The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
James Danoff-Burg currently serves as the Vice President of Conservation at The Living Desert, a role held since November 2017. James has extensive experience in conservation and education, including positions as an Adjunct Professor at UC San Diego Extension and Founder of Helping Rhinos USA, where efforts focused on rhino conservation. Previous roles include consulting for New Knowledge Organization Ltd. and leadership at Big Sky Consulting, emphasizing science-based conservation solutions. In addition, James has served on boards and as an adjunct professor at multiple universities, contributing to the fields of conservation biology and community-based environmental projects. James holds a Ph.D. in Biology with an emphasis on Entomology, as well as Master's and Bachelor's degrees in Biology from The University of Kansas and the University of Michigan, respectively.
The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
For more than 50 years, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens has been a beloved community gem and leading conservation organization. Millions of guests have come to the park to explore and learn about the desert’s wildlife and wild places through the Zoo’s interactive and immersive habitats, engaging activities, hiking trails, and botanic gardens. Ready to work on the wild side? The Living Desert is a fun, engaging, and impactful place to work and is looking for highly skilled, motivated, and dedicated individuals to join our team. Career opportunities include roles in animal care, conservation, education, fundraising, facilities, food service, guest services, business administration, retail, security, and more. Our team members make a difference in our local community and around the world each day. Together, they further the Zoo’s mission of desert conservation and inspire quests to discover a passion for the desert’s wildlife and wild places. --- The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens is a nonprofit, accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, ensuring the highest standards of all aspects of animal care, education, conservation, public service, and operations.