Events Coordinator

The Chattanooga Zoo, officially known as Friends of the Zoo, Inc., is a premier zoological park located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, renowned for its dedication to wildlife conservation, education, and providing an engaging, family-friendly environment. The Zoo focuses on delivering meaningful experiences to visitors while also contributing to global conservation efforts through various initiatives. As a community-driven nonprofit organization, the Chattanooga Zoo is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where both guests and employees feel valued and inspired.

The role of Events Coordinator at the Chattanooga Zoo is vital in ensuring that the numerous events and special occasions hosted throughout the year run seamlessly and leave a lasting positive impact on visitors. Reporting directly to the Director of Events & Experiences, the Events Coordinator is entrusted with the comprehensive planning, coordination, and execution of all Zoo events, daytime attendance drivers, awareness campaigns, and facilities rentals. This position demands a highly organized, energetic person who thrives in a dynamic setting and can manage multiple projects efficiently. The Coordinator will serve as the point person who orchestrates every detail of event logistics, from initial meetings and inter-departmental communication to on-the-ground oversight of event execution.

This full-time position requires a strong commitment to customer service and excellent interpersonal skills as the role includes active participation in the Conservation Committee, contributing to the planning and implementation of awareness days that educate the public on important conservation topics. The Events Coordinator will liaise with various vendors and internal departments to arrange accommodations, transportation, catering, entertainment, signage, security, and other critical elements necessary for successful events. The role also involves hands-on management of event setup, teardown, and cleanup activities, ensuring all equipment and waste are handled according to Zoo guidelines.

Beyond the logistical responsibilities, the Events Coordinator will maintain detailed records of all event activities, including financial details, and conduct post-event evaluations to improve future programming. The position also plays an important role in fundraising by soliciting donations and sponsorships, helping to elevate the Zoo’s profile within the community and secure resources for ongoing and upcoming events.

Given the nature of the Zoo environment, the candidate must be prepared for the physical demands of the job, which include frequent walking across the Zoo’s grounds and occasional lifting of up to 30 pounds. The position involves working both indoors in an office setting and outdoors, exposing the incumbent to a range of weather conditions throughout the year.

The Chattanooga Zoo embraces diversity and inclusion, actively supporting employees in bringing their authentic selves to work. They uphold a smoke-free campus policy and participate in the Tennessee Drug-Free Workplace program, emphasizing a healthy, safe work setting. Candidates must pass pre-employment screenings, including a background check and drug test. This role also requires a valid driver’s license and proficiency in Google Suite and Canva software. The Zoo values education and experience, preferring candidates with at least two years of event planning and customer service experience, along with college coursework in business management, nonprofit administration, hospitality, or guest experiences. However, the Zoo is open to equivalent combinations of education and experience.

If you are an enthusiastic, organized individual who enjoys working in a vibrant, mission-driven environment and is ready to play a key part in enriching community experiences through successful event coordination, the Chattanooga Zoo invites you to apply for this exciting opportunity.