based on experience.

Responsibilities:

• Uphold the highest level of customer service.
• Maintain a friendly and approachable attitude towards guests and staff.
• Uphold a professional appearance and mannerism at all times.
• Provide excellent food and beverage service for zoo guests.
• Maintain knowledge of policies and procedures.
• Maintain sense of urgency when on the service floor.
• Maintain back of the house, front of the house, and side work duties for overall productivity.
• Maintain positive and professional attitude at all times.
• Seek council from management when needed.
• Maintain clear and open communication between all staff members for overall positive guest experience.
• Work well within a team and independently.
• Must be able to take initiative.
• Ability to work well under pressure.
• Follow Health and Safety practices at all times.
• Complete all other duties as assigned.

Education and Experience:

• Customer service, food service, or waiter experience preferred, but not required.
• Some areas require service of alcohol to guests.
• Previous experience serving alcohol in a concessions like setting is not required but preferred.
• Be willing to interact with guests of all ages.Must be able to work weekends and weekdays, and some nights for special events.
• Ability to perform physical activities such as lifting 25–50 lbs, balancing, walking, and handling of delicate materials.