Sustainability Coordinator (Full Time)

The Sustainability Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the development, implementation, monitoring and measurement of strategies and initiatives that drive the environmental and sustainable achievements of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium. This position cultivates cross-functional collaborations with internal and external partners to implement and advance sustainable goals. The Sustainability Coordinator helps shape and expand sustainability programs and accelerate climate action. 

• The Kanas City Zoo & Aquarium completed a comprehensive Pathway to NetZero in 2023.
• This plan outlines the Zoo & Aquarium’s carbon neutrality goals and steps to achieve these goals.
• The Sustainability Coordinator will have the opportunity to help shape and expand this new program and existing programs, including continuous improvement, identifying new opportunities to advance sustainability and accelerate climate action. 
• We are looking for someone who enjoys and can strategically navigate complex topics.
• Competitive candidates will not only be passionate about climate action and environmental preservation but will also be committed to environmental equity and justice and understanding the importance of inclusive programing.

POSITION DUTIES & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Duties

Percentage

• Implementation, coordination, and progression of sustainability initiatives and Pathway to NetZero plan:
• Serve as a point of contact for the Zoo & Aquarium on its sustainability programs.
• Identify and steer new sustainable initiatives while fostering existing sustainable and climate action programing.
• Coordinate and submit for rebates, incentives, and applicable grant opportunities across all departments.
• Coordination and reporting of all Green House Gas inventory and utility data.
• Assist with scheduling, monitoring, and escorting contractors on grounds.
• Monitor the Zoo’s automated controls systems throughout the campus. Systems include heating, cooling, and lighting.
• Review and monitor Zoo utility usage to find opportunities for higher efficiency.
• Contribute to institutional reporting obligations.
• 70%
• Promote a positive, rewarding, and productive culture that enhances awareness and knowledge of sustainable practices:
• Invite employee participation, encourage sustainable behaviors, and establish sustainability as an important cultural norm.
• Support leadership with input and data to make the best organizational decisions to move toward and achieve our goals.
• Engage in written communication, live interviews, lead tours and public speaking engagement opportunities as they arise.
• Act as an institutional representative in professional organizations.
• Build and maintain relationships with all internal and external program partners.
• Assist with the Zoo’s Employee Green Practices Committee and the committee’s initiatives.
• Participate in and promote Zoo wide programing to catalyze systemic and sustained change.
• 25%
• Assist with facilitating and implementing the mission, strategic plan, and core values of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
• 5%
• This position may at times be requested to perform other duties or special projects as assigned, which are in the best interest of the Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium.
• All employees must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily and, upon request, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION & FORMAL TRAINING:

• Course work and training in sustainability, conservation, natural resource management, required.
• A degree or certificate in conservation, natural resource management, or related field is desired, but experience and course work can be considered in lieu of a degree.

EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of two years of experience that demonstrates an understanding of sustainability, climate action, and/or regenerative organizations.
• A minimum of two years of experience that demonstrates an advanced understanding of the theory and practice around sustainable systems, climate mitigation, adaptation, and resilience.
• Demonstrated experience leading sustainability initiatives at an organization or community level.
• Working knowledge of greenhouse gas inventories and data tracking practices.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local funding opportunities such as IRA, CPRG and commercial rebate and incentive programs.
• Proficient in computer programs. Excel, Microsoft Word, and Building Automation Systems
• Strong organizational skills, including demonstrated experience in handling multiple complex projects and consistently meeting deadlines.
• Ability to think critically, problem solve, and troubleshoot issues.
• Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills

OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• This is an active and dynamic role that will require employees to be in a stationary position for extended periods of time, move around to complete job duties, and move up to 50 pounds with or without assistance. Assistance depending upon task or role.  
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and evening hours.
• Must pass a background and drug screening.
• Must have or be able to obtain negative TB test.