Event Coordinator

Blank Park Zoo; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive income

Excellent working environment

Benefits package

Job summary

Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines, Iowa is seeking an Event Coordinator to manage public and private events, ensuring seamless execution and high customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will have experience in event planning and a degree in a related field.

This role involves handling logistics, maintaining relationships with clients and staff, and being flexible in various work situations. Join a dedicated team and enjoy competitive income and benefits while working in a vibrant, conservation-focused environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years of experience in sales and event planning.
• Must be insurable to drive zoo vehicle.
• Valid motor vehicle license or ability to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate events at Blank Park Zoo including set-up and execution.
• Manage client relationships and event contracts.
• Assist with scheduling and communication regarding upcoming events.

Skills

Event coordination

Customer relationship management

Communication skills

Critical thinking

Creativity

Education

College degree in event management or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

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. It 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 relationships of the Blank Park Zoo's event portfolio, including 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 others as needed.
• Handle multiple clients at once and create contracts, update payments, and provide invoices through the point of sale system.
• Maintain strong relationships and good communication with all clients, staff, volunteers, vendors and caterers.
• Assist with managing event calendars, scheduling and effectively communicate with all staff about upcoming event needs.
• Complete other duties as assigned.
• Flexible – Ability to handle a flexible workload with a variety of assignments while maintaining composure in a stressful environment.
• Positive – Must be an effective team member and establish professional working relationships.
• Independent – Must operate independently, exercise initiative and demonstrate capacity for detail and follow‑up.
• Communicator – Communicates clearly, both verbally and written, with effective listening skills.
• Critical Thinker – Ability to make decisions while under pressure or solve complex problems that arise daily.
• Efficient – Ability to complete tasks thoroughly but quickly.
• 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.

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

Events, Guest 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 also be required to travel to other locations for meetings.

Required Education and Experience

• College degree with major coursework in event management, public relations, communications, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum two years of experience working in sales and event planning.
• 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 gives 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. Applicants are sought who are dedicated, hardworking and seek fulfilling employment. In return Blank Park Zoo offers competitive income, benefits, and an excellent working environment.