Temporary Events Captain - Winter

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) is a leader in animal care, wildlife conservation, and education. We are passionate about our commitment to excellence in support of our mission of Inspiring Communities to Save Wildlife for Future Generations.

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe:
Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of:
Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do.

Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. Ifyou’reexcited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment,Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you!

As a Temporary Events Captain
, you'llsupport the Entertainment & Engagement team by helping to plan, coordinate, and implement major on‑campus events. Your focus during this temporary assignment (up to 40 hours/week) will be on Winter Activations
, such as Wild Fall
, Zoo Lights
, and more.

This position is budgeted through February 2027
and is an exciting opportunity to gain hands‑on experience with one of Denver’s most beloved institutions.

• Collaborate with Guest Operations Managers, Coordinators, Leads, and the institutional events team to support the development and execution of events aligned with DZCA’s strategic goals.
• Assist with revising and implementing production schedules, and help maintain detailed procedures, timelines, and calendars to guide event planning and delivery.
• Support purchasing processes and assist with asset tracking and management.
• Build and maintain relationships with external contractors to coordinate installation and strike schedules.
• Oversee day‑of‑event logistics, including site setup, strike, and run‑of‑show operations to ensure seamless execution.

• Partner with the Guest Experience Teams to deliver a high‑quality, inclusive, and memorable guest experience throughout all event phases.
• Contribute to the development of event layouts that optimize traffic flow and elevate the visitor experience.
• Provide responsive and informed guest support by utilizing available DZCA resources.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with team members and staff via two‑way radio, phone, and email.
• Foster a welcoming, safe, and engaging environment for guests of all ages across all event areas.

• Provide operational support for various events, programs, and daily activities as directed by the Guest Operations Manager.
• Develop knowledge of the zoo campus and animal collection to engage with guests and enhance training practices for event and daily operations.
• Uphold DZCA’s Occupational Health and Sustainability Policies by following all safety, environmental, and health procedures and standards.

• Other assistance, as designated by the Guest Experience leadership, to support the overall goals of the department and organization. DZCA retains the right to add or change duties and/or responsibilities at any time.
• Demonstrate best practices in collaboration and delivering exceptional guest service to set the standard for division staff.
• Acts as a good steward of DZCA’s resources.
• The nature of this position requires safeguarding against the release of confidential and proprietary information of DZCA.
• This position will have a high level of interaction with managers at all levels and staff members across the organization, in addition to members of external organizations and the public.

• Completion of or in pursuit of a high school degree or equivalent.
• One year of experience in similar events or entertainment management roles, particularly with a focus on event logistics, working in a nonprofit, and a high‑volume guest‑focused venue, is preferred, or any equivalent combination of experience, lived experience, and/or special skills.