Job Opportunities

Part-time
Salary: $13.00/hr
Posted: 2/12/2026

We are currently seeking Transportation Operators to monitor and operate our Saluda Skyride Gondola and our Tram Service. As a Transportation Operator, you are responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient transportation of our guests. While you're focused on keeping things running safely, your responsibility extends beyond just the mechanics. You're also the eyes and ears for safety, staying alert to any concerns that might arise and quickly addressing them to keep the environment safe for both guests and team members. Ultimately, you’ll be creating memorable experiences for every guest. 

Essential Functions:

• Perform and document pre-shift inspections of Saluda Skyride and/or Riverbanks’ Tram Shuttle, including equipment, safety systems, and emergency procedures.
• Ensure all safety standards and protocols are followed by participants during operation, including checking safety equipment.
• Provide exceptional guest service, communicate effectively, provide assistance with boarding and disembarking, answer questions, enforce safety policies, and ensure an overall positive guest experience.
• Adapt efficiently. In the event of a Skyride shutdown, Transportation Operators will transition to operating Riverbanks’ Tram Shuttle to ensure minimal disruption to transportation needs.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a valid SC driver’s license. Prior guest service experience is preferred, as it will help set you up for success in this role.  You should be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities, creating a welcoming and positive experience for everyone. Good decision-making skills are essential, as is the ability to work both independently and as part of a team. The role also requires physical capabilities, including the ability to lift up to 50 lbs., works outdoors and at heights, in various weather conditions, and stands for extended periods of time. 

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 memorable guest experiences, 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: $45,000-$49,000/yr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 2/12/2026

We are currently seeking a Registrar (Animal Division) to join our team! In this role, you will manage and ensure the maintenance and quality of animal records for use in the management and development of husbandry and breeding programs, preparation of scientific publications, and provision of data for cooperative ventures at both the regional and international level. This position is a direct report to the Vice President of Animal Care.

Essential Functions:

• Maintains animal records systems ensuring data quality and accessibility. 
• Advises various staff and arranges legal and logistical aspects of animal collection activities and transactions. 
• Manages and provides guidance on compliance relating to government regulations, permits, annual reporting, industry standards, and internal policy relating to transactions, breeding, or exhibition of animals.
• Participates with various staff in implementing and reviewing animal collection management objectives. 
• Serves as a liaison and information source to other departments and organizations.
• Participate in relevant AZA conservation and science committees/activities. Some travel required to attend meetings, professional development opportunities or conferences. 

Education and Experience: A bachelor’s degree in one of the Biological Sciences or data management disciplines, or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Candidates that apply for this position should have experience with animal records software (e.g., ZIMS) and Microsoft Office programs. Ability to collect and collate information from a variety of sources into concise and accurate reports. Possess strong typing, administrative, communication, and organizational skills. 

The ideal candidate will enjoy working within a collaborative environment that is mission-driven, in alignment with the organization’s core values. They would also have a strong history of working with zoo/exotic animals in a professional setting. Knowledge of concepts, principles, and practices of professional museum and zoo registration methods and collection management standards would be a great asset to the ideal candidate. Being proficient with inventory accession and record-keeping practices, and zoological nomenclature is required in this role as is knowledge of laws regulating animal acquisition, disposition, exhibition, husbandry standards, and transportation within the U.S. and abroad is 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 animal conservation, 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: $17.25/hr./hr
Posted: 2/12/2026

Under general supervision, the Mammal Keeper (Farm/Ambassador) is responsible for the proper care of animals in Riverbanks’ animal collection. Works with domestic and exotic animals housed in our interactive farm setting and ambassador animal collections, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, invertebrates, and birds. Reports to the Farm/Ambassador Supervisor and Curator of Mammals. 

Essential Functions:

• Feeding animals, cleaning and maintaining habitats. 
• Works with veterinary staff to monitor and treat diseases and monitor animal behavior. 
• Provides enrichment and training to animals for use as ambassador animals as well as for husbandry and medical purposes. 
• Educates the public through both formal and informal animal encounters in various settings utilizing both the Farm and the Ambassador animals. 
• Maintains detailed behavioral, reproductive, and medical records using ZIMS as the primary record keeping tool.  
• Cooperates within a team to provide top quality animal care, communicate and work cohesively with other departments, and interact with Riverbanks guests. 

