Sustainability & Behavior Change Manager

Sustainability & Behavior Change Manager Job Title: Sustainability and Behavior Change Manager Exemption: Exempt Reports to: Vice President of Learning and Impact

DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Sustainability and Behavior Change Manager plays a critical role in advancing our mission by transforming how our organization and guests care for desert ecosystems. This role offers opportunities to innovate, lead cross‑functional initiatives, and contribute to a growing body of work in conservation behavior change within the zoo and aquarium field. The Manager oversees sustainability operations, designs and evaluates evidence‑based behavior change strategies, and works closely with the Learning & Community Engagement Curator and other department managers to ensure the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens mission, vision and messaging are professionally delivered to the public.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Develop and implement a comprehensive sustainability strategy in alignment with the organization's mission and goals. Develop and implement behavior change interventions grounded in theoretical frameworks (e.g., Transtheoretical Model of Behavior Change, Community Based Social Marketing). Identify and assess opportunities for sustainable practices, resource conservation, and waste reduction within the zoo’s operations. Manage the Sustainability and Behavior Change department and its team members. Collaborate and empower staff across departments to integrate sustainable practices and initiatives into their operations and programs. Conduct regular environmental audits and assessments to measure the zoo's ecological impact and translate findings into actionable improvements with clear performance targets. Research and implement sustainable technologies, systems and practices to minimize our carbon footprint and promote environmental stewardship. Engage with staff, volunteers and guests to raise awareness about sustainability initiatives and encourage participation. Develop and deliver training programs to educate employees and stakeholders on sustainable practices and their importance. Stay informed about emerging trends, regulations and best practices in sustainability, and adapt strategies accordingly. Establish partnerships and collaborations with local organizations, government agencies and industry experts to further our sustainability objectives. Prepare and present reports to senior management, demonstrating measurable progress toward waste reduction, energy efficiency and guest behavior‑change outcomes. Lead the use of evaluative tools to ensure effectiveness of sustainability efforts. Manage the budget for the Sustainability Department and related grant‑funded projects. Other duties as assigned. Contribute to desert conservation through reduction of waste, water and energy use, and inspiring guests and team members to take conservation actions.

SPECIFIC SKILLS

Proven experience in sustainability management, including strategy development and implementation. Strong knowledge of environmental principles, practices and regulations. Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to develop and execute innovative solutions. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage and inspire diverse audiences. Demonstrated project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines. Proficient in evaluation methods, data analysis and reporting, with the ability to translate findings into actionable recommendations. Passionate about environmental conservation and sustainability, with a genuine commitment to making a positive impact. Familiarity with effective strategies for behavior change. Strong communication skills to convey information to staff, other departments, volunteers, guests and program participants with enthusiasm. Ability to work well with others in a team atmosphere. Experience managing direct reports is a plus. Excellent written and oral communication skills. Outstanding time‑management and organizational skills. Desire to instill a sense of wonder, respect and stewardship for the world’s desert areas, its inhabitants and ecosystems.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Conservation or a related field (Master’s degree preferred). Valid California driver’s license or eligibility to attain one. Working knowledge of Windows programs and database input; knowledge of budgeting programs (e.g., Adaptive Insight, Sage Intacct).

CONDITIONS OF WORK

Ability to sit, stand and walk for long periods of time. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. Full functional range of motion in all major body joints from reaching, twisting, bending, to fine and gross motor skills.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Office, classrooms and informal learning environment. Off‑site areas monitoring and conducting programs as needed. Outdoors in varying environmental conditions, including extreme heat, humidity and temperature fluctuations typical of desert environments. Salary: $70,304.00/yr #J-18808-Ljbffr Association Of Zoos & Aquariums