Ribeiro previously worked at the Chicago Academy of Sciences Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, first as a Museum Educator (2005-2010) before being promoted to Community Relations Coordinator (2010-2011). In the roles, she drew on her background and training in science and education to advance museum engagement. She then joined Project Exploration as a Program Manager (2011-2012) before serving as the Manager of Secondary Education Programs at the Chicago Botanic Garden (2013-2017). Before her current position, Ribeiro worked for the Chicago Park District as the Center Director of the North Park Village Nature Center (2017-2023). As Center Director, she oversaw operations at the North Park Village Nature Center, a 46-acre natural area that sees over 75,000 visitors each year. Ribeiro currently works at the Hispanic Access Foundation as the Director of Forestry and STEM, where she advances diversity, equity, and inclusion in the scientific and environmental fields.

Throughout her career, Ribeiro has served on several boards, including the Illinois Green Alliance, Organic Oneness, and the National Science Teachers Association. She also served as an Advisory Board Member for the Doris Duke Conservation Scholars Program at the University of Michigan and a Council Member for Chicago Public Schools.

She says gaining entry into a competitive museum and cultural environmental institution remains a career highlight. While she didn't initially set her sights on working at a museum or park, Ribeiro found the position enjoyable because it was fun, which she highlights is critical to her success throughout her career. Through her work at the museum, park, and current work, she has been able to interact with and mentor young people. Ribeiro states that her "ability to mentor, to inspire, whether its youth from a program or someone who is up and coming into the field" is a significant career highlight, as she can make an impact (2024). At times in her career, her impact is on physical and built spaces, such as parks, but at times it is on people and places. Ribeiro says that this impact has motivated her to continue working in the field despite its challenges.

Furthermore, Ribeiro also says that getting others to think about organizational and institutional diversity before it starts to become more prominent is a career highlight, as it involves organizing and creating opportunities for others to engage and support one another. She has advocated for diversity and environmental justice throughout her career, from local bike events to getting people together to call their representatives to advance environmental justice. Her intersectional interests and background have helped her succeed in various roles, further contributing to her personal and professional successes.