Job Opportunities

Full-time
Salary: $45,000/yr
Posted: 1/29/2026

We are currently seeking a Public Safety Manager to ensure the security of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden while demonstrating the highest level of guest service, maintaining strong relationships with all Riverbanks team members and guests. This role provides leadership and supervision to the Public Safety Department and ensures compliance with all safety policies and procedures. Reports to the Director of Safety and Security.

Essential Functions:

• Manages a team of Public Safety Officers who act as customer service ambassadors to Riverbanks Guests and staff.
• Provides security and operational support to Riverbanks 24 hours a day.
• Coordinates and plans departmental schedules, meetings, payroll, special event staffing, and parking concepts for guests and staff.
• Demonstrates excellent communication skills with staff and guests.
• Conducts various safety drills and trains staff on different safety issues.
• Works closely with other managers and department heads for both public safety needs and safety concerns.
• Responsible for general and emergency first aid response including supply orders for First Aid locations.
• Provides guidance, training, and day-to-day supervision of Public Safety staff through written policies, procedures, and direct instructions.  
• Acts as a role model for all Public Safety Team members.    
• Available to work after-hours events and cover all Public Safety positions, including second and third shifts as occasionally needed. 

Education and Experience: Associate degree with a minimum of two years supervisory experience; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. The ideal candidate will have solid personnel management skills, be a team player, demonstrate excellent organizational skills, think critically and quickly, and have excellent written and verbal communication skills. Experience in security or public safety a plus. Must possess or be eligible for a valid South Carolina driver's license.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about guest services, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Part-time (Availability Weekday Mornings (2 to 3 days per week/10 to 15 hours per week))
Salary: $14.00/hr
Posted: 1/29/2026

We are currently seeking a Nature Preschool Instructor that has a passion for education and nature. Riverbanks’ Nature Preschool runs from August through May. The instructor will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact wildlife and wild places. 

Essential Functions:

• This position serves as a support role to our lead teachers, floating between the two classes to assist with activities and subbing in for teachers that are absent. While an integral part of the team, this position will work with both sets of teachers to support their curriculum and lesson plans.
• 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.
• Assessing behavioral needs and finding innovative ways to address those needs to ensure a safe and effective learning environment.
• 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.
• May assist with Camp and Engagement Teams during summer months.
• 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.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about education, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Seasonal (Start Date: March 1st, 2026 - End Date: May 31st, 2026)
Salary: $13.00/hr
Posted: 1/22/2026

Given objectives set by the VP of Mission Engagement, the Senior Conservation Engagement Instructor supports the Conservation Engagement Manager and Specialists by modeling best practices, mentoring instructional staff, and supporting daily operations. The Senior Conservation Engagement Instructor helps ensure that all programs create connections that inspire actions to impact wildlife and wild places. 

Essential Functions:

• Delivering education programs and public engagement experience to diverse audiences.
• Mentoring and supporting conservation engagement instructors through peer coaching and modeling best practices.
• Assisting with onboarding new conservation engagement instructors and supporting the delivery of staff training sessions.
• Supporting daily operations including program setup, material preparation, and inventory tracking.,
• Providing constructive feedback to instructors and reporting staff highlights or concerns to Specialists or the Manager.
• Collaborating with Specialists to refine and pilot new programs or interpretive techniques.
• Maintaining open communication with the Manager and Specialists to identify challenges, opportunities, or staff needs.
• Participating in the delivery of specialty programs (e.g., backstage tours, animal ambassador experiences, one-off tours).
• Supporting evaluation efforts by collecting participation data and guest feedback.
• Upholding all safety protocols, animal welfare guidelines, and Riverbanks’ professional standards.
• Other projects and duties as set forth by the Conservation Engagement Manager.

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

Bring enthusiasm and knowledge of nature, science, and conservation, and demonstrate reliability, initiative, and a willingness to support and coach peers. They thrive in collaborative team environment with diverse learners and staff, and are available to work weekends, weekdays, and occasional after-hours. Candidates must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver’s license. 

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about connecting people to nature, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Part-time (Evening Availability Preferred)
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 1/22/2026

We are currently seeking dependable and enthusiastic Sky-High Safari Ropes Course Attendants to join our team for our evening event season! In this thrilling role, you'll guide and support guests as they challenge themselves on the Sky-High Safari and Tiny Trailblazers Adventure ropes courses—encouraging confidence, adventure, and fun every step of the way. You may also have the opportunity to train at and assist with other attractions as needed. This position reports directly to the Attractions Manager.

