Sustainability Coordinator
Job Posting for Sustainability Coordinator at Detroit Zoological Society
Do you dream big and have the motivation to make your ideas come to life? Are you able to set aside your ego in place of a larger mission: to influence healing in both our environmental and social communities? Are you able to manage several tasks, encounter roadblocks, and still maintain an optimistic outlook? If you said yes to each of these questions, then you may be a good fit for the Sustainability Coordinator role with the Detroit Zoological Society.
The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) prides itself in creating meaningful connections between people, animals, and the natural world so all can thrive. As one of the cornerstones of the organization, the Sustainability Department plays a pivotal role in upholding and advancing the organization’s strategic vision. We are committed to ensuring everything we do pursues excellence in four areas: People, Animals, Environment, and Resources. Behind each of these key commitments is the Sustainability Department, which is responsible for fostering a positive relationship between people, animals, and the environment we share.
The Sustainability Coordinator is a 1-year, full-time internship dedicated to assisting the Manager of Sustainability in advancing the DZS’s Regeneration Sustainability Strategy. As a member of this team, you will be accountable for:
- Developing tools and programs that improve the Zoo’s sustainable operations.
- Managing specific tasks towards completing grant funded projects.
- Developing systems-based management plans.
- Contributing to project planning, design, and construction administration.
- Implementing Green Team initiatives and programs.
- Pursuing funding opportunities as part of the DZS funding strategy.
- Coordinating with internal and external partners.
- Crafting messages for internal and external communication.
- Engaging the community, event planning, and leading technical research.
As a member of the Sustainability Department, it is imperative to demonstrate specialization in at least one system (e.g. energy, waste, water, stormwater, etc.) balanced with the daily requirements of being a generalist. We provide technical expertise to each department to help achieve their respective goals while ensuring our organization’s impacts are minimized and, more importantly, to influence healing in the natural environment. This role requires a team player with exceptional strengths in communication (verbal, written, graphics, presentation). The right candidate will have knowledge of best management practices and approach tasks with a systems-thinking mindset.
The department activities are on an upward trend as we develop Net-Zero/Net-Positive strategies for all systems and manage existing projects and programs. Responsibilities range from office work, such as planning, research, or documentation – to fieldwork that may require you to get covered in Zoo Poo at the anaerobic digestor or trash from a waste audit.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist the Manager of Sustainability in developing and implementing specific initiatives towards achieving our vision as a Net Zero / Net Positive facility. The following projects are top priorities:
- Zero Waste Program
- Materials Management and Back-of-house diversion program
- Implementation of the EGLE Recycling Infrastructure Grant (6 main tasks within 3 focus areas), plus monitoring, documentation, and reporting
- Internal training, standards, and communications
- Event Waste Diversion Program development
- Net Zero Water Program
- Data collection and mapping of infrastructure to identify locations for water submeters
- Implement a water use monitoring program
- Planning and design for improvements to Pierson Lake and constructing a water treatment plant
- Biodiversity Natural Systems Program
- Invasive and Nuisance Species Management Plan
- Planting guidelines
- Biological surveys and assessments
- Environmental Stewardship Community Programs (including Green Team initiatives)
- Community Electronics Recycling Collection
- Gorillas on the Line
- GreenPrize
- GreenFest
- Green Schools Celebration
- Water festivals (e.g. Rouge River WaterFest)
- Community Native Tree Plantings
- EcoChallenge
- Secondary priorities may include:
- Anaerobic Digester system improvements and development of standard operating procedures.
- Utility and Resource Monitoring – improvements to current systems and processes, development of guidelines and training resources.
- Expand geospatial mapping of systems and infrastructure in ArcGIS.
- Assist in pursuing grant funding, including documentation, technical writing, and graphic development.
- Assist in writing articles, blogs, or other external communications.
Qualifications
Funding Source Eligibility Requirements
- Must be 18 years old and a US Citizen or have permanent residence.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Sustainable Systems, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Architecture, Engineering or related field.
- Master’s degree is desired.
- Proven work experience in a related, systems-based role required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- A systems-thinker who can communicate their ideas in a professional setting.
- Strong understanding of systems, best management practices, and circular economy strategies.
- Proficient with standard office software programs, such as Microsoft (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or Google (e.g. Docs, Sheets, Slides).
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, written, and presentation communication skills (a sample of written or presentation works may be requested).
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to perform research and coordinate with vendors, partners, guests, and community stakeholders.
- Ability to meet deadlines and work in a timely manner.
- Creative, enthusiastic, and detail oriented.
Preferred Skills and Experience
- Proficiency in software applications: ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar graphics and data management software.
- Interest in non-profit experience is desired.
- Leadership experience in a team or group setting.
- Knowledge of natural systems and processes.
Physical Requirements
- Candidates must be able to perform all principal duties satisfactorily, including use of standard office equipment and the computer.
- Able to perform moderate physical effort daily such as walking, bending, stooping, lifting, and standing for an extended period of time.
- Able to lift 50 pounds.
- Able to perform the essential functions of the job satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential duties.
Working Conditions
This is a full-time opportunity (40-hrs/wk) over a 12-month period to start immediately. Typical office hours are from 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. M-F. Flexible office hours may be considered to accommodate qualified candidates’ schedules. Occasionally, the regular work schedule requires flexibility, which could include weekend and evening responsibilities. Work is performed both in an office environment and outdoors with exposure to seasonal weather conditions. Candidates should be prepared to work in all weather conditions and are expected to provide their own work clothing and footwear. Expect to get dirty often and handling materials at their “end of useful life.”
Compensation
- VISTA Internship
- $877 bi-weekly living allowance that is taxed by the Federal Government
- On-grounds housing is available. All DZS rules and regulations must be agreed upon and adhered to
- End of service – College funding $6,800 or cash stipend $1,800
- Health benefits that include expense reimbursement and limited insurance
- Includes 10 personal days and 10 sick days
- Stipend includes holidays off: New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day
Salary.com Estimation for Sustainability Coordinator in Royal, MI
$72,567 to $106,137
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Job openings at Detroit Zoological Society
Detroit Zoological Society
Royal, MI
Full Time
Detroit Zoological Society
Royal, MI
Full Time
Detroit Zoological Society
Royal, MI
Full Time
Detroit Zoological Society
Royal, MI
Full Time
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