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 September 12, 2024)

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.

Public Safety Supervisor

Full-time
Salary: $17.32/hr
Posted: 9/12/2024

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

Responsibilities: The Public Safety Supervisor is responsible for ensuring the security of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.  Demonstrates the highest level of guest service, maintains strong relationships with all Riverbanks Team members and guests, and provides leadership and supervision to the Public Safety Department. Ensures the Riverbanks Public Safety Team follows all safety policies and procedures. Reports to the Public Safety Manager.

Essential Functions:

  • Assist the Public Safety Manager in coordinating department schedules, information sharing, and payroll.
  • Provide guidance, training, and day to day supervision of Public Safety staff.
  • Responsible for park operations, public safety, and security in the absence of the Public Safety Manager.
  • Efficiently and appropriately responds to all guest and Riverbanks team concerns.
  • Assist the Public Safety Manager in carrying out personnel-related duties for the department.
  • Acts as a role model for all Public Safety team members.
  • Ability to work rotating schedules as assigned by Public Safety Manager.
  • Available to work any after-hours events and cover all Public Safety positions, including second and third shifts as occasionally needed.
  • Able to lift or move a maximum of 60 pounds on an occasional basis.
  • Responsible for supervision and coordination of the onboarding process for new members of the Public Safety Department.

Education and Experience: The ideal candidate will have a high school diploma, with an Associates or college degree preferred. A minimum of two years of supervisory experience, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities is desired.  The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in security or public safety and will possess or be eligible for a valid South Carolina driver's license.

 

Public Safety Officer (1st Shift)

Part-time (Shift Availability: 8:15am-5:30pm)
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 9/12/2024

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that 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. 

Attractions Attendant

Part-time
Salary: $10.00/hr
Posted: 9/10/2024

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 attractions. Works in a variety of locations throughout the park, including but not limited to: Carousel, Train, Climbing Wall, and Giraffe Feeding. Routinely performs inspections and engages with guests to provide a safe and fun experience. Handles cashless Point of Sale transactions. Communicates with the public about Riverbanks’ exhibits, attractions, services, and policies. Reports to the Attractions Manager.

Education and Experience: High School diploma and 6 months of guest service work experience are preferred. Valid driver’s license preferred. Must be willing and able to interact with guests of all ages and abilities. Must demonstrate good decision-making skills and the ability to work well both with a team and individually. Must be able to lift 25 lbs., work outdoors in all weather conditions, and must be able to stand for extended periods of time.

Director of Construction & Planning

Full-time
Posted: 9/6/2024

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 Executive Team at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, is responsible for directing and managing the construction project team, to include contractors, in the construction of new facilities, exhibits, capital, and supporting bond projects. The ideal candidate will have a proven record in managing large-scale construction projects, a deep understanding of construction processes, and the ability to convene and lead stakeholders at every level and every department at Riverbanks. This position is part of Riverbanks leadership team and helps build a culture of collaboration that supports the interdependence of all areas of the Zoo and Garden. This position reports directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Essential Functions:

  • Responsible for oversight and management of capital construction, renovation, and repairs from inception to completion
  • Leads and implements organizational strategic priorities, advances Riverbanks’ mission and goals, and communicates a broad vision to others
  • Evaluates the effect of both internal and external forces on the zoo. Tracks changing industry trends and legislation that could impact projects
  • Develop and implement project management strategies to ensure timely and cost-effective project delivery
  • Coordinates with Riverbanks’ leadership, contractors, architects, vendors, and engineers to ensure project specifications and quality control are met
  • Monitor schedules and project budgets
  • Ensure projects are completed within scope and financial targets and works closely with the VP of Finance to ensure procurement policies are followed.
  • Manages selection process and the relationship with vendors once a contract is executed
  • Develops various budget recommendations, monitors and controls assigned budget lines and authorizes appropriate expenditures
  • Works closely with other departments to include Safety, Animal, and Operations to ensure compliance with all OSHA, USDA, AZA, and Riverbanks industry standards, building codes, and emergency plans
  • Review, maintain, and enhance written and electronic systems and protocols to effectively track, plan, and manage campus facilities, including construction and renewal/replacement projects

Education and Experience: A bachelor’s degree in project construction management, engineering, architecture or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.

The ideal candidate will have worked in the project construction management field for at least 10 years and preferably prior applicable experience working in a Zoo, Aquarium, or other Entertainment environment. They must have the ability to read and interpret design and construction plans. They will also have a traceable history of being collaborative and be recognized for clear communication and exceptional organizational, written, and oral skills. Additionally, they will thrive working in an environment where they manage multiple projects simultaneously. Must have a thorough understanding of current computer applications to include MS Office Suite and AutoCAD. Must also possess or be eligible for a South Carolina driver’s license. 

Housekeeper

Part-time
Salary: $13.00/hr
Posted: 8/22/2024

Shift Availability: Weekdays and/or Weekends: 8:00am–4:00pm, 2:00–11:00pm 

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the routine maintenance and upkeep of Riverbanks facilities. Works to maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout Riverbanks Zoo and Garden by following cleaning routines and responding to non-routine cleaning issues. Reports to the Environmental Services Manager.

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.

Events Technician

Full-time
Salary: $14.14/hr
Posted: 8/22/2024

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

Responsibilities: Under the direction of the Events Manager, will be responsible for helping to ensure high quality special events and positive guest experiences through hands-on, detail-oriented tasks including:

  • Ability to communicate and work effectively with Events team, guests, and other departments at Riverbanks Zoo & Garden.
  • Provide personalized assistance, resolving guest needs for events; providing fast and accurate responses to guest requests, ensuring high standards of customer service.
  • Proactively handles and troubleshoots any technical issues that arise prior to, during, and after the event.
  • Oversees and inventories stock and maintenance of supplies for specific programs and events as needed, alerting the Events Manager when supplies are low or damaged.
  • Maintaining proper lighting and audio for special events and daytime operations.
  • Constructing, assembling, and dismantling event components and audio/visual equipment.
  • Preparing displays that are structurally sound and safe.
  • Operating golf carts, forklifts, and aerial lifts.
  • Must be available to work occasional evenings when needed for special projects or zoo events.

Education and Experience: High school diploma with some electrical or construction experience required, or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. The ideal candidate will be able to demonstrate good planning, organization, and teamwork skills. Must be comfortable working from a ladder and aerial lifts at significant heights. Must be able to work in all weather conditions and be able to lift at least 50 pounds. Must possess or be eligible for a South Carolina driver’s license.

 

 

Groundskeeper

Part-time
Salary: $14.00/hr
Posted: 7/3/2024

Available Shifts: 6:00am–2:00pm, 2:00pm–11:00pm

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

Responsibilities: Under general supervision is responsible for the routine maintenance and upkeep of park grounds and facilities. Works to maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Operates trucks, forklift, blowers, and various grounds maintenance tools to perform tasks. Reports to the Environmental Services Manager.

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. Must possess a valid S.C. driver’s license.

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.