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Interpreter

Nashville, TN

Position Title: Interpreter 

Department: Education 

Supervisor: Interpretation Manager/Historic Site Manager

 

Nashville Zoo Mission:

Nashville Zoo is dedicated to inspiring a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation, and leadership. With a diverse collection of animals and a commitment to wildlife preservation, we provide engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

 

Why Work with Us:

At the Nashville Zoo, we believe in taking care of our team just as well as we care for our animals. Full-time employees enjoy a robust benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and future:

 

  • Comprehensive healthcare coverage – including medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you and your family healthy.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – confidential support services for mental, emotional, and financial well-being.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with company matching – helping you build a secure future while you make a meaningful impact today.
  • Generous paid time off and sick leave – because rest and recovery are vital.
  • Exclusive zoo perks – enjoy discounts on park experiences, retail, and food services, plus complimentary membership benefits.
  • A collaborative and inclusive culture – be part of a diverse team where your voice matters, your growth is nurtured, and collaboration thrives across all departments.
  • AZA-accredited facility – Nashville Zoo is committed to top-tier animal care, ethics and global conservation efforts.

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Serve as an on-grounds interpreter at various locations throughout the zoo, including but not limited to: Veterinary Center, Historic Croft Home and Farm, animal exhibits and other locations throughout Zoo grounds. This includes providing narration during surgical procedures and guided tours of the historic home.
  • Designing and facilitate a variety of inspiring educational interactions including tours, experiences, classes, chats, etc.
  • Engage with guests on a regular basis, providing excellent service to ensure a positive guest experience
  • Lead behind the scenes experiences and walking tours.
  • Participate in interpretation and activities as a part of special events, including but not limited to: Boo at the Zoo, Zoolumination, Great Backyard Bird Count, Avian Awareness Day, Party for the Planet, World Tiger Day, and World Rhino Day
  • Participate in regular training opportunities and stay up to date on Zoo related information and current interpretive best practice
  • Perform regular cleaning and maintenance of interpretive elements including signage, electronic displays, historic furnishings and collections, outbuildings, and farm equipment
  • Serve as utility educator to teach other departmental programming when the schedule necessitates including
  • Other duties as assigned
  • Demonstrate a daily commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.
  • Maintain regular and reliable attendance.

 

Job Requirements

Minimum Requirements:

  • Must be at least 18 years of age

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent

 

Required Skills:

  • Desire to work with and speak to the general public
  • Demonstrated excellent interpersonal communication skills and be able to collaborate effectively with other zoo departments
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills to represent the zoo
  • Ability to work well independently without direct supervision
  • Excellent multitasking and time management ability
  • Ability to respond to emergency situations calmly and follow protocols
  • Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.

 

Desired Skills:

The following skills and experience are desired and are considered a plus:

  • Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) or be willing to obtain certification as part of employment
  • Familiarity with technology relevant to use in a zoo education setting
  • Knowledge and experience with live animal education programming
  • Prior experience in an interpreter role

 

Physical Requirements:

  • Ability to move items up to 25 pounds

  • Ability to work outdoors in temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit

  • Ability to move around zoo grounds for extended periods of time

 

Pre-employment requirements:

  • Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.
  • All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
  • Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.

 

Pay Range

$15.17 - $15.17 USD

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