Special Events Coordinator

Overview

Final date to receive applications:
Applications will be accepted until 3 February 2026 and/or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. We reserve the right to close the posting early if a well-qualified candidate pool has been established. Early submission is encouraged. Please ensure that your application highlights your experience and qualifications as they relate to the responsibilities of this role.

Are you a natural organizer who loves creating memorable experiences? Are you resilient, positive, and energized by dynamic environments where no two days are the same?
Jacksonville Zoo and Botanical Gardens is seeking a Special Events Coordinator to bring events to life. You’ll adapt to last-minute changes with ease and ensure every guest has an exceptional experience. From daytime exhibits like Dinosauria to Colors of the Wild, Zoo Lights
, and community programs, you’ll help create unforgettable memories for guests of all ages.

As a Special Events Coordinator
, you’ll balance behind-the-scenes planning with hands-on execution. A typical day may include providing on-site support during live events, completing administrative work, and preparing for events with inventory management, staging, and setup. During events,
you’ll manage guest concerns, coordinate with facilities, animal teams, sound, and vendors, and oversee volunteer support to ensure everything runs smoothly.

You’ll bring a strong background in administrative tasks and organization
, including invoicing, planning, and basic contract management.
Proficiency with computers and banquet event systems
, such as Triple Seat, is essential.
Experience in project management within live or event-driven environments, paired with high-volume customer service skills
, including registration and guest-facing activities, will help you thrive.

Success in this role requires confidence working independently while collaborating with a variety of stakeholders across teams, vendors, and partners. Attention to detail, follow-through, and a service-first mindset are essential to ensuring every guest enjoys a seamless experience.

If you’re excited to create exceptional experiences, work in a dynamic, hands-on environment, and make a lasting impact, we’d love for you to join our team.

Apply today and help us advance our mission: “Connecting our community with wildlife and wild places.”

What you bring...

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Two (2) or more years of experience in a similar role, including event planning, trade shows, marketing events, or related functions; OR an Associate’s degree or professional certification in a relevant field such as business administration, marketing, hospitality, or a related discipline.
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered, including relevant unpaid roles such as internships, volunteer coordination, or community event planning, provided they demonstrate the required competencies for the position.
• One (1) or more years of experience providing administrative, logistical, and coordination support for events, meetings, conferences, or large-scale group initiatives, demonstrating strong organizational and planning skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and willingness to learn additional software systems as needed.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule is considered an essential function of this role
  , which may include evenings, weekends, and holidays based on operational and event needs.
• Ability to adapt to variable event schedules
  , with a significant portion of work occurring during weekends, in support of organizational programming and guest experience.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively within a team environment.
• Demonstrated project management skills with strong attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Ability to maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record to operate organizational vehicles and attend off-site meetings or vendor engagements as required.
• Ability to maintain professionalism, positive communication, and strong customer…