Job Opportunities

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

Responsibilities:  The Conservation Project Manager works in collaboration with other members of the Riverbanks’ team to deliver on our mission to impact conservation. This includes administering the Satch Krantz Conservation Fund small grants program, managing communications with local and global field conservation organizations, and working across departments to meet campus sustainability goals. 

Essential Functions:

• Working across departments and with external stakeholders to create processes for meeting conservation and sustainability goals;

• Maintaining excellent communications while developing professional relationships with Conservation Committee and Advisory Group members, Riverbanks staff and external stakeholders;

• Motivating and supporting staff across departments in their contribution to conservation;

• Monitoring and documenting progress towards identified conservation and sustainability goals;

• Participating in sharing conservation initiatives through event days and Riverbanks events through creative engagement activities;

• Maintaining organized records of activities and communications related to conservation projects;

• Completing reporting to AZA, funders and other stakeholders;

• Problem-solving and modifying processes when issues arise;

• Administering the Satch Krantz Conservation Fund small grants program and other field conservation funding strategies;  

• And, project evaluation and revisions to insure goals are being met effectively.

Education and Experience:  Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field preferred. Three to five years project management experience in a related organization. Must demonstrate excellent written and oral communication skills and an ability to prioritize tasks while managing complex projects and successfully meeting deadlines. 

The ideal candidate will possess an understanding of and deep commitment to conservation of the earth’s wildlife and wild places. Has the ability to work well with a diverse group of constituents while sharing an optimism for positively impacting our planet. The ability to manage the details while communicating the big picture to different audiences.  

Must be available to work at special events that may be on weekends and/or evenings. 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 direction of the Director of Marketing, the Marketing Manager is a marketing generalist with key responsibilities of managing and monitoring social and digital media, managing marketing partnerships and promotional opportunities and implementing the annual marketing plan. Reports to the Director of Marketing. 

Essential Functions:

• Manages the annual social media strategy including developing and managing the social media calendar, creating content and optimizing channels to maximize traffic and engagement.
• Communicates with social media followers and appropriately responds to queries in a timely manner and within Riverbanks’ brand guidelines.
• Supports the membership and communications teams to develop mission and brand-related messaging and content for use in Riverbanks’ digital platforms, website, and magazine.
• Captures and analyzes appropriate social engagement data and metrics, insights, and best practices.
• Supports the promotion, coordination, and execution of various Zoo and Garden events.
• Develops and executes promotional and partnership strategies for peak periods during the year.
• Other duties as assigned. 
   

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s Degree with 2+ years of experience in marketing and/or communications. Minimum of 1 year of management/supervisory experience preferred. Ideal candidates would have some experience in editing photo and video content for social platforms. 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. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a very high standard for service required. Must be able to demonstrate outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, organizational skills and prompt follow-through. Must be flexible for occasional weekend, holiday and after-hours assignments. 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 maintains security of the Zoo and Garden during evening hours while park is closed to public use. Monitors gate entrances and exits and provides public assistance during evening programs. Patrols and secures park, buildings, and surrounding areas. Completes security reports. Assists with various meter readings and the monitoring of after-hours systems. Answers incoming calls, provides information to callers, and takes messages. Assists in making sure all signage and staff parking for the following business day is accurate and in place. Provides an excellent, efficient, and high-quality guest service experience and strives to achieve excellent public relations. Must be dependably available and able to maintain third shift schedule (Monday – Friday: 12:00am - 8:30am). Reports to the Public Safety Manager.    

Education and Experience: High school graduate with one to two years experience as a security guard; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills and a very high standard for service. 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, is responsible for general repair and maintenance to a variety of structures, equipment, vehicles, and facilities at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.  Duties will vary daily and can include assignments such as general repair, preventative maintenance, carpentry, minor plumbing/electrical/HVAC, welding, excavating, fence repair, etc.  May be required to operate medium to heavy equipment such as a forklift, backhoe, skid steer, scissor lift, aerial lift etc. as required to complete assignments. May also participate in renovation or construction projects. Must be available to work on weekends. Must be available for on-call duty after hours. 

