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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 October 8, 2025)

Mammal Volunteer (Farm) (4 hours a week (6-month commitment))

Posted: 10/8/2025

We are currently seeking a Mammal Volunteer (Farm) to join our team! Under general supervision, this person will assist in the proper care of animals within this team. This position will report to the Farm/Ambassador Supervisor and Mammal Curator.

Essential Functions:

  • Cleans animal enclosures and back up areas (sweeping, shoveling, rinsing and disinfecting) 
  • Removing trash barrels
  • Assists with food preparation and washing dishes
  • Assists with behavioral enrichment and other special projects as needed
  • Maintains animal exhibits by cutting browse and removing waste material 
  • Interacts with Riverbanks guests and cooperates within a team setting. 

Education and Experience: The ideal candidate will be 18 years of age with a HS diploma or equivalent seeking a career in animal care. This position will have duties that require bending, stooping or standing for long periods of time and lifts up to 50lbs. Works in outdoors in all weather conditions. Proof of a current Tuberculin skin test.

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 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.

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.

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.