Job Opportunities

Full-time
Salary: $24.00-$28.00/hr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 5/5/2025

We are currently seeking a Gondola Maintenance Technician who will perform inspections, maintenance, and repair of Riverbanks’ Gondola System (Saluda Skyride), including fixed and detachable carriages, conveyors and their related systems. Reports to the Gondola Maintenance Manager.

Essential Functions:

• Performs lift start-up and shut down procedures on Saluda Skyride.
• Performs regular maintenance checks, troubleshoots technical issues, and repairs malfunctions which may include low voltage electrical systems, mechanical, and hydraulic systems.
• Completes proper documentation and records as required. 
• Applies information from manufacturer’s manuals and blueprints for service, repairs and replacement component (mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic).  
• Participates in all maintenance needs and respond to calls from Saluda Skyride Operations Staff. 

Education and Experience: The ideal candidate will be a high school graduate with vocational/technical training in a related field. Comfort with performing duties 10-60+ feet from the ground will be critical in this role. Several years of experience in machinery maintenance/repair or a related field with transferable skills is preferred. Candidates with a solutions-oriented mindset will stand out in the applicant pool. Individuals applying must possess or qualify 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: 5/2/2025

We are currently seeking Admissions Attendants to provide an outstanding experience to Riverbanks’ guests and Society members. Reports to the Admissions Supervisor and Admissions Manager.

Essential Functions:

• Works in various point of sale areas throughout the park, including ticket booths, information booths and entrance gates.
• Handles ticket and membership purchase transactions.
• Communicates with the public about Riverbanks memberships, exhibits, attractions, services, and policies.

Education and Experience: High school diploma and 4-6 months of work experience in customer service or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience, which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities. The ideal candidate will have cashier and data entry experience with strong customer service skills. This position will work outdoors in all weather conditions and stand for long periods of time. Availability on weekends and evening special events preferred. 

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 (Saturday-Sunday: 12:00am - 8:30am)
Salary: $15.00/hr
Posted: 4/17/2025

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 the Zoo and Garden during evening hours while park is closed to public use.  Monitors gate entrances and exits and provides public assistance during evening programs.  Patrols and secures park, buildings, and surrounding areas. Completes security reports. Assists with various meter readings and the monitoring of after-hours systems. Answers incoming calls, provides information to callers, and takes messages. Assists in making sure all signage and staff parking for the following business day is accurate and in place. Provides excellent, efficient, and high-quality guest service experience and strives to achieve excellent public relations.  Must be dependably available and able to maintain third shift schedule (Saturday-Sunday: 12:00am - 8:30am). Reports to the Public Safety Manager.   

Education and Experience: High school graduate with one to two years experience as a security guard; or any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills and a very high standard of service. Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license.

Part-time (Weekdays, Weekends, and Afterhours (Occasionally))
Salary: $12.00/hr
Posted: 4/17/2025

Ambassador Commitment: Create meaningful connections and inspire actions that 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 Conservation Engagement Manager, the Instructor will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact conservation. 

Essential Functions:

• On-site program delivery to audiences of various ages.
• Conservation engagement of public visitors within the park during scheduled and unscheduled interpretive encounters.
• Inclusive educational programs that encourage the meaningful participation of all learners.
• Communication of challenges and opportunities identified in programming with management team.
• Working constructively within a team to deliver the highest quality educational experiences.
• Assist with other program delivery for the education team as needed.

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) and be able to talk in front of large crowds. 

The ideal candidate will possess knowledge and interest in nature, science, and conservation. Must demonstrate enthusiasm working with diverse learners and other team members. Must be available to work weekends, some weekdays, and after hours (occasionally). Must possess or be eligible for a valid SC driver's license. Strong preferences will be given to those with experience and/or interest in public speaking, customer service, and those with high flexibility (weekday and weekend availability). 

Full-time
Salary: $23.00-$25.00/hr; Commensurate with Experience
Posted: 4/3/2025

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 troubleshooting and performing various electrical repairs and installations for Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. 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; determines wire sizes needed for the load on circuits and determines the number of conductors needed; determines the correct size conduit in accordance with wire size and number of conductors. 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. Reports to the Director of Facilities Maintenance. 

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.

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.