Vice President of Conservation and Education

The deadline to apply for this job has passed.

Organization

Zoo Knoxville

Job Posted

February 23, 2026

Job status

Job Category

Job Type

Job Duration

Job Compensation Type

Remote

No

Contact Name

Jessica Hurley

Contact Email

zkhr@zooknoxville.org

Contact Phone

865-281-1346

Deadline to Apply

Location

3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr
Knoxville, TN
United States
Zoo Knoxville is seeking a collaborative, forward-thinking leader with deep experience in
education and conservation program development and engagement, revenue
generation, and a strong commitment to aligning strategy, impact, and mission to serve
as Vice President of Education and Conservation. This leader will provide strategic and
visionary leadership for all education and conservation initiatives at Zoo Knoxville and
will lead a multidisciplinary team, guide the development of innovative programs both on
and off Zoo grounds, and shape how guests connect with our mission to save wildlife
and wild places—positioning Zoo Knoxville as a leader in conservation education locally
and beyond.

Summary

The Vice President of Education and Conservation provides strategic and visionary
leadership for all education and conservation initiatives at Zoo Knoxville. This position
leads a talented, multidisciplinary team of educators and conservation professionals to
design, implement, and evaluate innovative programs and experiences that engage
guests, strengthen community partnerships, and advance the Zoo’s mission.
The Vice President serves as a member of the Zoo’s senior leadership team and plays
a key role in shaping the guest experience, driving programmatic growth, and
positioning Zoo Knoxville as a leader in conservation education locally, regionally,
nationally, and globally.


The Vice President of Education and Conservation will be an active ambassador for Zoo
Knoxville, building relationships with community leaders, schools, conservation
organizations, and supporters. This position requires a dynamic leader who can inspire
teams, engage audiences, and promote Zoo Knoxville’s mission with passion and
purpose.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in education, conservation, biology, environmental science, or
    related field required; advanced degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in informal education,
    conservation engagement, or related leadership roles.
  • Demonstrated success in developing and implementing large-scale education or
    conservation initiatives.
  • Proven leadership, organizational, communication, and motivational skills.
  • Experience in grant writing, fundraising, and partnership development.
  • Ability to work collaboratively across departments and with diverse community
    partners.
  • Strong understanding of AZA standards and best practices preferred.
     

Learn more and apply here: https://www.zooknoxville.org/careers/

Compensation Information

$100k-$120k annual salary. Benefits include health, life, dental, vision, HSA, and 401k.