Job Opportunities

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 2/2/2023

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.

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 2/2/2023

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. Works in a variety of locations throughout the park, including but not limited to: Carousel, Waterfall Junction, Climbing Wall, and Giraffe Feeding. Routinely performs inspections and engages with guests to provide a safe and fun experience. Handles cashless Point of Sale transactions. Communicates with the public about Riverbanks’ exhibits, attractions, services, and policies. Reports to the Attractions Manager.

Education and Experience: High School diploma and 6 months of guest service work experience are preferred. Valid driver’s license preferred. Must be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Must demonstrate good decision-making skills and the ability to work well both with a team and individually. Must be able to lift 25 lbs., work outdoors in all weather conditions, and must be able to stand for extended periods of time.

Full-time
Salary: $39,000-45,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 1/26/2023

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

Responsibilities: Given objectives set by the Director of Human Resources, provides professional level support to the Human Resources Department in the following areas: recruitment and staffing, onboarding, employee relations, payroll and benefits administration, policy implementation, and coordination of special event volunteers.

Essential Functions: 

• Supports the needs of Riverbanks’ recruitment strategy by evaluating applications, conducts interviews, maintains applicants’ documentation, administers criminal and credit background checks.
• Reviews HR paperwork, policies, and procedures with new hires at orientation.
• Prepares and maintains the employee handbook, ensuring all payroll/government forms are current.
• Assists with updating HR information via electronic system records, hardcopy personnel files, and pay grades.
• Completes and ensures compliances with USCIS form I-9 Employment Verification.
• Responsible for input of data in payroll system to include new hires, terminations, pay rate changes, etc.
• Reports all workers compensation claims, follows up on open cases, and maintains case files
• Coordinates HR employee and volunteer events.
• Performs administrative duties to include ordering office supplies and tracking inventory, inputting POs for invoices, etc.
• Reports to the Director of Human Resources.

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, communications, or a related field. Understanding of Labor Law and employment equity regulations with a minimum of three to five years of administrative experience, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. 

The ideal candidate will have excellent written and verbal communication skills and a very high standard for service. They would also enjoy working within a collaborative environment and be a team player who wishes to engage with others at varying levels of seniority. Must be able to handle multiple projects at one time and demonstrate confidentiality, attention to detail, prompt follow-through and accurate data entry skills. Possessing a thorough knowledge of current computer applications to include MS Office Suite would be optimal in this position. 

Part-time
Salary: $11.00/hr
Posted: 1/19/2023

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 shuttle service. Works within a team to greet guests waiting in line, load and unload passengers, and operate a multi-trailer tram to provide efficient, fun and safe transport to and from the garden side of the zoo. Routinely performs and practices tasks such as inspections 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 Manager.

Education and Experience: At least 18 years of age with a HS diploma and demonstration of responsible job experience. Willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Demonstrate good decision-making and the ability to work well with a team and individually. Ability 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 a valid SC driver’s license.  

Part-time (1st shift (8:30am – 5:30pm))
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/19/2023

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 (East and West Campus), 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, monitoring activity at splash pads and water features etc. Prepares and maintains required reports.  Controls keys and locks for all Riverbanks facilities and property. Must also be available to work evening and special events as needed. Reports to the Public Safety Supervisor 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.

Full-time
Salary: $16.00/hr
Posted: 1/17/2023

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, snorkel lift, trencher, etc. as required to complete assignments. Also, may participate in renovation or construction projects. Must be available to work occasional evenings when needed for special projects or zoo events. Must be available to work on weekends. Must be available for on-call duty after hours.

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 or tradesmen; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.  Must possess or be eligible for a valid S.C. driver's license.

Temporary (May 30 - August 11, 2023, Monday - Friday, 7:45am - 4:30pm, shifts may vary)
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/5/2023

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 5 and 12 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.  

Temporary (May 31 - August 11, 2023, Monday - Friday, 7:45am - 5:30pm, shifts may vary)
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/5/2023

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 16-20 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.

Full-time
Salary: $75,000-$82,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 12/8/2022

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

Responsibilities: Given broad objectives set by the Chief Operating Officer, is responsible for the overall management and administration of all activities related to animal care and animal welfare, animal division staff and animal holding facilities. Is responsible for the development, and periodic review and revision of the Animal Collection Plan and Animal Division policies and procedures. 

Directly manages the following divisions:

• Mammal, Bird, Reptile, Amphibian, Fish, and Invertebrate collections, and
• Commissary Department, Dive Program, Animal Division Registrar and Animal Division Swing Keepers. 

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, this position is expected to engage with all Riverbanks team members in a collaborative manner and contribute to various organization-wide initiatives. 

Essential Functions: 

• Oversees all personnel management activities for the Animal Care Teams such as implementation of policies and procedures, payroll and schedules for all direct reports, and productively engages in conflict resolution processes.
• Ensures compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations that pertain to animal care and welfare. Knowledgeable on obtaining and maintaining necessary permits, licenses, and records for Riverbanks’ animal ambassadors. 
• Acts as liaison with other Zoos, Universities, Scientific, and Governmental Institutions to remain current with zoological, natural history, and conservation information.
• Represents Riverbanks’ Animal Division in the development of a master plan that meets the mission of the zoo in accordance with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) standards.
• Makes recommendations and negotiates acquisitions and dispositions of zoo animals consistent with the AZA’s Policy on Responsible Population Management. 
• Development and review of all AZA documents for accreditation. 
• Is responsible for developing, maintaining, and managing annual animal care budgets. 
• Assists the Marketing team with responding to specific inquiries from the public in regard to animal care and welfare. 
• Works closely with the Director of Animal Health to support the comprehensive animal management program.
• Is an active member of Emergency Response Teams. 

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree in one of the biological sciences with a minimum of three to five years’ experience at the departmental curatorial level; or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. 

The ideal candidate has an advanced degree in the biological sciences with three to five years direct experience as a general curator and will have experience working in an AZA accredited institution. They will be able to work independently without close oversight, but also be a team player who productively engages with others at varying levels within the organization. They will also be equipped with strong communication and supervisory skills.  Being able to work a flexible schedule and adjust working hours to meet special deadlines and projects is required in this role. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Part-time (Shift Availability: 7:30am-4:00pm, 2:00pm-8:00pm)
Salary: $10.50/hr
Posted: 12/1/2022

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 and weekend availability preferred. Must possess a valid S.C. driver's license.