Public Relations Conservation Specialist

As a national leader in conservation, and a top tourist destination for Indiana, working at the Indianapolis Zoo as a Public Relations Conservation Specialist is an exciting, mission-driven opportunity. Currently the Public Relations Department has a full-time position for a PR professional who is passionate about conservation and saving species worldwide. 

The Indianapolis Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country that does not receive direct government or tax support. The Zoo relies on donors, sponsors, philanthropy and the community to complete its mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. One of the Zoo’s most high-profile conservation efforts is the Indianapolis Prize, the world’s leading award for animal conservation, which since its inception has awarded more than $5 million, and in 2020 alone, stories of the prize reached more than 2.6 billion people globally.

This role will work closely and intimately with the Indianapolis Prize, helping draw attention to the work of leading animal conservationists in the field, by using social media networking sites, press releases, media relations and more. This individual will also be responsible for managing the PR Agency on contract for the Indianapolis Prize, managing the Pet Pals content, and showcasing the zoo’s conservation stories locally and globally.

The successful candidate must have writing experience in either a professional or academic setting and excellent communication skills. Professional experience in working for or with the media preferred, preferably both. Must have excellent communication skills, including in written and verbal presentations. Must be detailed oriented and computer literate, have experience in photography, video, editing and social media management and content development. A minimum of three to five years of professional experience required in public relations or related field. This is a full-time, 40 hr./week, position that may work evening, weekend, and holiday shifts, depending on events. 

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a criminal history and driving record check, and a drug test. The Indianapolis Zoo is requiring all Zoo employees and volunteers to be Covid-19 vaccinated unless individuals require a medical or religious belief accommodation. If hired, vaccination must be completed prior to first working day or accommodation request must be approved prior to first working day. 

The Indianapolis Zoo offers a competitive benefits package to all eligible (full-time/40 hr./week ) employees. Benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance; 403(b) Retirement Plan, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), Immediate Paid Holidays, and a complimentary Zoo membership for employees.

The Indianapolis Zoo is proud to be a Drug-Free/Smoke-Free/Child-Safe/Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE) Work Environment.