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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 July 12, 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.

Guest Engagement Ambassador - “BRAND KEEPER”

Part-time (Schedule varies, availability Monday – Sunday, weekend work required)
Grade 5
Salary: $10.45/hr
Posted: 7/12/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Delivers highly engaging and empowering interpretive programs to guests. Maintain a high level of enthusiasm while interacting with individuals and large audiences. Help to maintain a positive work environment and to work cooperatively and collaboratively in a team. Maintain a professional demeanor within the workplace. Provide outstanding customer service to guests, volunteers and staff. Reports to the Guest Engagement Supervisor.
  • Facilitate daily Wildlife Up-Close encounters for guests by handling and interpreting animal ambassadors.
  • Lead scripted interpretive programs during daily feedings and training sessions over microphone to large audiences.  

Education and Experience: High school diploma and presentation experience required, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. A strong base knowledge of science is preferred as it relates to animals and plants. Must be comfortable handling animals including but not limited to small mammals, reptiles and birds, as well as animal artifacts. Must demonstrate enthusiasm and a commitment to high quality programming and care for our guests. Must be able to work outdoors in all weather conditions, and be able to walk long distances repetitively.

Donor Engagement Specialist

Full-time
Grade 12
Salary: $34,000 (starting salary)/yr
Posted: 7/12/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.  

Responsibilities: Given objectives set by the Director of Society, assists with developing and implementing fundraising strategies. Consistently articulates Riverbanks’ values and goals with professionalism and enthusiasm in order to advance the mission and strategic vision of the zoo and garden.
  • Serves as the primary liaison and contact for Riverbanks’ upper level members, corporate donors, sponsors, and partners.
  • Proactively builds and strengthens relationships across the community to cultivate prospective members and donors.
  • Assists with funding requests and sponsorship solicitations.
  • Researches and evaluates giving programs, makes recommendations and implements new programs that support Riverbanks’ mission and fundraising goals.
  • Coordinates programs that engage partners, upper level members and donors (including planned giving, mobile giving, crowdfunding, monthly giving, etc.)
  • Creates and implements an innovative and comprehensive fundraising plan to expand the support of Riverbanks.
  • Maintains donor and partner agreements, acknowledges incoming partnerships and ensures fulfillment of benefits.
  • Responsible for scheduling and organizing donor events, in collaboration with Riverbanks’ Events Team and Service System Associates (food & retail vendor).
  • Cooperates with other zoo and garden departments to facilitate event success.
  • Effectively interacts and communicates with Riverbanks staff, volunteers, and various external groups. Maintains a positive working environment.
  • Contributes to various organization-wide initiatives and projects.
  • Utilizes donor database to run donor lists, track history and run reports.
  • Prepares and analyzes a variety of reports/forms, donor proposals, and general correspondence. 

Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree with a minimum of one to two years experience in non-profit development/fundraising required; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Previous experience using Raisers Edge and/or Centaman is a plus.

The ideal candidate must show initiative and be able to work independently and efficiently under deadlines, on a variety of tasks and priorities. They will also enjoy working within a collaborative environment and be a team player who will productively engage with others at varying levels of seniority. Must be able to handle multiple projects simultaneously and demonstrate confidentiality, attention to detail, prompt follow-through and accurate data entry skills. Outstanding organization, interpersonal, and communication (written and verbal) skills are required in this role. Must be proficient with current computer applications to include MS Office Suite. Must be flexible for occasional weekend, holiday and after-hours assignments. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Director of Maintenance

Full-time
Grade 16
Salary: $61,000 - $70,000 (hiring range commensurate with experience)/yr
Posted: 7/12/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Is responsible for the direction and management of the department maintenance technicians, and the courier/warehouse clerk, as well as the Life Support System/Dive department. Directs the daily operations of maintenance services and develops methods for improving departmental operations. Accomplishes this by mentoring, managing, and providing inspired, forward-thinking, leadership and guidance to direct reports.
  • Supervises maintenance personnel, hires and trains staff, responsible for scheduling, payroll/time keeping, and proactive management of employee relations.
  • Plans, organizes, and forecasts the efficient completion of maintenance requests and projects required to maintain and repair facilities and equipment. Manages all work orders through an electronic work order system.
  • Evaluates maintenance problems, develops a diagnosis, and provides guidance for correction. Ensures that all work is being performed to industry standards.
  • Determines and prioritizes daily maintenance work. Adjusts staffing to accommodate maintenance coverage for all 24 hour emergency calls.
  • Responsible for developing, executing and maintaining all maintenance contracts and bid documents. Maintains all equipment records, drawings, licenses and certifications.
  • Assists in the management, planning and implementation follow up of in-house construction and renovation projects. Manages tram maintenance and all vehicle, equipment, and attraction maintenance. Coordinates work with contractors and zoo staff.
  • Responsible for communicating and coordinating exhibit/building closures for repairs and maintenance to minimize guest experience impact.
  • Operates medium to heavy equipment such as a forklift, vehicles, hand and small power tools, building systems, etc.
  • Cultivates and maintains a positive working environment. Effectively interacts and communicates with senior staff, employees, volunteers, and various groups including architects, engineers and design consultants.
  • Develops a continuous improvement plan for the department as well as each staff member, focusing on enhancing team skill set and productivity. Ensures that technicians are given ample feedback and are rewarded for success and understand areas of needed improvement.
  • Analyzes and prepares a variety of reports/forms, billing invoices, engineering drawings, and general correspondence, manages all departmental purchases and the department budget, and compiles budget data.

