Event Sales Coordinator

Omaha, NE, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Exact $18.62

Work Schedule

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Employee Discounts

Retirement Plan

Professional development opportunities

Paid holidays

Job Description

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a world-renowned zoological park dedicated to conservation, education, and providing unforgettable guest experiences. Known for its extensive exhibits, innovative animal habitats, and commitment to wildlife preservation, the Zoo serves as a beloved community resource and tourist attraction in Omaha, Nebraska. The Zoo offers a dynamic work environment where employees are passionate about connecting guests with nature and fostering environmental stewardship through engaging exhibits and programs.

The Event Sales Coordinator role at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is a full-time, non-exempt position focused on bringing private events to life in one-of-a-kind spaces within the Zoo. This role requires evening, weekend, and holiday availability based on event needs, with a starting pay rate of $18.62 per hour. The Event Sales Coordinator plays a central role in supporting clients as they plan and execute meaningful celebrations ranging from birthday parties and family reunions to corporate picnics and special gatherings. Through attentive and warm communication, the coordinator ensures every detail is managed carefully, helping clients feel confident and energized from the initial inquiry through the day of the event.

Working closely with the Event Sales Assistant Manager, the Event Experience team, and various partners across the Zoo, the coordinator bridges client vision and event execution. Responsibilities include lead management, venue tours, proposal preparation, contract administration, and coordination of onsite event logistics. The role demands a strong customer service mindset, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to multitask under pressure. The coordinator helps elevate events with thoughtful upselling and promotion of the Zoo's unique offerings, such as catering options and themed experiences. With a focus on hospitality and guest satisfaction, this position requires anticipating client needs, adapting to changes, and maintaining clear communication throughout the event planning process.

The ideal candidate possesses 1 to 3 years of experience in event sales, hospitality, or related fields and demonstrates professionalism, sound judgment, and strong follow-through. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with CRM or event management software is desired. A valid driver's license and the ability to meet physical demands such as standing for long periods, lifting up to 30 pounds, and working in various weather conditions are essential. This role offers an opportunity to be part of a collaborative, hospitality-focused team culture dedicated to creating memorable and personalized event experiences within the vibrant setting of Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

Job Requirements

1-3 years of experience in event sales, hospitality, event planning, guest service or related field preferred
Valid driver's license
Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions
Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays based on event schedules
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during event execution
Ability to lift up to 30 pounds as needed for event setup and coordination
Candidates required to pass pre-employment background check and drug test

Job Qualifications

1-3 years of experience in event sales, hospitality, event planning, guest service or related field preferred
Strong customer service mindset with excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
Highly organized with strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
Ability to work collaboratively across teams in a fast-paced environment
Comfortable interacting professionally with clients, guests, vendors, and internal stakeholders
Proficiency in Microsoft Office with familiarity with CRM, event management, or ticketing systems
Professional presence, sound judgement, and strong follow-through required
Valid driver's license

Job Duties

Support sales and booking efforts for private events through phone calls, email communication, venue tours, and client meetings
Respond to event inquiries in a timely, professional, and welcoming manner
Help clients select event spaces, packages, and enhancements that fit their needs, budget, and vision
Support departmental revenue goals through thoughtful upselling opportunities and promotion of Zoo experiences, food and beverage offerings, and event enhancements
Actively manage the event sales pipeline and adhere to established inquiry response-time expectations and follow-up standards
Maintain accurate event records, communication notes, deposits, and sales pipeline activity
Prepare in detail proposals, contracts, banquet event orders (BEOs), invoices and other event documentation in alignment with departmental standard operating procedures and pricing guidelines
Coordinate event details including timelines, layouts, audiovisual needs, catering requirements, rentals, vendor coordination, and guest logistics
Ensure event details are organized, accurate, and clearly communicated to Event Experience team and cross-departmental Zoo partners
Partner closely with the Event Experience team to support smooth transitions from sales into event execution
Participate in BEO meetings, planning discussions, and departmental meetings to maintain alignment across teams
Provide warm, professional, and welcoming support throughout client interactions
Communicate clearly, thoughtfully, and proactively throughout the planning process
Help create experiences that feel polished, tailored, and thoughtfully executed
Anticipate guest needs and identify opportunities to enhance the event experience
Support established guest experience and service standards across all events
Respond calmly and professionally to guest questions, changes, or concerns, escalating issues as needed
Jump in where needed to support guests, teammates, and overall event success
Maintain strong working relationships with cross-departmental partners including marketing, facilities, IT, education, animal care, and business systems, as well as cross-functional guest experience teams such as food and beverage, guest services and retail
Support the Event Sales Assistant Manager and Events team with administrative coordination, reporting, and special projects as needed
Assist with implementation and adherence to departmental procedures, communication standards, and operational workflows
Contribute positively to a collaborative, hospitality-focused team culture