Events Coordinator - Full Time

FLSA Classification: Nonexempt
Reports to: Events Manager
Department: Operations

The Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is a non-profit organization and home to more than 2,800 animals representing nearly 240 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish, and is fully accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The mission of the Blank Park Zoo is to inspire an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research and recreation.

Position Purpose

Blank Park Zoo is looking for a reliable, enthusiastic, self-starter who is highly motivated to assist with event and rental execution. The Full-Time Events Coordinator is responsible for providing direct support to the Rental and Sales Supervisor and the Public Event Supervisor. This position will spend the majority of time on-site during public and private events and rentals.

Essential Functions

The following duties are essential to this position. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Be an on-site contact for Zoo Brew, Night Eyes, and private rental groups, including but not limited to weddings, company outings, and elementary family nights as scheduled
• Coordinate the promotion and customer relations of Blank Park Zoo’s birthday party program
• Create rental contracts, update payments, and provide invoices through the point-of-sale system
• Assist with setup and tear down of events and rentals
• Assist with the execution of in-house and public events and rentals
• Work independently and manage multiple tasks and clients
• Maintain a strong relationship and good communication with the Zoo’s preferred caterers, vendors, staff, and volunteers
• Additional tasks as assigned

Competencies

• Flexible – Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while also maintaining composure in an environment that can be stressful.
• Independent – Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative, and demonstrate a capacity for detail and follow-up.
• Positive – Must be a positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
• Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbally and written. Effective listening skills.
• Critical Thinker – Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
• Innovative – Ability to propose creative solutions and create wow experiences for clients.
• Efficient – Ability to complete tasks in a thorough but quick manner.
• Customer-oriented – Always exercises professional customer service skills. Interacts with many different types of people and situations.
• Team Player – Collaborates with supervisor and team to achieve common goals.

Work Environment

While performing the duties of the job, the incumbent is required to work both indoors and outdoors with exposure to seasonal weather conditions for special events and tours. The incumbent may be required to travel to other locations and to meetings. This individual may be exposed to computer monitors. The noise level is moderate.

Physical Requirements

The physical requirements described are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to successfully perform essential functions.

Ascending or descending ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles and the like.

Never Occasionally Constantly

Moving self in different positions to accomplish tasks in various environments including tight and confined spaces.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Adjusting or moving objects up to 50 pounds in all directions.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Communicating with others to exchange information.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Operating machinery and/or power tools.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Operating motor vehicles or heavy equipment.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Assessing the accuracy, neatness and thoroughness of the work assigned.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Driving.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
Never Occasionally Constantly

Reaching with hands and arms.

Never Occasionally Constantly

Tasting or smelling.

Never Occasionally Constantly

Vision

Close vision; Distant vision; Color vision; Peripheral vision; Depth perception; Ability to adjust focus

Lifting Requirement.
> than 50 pounds Up to 50 pounds Up to 40 pounds Up to 25 pounds Up to 10 pounds

Required education and experience

• College degree (preferred but not required) with experience in public relations, event management, communications or related field preferred.
• Minimum two years of experience working in sales, event planning and/or with children required.
• Excellent word processing skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office required.

Additional eligibility requirements

• Must be insurable to drive a zoo vehicle.
• Must be able and willing to work a flexible schedule, including nights and weekends as needed.
• Must be able to maintain calm and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.
• Must be able to handle a flexible workload and adapt to changing priorities.

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid Iowa motor vehicle license or ability to obtain
• First Aid/CPR Training or ability to obtain
• Other training as required (TIPS, etc.)

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

To apply, click here.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement

Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and gives employment and promotional consideration without regard to race, color, sex, religion, age, disability, disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam era, and any other protected class as required by local, state, or federal law. We seek applicants for employment who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return, Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.