Conservation Programs Coordinator

JOB SUMMARY
 
The Conservation Programs Coordinator advances the Dallas Zoo’s mission by leading and supporting local and international field conservation programs. This role ensures that conservation initiatives are effectively planned, organized, and executed to engage staff, volunteers, members, and guests in meaningful actions that contribute to measurable conservation outcomes. The Coordinator manages program logistics, tracks and analyzes data, and collaborates with internal teams and external partners to maximize conservation impact. Additionally, the Coordinator works with the Conservation Culture Coordinator to assess staff engagement and implement tools that strengthen participation and program effectiveness.
 
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead and coordinate conservation programs and field experiences (local and international) for staff, volunteers, members, and guests, including logistics, training, partnership collaboration, and development of new initiatives.
• Support the planning and implementation of conservation projects and events, providing clear communication and documentation.
• Manage program scheduling, organization, and resources to ensure programs run smoothly and align with conservation goals.
• Provide training for staff, volunteers, and interns to strengthen internal capacity for conservation action.
• Serve as a resource for seasonal conservation program interns.
• Track participation, hours, and outcomes, and maintain accurate reporting to demonstrate conservation impact.
• Collaborate across departments and with external partners to maximize engagement, strengthen partnerships, and advance shared conservation goals.
• Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma required; bachelor’s degree or higher preferred.
• Background or education in conservation, animal, or biological science.
• Strong understanding of conservation biology and conservation psychology.
• Strong organizational, communication, and facilitation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, balance competing priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Experience coordinating programs, projects, or events with diverse audiences.
• Comfortable with both independent work and cross-team collaboration.
• Able to follow oral and written instructions, be flexible, self-motivated, and a team player.
• Polite and professional; able to establish and maintain effective rapport with all levels of management, team members, guests, and partners.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Suite (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and familiarity with Google Drive, Teams, Zoom. Familiarity with project management software is a plus.
• Must be at least 18 years old
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must be able to actively work outdoors in hot or inclement weather.
• Available for shifts mostly Mon-Fri, with some early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Successful candidates must complete pre-employment drug screening, background check and TB test.
• Must have a valid driver’s license to operate zoo vehicles and reliable transportation.