What are the responsibilities and job description for the Interpreter position at Nashville Zoo?
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:
Duties And Responsibilities
Minimum Requirements:
The successful candidate must have:
The following skills and experience are desired and are considered a plus:
Prior to hire, the successful candidate must:
Pay Range
$15.17 - $15.17 USD
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
Minimum Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years of age
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
The successful candidate must have:
- 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
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
- 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
Prior to hire, the successful candidate must:
- Submit to a criminal background check and drug screen
- Provide proof of a negative TB test as a pre-requisite to handling animals
- Provide proof of a valid drivers license
Pay Range
$15.17 - $15.17 USD
Salary : $15
