Sustainability & Behavior Change Manager

LIVING DESERT DBA THE LIVING DESERT•Palm Desert, CA

27d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Sustainability and Behavior Change Manager plays a critical role in advancing our mission by transforming how our organization, and our guests, care for desert ecosystems. This is a unique opportunity to shape both operational sustainability and human behavior in a dynamic, mission-driven environment. This role offers opportunities to innovate, lead cross-functional initiatives, and contribute to a growing body of work in conservation behavior change within the zoo and aquarium field. The Sustainability and Behavior Change manager oversees sustainability operations of the zoo and designing and evaluating evidence-based behavior change strategies that inspire sustainable actions among staff, volunteers, and guests. Reporting to the Vice President of Learning and Impact and working closely with the Learning & Community Engagement Curator and other department managers to ensure The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens mission, vision and messaging are professionally delivered to the public.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Conservation, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
Valid California driver’s license or the eligibility to attain one.
Working knowledge in Window programs and data base input; Knowledge in budgeting programs i.e. Adaptive Insight and Sage Intacct
Ability to sit, stand and walk for long periods of time
Ability to lift and carry up to 50lbs
Full functional range of motion in all major body joints from reaching, twisting, bending, simple and power gripping, fine and gross motor skills

Nice To Haves

Experience managing direct reports a plus.
We recognize that candidates may bring a wide range of experiences to this role. If you are passionate about sustainability and behavior change and meet many—but not all—of the qualifications, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement a comprehensive sustainability strategy in alignment with the organization's mission and goals.
Develop and implement behavior change interventions grounded in theoretical frameworks (e.g., Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change, Community Based Social Marketing).
Identify and assess opportunities for sustainable practices, resource conservation, and waste reduction within the zoo’s operations.
Manages the Sustainability and Behavior Change department team members
Collaborate and empower staff across departments to integrate sustainable practices and initiatives into their operations and programs.
Conduct regular environmental audits and assessments to measure the zoo's ecological impact and translate findings into actionable improvements with clear performance targets.
Research and implement sustainable technologies, systems, and practices to minimize our carbon footprint and promote environmental stewardship.
Engage with staff, volunteers, and guests to raise awareness about sustainability initiatives and encourage participation.
Develop and deliver training programs to educate employees and stakeholders on sustainable practices and their importance.
Stay informed about emerging trends, regulations, and best practices in sustainability, and adapt strategies accordingly.
Establish partnerships and collaborations with local organizations, government agencies, and industry experts to further our sustainability objectives.
Prepare and present reports to senior management, demonstrating measurable progress toward waste reduction, energy efficiency, and guest behavior change outcomes.
Effectively lead team in use of evaluative tools to ensure effectiveness of sustainability efforts.
Manages budget for the Sustainability Department and related grant funded projects.
Other duties as assigned.
Contributes to desert conservation through reduction of waste, water and energy use, and inspiring guests and team members to take conservation actions.