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Job Opportunities

Join us because Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is a great place to work and grow!

It takes an incredible team of talented people to operate one of America’s best zoos. Be a part of what makes Riverbanks Zoo and Garden so remarkable! Riverbanks and Service Systems Associates offer a variety of full- and part-time job opportunities at the Zoo and Garden in an exciting and dynamic work environment.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden — Administration, Animal Care, Education, Guest Services, Grounds, Horticulture, Housekeeping, Maintenance and Public Safety

An exciting multi-million dollar major expansion is underway at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, promising a world-class guest experience at every turn. Come grow with us! Riverbanks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Benefits of Employment with Riverbanks

The following vary for full-time and part-time employees:

  • State health and life insurance plans.
  • State retirement plan.
  • State credit union eligibility.
  • Sick and vacation leave.
  • 50% discount in Riverbanks restaurants.
  • 20% discount in Riverbanks gift shops.
  • Employee of the month recognition program.
  • Employee activities and celebrations.
  • Employee membership.
  • Free guest passes each year.

Current Job Openings with Riverbanks (last updated on September 19, 2018)

Riverbanks accepts applications via an online submission process only for current open positions; walk-in applications are not accepted. To apply, click on the online application button for the position you are interested in below. All applicants will receive notice of receipt of their application by an electronic auto-response; however, only the top candidates for each position will be contacted via telephone. If you are not contacted for an interview, please be assured that your resume will be kept on file for one year should a similar opportunity arise.

Senior Keeper - Gorillas/Small Mammals

Full-time
Grade 10
Salary: $13.86/hr
Posted: 9/12/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, is responsible for supervising animal husbandry for the Gorilla collection, Kangaroo Walkabout, and the Riverbanks Conservation Outpost (primarily small mammals). Supervises the work assigned to a team of mammal keepers. Designs, maintains and repairs animal enclosures; maintains aesthetically pleasing exhibits; works with veterinary staff to monitor and treat animal diseases. Monitors and reports animal behavior. Plans and participates in animal training, transport, and medical procedures.  Instructs staff, interns, and volunteers insuring that all animals receive top quality animal care. Interacts with guests and provides informal and programmed educational information. Reports to the Assistant Mammal Curator.  

Education and Experience: Associate's degree in Biology, Zoology or Wildlife Management; Bachelor’s Degree preferred, and three to five years of experience working with animals, or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Experience working directly with Great Apes, a variety of primates, and other small mammals in a zoological setting preferred. Excellent supervisory, communication, and organizational skills. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Courier and Warehouse Clerk

Part-time (maintain flexible schedule)
Grade 4
Salary: $10.08/hr
Posted: 9/10/2018
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.  Reports to the Maintenance Supervisor and the Director of Risk Management and Facilities.

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

Guest Engagement Supervisor

Full-time
Grade 11
Salary: $29,411/yr
Posted: 9/5/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.  

Responsibilities: The Guest Engagement Supervisor (GES) is responsible for the various on-site interpretive programs offered at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. The GES will train, coordinate and evaluate part-time staff involved with delivering interpretive programming. The GES will be responsible for leading behind-the-scenes experiences, daily mentoring and supervision of team members and maintaining interpretive stations. As a Guest Engagement team member the GES will maintain high quality professional customer service in all situations to ensure memorable positive experiences for all guests. 
  • Assist with recruiting and supervising a growing team (part-time staff and volunteers).
  • Coordinate with manager to schedule volunteers as needed to implement interpretive programs.
  • Lead and maintain behind-the-scenes experiences while coordinating with manger for scheduling.
  • Assist with development and maintain interpretive program materials: scripts, outlines, fact sheets, etc.
  • Assist with evaluating interpretive programming to ensure quality, effectiveness and consistency.
  • Develop, coordinate, facilitate and maintain program trainings, materials and activities for Guest Engagement team.
  • Deliver and lead highly engaging and empowering interpretive programs, manage crowds and increase efficiency of team members as needed.
  • Act as a role model driving excellence in guest interactions and satisfaction, coaching team members to provide our guests with positive and memorable experiences.
  • Work with a variety of animals for programming purposes in a professional, relaxed, and confident manner.
  • Maintain highest standards of safety, professionalism, guest service, animal welfare, and team morale. 
  • Able to lead the Guest Engagement team in absence of manager.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Education and Experience: High school diploma required. Bachelor’s degree preferred in Communications, Environmental Education or a related field. 2-3 years of experience delivering, planning, and evaluating interpretive programs; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

The ideal candidate will be skilled at supervising and delivering instructions to staff and volunteers. Must have excellent communication (verbal and written), interpersonal and training skills. CIG certification through the National Association for Interpretation preferred. Must be able to work on feet all day and in all-weather conditions. Must possess or be eligible for a SC driver's license.

Events Technician

Full-time
Grade 4
Salary: $10.08/hr
Posted: 8/30/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Is responsible for working within a team to prepare the park for various year-round special events. Tasks include: constructing, assembling, and dismantling event components including audio/visual equipment, “wrapping” trees with lights, maintaining proper lighting and audio for events and daytime operations, and warehouse inventory. This work is very physical - tasks are hands-on and require attention-to-detail. Responsible for ensuring the safety of the public by preparing displays that are structurally sound and maintaining Riverbanks’ reputation for high quality events and aesthetics. Reports to the Events Supervisor and the Events Manager.

Education and Experience:  High school diploma with some electrical or construction experience required; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate good planning, organization, and teamwork skills. Must be comfortable working from a ladder and on a man-lift/boom at significant heights. Must be able to work in all weather conditions and be able to lift 30 pounds. Must possess or be eligible for a SC driver’s license and be trained (or eligible for certification) to operate a golf cart, fork lift, and a 60 ft. boom.

