Coordinator, Public Relations

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is seeking a Coordinator, Public Relations to join the Communications team. This role supports AZA’s communication strategy through writing, editing and distributing content for communications and media relations purposes. This role contributes to the awareness of AZA through media outreach, collaboration with member facilities and storytelling. This
position ensures content aligns with organizational priorities, editorial standards and accessibility practices. This position works closely with members of all departments within AZA.

This position is based in our Silver Spring, MD headquarters and reports to the Vice President, Communications This position is eligible for a hybrid schedule with a minimum of 2 days per week in the office.

Responsibilities

• Works with the Vice President, Communications to develop and execute the association’s public relations strategy, designed to support the association’s strategic goals, through media relations, communications and storytelling

• Provides media-related support to the Vice President, Communications and other AZA staff, including responding to media inquiries and writing and distributing media materials

• Builds, maintains and updates targeted media distribution lists

• Monitors and responds to media inquiries, coordinating with the Vice President, Communications and connecting media personnel with appropriate subject matter experts within AZA and at member institutions

• Provides media support for on-site media opportunities

• Creates national and statewide pitch opportunities for media coverage to highlight AZA and member facility collaborations

• Utilizes multiple editorial calendars across multiple content streams to organize workflows, assign tasks, and maintain project timelines

• Works with other departments and vendors on the development of collateral materials for communications initiatives and organizes distribution to AZA members

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 suite

• Demonstrated skills in the use of internet applications, databases, and CRM tools (Excel and NetForum preferred) to gather and analyze data. Knowledge in working with a web-based content management system, as well as websites such as Bonterra, Constant Contact, Survey Monkey, etc.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a high level of customer service.

• Creative problem solver with superior organizational skills, analytical abilities, strong attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple projects.

• Self-motivated and able to work independently.

• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment while meeting deadlines.

• Skilled in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with staff, members, and vendors.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to collect, organize, analyze, and disseminate significant amounts of information with attention to detail and accuracy.

• Demonstrated good judgment and strong decision-making skills.

• Ability to travel required

To apply, please submit a cover letter along with your resume.

The salary for this role is $55,162. AZA considers a candidate’s previous experience, skills, education, and relevant qualifications, as well as internal consistency with salaries of current employees when making employment offers.

AZA offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to health insurance options, life and disability insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan. To encourage work/life balance, AZA also offers a variety of paid time off plans including vacation, sick, and personal time; holidays; and parental leave. AZA also offers hybrid work schedules and flexible work weeks for eligible positions. We regularly review our benefits to ensure they remain competitive and responsive to employee feedback.