Do you want to pursue a Zoo Career?
The zoo industry is full of exciting careers to pursue, such as animal and veterinary care, education, conservation, and research. If you are unsure what path is the right for you, have a look at the BIAZA Careers Guide and at AZA's list of types of zoo jobs.

Photo: Dallas Zoo
What to study?
Depending on the country, there are different education paths you can pursue if you are interested in working in a zoo. Biology, Zoology, Veterinary Science, Animal Behaviour & Welfare are all relevant subjects for a zoo job.
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However, some countries offer very specific courses on the subject. You might be interested in studying one of these if you want to have a zoo specific education.
Aspiring zoo scientist?

Job Vacancies
Zoo Research & Conservation

Director Field Conservation and Science
Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo (Canada)
​This is your opportunity to lead a collaborative team driven to create an impact on national and global conservation initiatives! The Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo is seeking a Director, Field Conservation & Science who will be responsible for overseeing the implementation of field conservation aspects and major initiatives by leading the Conservation & Science branch.
The Director will lead the inclusive planning and expansion of our conservation programs portfolio, including the Wilder Canada Action Plan and the IUCN Centre for Species Survival – Human Dimensions, as well as the review and expansion of our current programs. This role serves as a member of the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo (WICZ) Leadership Team, where in they will collaborate with the Chief Conservation Officer (CCO) and the other WICZ leadership team to shape organizational goals, ensuring that conservation objectives are integrated across the organization’s work. The Director will manage a talented team of conservation professionals, collaborate with external partners, and ensure that Wilder Institute’s work has both local and global impact. This role will act as the key liaison between the Conservation & Science (C&S) branch and other branches within the WICZ, working to build relationships that lead to impactful conservation work.
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Deadline: September 19
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Conservation Programs Coordinator
Dallas Zoo (United States)
​The Conservation Programs Coordinator advances the Dallas Zoo’s mission by leading and supporting local and international field conservation programs. This role ensures that conservation initiatives are effectively planned, organized, and executed to engage staff, volunteers, members, and guests in meaningful actions that contribute to measurable conservation outcomes. The Coordinator manages program logistics, tracks and analyzes data, and collaborates with internal teams and external partners to maximize conservation impact. Additionally, the Coordinator works with the Conservation Culture Coordinator to assess staff engagement and implement tools that strengthen participation and program effectiveness.
SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Lead and coordinate conservation programs and field experiences (local and international) for staff, volunteers, members, and guests, including logistics, training, partnership collaboration, and development of new initiatives.
• Support the planning and implementation of conservation projects and events, providing clear communication and documentation.
• Manage program scheduling, organization, and resources to ensure programs run smoothly and align with conservation goals.
• Provide training for staff, volunteers, and interns to strengthen internal capacity for conservation action.
• Serve as a resource for seasonal conservation program interns.
• Track participation, hours, and outcomes, and maintain accurate reporting to demonstrate conservation impact.
• Collaborate across departments and with external partners to maximize engagement, strengthen partnerships, and advance shared conservation goals.
• Other duties as assigned.
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Conservation Specialist [Vacancy in Spanish]
Fundacion Teimaken (Argentina)
​Responsabilidades:
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Participar en la gestión de líneas de investigación científica en el territorio y desarrollar nuevas líneas cuando sea necesario.
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Participar en la planificación y gestión de Áreas Naturales Protegidas y acciones en el territorio, especialmente en la Reserva Natural Osununú.
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Apoyar el desarrollo de proyectos y la búsqueda de fondos vinculados a la conservación de la biodiversidad, así como su implementación.
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Desarrollar trabajos de campo en proyectos de investigación y conservación en el marco del trabajo de la Fundación.
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Colaborar en el cumplimiento de las líneas estratégicas organizacionales, asegurando la asistencia técnica y el desarrollo de propuestas, reportes, informes técnicos, artículos y publicaciones.
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Facilitar la implementación de un programa de prácticas profesionalizantes/voluntariado con instituciones académicas.
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Desarrollar estrategias y sinergias para el desarrollo del ecoturismo en áreas protegidas.
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Desarrollar, implementar y dictar charlas, cursos y/o talleres de capacitación en temáticas vinculadas a conservación para diferentes actores.
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Organizar y coordinar eventos relacionados con la conservación para cumplir con los objetivos de proyectos específicos
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Generar y fortalecer alianzas con organizaciones de la sociedad civil, la academia y organismos de gobierno para el cumplimiento de las iniciativas de conservación.
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Representar a Fundación Temaikèn y sus proyectos de conservación en ámbitos de articulación e intercambio de saberes.
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Head of Conservation
The Deep (United Kingdom)
​The Deep is a conservation and education charity and public aquarium in the United Kingdom. We are seeking to employ a Head of Conservation. This new role is split into 3 main priority areas (listed below). 50% of the role will be dedicated to areas 1 and 2 with the other 50% delivering area 3: role to support conservation strategies including the IUCN’s One Plan Approach, Assess Plan Act and endeavours in support of capacity building.
1) To oversee the direction and delivery of The Deep’s conservation strategy and outputs, working closely with the Director of Husbandry & Exhibition, CEO and other Senior Managers to; ensure the highest standards of Zoo Licence compliance, develop and guide The Deep’s in-situ and ex-situ conservation efforts, seek funding in support of conservation outputs, produce scientific papers for publication, ensure that formal and informal learning is delivered within the highest quality of relevant and current science across all platforms (exhibition content, events, education, collaborative student projects, outreach, social media).
2) To link The Deep’s outputs with recognised conservation initiatives and priorities including organisations such as the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), developing The Deep’s facilitation. This role will require work based in two physical locations, The Deep and the University of Hull with 50% of time dedicated to each when evened out over the course of a year. It is acknowledged that work will likely fall into blocks of time with the University to facilitate the delivery of Master’s modules and the associated student support. It is also recognised that in addition to physical time on site, aspects of this role may require to be carried out elsewhere for example to engage in training, networking, development of new projects or IUCN based initiatives relevant to this role.
(3) To provide expertise in the design and delivery of a unique Wildlife Conservation Master’s degree course in association with the University of Hull with a strong focus on IUCN principles. This would include lecturing, student support, creation of course content.
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Deadline: September 7
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Reproductive Sciences Research Coordinator
San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance (United States)
​The Research Coordinator I conducts and oversees assigned research and/or training operations in a specialized area of biological and/or social science. This position reports to a Supervisor level or higher in the Conservation Science & Wildlife Health department.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
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Carry out laboratory, diagnostic, educational, or field research projects.
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Assist in the coordination of program-related activities.
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Document, summarize, and analyze data.
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Assist with interpreting research findings and revising procedures as necessary to achieve desired results.
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Assist in the development of research plans, training procedures, and/or engagement tools, as well as the reporting of research activities for grant, permitting and other oversight entities.
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Assist with the care and maintenance of equipment, supplies, and facilities.
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Maintain records and inventory supplies.
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May train and instruct volunteers, students, and community members and internal and external audiences in facility operations, animal/plant care, and research procedures.