Education and Experience: Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field preferred, with five or more years of maintenance experience. Preferred candidates would have experience in a zoo/aquarium, theme park, resort or related industry. A minimum of three years of management/supervisory experience or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.

Must enjoy working within a collaborative environment and be a team player who will productively engage with others at varying levels of seniority. Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills and a very high standard for service. Must be able to handle multiple projects simultaneously and possess thorough knowledge of current computer applications to include MS Office Suite. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Application Deadline: 08/06/2018

Assistant Curator of Mammals

Full-time
Grade 13
Salary: $36,035 - $41,000/year (commensurate with experience)/yr
Posted: 7/12/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.  

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for planning and supervising the work of the mammal staff. Acts as a liaison between the Mammal department and other Zoo departments. Monitors and supervises animal activity while maintaining standards and making recommendations for changes and improvements as needed.
  • Oversees and arranges for the proper care and welfare of the department's animal life to include the preparation and administration of diets; medical care; and the design, development and maintenance of animal exhibits, building equipment and mechanical systems.
  • Supervises mammal staff and coordinates the daily activities and work assignments of the department.  Hires and trains staff, responsible for scheduling, payroll/time keeping, and proactive management of employee relations.
  • Coordinates the daily activities of the departments’ Operant Conditioning Coordinator, Senior Keepers, Keepers, and Volunteers. Performs duties of the keeper staff as needed.
  • Monitors animals and recommends needed modifications in animal habitat, diet, training, enrichment, development and breeding techniques.
  • Communicates with the Veterinarians to ensure optimal health care for the mammal collection and works with them to monitor and treat animal diseases.
  • Assists in maintaining studbooks and Species Survival Plans (SSPs). Maintains complete and accurate animal records, etc.
  • Develops, manages, and participates in the animal enrichment and operant conditioning programs. Maintains high standards for both programs through evaluations, record keeping, and training of staff.
  • Remains well informed of changes in policies, animal care, supply needs and equipment and ensures compliance with established policies.
  • Cultivates and maintains a positive working environment. Effectively interacts and communicates with senior staff, employees, interns, volunteers, and other zoo and garden departments.
  • Responsible for communicating and coordinating exhibit/building closures for mammal exhibits to minimize guest experience impact.
  • Interacts with guests and provides informal and programmed educational information, relative to Zoo programs, husbandry, animal conservation, etc. Conducts tours, writes articles and assists with public, media and interviews as requested.
  • Contributes to various organization-wide initiatives and projects. Serves on Riverbanks’ weapons team and participates in dangerous animal escape procedures and drills.
  • Participates in relevant Taxon Advisory Groups (TAGs) and AZA conservation and science committees/activities. Some travel required to attend meetings, professional development opportunities or conferences.
  • Analyzes and prepares a variety of records/reports/forms, billing invoices, and general correspondence. Coordinates all departmental purchases and the department budget, and compiles budget data.
  • Will be required to serve as a manager on duty (MOD) on rotational weekend and holiday schedules.
  • Reports to the Curator of Mammals.

Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree required (in one of the Biological Sciences preferred) with three to five years of experience working with exotic animal husbandry at an accredited AZA institution or related facility. Three years of management/supervisory experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.  Must have a broad range of experience managing mammal collections in a professional setting.

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. Must have excellent communication, interpersonal and managerial skills. Previous experience developing enrichment and operant conditioning programs required. Must be able to handle multiple projects simultaneously and possess knowledge of current computer applications to include MS Office Suite. Must maintain a flexible schedule for weekend, holiday, and after-hours assignments. SC Pesticide Certification is desirable. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Horticulturist (Botanical Garden) - “PLANT KEEPER”

Full-time
Grade 8
Salary: $12.62/hr
Posted: 7/2/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.  

