Event Coordinator

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:

Under supervision of the Events Manager, the Event Coordinator will coordinate and assist with public and private events that make up the events portfolio at the Blank Park Zoo. This will include public events such as Zoo Brew and Night Eyes, as well as private events including weddings, corporate outings, non-profit galas and birthday parties.

Essential Functions:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

• Coordinate the promotion and customer relations of Blank Park Zoo's event portfolio. This includes, but is not limited to, set-up and tear down, volunteer coordination, email correspondence, returning phone calls, contract development, venue tours, follow up, and on-site execution.
• Assist in the execution of various events, such as Zoo Brew, Night Eyes, and more as needed.
• Handle multiple clients at once and be able to create contracts, update payments, and provide invoices through the point of sale system.
• Maintain a strong relationship and good communication with all clients, staff, volunteers, vendors and caterers.
• Assist with managing event calendars, event scheduling and effectively communicate with all staff about upcoming event needs.
• Complete other duties 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.
• Positive - Must be positive, effective team member and be able to establish professional working relationships.
• Independent - Must be able to operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow-up.
• Communicator - Communicates clearly, both verbal and written. Effective listening skills.
• Critical Thinker - Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
• Efficient - Ability to complete tasks in a thorough but quick manner.
• Creativity - Ability to bring creative flair to events from planning through execution.
• Innovative - Ability to propose creative solutions and create wow experiences for guests.
• Team Player - Collaborates with manager, supervisors and team to achieve common goals.

Supervisor/Management Responsibilities

May assist with supervision of seasonal staff, volunteers or interns.

Work Environment

Events, Guests Services

While performing 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.

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 the 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 with major coursework in event management, public relations, communications, or related field preferred.
• Minimum two years of experience working in sales and event planning.
• Excellent word processing skills.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office required.

Additional Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be insurable to drive zoo vehicle.
• Must be able to maintain work hours that will serve the needs of the Blank Park Zoo, including nights and weekends.
• Must be able to maintain a calm demeanor and act professionally in all situations such as emergencies and guest interactions.

License/Certifications:

• Valid motor vehicle license or ability to obtain.
• First Aid/CPR Training.
• 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.

Affirmative Action/EEO Statement:

Blank Park Zoo is an equal opportunity employer and give 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 see 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.