Job Opportunities

Full-time
Salary: $72,000-$78,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 3/28/2025

We are currently seeking a Director of Development who, in collaboration with the Vice President of Advancement & Director of Riverbanks Society, will develop, manage, and execute a comprehensive strategy to increase individual and corporate philanthropic giving. This will be a key part of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden’s overall strategic plan, including but not limited to overseeing a $5 million capital campaign, major gift initiatives, and the annual fund plan. The Director of Development will be responsible for the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of a diverse portfolio of current and prospective major and capital donors; oversee a dedicated donor relations team; proactively build and maintain dynamic donor, partner and cross-departmental relationships; monitor internal and external giving trends; and adhere to best practices as a representative of the fundraising arm of Riverbanks Society. The ideal candidate will be an experienced fundraising professional with a passion for building relationships and the ability to tell compelling stories that connect a donor’s passions or values with the needs of Riverbanks.

Essential Functions:

• Develop, manage and facilitate a capital campaign strategy and annual giving plan that will achieve fundraising goals and promote Riverbanks’ long-term sustainability, ensuring forward progress throughout the process.
• Manage a mixed and diverse portfolio of current and new members, donors and partners.
• Work strategically with senior leadership to identify and solicit prospects for major gifts as well as annual program and project support.
• Identify, cultivate, solicit and steward major gift donors and partners.
• Create and implement a strategic moves management plan for current and prospective donors.
• Manage, develop and work collaboratively with a passionate team focused on the cultivation, solicitation and stewardship of members, donors and corporate sponsors.
• Create and maintain a work environment that reflects an upbeat, positive and professional atmosphere and demonstrates strong evidence of teamwork. 
• Collaborate with and build rapport within and across internal departments to develop major gift opportunities and communications, ensure impactful donor experiences, and fulfill benefits and deliverables seamlessly.
• Prepare compelling solicitations, proposals and presentations for current and potential donors and partners.
• Host and attend internal and external events for donor cultivation and stewardship, effectively communicating Riverbanks’ greatest needs and mission.
• Oversee details of capital and annual campaign implementation including but not limited to making arrangements for meetings and tours, timely correspondence, monitoring gift and pledge records and conducting prospect research. 
• Prepare and deliver status reports for the senior leadership team, as well as periodic reports for the Riverbanks Society Board of Directors.
• Ensure thorough and timely delivery of acknowledgements, correspondence, and impact reports for donors and partners.
• Serve as an integral member of Riverbanks’ senior leadership team, participating in information sharing, planning, and culture.
• Maintain detailed and accurate donor and contributor records, lists, accounts, communication, and recognition; manage data with accuracy and respect.
• Write, submit, and manage proposals and impact reports as required.
• Responsible for fiscal budget related to fundraising programs including but not limited to capital campaign and annual fund.
• Some evenings and weekends may be required. 

Requirements

• Must be a strategic and dynamic relationship builder with demonstrated success in major gift fundraising and development strategy. 
• Strong knowledge of fundraising processes, tools and techniques. 
• Excellent oral, written and interpersonal skills.
• Must thrive in a fast-paced, complex environment and be passionate about developing resources and people.
• Goal oriented; ability to prioritize and delegate when appropriate.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent time management with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong strategic, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong supervisory and leadership skills.
• Ability to lead multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent customer service skills and ability to easily collaborate with all levels of staff/donors.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Working knowledge of Raisers Edge, RE NXT or other fundraising databases.
• Commitment to maintaining a high level of professionalism and confidentiality.

Education and Experience: A Bachelor's degree in nonprofit/business administration, public relations, or a related field is preferred. The ideal candidate will have three to five years of experience in direct major gift solicitation, specifically with five- and six-figure gifts. Additionally, a minimum of five years in a leadership role, with experience managing teams, is preferred. Familiarity with the Midlands of South Carolina community is a plus. A Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) designation is also a plus.

