Event Assistant, Planner, Coordinator (Venue Rentals, Full-Time)

Application Deadline:& 19 April& 2026& and/or until a sufficient number of qualified applications have been received. You might begin your day by leading a client tour through& VyStar Skyscape, where innovative technology meets sweeping views ideal for large-scale events. You anticipate needs, navigate last-minute changes, and build trusted relationships with clients, vendors, and internal teams. You ensure event setups, guest flow, and vendor activities are executed responsibly, protecting guests, staff, and the animals and habitats that make this environment so special.& Here, creativity meets purpose. Every event you support helps advance our mission: “Connecting our community with wildlife and wild places.”& What you bring...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.Willingness to adapt to fluctuating weekend event schedules, which make up approximately 75% of the workload, showcasing commitment to the demands of the position.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 service standards during peak event periods and extended operational hours.Capacity to maintain professionalism and enthusiasm during extended hours and busy weekend periods, fostering positive client relationships and enhancing the overall guest experience.Ability to work autonomously as well as collaboratively within a team environment.Pre-Employment Requirements:& Candidates selected for this position must successfully complete all pre-employment screenings prior to their start date.& & Compliance with these requirements is mandatory to ensure the safety of staff, animals, and visitors.& These include:Verification of professional references.Employment history verification.Criminal background check.5-panel drug testA Plus...Bachelor’s degree or certification in relevant field including project management, or certification in hospitality or special event management.1+ year of successfully executing revenue generating events, including budget management.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:Ability to consistently speak (enunciate) clearly in conversation and communications.Manual dexterity for standing, reaching, flexibility, and body movement for bending, crouching, walking, kneeling, stoop, bend, lift, kneel, and prolonged sitting/standing.Auditory ability for verbal communication/conversation/responses via telephone, telephone systems, two-way radio, and face-to-face interactions.Ability to work outdoors and indoors under all environmental conditions and temperatures.Ability to transport and move items& at least 25 pounds occasionally& for short distances without difficulty.Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium while performing various jobs.Ability to access the organization on foot, including any construction sites.Visual and auditory acuity appropriate for safety and discern differences in documents.Exceptional visual acuity is required, along with the ability to communicate, comprehend and decipher/hear information accurately, using a two-way radio.Inclusion, diversity, and equality as a valueJacksonville& Zoo and Gardens embraces diversity in a meaningful way and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.