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Interpretive Coordinator

Nashville, TN

 

Position: Interpretation Coordinator

Department: Education

Supervisor: Interpretation 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.

 

Description:
The Interpretation Coordinator is part of a dedicated team committed to integrating education into the guest experience and recognizes the significance of education in fostering community support for the Zoo. The Interpretation Coordinator is an experienced leader in informal education with effective organization and communication skills and who has demonstrated results through effective collaboration both within and external to the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Serves as lead interpreter, working with interpretive staff to provide guest engagement opportunities throughout the Zoo
  • Develops, coordinates and guides tours, both front of house and behind-the-scenes
  • Assists in the development and oversees implementation of interpretive elements and activities for events
  • Leads the performance of regular cleaning and monitor proper operation of interpretive elements throughout the Zoo, including interactives, historic items, artifacts, and signs
  • Assists in the development of new interpretive experiences, interpretive elements including graphics, and proper training of staff and volunteers utilizing best practice in the areas of interpretation and guest engagement
  • Assists to ensure that interpretive programming is aligned with the Zoo’s mission, conservation messaging and educational philosophy
  • Assists in continual evaluation and improvement of new and existing interpretive programs
  • Collaborates with Education Department staff to assist in development, implementation, coordination and evaluation of curriculum to be used throughout the Zoo
  • Works collaboratively with all departments in the development of consistent, high-quality interpretive programming
  • Assists to coordinate with other departments to provide resources needed to successfully implement programming
  • Assists in the administration of detailed programming records and reports of data relating to interpretive programs
  • Assists in maintaining, monitoring and distribution of supplies to support interpretive programming
  • Assists in coordination with Zoo staff regarding research and conservation programs for interpretive use
  • Assists in providing interpretive guidance and training to staff and volunteers
  • Works to ensure that all programming and events are accessible to all individuals
  • Leads educational programs as needed
  • Participates in Nashville Zoo teams and projects as needed
  • Handles ambassador animals as needed
  • Other duties as assigned

Desired Skills:

  • Effective communication and collaboration skills
  • Ability to multitask and effective time management skills
  • Ability to respond to emergency situations calmly and follow protocols
  • Available to work weekends, evenings and holidays as required
  • Flexible and team oriented
  • Familiarity with technology relevant to use in a zoo education setting
  • Knowledge and experience with live animal education programming
  • Prior experience in a program coordination or similar role
  • Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) or Certified Interpretive Trainer (CIT) or be willing to acquire certification as part of employment

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

Education/Experience:

  • At least one year of experience in an informal interpretive/educational setting
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent

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

$17.37 - $17.37 USD

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