Job Opportunities

Full-time
Salary: $17.25/hr
Posted: 6/5/2025

We are currently seeking a Mammal Keeper (Gorilla/Small Mammals) to join our team! In this role, you’ll be responsible for the proper care of mammals in Riverbanks’ animal collection. Works primarily with gorillas, various small primates, small felids, and other small mammals. This position reports directly to the Gorilla/Small Mammals Supervisor and 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.
• Works cooperatively with other departments including Maintenance, Horticulture, Education, and Events. 
• May be involved in various AZA, conservation, and other professional activities.
• Performs other duties as assigned. 
• 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. 
• Interacts with Riverbanks guests and cooperates within a team to provide top quality animal care.

Education and Experience: Associate degree, Bachelors preferred, in biology, zoology or wildlife management 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 gorillas and other primates 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 Monday – Friday mornings (20-25 hours per week))
Salary: $12.62/hr
Posted: 5/8/2025

We are currently seeking a Nature Preschool Instructor that has a passion for education and nature. Riverbanks’ Nature Preschool runs from August through May, with the possibility of two additional summer months, in one of our outdoor classrooms. The instructor will ensure that all programs create connections and inspire actions to impact wildlife and wild places. 

Essential Functions:

• 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.
• Helping with academic assessments on each child to ensure we are providing the activities needed to foster growth in various developmental areas.
• Assessing behavioral needs and finding innovative ways to address those needs to ensure a safe and effective learning environment.
• Daily parent communications and interactions.
• Basic first aid response is required. CPR and First Aid training will be provided.
• 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.
• 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.