Job Opportunities

Full-time
Salary: $17.25/hr
Posted: 8/7/2025

We are currently seeking a Mammal Swing Keeper to join our team! In this wide-ranging role, you will work in a rotating and as needed basis with the following four Mammal Teams: Hoofstock/Rhino/Pinniped, Gorilla/Small Mammal, Farm/Ambassador, and Cat/Bear/Koala. This position works closely with the Mammal Supervisors and reports directly to the Curator of Mammals.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts husbandry duties, according to departmental guidelines, including feeding animals, cleaning, maintaining, designing, and constructing exhibits.
• Works closely with the Veterinary Team to monitor health and treat animal health concerns.
• Monitors animal behavior and provides enrichment and training. 
• Maintains detailed behavioral, reproductive, and medical records and reports.
• Take proper measures to ensure the security of animal enclosures. 
• Works cooperatively with other departments including Maintenance, Horticulture, Education, and Events. 
• Interacts with Riverbanks guests and cooperates within a team to provide top quality animal care.
• May be involved in various AZA, conservation, and other professional activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned. 

Education and Experience: Associate degree in Biology, Zoology or Wildlife Management; bachelor’s degree preferred. The ideal candidate will have 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. Must be available to work any days of the week, holidays, and occasional after-hours events.  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
Salary: $13.00/hr
Posted: 8/7/2025

Shift Availability: Weekdays and/or Weekends: 2:00-8:00pm and/or 2:00-11:00pm

We are currently seeking Housekeepers to join our team! In this essential role, you will maintain a high level of cleanliness of Riverbanks Zoo & Garden facilities. This position directly reports to the Environmental Services Manager.

Essential Functions:

• Performs routine cleaning and upkeep of Riverbanks’ facilities including guest areas, staff areas, and behind-the-scenes.
• Removes trash and debris.
• Monitors guest indoor areas and restrooms.
• Responds promptly to non-routine cleaning issues as they arrive.
• Support special events and setups by preparing facilities and providing logistical assistance.
• Follows all zoo safety protocols and procedures.
• Operates golf carts and various cleaning equipment to perform tasks.

Education and Experience: High school graduate or equivalent, with three to six months of experience in grounds maintenance, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. The ideal candidate will enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions and be able to stand for long periods of time. Must possess 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 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: $14.00/hr
Posted: 8/7/2025

Available Shifts: 7:00am-2:00pm and/or 2:00pm-8:00pm

We are currently seeking Groundskeepers to join our team! In this essential role, you will maintain a high level of cleanliness of Riverbanks Zoo & Garden grounds. This position directly reports to the Environmental Services Manager.

Essential Functions:

• Performs routine cleaning and upkeep of Riverbanks’ grounds including guest areas, behind-the-scenes, and parking lots.
• Removes trash, debris, and animal waste.
• Monitors pathways, fences, picnic areas, signage, and benches.
• Responds promptly to non-routine cleaning issues as they arrive.
• Support special events and setups by preparing grounds and providing logistical assistance.
• Follows all zoo safety protocols and procedures.
• Operates trucks, golf carts, and various grounds maintenance tools to perform tasks.

Education and Experience: High school graduate or equivalent, with three to six months of experience in grounds maintenance, housekeeping, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. The ideal candidate will enjoy working outdoors in all weather conditions and be able to stand for long periods of time. Maintains a flexible schedule and weekend availability preferred. You must possess 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 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.

Full-time
Salary: $19.00/hr
Posted: 7/31/2025

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. 

Essential Functions:

• Duties will vary daily and can include assignments such as general repair, preventative maintenance, 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.

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.

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 7/24/2025

We are currently seeking dependable and enthusiastic Sky-High Safari Ropes Course Attendants to join our team! 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.

Full-time
Salary: $23.00-$25.00/hr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 7/24/2025

We are currently seeking a skilled and dependable Electrician who is responsible for troubleshooting and performing various electrical repairs and installations for Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Works closely with and reports to the Director of Facilities Maintenance.

Essential Functions:

• Prepares bids and requisitions for supplies and materials. 
• Operates medium to heavy equipment. 
• Analyzes problems with electrical systems and determines necessary repairs to electrical circuits and runs new electrical circuits as needed. 
• Repairs sound and dialer systems. 
• Runs conduits to IT specifications for fiber and cat 6 and pulls cable. 
• Terminates cat 6, knowledge of fiber termination preferred. 
• Assists maintenance team with other trades to get urgent work, emergencies completed in a timely manner. 
• Through portable devices: documents issues, photographs issues and repairs, receives and completes work orders. 

Education and Experience: The ideal candidate will be a high school graduate with vocational/technical training in industrial electrical wiring, and one to two years of experience as an electrician; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. Must possess 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 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.

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 7/24/2025

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.

Full-time
Salary: $25.00-$28.00/hr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 7/11/2025

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 mechanical 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 hands-on work, 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: $13.00/hr
Posted: 7/3/2025

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!