ABOUT THE ROLE

This 6-month contract Project Officer position manages the coordination of ZAA’s recently acquired Federal Government grant to support zoos, aquariums and wildlife parks upscale biosecurity to help protect Australian native species.

The role includes coordination and oversight of the various aspects of the project including planning, execution and monitoring to ensure project goals are achieved within budget and timeline, acting as a liaison between stakeholders and facilitating communication to achieve successful project outcomes.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Project planning and task management. Development of project planning tools to support activity progress and progress tracking.
• Stakeholder management. Effective communication and coordination across project stakeholders including zoos, aquariums, government contacts, conservation committee and any relevant third-party consultants.
• Asset development. Development of communication, check lists, reporting templates etc as stipulated in the approved project plan.
• Project progress tracking. Track project performance against the approved project plan activity schedule, identifying challenges and deviations from the plan and taking corrective action.
• Project reporting. Project reporting as per grant guidelines and government reporting requirements.
• Budget and funds allocation tracking. Awareness of project budget, and in conjunction with manager ensure expenditure is allocated accurately and in line with the approved financial plan.
• Project documentation. Maintain comprehensive project documentation as an accurate record of project implementation.

ABOUT YOU

To be successful in this role you must have strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Additionally, the following skills and competencies are required:

• 2-3 years’ experience in project management and implementation
• Strong written and interpersonal communication skills
• Demonstrated experience managing stakeholders in a complex environment
• Ability to manage cost allocations for spend and budget tracking
• Strong organisation skills and management of competing priorities
• Demonstrated capability to take initiative
• Strong attention to detail
• Proficient with Microsoft Office suite including excel and power point

ABOUT US

As a peak body, the Zoo and Aquarium Association Australasia (ZAA) represents the collective voice of the zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries and wildlife parks across Australasia that operate to the highest standards.

ZAA and our members lead over 100 breeding programs in support of conservation and threatened species recovery, including active contribution to threatened species recovery around the world.

We have a progressive, science-based approach to animal welfare. Using the Five Domains Model, ZAA grants accreditation to zoos and aquariums that have clearly demonstrated their commitment to positive welfare. This approach champions welfare from the animal’s perspective and it underpins all that we do.

As an association, we bring our members together, facilitating shared knowledge and continuous improvement in conservation, welfare, biosecurity, science, research, social and community programs.

ZAA is a positive and motivated for purpose organisation, with a high impact culture which genuinely celebrates inclusivity and diversity. ZAA enjoys a contemporary working environment based onsite at Taronga Zoo and supports hybrid working arrangements. Whilst candidates with a Sydney location are preferable, consideration will also be given to those from other locations in Australia.

If you think this is the ideal opportunity for you, please apply ASAP. ZAA will be interviewing shortlisted candidates on an ongoing basis.