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, performs horticultural duties for the purpose of beautifying and maintaining gardens, exhibits, plant collections, and/or public displays. Must be eager to learn about our collection and have ability to demonstrate creativity and teamwork. Works outdoors year-round in all weather conditions. Reports to the Director of the Botanical Garden.

Education and Experience: Associates degree in Horticulture, Bachelors degree preferred, with two years experience in a horticultural area; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Ability to work productively on a team and independently. Prefer experience in a public garden. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Housekeeper - “CLEAN KEEPER”

Part-time (weekend availability required)
Grade 3
Salary: $9.42/hr
Posted: 6/27/2018

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the 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.

Horticulturist (Habitat Horticulture) - “PLANT KEEPER”

Full-time
Grade 8
Salary: $12.62/hr
Posted: 6/27/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, performs horticultural duties for the purpose of beautifying and maintaining gardens, exhibits, animal habitats, plant collections, and/or public displays.  Must be eager to learn about our collection. The best candidate will demonstrate creativity and be able to work both independently and with a team on a variety of tasks and priorities. Works outdoors year-round in all weather conditions. Reports to the Director of Zoo Habitat Horticulture.

Education and Experience: Associates degree in Horticulture, bachelors degree preferred, with two years experience in a horticultural area; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities.  Prefer professional horticulture experience and/or training.  Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Groundskeeper - “CLEAN KEEPER”

Part-time (weekend availability required)
Grade 3
Salary: $9.42/hr
Posted: 6/27/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the 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.

Communications Center Representative - “BRAND KEEPER”

Part-time (20 hours per week)
Grade 5
Salary: $10.45/hr
Posted: 6/27/2018
Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation.

Responsibilities: Assists in the overall operations of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s communications center. Responsibilities include but are not limited to answering various general and member-related inquiries, directing calls, emails and messages to the appropriate departments, processing, fulfilling and tracking ticket orders, donations and other requests, and performing accurate data entry. Maintains and promotes excellence in guest relations. Works with various members of the Marketing Department to maximize efficiency of internal and external communications. Reports to the Communications Center Supervisor.

Education and Experience: High school diploma, and one to two years experience in customer service or any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Experience using Microsoft Office Suite (including but not limited to proficiencies in Excel, Word and Outlook). The best candidate will be a highly motivated, courteous and professional individual who demonstrates excellent communication skills (both oral and written) and consistently provides the highest standards in customer service. Must be able to work some weekends, evenings and holidays. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Senior Keeper - Cat/Bear

Full-time
Grade 10
Salary: $13.86/hr
Posted: 5/31/2018
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.

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 July 9, 2018)

Concessions Associate

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

Service Systems Associates at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden is now hiring outgoing, customer service oriented individuals. Position is part-time seasonal, and include day, evening, and weekend hours. 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.

Job Type: Part-time

Prep Cook

Part-time (Compensation based on experience)
Posted: 7/9/2018
Service Systems Associates, at Riverbanks Zoo is currently looking to add a skilled, experienced prep cook to join our growing team. In this position, you will assist the culinary team with a variety of tasks. Strong organizational and interpersonal communication skills are a must.  

 Requirements/Responsibilities
 ·       Manage up to 3 employees with oversee of the Restaurant Manager. 
 ·       Follow the executive chef’s prep list to plan your daily work.
 ·       Properly store and label ingredient in an organized manner.
 ·       Sanitize work areas and equipment, wash dishes, and take out trash
 ·       Measure seasonings, condiments, and ingredients for use in cooking
 ·       Uses our standard recipes for preparation and portioning of all products.
 ·       Clean and cut variety of meats, fruits and vegetables.
 ·       Place food in warming trays or refrigerated storage as appropriate.
 ·       Use manual and electric equipment for food preparation.
 ·       Perform basic cooking tasks such as stirring, straining, and parboiling food and reducing sauces.
 ·       Maintain records of quantities of foods and ingredients used.
 ·       Update supervisors when stock of food items or supplies are low.
 ·       Inform managers about broken or malfunctioning equipment.
 ·       Comply with food safety and sanitation guidelines.
 ·       Performs other related duties as assigned by manager on duty.  

 Applicants must have the following:
 ·       Must have an open availability. Riverbanks Zoo is open 7 days a week and some evening hours may be required during certain times of year.
 ·       Holidays and weekends maybe required. As a cultural attraction, these are our busiest days.
 ·       1-2 years of experience in a similar or related role is preferred 
 ·       Manual dexterity to ensure proper operation of kitchen utensils and cutting tools
 ·       Effective communication skills
 ·       Adept at performing tasks well in a fast-paced environment
 ·       Able to stand for long periods of time
 ·       Lift up to 50 pounds
 ·       Must be at least 18 years of age to apply