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Education Internship

Nashville, TN

NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
EDUCATION INTERNSHIP | SPRING 2026


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. There
are no opportunities to work overtime.


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 at the Grassmere
historic home and farm
● Creating programs aligned with Nashville Zoo’s Program Content Standards,
Next Generation 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 intern’s department.


APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:
● Must be at least 18 years of age and current
● Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy
loads
● Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior
● This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field
● Excellent communication and organizational skills
● Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal
collection and conservation efforts
● Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
● Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.


INTERN TRAINING:
All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation, Education
Orientation, and a 4 presentation professional development series throughout the
course of their 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
● Observe and participate in husbandry, training, and additional care for our
resident animals
● 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 test.
● Provide proof of a valid driver’s license.


APPLICATION PROCESS – Interested candidates should complete the application and attach the following documents:
● Resume
● Cover Letter
● (2) Letters of Recommendation

Additionally, we ask that you complete this anonymous survey: Demographic Survey

Pay Range

$12.50 - $12.50 USD

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