Senior Keeper - Animal Ambassador

Full-time
Grade 10
Salary: $13.86/hr
Posted: 8/22/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision of the Assistant Mammal Curator, is responsible for supervising husbandry, enrichment, guest engagement, and operant conditioning training for animals in Riverbanks’ animal ambassador program. Works with a variety of mammals, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.
  • Designs, maintains and repairs animal enclosures; maintains aesthetically pleasing enclosures.
  • In collaboration with both the Guest Engagement and Education departments, conducts presentations with Riverbanks’ animal ambassadors. Interacts directly with guests during informal and formal programs, providing engaging and accurate educational information.
  • Supervises the work assigned to the animal ambassador keeper.
  • Trains staff, interns, and volunteers in appropriate handling and transport of collection, ensuring that all animals receive top quality animal care.
  • Maintains regular communication across departments that utilize Riverbanks animal ambassadors.
  • Monitors and reports animal behavior. Plans, supervises, and participates in animal training/operant conditioning, transport, and medical procedures.
  • Works with veterinary staff to monitor and treat animal diseases. 

Education and Experience: Associate's degree in Biology, Zoology or Wildlife Management; Bachelor’s Degree preferred, and three to five years of experience working with animals, or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.  Must demonstrate excellent supervisory and communication skills (written and verbal) in all activities. Knowledge and experience with operant conditioning/training programs and presenting animal programs for public audiences required. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Maintenance Technician (Part-time)

Part-time
Grade 7
Salary: $12.35/hr
Posted: 8/16/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.  

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, is responsible for the repair and maintenance of a variety of Riverbanks’ structures, facilities, and equipment.  Assists with maintenance duty assignments such as but not limited to; painting, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC and electrical.  May, based on experience, operate medium to heavy equipment such as a forklift, backhoe, skid steer, snorkel lift, trencher, pickup truck, etc.  Participates in renovating, building, and repairing structures for the containment of zoo animals and for public use.  Assists with maintenance requests, projects and work orders. Runs errands, retrieves parts and supplies from warehouse and delivers to job site. Based on experience or job knowledge growth, may be assigned to perform some work orders independently.

Education and Experience: High school graduate with vocational/technical training in construction technology/engineering and one to two years of experience or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must be able to work well alone or with a team on a variety of tasks and priorities. Hands-on experience in any construction trade is a plus. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.  Must be available to work weekends and be available for emergency call in as needed.

Senior Keeper - Cat/Bear

Full-time
Grade 10
Salary: $13.86/hr
Posted: 8/15/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.
 
Responsibilities: Under general supervision, is responsible for supervising animal husbandry for a variety of mammals in Riverbanks’ animal collection. Works primarily with carnivores, marsupials, and primates. Supervises the work assigned to a team of mammal keepers. Designs, maintains and repairs animal enclosures; maintains aesthetically pleasing exhibits; works with veterinary staff to monitor and treat animal diseases. Monitors and reports animal behavior. Plans and participates in animal training, transport, and medical procedures.  Instructs staff, interns, and volunteers insuring that all animals receive top quality animal care. Interacts with guests and provides informal and programmed educational information. Reports to the Assistant Mammal Curator.  

Education and Experience: Associate's degree in Biology, Zoology or Wildlife Management; Bachelor’s Degree preferred, and three to five years of experience working with animals, or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Experience working directly with carnivores and big cats in a zoological setting preferred. Excellent supervisory, communication, and organizational skills. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Ropes Course Attendant - “FUN KEEPER”

Part-time (weekend availability required)
Grade 2
Salary: $8.18/hr
Posted: 8/1/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under direct supervision, is responsible for the successful operation of the Sky High Safari attraction at Riverbanks. Works well with a team to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the course and consistent high quality service to all guests. Routinely performs and practices important tasks such as course inspections, harnessing, and emergency procedures. Works well with guests of all ages and abilities. Reports to the Attractions Supervisor.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma. Some college education is preferred. Must have excellent communication and customer service skills. Must be comfortable working at great heights. Must demonstrate good decision-making and the ability to work well with a team.

Pony Ride Attendant - “FUN KEEPER”

Part-time (weekend availability required)
Grade 2
Salary: $8.18/hr
Posted: 8/1/2018

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, operates the pony ride attraction at the Riverbanks Farm. Attendants lead the ponies around the trail while interacting with young pony riders. Attendants must provide an outstanding guest experience while ensuring safe operation. Responsible for the pony attraction opening and closing tasks which may include: feeding, grooming and cleaning. Reports to the Attractions Supervisor.

Education and Experience: High school diploma and 6 months of guest service work experience (preferred). Must be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages.  Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, be able to lift 50lbs, and be able to walk long distances repetitively. Must be available week days and weekends.

SSA — Food Service, Catering, and Retail

Service Systems Associates (SSA) is the on-site provider of culinary and retail experiences at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. SSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and offers a variety of full- and part-time positions at Riverbanks throughout the year. Benefits will vary.

Current Job Openings with SSA (last updated on August 21, 2018)

Concessions Associate

Part-time (Weekends, holidays, and special event evenings required)
Posted: 6/29/2018
…

Prep Cook

Full-time (Compensation based on experience)
Posted: 7/9/2018
…

Retail Sales Associates

Part-time (Weekday and weekend availability)
Posted: 7/30/2018
…

Catering and Event Server

Part-time (10–40 hours weekly depending on season)
Posted: 8/14/2018
…