Essential Functions:

• Proven experience as a welder

• Ability to operate angle grinders to prepare the parts that must be welded

• Experience using a variety of welding equipment and procedures (TIG, Stick, MIG, etc.)

• Experience in using electrical or manual tools (saws, squares, calipers etc.)

• Ability to read and interpret technical documents and drawings

• Knowledge of relative safety standards and willingness to use protective clothing (face shield, gloves etc.)

• Deftness and attention to detail and safety

Education and Experience: High school graduate with vocational/technical training in equipment repair/trade or Associates Degree in related field, and three to five years of experience as a maintenance worker and tradesmen; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must have three to five years of welding experience. Must possess or be eligible for a valid S.C. driver's license.

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

Responsibilities:  Manages and ensures the maintenance and quality of animal records for use in the management and development of husbandry and breeding programs, preparation of scientific publications, and provision of data for cooperative ventures at both the regional and international level. Advises various staff on legal and logistical aspects of animal collection activities. Participates with various staff in implementing and reviewing animal collection management objectives. Serves as a liaison and information source to other departments and organizations. Reports to the Director of Animal Care and Welfare.

Education and Experience: A bachelor’s degree in one of the Biological Sciences or data management disciplines, or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.  The ideal candidate will enjoy working within a collaborative environment that is mission-driven, in alignment with the Zoo’s core values. They would also have a strong history of working with zoo/exotic animals in a professional setting. Knowledge of concepts, principles, and practices of professional museum and zoo registration methods and collection management standards would be a great asset to the ideal candidate. Being proficient with inventory accession and record-keeping practices, and zoological nomenclature is required in this role as is knowledge of laws regulating animal acquisition, disposition, exhibition, husbandry standards, and transportation within the U.S. and abroad is required.  Candidates that apply for this position should have experience with computers and animal records software (e.g., ZIMS) and Microsoft Office programs. Ability to collect and collate information from a variety of sources into concise and accurate reports. Possess strong typing, administrative, communication, and organizational skills.

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

Responsibilities: Oversees the Waterfall Junction Children’s Garden and Splash Pads ensuring that guests have a safe, fun, and memorable experience. Responsible for performing daily safety inspections of the splash pads and surrounding areas while actively interacting with guests. May be cross trained to work in a variety of locations throughout the park, including but not limited to: Carousel, Farmyard, and Climbing Wall. Communicates with the public about Riverbanks memberships, exhibits, attractions, services, events, and policies. Reports to the Attractions Manager.

Education and Experience: High School diploma and 6 months of guest service work experience are preferred. Some lifeguard or first aid experience is 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 and must 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, 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 Manager.

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 at heights of 30 ft or greater and outdoors in all weather conditions. 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: Given objectives set by the Chief Administrative Officer, is responsible for the fiscal operations of the Riverbanks Park Commission, the governing authority of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and the Riverbanks Society, its 501(C)3 support organization.  This position is responsible for directing all financial functions for Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Additionally, this position will design, organize, implement, and monitor the Commission and Society’s various budgets. Performs financial research and forecasting, conducts internal audits, and creates required financial reports and documentation. As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, this position is expected to engage with all team members in a collaborative manner and contribute to various organization-wide initiatives. As a member of Team Riverbanks, it is essential to understand that all areas of the Zoo and Garden are interlocked and dependent on one another. 