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 community investment, 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! 

Part-time
Salary: $11.00/hr
Posted: 3/19/2025

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 free shuttle service. Works within a team to greet guests waiting in line, load and unload passengers, and operate a multi-trailer tram to provide efficient, fun, and safe transport between the east and west campus of the zoo. Routinely performs and practices tasks such as vehicle inspections, safe driving habits, radio communication, and lifting strollers and wheelchairs. Will assist with other duties as assigned, including working evening events. Reports to the Transportation Manager.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid SC driver’s license. Willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Demonstrate good decision-making skills and the ability to work well with a team and individually. Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions, be able to lift 50 lbs. and be able to stand for long periods of time.

Temporary (May 27 - August 1, 2025 (Monday - Friday, 7:45am - 4:30pm, shifts may vary))
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 3/19/2025

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: 3/19/2025

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.

Full-time
Salary: $25.00-$28.00/hr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 3/7/2025

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

We are currently seeking a Fleet Mechanic Technician who will play an essential role in ensuring the smooth operation and maintenance of Riverbanks’ vehicle fleet. Under general supervision, is responsible for general repair and maintenance to a variety of structures, equipment, vehicles, and facilities at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.  Maintenance duties will vary daily and can include assignments such as general repair, general mechanic work, and preventative maintenance. 

Essential Functions:

• Use diagnostic equipment to evaluate mechanical problems in vehicles.
• Perform mechanical repairs.
• Service all vehicles according to an established preventive maintenance schedule. 
• Change oil and filters; lubricate vehicle parts; inspect and replace. hoses, belts, mirrors, lamps; and maintain all fluid levels.
• Maintain accurate, updated records of preventive maintenance.
• Inspect all vehicles and evaluate the condition of systems, equipment, accessories, and lights; service as needed.
• Assist with all aspects of fleet maintenance and fleet management to include staff training.
• General maintenance duties as needed unrelated to fleet maintenance as assigned by manager. 

Fleet Mechanic Technician will be required to operate medium to heavy equipment such as a forklift, backhoe, skid steer, trencher, etc. as necessary to complete maintenance work assignments and for service and repair of vehicles. Must be available for on-call duty after hours and be available some weekends. 

Education and Experience: High school graduate with vocational/technical training in vehicle and industrial equipment repair. ASE certification(s) preferred. Three to five years of experience as a maintenance mechanic or technician 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.

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 finance, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming a 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: $17.50-$19.00/hr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 3/7/2025

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

Responsibilities: We are currently seeking a Finance Assistant who will play an essential role in ensuring the smooth financial operations of our business. In this position, you’ll work closely with our VP of Finance to ensure accuracy and integrity in our financial reporting, all while gaining hands-on experience across a variety of primary financial functions.

Essential Functions: 

• Under the guidance of the VP of Finance, you’ll assist with reconciling transactional ledger details, ensuring every posting is accurate.
• You’ll support the reconciliation of daily accounting exports from our point-of-sale system, matching them against cash collections and credit card sales reports.
• Assist with Accounts Payable functions, and step in as a back-up to execute our weekly check runs, ensuring we stay on track and meet deadlines.
• You’ll help keep our team informed of guest attendance by updating daily records.
• Be involved in the establishment of customer credit accounts and assist with adjusting credit limits as needed to ensure smooth customer transactions.
• Process Receivables in our point-of-sale system and work on customer billing.
• You’ll monitor the open order report.
• As part of a flexible and dynamic team, you’ll assist with other ad hoc financial reports as needed.

Education and Experience: A Bachelor’s or Associate degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field. We also welcome candidates who bring at least two years of relevant professional experience in accounting, auditing, finance, or banking. The ideal candidate will have a detail-oriented mindset with a passion for accuracy, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. They will also have a collaborative attitude and strong communication skills. 

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 finance, eager to contribute, and excited about becoming a 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: 1/16/2025

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 (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.