Event Planner Intern - Association of Zoos and Aquariums

The Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, education, science, and recreation. AZA represents more than 252 facilities in the United States and overseas, which collectively draw more than 200 million visitors every year. AZA hosts multiple in-person conferences and professional development courses a year.

Job Summary:
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Meeting Planner Intern to assist our team in the planning and execution of various meetings, conferences, and events. This internship offers a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the event planning industry. The intern will work closely with experienced meeting planners and contribute to all phases of event management, from initial planning to post-event evaluation.

The position is a part-time (twenty-four hours a week) role for 12 weeks in June, July and August. The work environment is hybrid, with two days in the AZA office in Silver Spring, MD, and one day remote (must provide own internet access). Pay is $17.50 per hour before taxes. No employee benefits provided, other than holiday pay on July 4. Use of laptop will be provided.

Responsibilities:

• Logistics and Coordination:

• Assist in coordinating meeting logistics, including the planning of room setup, catering, and audiovisual requirements.

• Assist in updating event databases and spreadsheets.

• Administrative Support:

• Respond to atendee inquiries via email and phone.

• Maintain accurate event records and documentation.

• Conduct research on venues, technology, vendors, and event trends.

• Event Marketing and Promotion:

• Help creating event correspondence and promotional materials.

• Assist in managing event registration and atendee lists.

• Post-Event Evaluation:

• Assist in gathering and analyzing atendee feedback.

• Help prepare post-event reports and evaluations.

• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a college or university program in hospitality management, event planning, communications, marketing, or a related field.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Detail-oriented and able to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

• A positive attitude and a willingness to learn.

• Interest in the event planning industry.

Benefits:

• Gain hands-on experience in the event planning industry.

• Opportunity to work with experienced meeting planners.

• Develop valuable skills in event logistics, coordination, and management.

• Networking opportunities with industry professionals.

• AZA offers a positive work environment conducive to gaining beneficial career and networking experience. AZA will support the intern in obtaining college credit for this internship if desired and will strive to coordinate the internship schedule with the college schedule.

Salary

$17.50 per hour before taxes

How to Apply

To Apply:
Please submit your resume and cover letter to Melissa Howerton, SVP Member Services, at mhowerton@aza.org.