Species Survival Officer
The Big Cat Sanctuary (United Kingdom)
​The Big Cat Sanctuary, in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and its Species Survival Commission (SSC), is seeking two Species Survival Officers to support and expand global conservation efforts, specifically with small and big wild cats. Based within the Centre for Species Survival at The Big Cat Sanctuary, these roles will work closely with the IUCN Cat Specialist Group to implement IUCN’s “Assess–Plan–Act” model, to inform and coordinate species conservation priorities through species assessment, planning, and action mobilisation. This is a unique opportunity to engage directly with expert networks, NGOs, government bodies, and conservation specialists to deliver tangible results for cat species conservation.
Key Responsibilities:
• Implement and support conservation assessments, planning, and action projects in line with the Centre’s
work plan
• Coordinate efforts with IUCN SSC groups, external partners, and partners
• Deliver and undertake training in IUCN SSC tools (e.g. Red List, Green Status, Conservation Planning)
• Develop a comprehensive education and training programme for future cat conservation specialists
• Facilitate workshops, campaigns, and partner meetings using best-practice tools
• Promote conservation outcomes through public engagement (e.g. social media, blogs, podcasts)
• Support reporting, data entry, and the Centre’s communication efforts
• Contribute to strategy development, fundraising, and capacity-building
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Deadline: September 14

