Job Opportunities

Part-time (Availability Monday – Friday mornings (20-25 hours per week))
Salary: $12.62/hr
Posted: 3/6/2025

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

             
Responsibilities: This position will be an instructor in Riverbanks Nature Preschool that runs from September through May, with the possibility of 2 additional summer months, in one of our outdoor classrooms. The instructor will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact wildlife and wild places. The instructor is responsible for: 

• Cooperatively creating child-emergent curriculum and engaging lessons for preschool participants, using nature as the catalyst and reflecting the changing environment through the seasons.
• Designing weekly preschool learning themes and activities that encourage fine and gross motor skills as well as academic success.
• Helping with academic assessments on each child to ensure we are providing the activities needed to foster growth in various developmental areas.
• Assessing behavioral needs and finding innovative ways to address those needs to ensure a safe and effective learning environment.
• Daily parent communications and interactions.
• Basic first aid response is required. CPR and First Aid training will be provided.
• Selection and preparation of a healthy, balanced snack each day.
• 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 for working with diverse learners and early childhood education.  Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Part-time
Salary: $14.00/hr
Posted: 2/28/2025

Available Shifts: 7:00am–2:00pm, 2:00pm–8:00pm

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

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 three to six months of experience in grounds maintenance, housekeeping, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. The ideal candidate will enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions and be able to stand for long periods of time. Maintains a flexible schedule and weekend availability preferred. Must possess a valid S.C. driver’s license.

Full-time
Salary: $14.09/hr
Posted: 2/28/2025

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the timely preparation and delivery of animal diets and feeds according to precise instructions and fixed schedules. Proficiently uses knives and other kitchen equipment to produce animal diets with correct weights, measures, and ingredient sizes. Handles produce, meat, fish, and a variety of other animal food items.  Ensures acceptable condition of items and rotates stock.  Utilizes proper cleaning techniques using approved dishwashing equipment and techniques.  Unloads feed deliveries, delivers completed diets to animal areas in vehicles/on foot, maintains a clean and sanitary work environment.  Provides assistance and information to co-workers and keeper staff. Reports to the Commissary Manager. 

Education and Experience: High School graduate who is at least 18 years old and possesses a valid driver’s license.  Previous kitchen/food prep experience is a plus.  Requires standing for long periods of time performing repetitive food chopping and ingredient weighing.  Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, must be willing to learn and follow instructions.  Must be a team player who can manage a large workload in a fast-paced, detail-oriented, deadline-driven work environment.  Must be able to employ basic math skills on a regular basis. Must be dependable, punctual, organized, and conscientious. Five-day work week: 7:00 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. Work schedule will include weekends, holidays, and inclement weather days.

Full-time
Salary: $17.25/hr
Posted: 2/13/2025

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

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, 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: $24.00-$28.00/hr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 2/13/2025

We are looking for four dedicated team members for this position.

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

Responsibilities: Under the direction of the Gondola Maintenance Manager, the Gondola Maintenance Technician will perform inspections, maintenance, and repair of Riverbanks’ Gondola System (Saluda Skyride), including fixed and detachable carriages, conveyors and their related systems. 

Essential Functions:

• Performs lift start-up and shut down procedures on Saluda Skyride.
• Performs regular maintenance checks, troubleshoots technical issues, and repairs malfunctions which may include low voltage electrical systems, mechanical, and hydraulic systems.
• Completes proper documentation and records as required. 
• Applies information from manufacturer’s manuals and blueprints for service, repairs and replacement component (mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic).  
• Participates in all maintenance needs and respond to calls from Saluda Skyride Operations Staff. 

Education and Experience: The ideal candidate will be a high school graduate with vocational/technical training in a related field. Comfort with performing duties 10-60+ feet from the ground will be critical in this role. Several years of experience in machinery maintenance/repair or a related field with transferable skills is preferred. Candidates with a solutions-oriented mindset will stand out in the applicant pool. Individuals applying must possess or qualify for a valid S.C. driver's license.

