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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 SSA Group offer a variety of full- and part-time job opportunities at the Zoo and Garden in an exciting and dynamic work environment.

Riverbanks is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Riverbanks Zoo and Garden — Administration, Animal Care, Education, Guest Services, Grounds, Horticulture, Housekeeping, Maintenance, and Public Safety

Benefits of Employment with Riverbanks

The following vary for full-time and part-time employees:

  • State health and life insurance plans.
  • State retirement plan.
  • Sick and vacation leave.
  • 50% discount in Riverbanks restaurants.
  • 20% discount in Riverbanks gift shops.
  • Employee recognition programs.
  • Employee activities and celebrations.
  • Employee membership.
  • Free guest passes each year.

Current Job Openings with Riverbanks (last updated on January 8, 2026)

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 after submission; 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.

Summer Camp Counselor

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.

Substitute Counselor/PM Extended Stay Counselor

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.

Admissions Attendant

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 1/8/2026

We are currently seeking dependable and enthusiastic Admissions Attendants to provide an outstanding experience to Riverbanks’ guests and Society members. In this role, you’ll welcome guests at the front gates, answer guest questions at information outposts, and assist with ticket and membership sales at our ticket booths. Reports to the Admissions Supervisor and Admissions Manager

Essential Functions:

  • Works in various point of sale areas throughout the park, including ticket booths, information booths and entrance gates.
  • Handles ticket and membership purchase transactions.
  • Communicates with the public about Riverbanks memberships, exhibits, attractions, services, and policies.

Education and Experience: High school diploma and 4-6 months of work experience in customer service or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. The ideal candidate will have cashier and data entry experience with strong customer service skills. This position will work outdoors in all weather conditions and stand for long periods of time. Availability on weekends and evening special events preferred. 

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 creating a memorable guest experience, 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.

Project Manager (Construction & Planning)

Full-time
Salary: $60,000-$70,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 11/13/2025

We are currently seeking a Project Manager who will provide expert leadership in the planning, coordination, and execution of a variety of capital projects that support the continued growth and success of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Reporting to the Director of Construction and Planning, the Project Manager will work collaboratively with cross functional teams, contractors, architects, engineers, and other key partners to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with Riverbanks’ mission and strategic goals. 

The Project Manager will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of assigned projects, managing project budgets and timelines, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and maintaining clear communication with internal and external partners throughout the project lifecycle. This role plays a critical part in supporting the Zoo’s infrastructure and facility enhancements, helping create an exceptional experience for guests, staff, and animals alike. 

Essential Functions: 

  • Collaborate and assists Director of Construction and Planning in leading construction projects across all stages of creative development through production and execution.
  • Establishes and maintains strong relationships with all departments and works closely with Zoo and Garden staff. 
  • Ensure all projects are on budget, timeline, and aligned with organizational values and priorities.  
  • Manages and coordinates community contractors, consultants, other professional and technical staff to manage project planning, design and construction.  
  • Provides coordination, design and technical knowledge for diverse projects including building, utility, exhibit and site infrastructural improvements. 
  • Assists in managing project budgets and schedules.  Monitor and document expenditures, track progress and ensure adherence to approved budgets and schedules. 
  • Coordinate consultation and vendor selections processes; coordinates with Procurement Manager. Ensures all purchasing and procurement processes are followed per our guidelines.
  • Assists in overseeing production and reviews design/construction documents produced by consultations including drawings, specification and interpretive materials.  Manage, schedule and oversee internal projects through various stages and of planning and design and facilitate coordination between zoo departments. 
  • Ensure projects are in compliance with codes and policies including: AZA, OSHA, SCDHEC
  • Perform construction contract administration including preparation of orders, requests for information, and progress payments.  Monitor and evaluate design and construction progress, inspect work and ensure completion of all construction projects.
  • Evaluating challenges when they arise and providing solution-based options to address issues and keep the project moving forward.
  • Managing timelines and providing accurate or updated schedule for projects to stakeholders to ensure fluidity of daily operations. 
  • Serves as point of contact for all stakeholders when multiple teams are involved to ensure synergy. 

Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in architecture, engineering, project management or construction management is preferred with a minimum of three years of professional project management experience. Previous experience in construction of facility development within a zoo, botanical garden, museum, or other public facing institution is a plus! Any equivalent combinations of education and experience that demonstrate the necessary skills and abilities will be considered. 

A successful Project Manager at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden will be proficient in project management software, budgeting, contract management, and regulatory compliance. Will be a proactive and detailed oriented project leader with a strong background in managing construction or capital improvement projects within dynamic guest focused environments. They will possess excellent organizational and communication skills, a passion for collaboration, and a commitment to delivering high quality results in a mission driven setting. Candidates must be able to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings or weekends based on project needs. 

We’re not just looking for someone to fill a role. We’re looking for someone who is passionate about building spaces that inspire, who thrives on collaboration and complex challenges, and who is eager to contribute to an organization that makes a meaningful impact in the community. If you’re ready to take the next step in your project management career and be part of a team that values excellence, innovation, and sustainability, we would love to hear from you! 

SSA Group — Food Service, Catering, and Retail

SSA Group 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.

Search for current job openings with SSA.