Job Opportunities

Full-time
Salary: $15.13/hr
Posted: 6/8/2023

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the proper care of mammals in Riverbanks’ animal collection. Works primarily with gorillas, various small primates, small felids, kangaroos, wallabies, and other small mammals. Feeds animals, cleans and maintains exhibits, works with veterinary staff to monitor, and treat diseases, monitors animal behavior, and provides enrichment and training. Maintains detailed behavioral, reproductive, and medical records and reports. Interacts with Riverbanks guests and cooperates within a team to provide top quality animal care.

Education and Experience: Associate degree, Bachelors preferred, in biology, zoology or wildlife management and one to two years experience working with zoo/exotic animals in a professional setting, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Experience working directly with gorillas and other primates preferred. Must possess or qualify for a valid SC driver's license.

Full-time
Salary: $16.00/hr
Posted: 6/8/2023

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.

Part-time (Monday – Friday, Morning Availability, 20-25 hours per week)
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 6/8/2023

Position begins in August

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

Responsibilities:  This position will be a teacher in Riverbanks Nature Preschool that runs from late September through May in one of our outdoor classrooms. The instructor will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact conservation. The instructor is responsible for:

• Working with the Nature Preschool team to create child emergent curriculum and engaging lessons for all the preschool participants.
• Classroom prep and clean-up for each preschool day.
• Inclusive educational programs that encourage the meaningful participation of all learners.
• Communication of challenges and opportunities identified in programming.
• Working constructively within a team to deliver the highest quality educational experiences.
• Must be willing to work outdoors in all types of weather.

Education and Experience: High School diploma required. Bachelor’s degree in an education or science related field preferred; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge and abilities. Experience delivering formal/informal education. Must demonstrate excellent communication skills (written and verbal).

The ideal candidate will possess knowledge and interest in nature and science. Must demonstrate enthusiasm working with diverse learners and early childhood education.  Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Full-time
Salary: $14.14/hr
Posted: 6/8/2023

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

Responsibilities: Given objectives set by the VP of Mission Engagement, is directly responsible for the delivery of on and off-site education programs offered by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. As a direct report to the Conservation Engagement Manager, the Conservation Engagement Specialist will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact conservation. 

The Conservation Engagement Specialist is responsible for:

• Displaying excellent customer service to park guests
• On and off-site program delivery to audiences of many ages
• Lesson plan and program revisions as needed
• Inclusive educational programs that encourage the meaningful participation of all learners
• Communication of challenges and opportunities identified in programming
• Recruiting, supervising, training, mentoring, and assessing a diverse group of Riverbanks Education Volunteers
• Developing and maintaining productive, positive relationships with Riverbanks staff, volunteers, and interns
• Program leadership in areas outlined by Conservation Engagement Manager
• Animal welfare monitoring throughout programming
• Other projects and duties as set forth by the Conservation Engagement Manager

Education and Experience: High School diploma required. Bachelor’s degree in an education or science related field preferred; or any equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. Minimum of 1 year experience delivering formal/informal education and/or experience in volunteer management. Must demonstrate excellent communication skills (written and verbal).

The ideal candidate will possess knowledge and interest in nature and science. Must demonstrate enthusiasm working with diverse learners and volunteers of all ages and backgrounds. Must have prior experience working with animal ambassadors. Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Part-time (Weekend Availability Preferred)
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 6/8/2023

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: $15.13/hr
Posted: 6/8/2023

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the proper care of Riverbanks animals in area of assignment. Primary focus will be on the animals in quarantine or under medical care at the Hospital.  Additional time will be spent working with the Mammal, Bird, and Reptile teams to build and maintain taxa expertise for managing the animals in the hospital. Conducts husbandry duties, according to departmental guidelines, including feeding animals, cleaning, and maintaining exhibits. Monitors animal health and behavior and uses proper enrichment and animal training principles. Maintains detailed behavioral, reproductive, and medical records. Takes proper measures to ensure the security of animal enclosures. Assists with upkeep of the hospital and will participate in medical procedures where appropriate. May be involved in various AZA, conservation, and other professional activities. Works cooperatively with other departments including maintenance, horticulture, education, and events. Performs other duties as assigned. Reports to Director of Animal Care and Welfare and Director of Animal Health.

Education and Experience: Associates degree in Biology, Zoology or Wildlife Management; Bachelor’s degree preferred, and one to two years of experience working with zoo/exotic animals in a professional setting, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. Must be able to work with a variety of co-workers and Animal Supervisors on a rotating basis. Must be flexible and dependable. Must be able to lift/move up to 50 pounds and work off a ladder, as needed.  Must possess or qualify for a valid S.C. driver’s license.

