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Volunteer Opportunities

Riverbanks is recruiting enthusiastic individuals to join our growing volunteer team.

Each year, volunteers contribute more than 23,000 hours to Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Volunteering is a very important part of the mission and daily workings of the Zoo and Garden. It takes an incredible team of talented people to operate one of America’s best zoos. By volunteering you can be a part of what makes Riverbanks Zoo and Garden so remarkable!

Current Volunteer Positions (last updated on August 15, 2025)

Nature Preschool Volunteer (Availability Monday – Thursday mornings, specific days TBD)

Posted: 8/15/2025

We are currently seeking Nature Preschool Volunteers to join our team! The Riverbanks’ Nature Preschool runs from September through May in our outdoor classrooms.

Essential Functions:

  • Working with the Nature Preschool team to create child-emergent curriculum and engaging lessons for all the preschool participants, using nature as the catalyst and reflecting the changing environment through the seasons.
  • Assisting with implementation of activities and engaging the students on their learning adventure. Ensuring child safety as they play and explore their learning environment.
  • Assist with bathroom breaks when needed. 
  • Help with prepping and distributing snack each day and basic snack clean up.
  • Helping with academic assessments on each child to ensure we are providing the activities needed to foster growth in various developmental areas.
  • Communication of challenges and opportunities identified in programming. 
  • Must be willing to work outdoors in all types of weather. 

Education & Experience: 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 creating memorable experiences, 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.

Habitat Horticulture & Botanical Garden Volunteer (4 hours weekly, Tuesday and/or Thursday Mornings Only)

Posted: 1/27/2025

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

Responsibilities: Work with our professional horticulture staff in the Zoo and/or Botanical Garden. Assist with horticultural duties for the purpose of beautifying and maintaining gardens, exhibits, animal habitats, plant collections, and/or public displays. Must be eager to learn about our collection and have the ability to demonstrate creativity and teamwork. Works outdoors year-round, in all weather conditions with safety considerations. Reports to the Horticulture Design and Operations Manager and Horticulture Operations Supervisor.

Education and Experience: Must be at least 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent. Be able to bend, stoop or stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50lbs. Horticulture volunteers work outdoors in all weather conditions, with considerations for safety. It is recommended that Horticulture Volunteers have an up-to-date tetanus shot. Proof of a current Tuberculin skin test is also required.

Volunteer Requirements

Review and consider if interested in volunteering:

  • Be at least 14 to volunteer with the ZooTeens program, age 16 to volunteer with special events and age 18 for other areas.
  • Complete an online Volunteer Application.
  • Pass a criminal background check.
  • Follow the Riverbanks Appearance Policy, which includes wearing khaki shorts or pants, closed-toe shoes, socks, Riverbanks uniform shirt, and ID Badge. Uniform shirts range from $6–$20 depending on size and style; Riverbanks nametag and ID are $10.
  • Show proof of a tuberculin (TB) skin test–a TB test is required annually for most volunteer areas.
  • Commit to volunteering a minimum of six months for 4 hours a week (although you are welcome to volunteer more). We will gladly accommodate any time you need to take off.
  • All associated costs are covered by volunteers and not reimbursable by Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.