Assistant Vice President, Animal Welfare
Mandai Wildlife Group (Singapore)
​Job Responsibilities:
Animal Welfare Leadership and Policy Management and Implementation
· Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a science-based MWG animal welfare strategy, integrating the Five Domains model and aligning with EAZA/ZAA/SEAZA accreditation standards.
· Oversight & Governance: Chair and organise the internal animal welfare working group and provide secretarial support for Animal Welfare & Ethics Committee (AWEC), ensuring robust review and endorsement of welfare-related initiatives.
· Policy & Frameworks: Develop and evolve MWG’s Animal Welfare Master Plan, Policy, Operational Standards, and Assessment Frameworks.
· Lead and develop a high-performing team to achieve animal welfare and corporate goals. Provide guidance, coaching, and regular performance feedback to support individual growth and team effectiveness.
Animal Welfare Management
· Cross-departmental Collaboration: Work closely with and support Animal Behaviour and Programmes, Animal Care (Ops), Veterinary Health and other teams to embed welfare principles and practices across operations.
· Training & Capacity Building: Lead staff development in welfare competencies, including welfare assessment, enrichment, behavioural management, and ethical decision-making.
· Monitoring & Reporting: Oversee welfare assessments, audits, and reporting mechanisms to ensure validity, transparency and accountability.
Advancing Animal Welfare Science
· Animal welfare research support and execution: Lead and facilitate research initiatives focused on animal welfare across MWG parks. Ensure alignment with latest animal science, global best practices and contribute to the development of evidence-based welfare practices.
· External organisational collaboration: Develop and foster strong partnerships with key external stakeholders including academic institutions and global zoo networks and access external resources to complement internal resources to advance animal welfare science.
· Presentation and publication of findings and best practices: Disseminate research outcomes and welfare innovations through professional presentations, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications.

Science Fellow - Aquatic behavior (Project hire)
Chester Zoo (United Kingdom)
​Join us as part of a dynamic team where our mission is to Lead Walt Disney Parks and Resorts to Care for animals and the environment, Connect people to nature and Conserve our natural resources. Be a part of a transformative team and culture by working on projects optimizing animal care, health and welfare along with guest experience and messaging. 
As the Aquatic Behavior Science fellow, you will co-lead and project manage scientific studies focused on understanding animal behavior, sensory systems and cognition in the context of applied animal care and welfare, as you collaborate with stakeholders within the Science Operations team to contribute to science-based animal care.
This is a one-year project hire based at Disney’s The Seas with Nemo and Friends®, and you will report to the Science Operations Manager.

Senior Vice President, Chief Animal Welfare Officer
National Aquarium (United States)
​The National Aquarium is seeking a Senior Vice President and Chief Animal Welfare Officer (CAWO) who is responsible for all aspects of animal care and welfare throughout all National Aquarium Operations. The CAWO leads, plans, and holds accountability for the activities of the Animal Care and Welfare (ACW) group, which includes Animal Care, Animal Health & Welfare, Animal Rescue, Dive Programs, Life Support Systems, Dolphin Sanctuary and Scientific Research. Serves as liaison between ACW and all other departments. Represents the National Aquarium at multiple levels, including professional associations, government agencies (local, national, and international), Board committees and media. Is responsible for the integration and enhancement of animal care and welfare research activities across departments.
The CAWO works at a peer level with the Chief Operating & Financial Officer (COFO) to coordinate efforts between these teams and the Aquarium’s Guest Experience, Planning and Design, and Operations teams. Leads a team of 90+professionals in developing and managing an annual operating budget of $8.5 million plus a robust program of capital projects ranging from minor maintenance and repairs to multimillion-dollar capital projects.
In addition to operational responsibilities, the CAWO holds leadership responsibility for advancing the National Aquarium’s Dolphin Sanctuary project, which envisions moving the Aquarium’s colony of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins to the world’s first oceanwater dolphin sanctuary by 2028. Among other factors, this includes supporting or leading facility planning, moving and acclimation training, fundraising, talent development and governmental permitting.
As a member of the Leadership Team, the CAWO actively participates in organization-wide policy decisions, strategic planning, fundraising strategy, Board relations, resource allocation and representation of the National Aquarium mission and brand. Peers include Chiefs of Strategy, Mission, Operations/Finance and Philanthropy.