Part-time (Monday - Friday 3:30-7:00pm, Saturday/Sunday 8:00am-10:00am & 3:30pm-7:00pm)
Salary: $11.00/hr
Posted: 6/1/2023

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

Responsibilities: Under direct supervision of accountant, performs money collecting, counting, verifying, and auditing duties.  Collects receipts from various revenue generating operations throughout the zoo.  Counts and verifies receipts, reconciles receipts to control ledger.  Stocks and maintains cash machine, to include troubleshooting issues with machine as needed. Completes daily cash reconciliation reports and scans daily deposits. Counts, verifies, and audits receipts and daily reports received from ticket booths. Interacts and communicates with various individuals within the guest services and attractions departments and works closely with the finance department. 

Education and Experience: High school graduate with vocational/technical training in an accounting or finance preferred. Two to four months of experience as a bookkeeper, cashier, or bank teller preferred; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.  Must be available to work nights and weekends. 

The normal hours are Monday – Friday 3:30 pm – 7:00 pm and Saturday/Sunday 8:00 am – 10:00 am and 3:30 pm – 7:00 pm

Full-time (Wednesday-Sunday, 12:00am-8:30am)
Salary: $15.00/hr
Posted: 5/25/2023

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 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 (Wednesday – Sunday: 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 of service. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Full-time
Salary: $58,000/yr
Posted: 5/25/2023

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

Responsibilities: 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. The Aquarium Curator directs and oversees the activities of the Aquarium Department to ensure and promote effective and efficient care and welfare of the department’s animal collection. 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. As a member of Riverbanks’ leadership team, it is necessary to promote and maintain a positive working environment while effectively interacting and communicating with staff, employees, volunteers, and various external groups.

Essential Functions:

• Oversees and ensures the proper care and welfare of the department's animal collection to include the preparation and administration of diets, medical care, water quality and the design, development, and maintenance of animal exhibits, building equipment and mechanical systems.
• Coordinates daily activities of the department through effective communication with the Director of Animal Care, Dive Safety Officer, Aquarium Supervisor, Aquarists, and Volunteers.
• Maintains complete and accurate animal records in the ZIMS database.
• Initiates and oversees viable managed breeding, husbandry, and conservation programs for species in the department's collection, in collaboration with relevant Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), Conservation and Science (C&S) committees, and other partners like SCDNR and FWC.      
• Communicates with the Veterinarians to ensure optimal healthcare for the animal collection and assists with medical procedures and examinations, as necessary. 
• Responsible for the acquisition and disposition of specimens and planning and implementing various projects.
• Supervises department personnel, hires, and trains staff, responsible for scheduling, payroll/time keeping, and performance management.
• Develops a continuous improvement plan for the department as well as each staff member, focusing on enhancing team skill set and productivity. Ensures that keepers are given ample feedback and are rewarded for success and understanding areas of needed improvement.
• Interacts with guests and provides informal and programmed educational information, related to Zoo programs, husbandry, animal conservation, etc. Conducts tours and assists with public, media and interviews as requested.
• Writes both popular articles and peer-review technical articles for appropriate professional and popular publications.  
• Leadership role(s) in AZA conservation and science committees/activities is encouraged. 
• Analyzes and prepares a variety of reports/forms, billing invoices, and general correspondence. Manages all departmental purchases and the department budget, and compiles budget data.
• Participate and oversee dive participation from the husbandry team in routine operations of several aquarium systems.
• Reports to the Director of Animal Care.

Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree in biology, zoology, marine biology or science with a minimum of five years of experience working with exotic animal husbandry at an accredited AZA institution or related facility. Understanding of water quality, aquatic life support systems, and exhibit maintenance. Minimum of 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 aquatic collections in a professional setting. SCUBA certification preferred.  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.

Full-time
Salary: $38,000-42,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 5/11/2023

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, is responsible for assisting the Director of Animal Health and Staff Veterinarian and providing support in the evaluation and treatment of animals. Performs diagnostic tests and radiographs of animals, monitors patients, maintains records and hospital cleanliness. Assists with surgical procedures and provides daily care for ICU and neonatal patients. Provides care to wild native birds of prey received through the Truist Raptor Clinic, as well as injured wildlife found on zoo grounds. Conducts all in-house laboratory analysis and proper sample handling and processing. As directed, fills prescriptions, administers treatments and interfaces with keepers on proper administration. Maintains pharmacy and clinical supply inventory.

Education and Experience: Associate's or Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Technology and one to two years of experience in animal care required; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must be licensed in the state of South Carolina within one year of start.

The ideal candidate will be dedicated to excellence with a strong desire to promote and provide top quality animal care in a zoological setting. 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 able to work a flexible schedule, which will include weekends and/or evenings and holidays. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license.

Part-time (Shift Availability: 8:00am-2:00pm, 2:00pm-8:00pm)
Salary: $10.50/hr
Posted: 4/20/2023

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.

Part-time (Shift Availability: 11:30am-8:00pm, 2:00pm-8:00pm)
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 2/9/2023

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.