Full-time
Salary: $21.66/hr
Posted: 2/1/2025

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision of the Curator of Mammals, is responsible for supervising husbandry, enrichment, guest engagement, and animal training for animals in Riverbanks’ Hoofstock/Rhino/Pinniped Team’s care. Works primarily with Southern White Rhinos, Sea Lions, Seals, Giraffe, Babirusa and other animals as designated.

Essential Functions:

• Supervises and leads the work of the area Keepers (6) and monitors their performance.
• Trains staff, interns, and volunteers in appropriate handling and transport of collection, and ensuring animal care and welfare are always maintained at the highest standards.
• Monitors and reports animal behavior. Plans, supervises, and participates in animal training/operant conditioning, transport, and medical procedures.
• In collaboration with Education departments, conducts presentations during Riverbanks’ Backstage Tours. Interacts directly with guests during informal and formal programs, providing engaging and accurate educational information.
• Delivers a preventative hoof care and maintenance program.
• Maintains regular communication across all departments.
• Designs, maintains, and repairs animal enclosures; maintains aesthetically pleasing enclosures.
• Works with veterinary staff to monitor and treat animal health concerns.

Education and Experience: Associate degree in Biology, Zoology or Wildlife Management; Bachelor’s Degree preferred, and three to five years of experience working directly with both exotic and domestic animals in a zoological setting 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 animal training programs and presenting animal programs for public audiences required. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license. 

Full-time
Salary: $62,000-$68,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 1/30/2025

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

Responsibilities: We are looking for a skilled and dedicated Gondola Maintenance Manager to join our team and oversee the maintenance program for the Riverbanks' Gondola System (Saluda Skyride). This position plays a key role in ensuring the safe, efficient, and effective operation of Saluda Skyride to include maintaining and repairing carriages, conveyors, and related systems. This role reports to our Director of Facilities and Maintenance. 

Essential Functions:

• Responsible for performing start-up procedures for Saluda Skyride ensuring all preoperational inspections are completed before the arrival of daily operating team members.
• Develop and implement preventative maintenance and quality assurance programs that meet or exceed ANSI-B77 standards, manufacturer specifications, insurance requirements, and company guidelines.
• Offers guidance in the maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and other systems related to gondola maintenance.
• Maintains accurate records for all inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance tasks, following ANSI Code standards.
• Collaborates on site specific projects and assists with inspections, procedures, and checklists.
• Supports troubleshooting efforts to ensure the safe operation of Saluda Skyride and its systems.
• Be responsive to maintenance needs and collaborate with daily operating team members.
• Assist the Director of Facilities Maintenance with hiring, scheduling, and reviewing lift maintenance staff.

Education and Experience: We are looking for someone with a strong understanding of low voltage electrical systems and complex mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. Comfort with performing duties 10-60+ feet from the ground will be critical in this role. The ideal candidate will bring several years of experience in Gondola/Aerial Tramway Maintenance or a related field with transferable skills. A degree in a related field (Associate’s or Bachelor’s) is preferred. Candidates who can maintain a positive attitude consistently, including when under pressure, and tackle challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset will stand out in the applicant pool. Individuals applying must possess or qualify for a valid S.C. driver's license.

Part-time
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/16/2025

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision, maintains security of Riverbanks east and west campus, picnic areas, and parking lots. Patrols and monitors gate entrances and exits. Assists with operation of Waterfall Junction, 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, etc. Prepares and maintains required reports.  Controls keys and locks for all Riverbanks facilities and property. Must also be available to work evenings and special events as needed. Reports to 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.  The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, strong customer service skills, and effective communication. Must possess or be eligible for a valid South Carolina driver's license. 

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 1/16/2025

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

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, 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: Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid SC driver’s license. Prior guest service work experience 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.

Part-time (Weekday Availability Preferred)
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/2/2025

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

Responsibilities:  Given objectives set by the VP of Mission Engagement, will deliver on and off-site education programs and public engagement offered by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. As a direct report to the Zoo Education Manager, the Instructor will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact conservation. 

Essential Functions:

• On and off-site program delivery to school and non-school audiences of various ages.
• 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.
• Assist with other program delivery for the education team as needed.
• Willingness to handle a variety of animal ambassadors and monitor animal welfare during programming.

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. Previous experience delivering formal/informal education preferred. 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. Must be available to work weekdays. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.