Director, Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes
Lincoln Park Zoo (United States)
​Lincoln Park Zoo is seeking a full-time Director to lead the Lester E. Fisher Center for the Study and Conservation of Apes. The Fisher Center conducts innovative, multidisciplinary research to deepen our understanding of primate behavior, biology, and cognition, enhance the welfare and management of apes in human care, and support the conservation of wild chimpanzee and gorilla populations.
Reporting to the Vice President of Conservation and Science, the Director will provide strategic and visionary leadership, overseeing all aspects of the center’s operations while serving as an ambassador for the Fisher Center across the scientific, zoological, and conservation communities. This work includes leading research initiatives, fostering internal and external collaborations, ensuring scientific integrity, and cultivating partnerships that extend the reach and impact of the center’s work. The Director will maintain and grow the zoo’s longstanding relationship with its conservation partner, Congo-Apes while overseeing various long-term projects, such as our behavioral monitoring and touchscreen programs and Project ChimpCARE.

Science Manager
European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (the Netherlands)
​As Science Manager, you are charged with leading a small team with whom you collectively provide anessential contribution to the success of the Association’s scientific activities. As Manager of the ScienceTeam, you are responsible for overseeing the activities of the EAZA Veterinary Committee and the EAZAResearch Committee, including on nutrition, biobanking and cryopreservation, and reproductive biology. Inyour role you will work together with other members of the EEO including the Population ManagementCentre and the Animal Programme and Conservaton coordinators overseeing health and welfare activities.The EAZA Research Standards and the veterinary standards outlined in the EAZA Standards for the WelfareAccommodation Management of animals are key documents under your supervision and theirimplementation and progression are among you and your team’s key priorities. As part of your role, you willalso manage the publication of the Journal of Zoo and Aquarium Research (JZAR) and maintain relationshipswith relevant stakeholders in particular universities and other scientific partner organisations.
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Deadline: September 4

Species Survival Officer - Orchids
Center for Species Survival - Wilhelma Zoologisch-Botanischer Garten (Germany)
Responsibilities:
– Acting as a catalyst to advance agreed priorities in orchid species assessments (for inclusion on both the IUCN Red List and Green Status, tracking extinction risk and species recovery potential). This could include, for example,
Conducting species specific background research
Researching and composing assessments for priority species
Acting as a reviewer of assessments before publication
Striving to align national and international assessment processes for the Red List and the inclusion of priority species
– Facilitating or supporting species conservation planning for priority species, or species groups, with key partners across in situ and ex situ populations, utilising an IUCN SSC One Plan Approach.
– Contributing to communication, capacity or networking efforts to grow awareness and engagement in aspects of orchid conservation locally, regionally or globally.
– Helping to mobilize shared conservation action priorities for orchids with key partner communities.
– Writing proposals, reports and scientific papers
– Leading multi-stakeholder workshops and meetings, both in person and using virtual platforms
– Networking between the Wilhelma Team, the SSC Chair’s Office and other stakeholders
– Promoting the partnership between the Wilhelma and the IUCN SSC /IUCN Red List: Delivering various media and conference opportunities for the general public, the IUCN SSC and wider conserva tion community.
– Participating in and completing with the required score the training and education through the IUCN SSC, IUCN Red List, the Conservation Planning Specialist Group (CPSG) and others
– Taking on additional tasks as required
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Deadline: September 20

Species Survival Officer - Reptiles
Center for Species Survival - Wilhelma Zoologisch-Botanischer Garten (Germany)
Responsibilities:
– Acting as a catalyst to advance agreed priorities in reptile species assessments (for inclusion on both the IUCN Red List and Green Status, tracking extinction risk and species recovery potential). This could include, for example,
Conducting species specific background research
Researching and composing assessments for priority species
Acting as a reviewer of assessments before publication
Striving to align national and international assessment processes for the Red List and the inclusion of priority species
– Facilitating or supporting species conservation planning for priority species, or species groups, with key partners across in situ and ex situ populations, utilising an IUCN SSC One Plan Approach.
– Contributing to communication, capacity or networking efforts to grow awareness and engagement in aspects of reptile conservation locally, regionally or globally.
– Helping to mobilize shared conservation action priorities for reptiles with key partner communities.
– Writing proposals, reports and scientific papers
– Leading multi-stakeholder workshops and meetings, both in person and using virtual platforms
– Networking between the Wilhelma Team, the SSC Chair’s Office and other stakeholders
– Promoting the partnership between the Wilhelma and the IUCN SSC /IUCN Red List: Delivering various media and conference opportunities for the general public, the IUCN SSC and wider conserva tion community.
– Participating in and completing with the required score the training and education through the IUCN SSC, IUCN Red List, the Conservation Planning Specialist Group (CPSG) and others
– Taking on additional tasks as required.
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Deadline: September 20

