Cultivation & Stewardship Specialist ZU

Cultivation & Stewardship Specialist ZU

Salary

$22.40 Hourly

Location

517 Court Place, Louisville, KY 40202, KY

Job Type

Full_Time

Job Number

15767

Department

Zoo

Opening Date

07/16/2026

Closing Date

7/22/2026 11:59 PM Eastern

• Description
• Benefits
• Questions

Description

Summary Objective -

The Donor Cultivation & Stewardship Specialist position at the Louisville Zoo reports to the Major Gift Officer and is a critical role in the team approach to stewarding gifts along a continuum from new donors, to sustaining donors, to major donors. This role is responsible for maintaining and enhancing relationships with existing and prospective donors to promote continued and increased giving.

Examples of Duties

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Corresponds with individual donors up to $1,199, sponsors, foundations or other critical relationships as assigned via calls, meetings and written documentation to thank them for their gifts/donations and provides updates on the impact of their giving. Correspondences would be aligned with (but not limited to): restricted/unrestricted gifts, capital projects, endowment, planned gifts, events, annual operating funds, education programs and special projects.
• Implements a Moves Management Plan for individuals donating between $500 and $999 to encourage participation in the Louisville Zoo Sustainer Society. This plan includes a goal of at least 20% of assigned donors moving to the Sustainer Society in a 12-month period.
• Implements a donor recruitment, retention, and recognition strategy for monthly donors to the Zoo.
• Creates and manages donor recognition lists for public and private recognition opportunities in alignment with departmental practice. This includes onsite signage, exhibit plaques and printed publications, as well as all mail and email distribution lists..
• Coordinates donor and potential donor Zoo tours and meetings to share the impact of contributions to the Zoo. Attends the tours and meetings as requested.
• Plans and implement donor engagement events, tours, meetings, etc.
• Supports Zoo Capital Campaigns initiatives through the coordination of meetings for campaign committees, all stewardship and cultivation events to support the solicitation of gifts and board and donor engagement.
• Manages, distributes and fulfills sponsor benefits including Zoo admission tickets, tabling opportunities on-site at the Zoo, event passes and admission, tour certificates, and use of meeting spaces at the Zoo.
• Conducts, reviews and analyzes prospect research..
• Manage and distribute benefits for corporate and institutional donors.
• Ensures meeting materials and donor packets are prepared to support board members and Zoo staff with their solicitations.
• Writes articles for the Zoo's quarterly newsletter, create impact reports and interview, write and manage a portfolio of philanthropic stories for the Zoo.
• Remains up-to-date and knowledgeable about guidelines, policies, scientific research, etc. on animal care, environment, sustainability, fundraising practice, etc. to support conversations with donors.
• Engages donors and prospective donors by educating them on the Zoo's work, values, brand, mission, and vision.

Minimum Requirements

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Associate degree in Business, Communications, English, Public Administration, Public Relations, Hospitality or related discipline.
• Two years of event leadership/management, donor research, and stewardship experience at a minimum.
• EQUIVALENCY •An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted.

ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Excellent writing and oral communication skills

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

• Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations.
• Occasionally lifts tables, chairs, boxes, crates, linens, etc. 10+ pounds to set-up for a meeting or event.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT):

Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.

• Involves routine exposure to:
• Bright light
• Dusts and pollen
• Extreme heat and/or cold
• Wet and humid conditions
• Extreme noise levels
• Animals/wildlife

SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES:

• Must possess and maintain a valid state driver's license with an acceptable driving history.

AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

STANDARD CLAUSES

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.

Louisville Metro Government is committed to providing our employees with the tools they need to lead a fit and healthy life. Aside from community-wide initiatives like the Mayors Hike, Bike and Paddle event every Memorial Day and Labor Day, and the Healthy Hometown Movement, Metro Government provides employees with programs designed to enhance their life and well-being, like a Wellness Center that allows employees and their dependents with Metro health insurance to take care of their basic medical and health needs for a $5 co-pay. Louisville Metro Government understands that a team of healthy, vibrant employees is the greatest asset we have.

Full Time Regular

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Group Term Life
• Supplemental Life
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment
• Sick Leave
• Vacation
• Holiday Pay
• Bereavement Leave
• Kentucky Public Pensions Authority
• 457 Deferred Comp
• Voluntary Lifestyle Benefits
• Tuition Assistance
• Qualified Adult Benefits
• Childcare Assistance
• Free TARC Use
• Paid Parental Leave

Part Time - 17.5 to 25 Hours Per Week

• Vacation (pro rata)
• Sick Leave (pro rata)
• Holiday Pay (pro rata)

Part Time - Less Than 17.5 Hours Per Week

• Ineligible For Benefits

Temporary Positions

• Ineligible For Benefits

Interns

• Ineligible For Benefits

01

Do you have an associates degree in Business, Communications, English, Public Administration, Public Relations, Hospitality or related discipline?

• Yes
• No

02

Do you have two years of event leadership/management, donor research, and stewardship experience at a minimum?

• Yes
• No

Required Question

Employer Louisville Metro Government

Address 517 Court Place

Louisville, Kentucky, 40202

Phone (502) 574-8100

Website https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/louisvilleky