Job Opportunities

Full-time
Salary: $80,000-$90,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 2/27/2025

Application Deadline: March 2nd, 2025

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

Responsibilities: Given objectives set by the Director of Animal Health, is responsible for diagnosing and treating illness and injuries and administering preventive medicine programs for Riverbanks Zoo & Garden’s animal collection and birds presented to the Truist Raptor Center. Exercises skill and responsibility in anesthesia, surgery, quarantine protocols, radiology, nutrition, parasite management, and necropsy. 

• Manages medical records using Zoological Information Management Software.
• Communicates with animal care staff to ensure optimal health care for the collection and works with them to monitor and treat animal diseases.
• Works with the animal care staff to develop necessary modifications in animal habitat, diet, training, and enrichment. 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.
• Contributes to various organization-wide initiatives and projects. Participates in dangerous animal escape procedures and drills.
• Participates in relevant AZA conservation and science committees/activities. Some travel required to attend meetings, professional development opportunities or conferences.

Education and Experience: Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from an accredited university, with a minimum of one year of post-graduate training required. At least one year of veterinary experience within a zoological institution preferred; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Residency training preferred.

The ideal candidate will be able to work independently without close oversight, but also be a team player who will productively engage with others at varying levels of seniority. Strong communication, interpersonal, and supervisory skills are required in this role. Must maintain a flexible schedule for weekend, holiday, and after-hours assignments. Must be dedicated to excellence with a strong desire to promote and provide top quality animal care in a zoological setting. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC State Veterinary license and SC driver’s license.

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 (Saturday-Sunday: 12:00am - 8:30am)
Salary: $15.00/hr
Posted: 1/23/2025

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 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 (Saturday-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.

Temporary (May 27 - August 1, 2025 (Monday - Friday, 7:45am - 4:30pm, shifts may vary))
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: 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 16-20 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 27 - August 1, 2025 (Monday - Friday, 7:45am - 5:30pm, shifts may vary))
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: 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.

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.