Temporary Events Captain - Fall

Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance•Denver, CO

3d•$20 - $24•Onsite

About The Position

Join Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) as a Temporary Events Captain for Fall 2026. This role is crucial in creating unforgettable, entertainment-driven events for the community and guests, supporting seasonal experiences like Wild Fall and Zoo Lights, and contributing to the Zoo's mission. You will be part of a high-energy team, planning, coordinating, and implementing major on-campus events. This 16-week temporary assignment involves up to 40 hours per week, with a focus on Fall Activations. The position is budgeted through November 2026 and offers hands-on experience with a beloved institution.

Requirements

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 high-volume guest-focused venue, is preferred, or any equivalent combination of experience, lived experience, and/or special skills.
Familiarity with event production, including scheduling, logistics, vendor coordination, and on-site execution.
Proven ability to deliver excellent guest service in a high-traffic, public-facing environment.
Confident communicator with dynamic public speaking skills and the ability to engage guests, peers, and leadership across multiple platforms (email, phone, radio).
Able to make sound, safety-conscious decisions in fast-paced and crowded settings.
Familiarity with audio-visual equipment and baseline technical troubleshooting.
Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite, with working knowledge of purchasing and asset tracking systems.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.
Adaptable team player who thrives in dynamic environments and remains calm under pressure.
Must be at least 21 years of age.
Must possess a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
Ability to pass a background check and a pre-employment drug and alcohol screen.
Ability to lift to 50 lbs.
Must be able to walk (80 acres) and/or stand up to 8 hours daily in adverse outdoor conditions such as cold, rain, snow, or heat.
Must be able to work a flexible schedule to include weekdays, weekends, evenings, and holidays.

Nice To Haves

Experienced in large-scale event operations or logistics
Experienced in on-your-feet theatrical production
Energetic and adaptable in a fast-paced, guest-focused setting
Safety-conscious, detail-oriented, and collaborative
Excited about working evenings, weekends, and outdoors

Responsibilities

Assist with the setup and teardown of event-specific décor and assets.
Work directly with actors and performers.
Coordinate with contractors, vendors, and staff.
Support large-scale production logistics.
Work evening and weekend events to ensure an exceptional guest experience.
Collaborate with Entertainment Managers, Coordinators, Guest Experiences Leads, and the institutional events team to support event development and execution 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 Entertainment 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.
Provide other assistance, as designated by Entertainment leadership, to support the overall goals of the department and organization.
Demonstrate best practices in collaboration and delivering exceptional guest service to set the standard for division staff.
Act as a good steward of DZCA’s resources.
Safeguard against the release of confidential and proprietary information of DZCA.
Interact with managers at all levels and staff members across the organization, as well as members of external organizations and the public.