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Education Internship

Nashville, TN

NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

EDUCATION INTERNSHIP | FALL 2025

Overview: As an Education Intern at Nashville Zoo, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in interpretation, developing and leading education programs, and developing your knowledge on a variety of topics including conservation, wildlife biology, botany, history and park management.

Education interns will assist with all aspects of the Nashville Zoo Education Department. These duties include interpretation on grounds, onsite education programs, animal outreach programs, historic site management, and volunteer/teen program evaluations. Education interns will become familiar with conservation education best practices and demonstrate the effectiveness of its programs for achieving mission-based outcomes. 

TIME COMMITMENT: This is a full-time position, 30-40 hours a week for ~12-weeks

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Assisting in development, facilitation and evaluation of education programs and interpretive experiences for a wide range of audiences on grounds, off grounds and virtually.
  • Interpreting for a variety of species throughout the zoo and the Grassmere historic home and far.
  • Creating programs aligned with Nashville Zoo's Program Content Standards, Next Generations Science Standards and Common Core Standards in science, math, reading and language arts.
  • Developing program evaluations that assesses participant learning as well as informs program development
  • Learning to make positive contributions to enhance the guest experience at Nashville Zoo
  • Complete one project highlighting intern's interest and take aways from the experience and benefitting the intern's department.

APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age and current college student or recent graduate
  •  Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads up to 50 lbs.
  • Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior.
  • Communication and organizational skills.
  • Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts.
  • Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.

INTERN TRAINING: All interns are required to be preset for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation, Education Orientation, and a 4 presentation professional development series throughout the course of the internship.

BENEFITS:

  • Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week
  • $700 living stipend for each 12-week term
  • Housing provided if outside of a 40-mile radius of Nashville Zoo
  • Provides opportunities to learn proper management of animals in human care.
  • Receive training on current best practices for zoo interpretation and program development
  • Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution
  • Professional development series highlighting topics such as guest engagement, resume building, etc.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS:

  • Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening.
  • Provide proof of a negative TB screen test.
  • Must be authorized to work in the US.

APPLICATION PROCESS: Interested candidates should complete the application HERE and attach the following documents:

  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • (2) Letters of Recommendation
  • Additionally, we ask you to complete this anonymous survey.

 

Pay Range

$12.50 - $12.50 USD

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