Education and Experience: The ideal candidate will have an associate degree in Biology, Zoology or Wildlife Management; bachelor’s degree preferred, 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 ambassador animals and in a high guest contact situation preferred. Must possess or qualify 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 animal conservation, 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: $17.25/hr
Posted: 2/12/2026

Under general supervision, the Horticulturist will perform horticultural duties for the purpose of beautifying and maintaining gardens, exhibits, animal habitats, plant collections, and/or public displays. This position reports to the Horticulture Operations Supervisor and Horticulture Design & Operations Manager.

Essential Functions:

• Maintains assigned areas to ensure plant health and the upkeep of plant collections.  
• Assists with the installation and seasonal rotation of botanical displays.
• Operates and maintains various horticultural tools and equipment including power machinery. 
• Works both independently and with a team on a variety of tasks and priorities. 
• Demonstrates creativity and teamwork.  
• Some computer work for plant data entry.
• Lifts or moves up to 50 lbs. 
• Works year-round in all weather conditions. 

Education and Experience: Associate degree in Horticulture, bachelor’s degree preferred, with two years’ experience in a horticultural area; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. The ideal candidate will have professional horticulture experience and be eager to learn about our collection. Scheduled working hours begin between 6:00am-7:00am, Monday-Friday, 40-hour work week. 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 creating one-of-a-kind landscapes, 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 (Weekdays, Weekend, and Occasional Afterhours)
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 2/12/2026

We are seeking a passionate and dependable Conservation Engagement Instructor to join our dynamic team! In this engaging role, you will deliver on and off-site education programs and public engagement offered by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden. As a direct report to the Conservation Engagement Manager, this position will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact wildlife and wild places. 

Essential Functions:

• Delivering on-site education programs and public engagement experiences to diverse audiences.
• Working constructively within a team to deliver the highest quality educational experiences.
• Supporting daily program logistics by preparing materials, setting up and cleaning program spaces, and maintaining program supplies.
• Providing outstanding customer service by proactively engaging guests, answering questions, giving directions.
• Assisting with record keeping, program attendance taking, and reporting as needed.
• Upholding all safety protocols, animal welfare guidelines, and Riverbanks professional standards.
• Participating in required trainings and ongoing professional development to build skills and knowledge.
• Supporting special events and other public engagement activities as assigned.
• Communicating challenges and opportunities identified in programming to Engagement leadership.
• Developing and maintaining productive, positive relationships with Riverbanks staff, volunteers, and interns.
• Other projects and duties as set forth by the Conservation Engagement Manager.

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. Will demonstrate excellent communication skills (written and verbal) and be able to talk in front of large crowds. 

The ideal candidate will possess knowledge and interest in nature, science, and conservation and will have the ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team. They should demonstrate enthusiasm for working with diverse learners and collaborating with team members. Shifts are available weekdays, weekends, and after hours occasionally. This position will work indoors and outdoors in various weather conditions. 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.

Full-time
Salary: $17.25/hr
Posted: 2/5/2026

Under general supervision, the Mammal Keeper (Hoofstock/Rhino/Pinniped) is responsible for the proper care of mammals in Riverbanks’ animal collection. Works primarily with white rhinos, sea lions, seals, giraffe, kangaroo, and wallabies. Reports to the Hoofstock/Rhino/Pinniped Supervisor and Mammal Curator.

Essential Functions:

• Feeding animals, cleaning and maintaining habitats.
• Works with veterinary staff to monitor and treat diseases. 
• Assess animal behavior and provide enrichment and training. 
• Opportunities will be available to participate in Riverbanks’ dive program. 
• Maintains detailed behavioral, reproductive, and medical reports using ZIMS as the primary record keeping tool. 
• Interacts with Riverbanks guests and cooperates within a team to provide top quality animal care. 

Education and Experience: Associate’s degree in biology, zoology or wildlife management; Bachelor’s degree preferred, 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 hoof stock or sea lions preferred. Must possess or qualify 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 animal conservation, 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.