Sustainability Coordinator

Detroit Zoo•Royal Oak, MI

34d•Onsite

About The Position

Do you dream big and have the motivation to make your ideas come to life? Are you able to set aside your ego in place of a larger mission: to effect healing in both our environmental and social communities? Are you able to manage multiple tasks, encounter roadblocks in a systematic manner, and still maintain an optimistic outlook? If you said yes to each of these questions, then you may be a good fit for the Sustainability Coordinator role with the Detroit Zoological Society. The Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) prides itself in creating meaningful connections between people, animals, and the natural world so all can thrive. As one of the cornerstones of the organization, the Sustainability Department plays a pivotal role in upholding and advancing the organization's strategic vision. We are committed to ensuring everything we do pursues excellence in four areas: People, Animals, Environment, and Resources. The Sustainability Coordinator will assist the Manager of Sustainability in developing and implementing the DZS's environmental strategies for Campus Sustainability, Community Impact, and the Great Lakes. Primary responsibilities include supporting the Zoo's operations, implementing systems-based management plans, contributing to project design, implementing initiatives and programs, pursuing extramural funding, nurturing partnerships, preparing internal and external communications, engaging the community through intentional programming, planning events, and conducting technical research. As a member of the Sustainability Department, it is imperative to balance specialization in one system (e.g. energy, waste, water, storm water, etc.) with the daily requirements of being a generalist. We provide technical expertise to each department and help each team to achieve their respective goals while ensuring our impacts are minimized and, more importantly, to effect healing in the natural environment. This role requires a team player with exceptional strengths in collaboration and communication (verbal, written, graphics, presentation). The right candidate will have knowledge of best management practices and approach tasks through a lens of systems-thinking. Department activities are on an upward trend as we complete a strategic Conservation + Sustainability Impact Strategic Framework, continue to refine our operations and monitoring programs, and advance the implementation of our systems' management plans. Responsibilities range from office work such as high-level planning to fieldwork requiring you to get covered in animal manure at the anaerobic digestor or waste from a waste audit.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Sustainable Systems, Environmental Sciences, Landscape Architecture, Engineering or other related field.
Minimum of two (2) years of related work experience required.
Proven experience in a systems-based role.
Strong understanding of systems-thinking, best management practices, and circular economy strategies.
Proficient with standard office software programs, such as Microsoft (e.g. Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or Google (e.g. Docs, Sheets, Slides).
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, written, and presentation communication skills (a sample of written or presentation works may be requested).
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Ability to meet deadlines and work in a timely manner.
Creative, enthusiastic, and detail oriented.
A systems-thinker who can communicate their ideas in a professional setting.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree is desired.
Proficiency in software applications: ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar graphics and data management software.
Interest in non-profit experience is desired.
Leadership experience in a team or group setting.
Knowledge of natural systems and processes.

Responsibilities

Assist the Manager of Sustainability in developing and implementing specific initiatives towards achieving our vision as a Net Zero / Net Positive facility.
Assist DZS departments by researching sustainability best practices and development of systems-based management plans.
Manage tasks or small projects within each of the systems-based management plans.
Assist in the implementation of grant-funded projects, with priority to implementing our first phase of our Road to Zero Waste: Recycling Infrastructure.
Co-manage the back-of-house waste diversion area and conduct regular inspections of waste service equipment.
Monitor utility data and coordinate with service providers.
Perform fieldwork duties, such as waste audits, landscaping, and community service projects.
Expand geospatial mapping of systems in ArcGIS.
Develop educational materials for DZS team members, volunteers, vendors, guests, and the community.
Assist in public engagement, including planning and facilitating sustainability-driven events or specific initiatives within Zoo events.
Assist in pursuing grant funding, including documentation, technical writing, and graphic development.
Coordinate with vendors, partners, guests, and community stakeholders.
Communicate with outside parties interested in learning about our systems and processes.
Additional projects and duties to be assigned.