Essential Functions: 

• Guest Experience: Clearly and confidently communicate with guests while guiding them through the ropes course experience. Maintain a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
• Safety: Perform daily inspections of equipment and course structures. Appropriately determine participation eligibility based on safety requirements and ensure all guests are adhering to guidelines throughout their experience. Routinely practice emergency procedures as required by Ropes Courses, Inc.
• Professional Appearance: Wear the assigned uniform and nametag with pride. Promote an approachable environment to support our award-winning guest experience. Maintain cleanliness around attraction areas, ensuring they are always free of clutter, hazards, and debris.

Education and Experience: Strong communication and good decision-making skills. Ability to remain calm and confident while assisting participants of all ages collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. This position will have duties standing for extended periods of time, lifting 25 lbs., and heights over 30 feet in all outdoor weather conditions. The ideal candidate will have previous customer service and challenge course experience with flexible availability, including weekends, holidays, and evenings. Must be at least 18 years old.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're ready to take adventure to new heights, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 1/22/2026

We are seeking an enthusiastic and dependable Attractions Attendant to join our dynamic team! In this exciting role, you'll help bring smiles to guests of all ages by safely operating and facilitating some of our most beloved attractions — including the Endangered Species Carousel, Giraffe Feeding, Lorikeet Feeding, Farmyard Experience, and the Riverbanks Express Train. You also will have the opportunity to train and assist at our latest attraction, Tiny Trailblazers Adventure ropes course. The position is under the direct supervision of the Attractions Manager.

Essential Functions:

• Guest Experience: Ensure a positive, safe, and enjoyable experience for guests of all ages and abilities. Clearly communicate guidelines, proactively manage crowds, and maintain efficient queue lines to create a positive, welcoming atmosphere at all attractions.
• Safety: Conduct daily inspections on attractions. Monitor and enforce safety protocols, ensuring that all guests are adhering to requirements. Stay alert and responsive in fast-paced settings while maintaining focus on guest and team safety.
• Professional Appearance: Wear the assigned uniform and nametag with pride. Promote an approachable environment to support our award-winning guest experience. Maintain cleanliness around attraction areas, ensuring they are always free of clutter, hazards, and debris.

Education and Experience: Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to remain calm and confident while managing large groups both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. This position will have duties standing for extended periods of time and in all outdoor weather conditions. The ideal candidate will have previous customer service and point-of-sale experience with flexible availability, including weekends, holidays, and evenings. Valid driver’s license required.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about guest services, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Part-time
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/15/2026

We are seeking dependable and friendly Public Safety Officers to join our team! In this dynamic position, you will maintain the security and safety of Riverbanks’ east and west campuses, picnic areas, parking lots, and staff facilities. This position works closely with the Public Safety Supervisor and Seniors and reports directly to the Public Safety Manager.

Essential Functions:

• 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.

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. 

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about guest services, are eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you! 

Full-time
Salary: $19.00/hr
Posted: 1/15/2026

We are currently seeking a Maintenance Technician that is responsible for general repair and maintenance of a variety of structures, equipment, vehicles, and facilities at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. This position works closely with the Senior Maintenance Technicians and reports to the Facilities & Maintenance Manager.

Essential Functions:

• Duties will vary daily and can include assignments such as general repair, preventative maintenance, painting, 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. 
• May participate in renovation or construction projects. 
• Available to work occasional evenings when needed for special projects or zoo events. 
• Available to work on weekends. 
• 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.

The ideal candidate will have experience in facility maintenance including general painting skills. They will be dependable and thrive in a team-oriented environment while also being able to complete tasks independently and efficiently. This position will work in all weather conditions and lift up to 50 lbs.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about maintenance, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Temporary (May 18–21, May 26-July 31, 2026 (Monday - Friday, 7:45am - 4:30pm, shifts may vary))
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/8/2026

We are currently seeking Summer Camp Counselors who leads our summer camp educational programs! Curriculum topics include, but are not limited to: zoology, botany, ecology, conservation, behavioral science, and other natural & physical sciences.

Essential Functions:

• 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.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about connecting people to nature, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.

Temporary (May 26 - July 31, 2026 (Monday - Friday, 7:45am - 5:30pm, shifts may vary))
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 1/8/2026

We are currently seeking a Substitute/PM Extended Stay Counselor who 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. 

Essential Functions:

• 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. 

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.

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who wants to grow with us, be challenged, and take pride in the work they do. If you're passionate about connecting people to nature, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming part of a team that values creating connections and inspiring action to positively impact wildlife and wild places, we’d love to hear from you.