Senior Manager of Animal Health & Welfare (Veterinarian)
Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary (Sierra Leone, West Africa)
TCS is currently seeking a full-time Senior Manager of Animal Health & Welfare (Veterinarian) to oversee the health and welfare of over 120 resident chimpanzees in alignment with the highest standards of care.
The Senior Manager of Animal Health & Welfare leads and coordinates the Veterinary and Animal Welfare Departments. Responsibilities include direct oversight of chimpanzee health, supervision of the animal care team, coordination of interns, volunteers, and researchers, and involvement in general sanctuary operations, including infrastructure, staff management, and administrative duties.
This position reports to the Operations Manager and Programme Director and liaises closely with the Head of Maintenance and Camp Supervisor.

Chief Animal Conservation Officer
Shedd Aquarium (United States)
Shedd Aquarium is seeking a strategic and visionary Chief Animal Conservation Officer (CACO) to lead the organization’s animal husbandry, conservation research, and animal health efforts. The CACO will be a key member of Shedd’s Executive Leadership Team, shaping and executing initiatives aligned with the Centennial Commitment—Shedd’s bold strategic plan for impact and growth.
This role requires a dynamic leader with a deep understanding of animal operations and conservation, a proven record of executive leadership, and the ability to build strong, collaborative teams across departments. The CACO will drive innovation, elevate care standards, and represent Shedd’s mission across diverse scientific, public, and policy arenas.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
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Provide visionary leadership across animal care, animal health, and conservation research departments.
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Drive strategic initiatives and organizational priorities in alignment with Shedd’s Centennial Commitment.
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Develop and support high-performing teams with a focus on collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
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Ensure the highest standards of animal well-being, including continuity of care and guest engagement.
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Represent Shedd Aquarium to external audiences, funders, national and international partners, and scientific bodies.
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Oversee complex resource planning, including staffing, budgeting, and long-term sustainability goals.
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Advance Shedd’s visibility and influence in regional, national, and international conservation networks.

Wildlife Conservation Coordinator
Oregon Zoo (United States)
Be the catalyst that transforms wildlife conservation in the Pacific Northwest. As the Oregon Zoo's Wildlife Conservation Coordinator reporting to the Conservation Manager, you'll harness our unique platform to secure vital funding, shape influential policy, and forge powerful partnerships that directly protect endangered species. This rare opportunity puts you at the intersection of public engagement and tangible conservation impact, where your strategic vision will mobilize communities, advance participatory science, and create collaborative solutions between community partners and conservation experts.
Join us to amplify the Oregon Zoo's conservation legacy while pioneering innovative approaches that connect people with nature and inspire meaningful action for wildlife.
As the Wildlife Conservation Coordinator, you will
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Research, identify and support government grant management for species recovery and other conservation programs.
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Identify and support opportunities for ESG (Environment, Sustainability and Governance) partnerships and coordinate tours and relationship-building initiatives in support of the Oregon Zoo Foundation’s conservation fundraising efforts.
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Identify and coordinate opportunities to mobilize public action for wildlife, including outreach campaigns, participatory science and private landowner initiatives.
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Work with agency and non-profit partners to identify shared conservation priorities in the Pacific Northwest, and coordinate with zoo and Metro departments to leverage resources to advance those priorities through ongoing programs and campaigns.
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Represent the Oregon Zoo within Pacific Northwest conservation coalitions and events.
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Develop and deliver presentations to make a case for supporting Oregon Zoo conservation efforts and elevate Oregon Zoo’s conservation brand.
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Coordinate state and regional policy efforts in support of wildlife conservation priorities, including public-facing campaigns, advocacy, legislative and relationship-building efforts.

