Events Set-up and Operations Coordinator

Position Title:

Event Set Up & Operations Coordinator

Administration/Events

Director of Events

Full-Time

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

At Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
• Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
• Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
• AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

The Event Set Up & Operations Coordinator oversees and maintains the cleanliness and readiness of venue spaces, services and maintains the event inventory of equipment, effects, tools and vehicles, coordinates and executes event set ups/breakdowns, and coordinates the operational needs of all of the Zoo’s event programming.

Execute the setup/breakdown and operational needs of internal, public, and private events including but not limited to:

• Create and execute a timeline based on best times for set up/breakdown factoring in daily Zoo operations, type of event, weather forecast etc.
• Verify that event set up/breakdown is on schedule and venues/events are ready in time
• Troubleshoot equipment, venue, or material issues as they arise
• Confirm and assist with set-up and breakdown of event audio‑visual equipment
• Serve as load in/out contact for outside vendors including providing any power, equipment or material needs promised to vendor

Maintain Event Department Materials/Venues including but not limited to:

• Conduct routine inspections and inventories of equipment and facilities and note discrepancies/damages when applicable and report major repair needs to appropriate departments.
• Maintain service log and complete minor repairs on event supplies such as tables, chairs, inflatables, machines and special effects etc. Recommend replacement when applicable
• Maintain clean and orderly event storage facilities
• Use best practices to protect equipment and minimize damage and replacement costs
• Serve as safety supervisor for all event activities, using best protocols to maintain the safety of guests, staff, and animal collection.
• Execute exceptional customer service for both private clients and public event guests and serve as client “day of” contact or event day lead when needed
• Work with event department and other staff to grow and improve zoo event offerings, participate in planning and brainstorming sessions, and conduct research, procurement, and building of props and materials
• Delegate daily task assignments to Event Setup Technicians and coordinate schedules where needed to provide full event coverage.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance
• Maintain professional conduct at all times and consistently model the organization’s values in all interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders.

• Ability to self‑direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.
• Ability to maintain professionalism in high stress situations
• Must be energetic, result and detail oriented, with strong organizational and analytical skills
• Must represent the Zoo in a positive manner at all…