Essential Functions: 

• Develops and prepares the Zoo’s annual operating and capital budgets with assistance from the executive leadership team at the direction of the CAO and CEO.
• Establishes and maintains strong relationships with the executive team as to identify their needs and seek full range of business solutions.
• Supports, advises, and assists departments in the preparation and monitoring of budgets.
• Prepares preliminary budget recommendations for the Budget Committees of the Riverbanks Park Commission and Society and aids the Chief Administrative Officer in finalizing budget recommendations for the Commission.
• Presents the annual operating budget, and any revisions, to Commission members and Richland and Lexington County Councils.
• Prepare and provide a variety of financial reports including monthly financial statements, capital project reports, operational reports and others as needed to the President and CEO, Chief Administrative Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and the Commission.
• Analyzes, evaluates, and advises on the impact of revenue trends, long-range planning and the introduction of new programs.
• Directs and oversees all aspects of the Finance and Accounting functions of the organization.
• Oversees applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations for financial and tax reporting.
• Works with the Chief Administrative Officer to determine objectives and goals that support Riverbanks mission and operational needs. Reports to the Chief Administrative Officer.

Education and Experience: CPA required and Bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field with a minimum of five years of previous managerial accounting experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Governmental accounting and working knowledge of fund accounting a plus. Previous senior management and high-level decision-making experience is a must.  The best candidate will have solid personnel management skills, have experience as a supervisor and team player, and demonstrate excellent organization and follow-through skills.   Must possess or be eligible for a SC driver’s license.

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

Responsibilities:  The Safety and Wellness Manager is responsible for monitoring safety and health regulations to minimize hazards and is responsible for establishing and maintaining a positive and safe culture throughout the Zoo and Garden. This position will work closely with the Riverbanks People Team (HR) to develop and implement wellness programs and incentives that will positively impact our staff’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being while ensuring Riverbanks’ workplace meets all legal expectations and actively supports occupational health and safety (OSHA), AZA, USDA, and FWC safety standards. 

This position reports directly to the Chief Administrative Officer.

Essential Functions:

• Evaluates Riverbanks’ policies, SOPs, procedures, and facilities to assess risk and ensure compliance with federal and state safety and health regulations and laws.
• Performs site safety inspections looking for general safety issues, fire hazards or violations and walking surface issues on a routine basis.
• Develops and coordinates all general safety training required to support safety programs and a culture of safety, including San Diego Global. Maintains records and documents for all safety training, inspections, and drills.
• Collaborates with senior staff to develop a continuous improvement plan for health and safety, throughout all departments.
• Key point of contact and leadership for all safety related issues. Identifies workplace hazards and discovers opportunities for improving conditions. Tracks and monitors Riverbanks Safety Observation System and Near Miss reporting systems.
• Ensures safety information is shared with all team members using 3E for Safety Data Sheets and current Communication Stations.
• Promotes safety and health awareness by preparing reports on health and safety issues. Manages and follows through on any Close Contact Tracing, following CDC and State and Local guidelines.
• Develops annual company safety, health, and wellness goals and incentives. Implements a performance, recognition, and feedback plan for safety.
• Recommends solutions to issues, improvement opportunities or new prevention measures. Supports staff in selection of appropriate personal protective equipment.
• Leads Riverbanks’ safety committee and has an integral role in disaster response planning.
• Reviews reports/workers compensation claims and conducts investigations of injury and non-injury accidents or incidents to determine probable cause(s) and make recommendations for corrective action.
• Cultivates and maintains a positive working environment. Effectively interacts and communicates with senior staff, employees, volunteers, and various external groups.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s or Associates degree in environmental health and safety or a related field with proven experience as a safety or wellness professional preferred. Knowledge of federal and state occupational safety and health regulations. Good knowledge of data analysis and risk assessment a plus. The Safety & Wellness Manager will have demonstrated experience with developing policies and SOPs. 

The ideal candidate will have excellent communication and presentation skills to address workplace safety issues, implement training programs, and motivate team members. Enjoy working within a collaborative environment and be a collaborator who productively engages with others at varying levels of seniority and able to demonstrate outstanding interpersonal and observation skills, diligence, and prompt follow-through. The ideal candidate can manage multiple projects simultaneously and possess thorough knowledge of current computer applications to include MS Office Suite. 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 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, housekeeping, 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.