Interpreter

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.

• →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.

• • 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

   

  Staff must frequently stand and walk for extended periods, interact with guests throughout their shift, and occasionally lift, carry, or move items up to 25–30 lbs, such as program materials, supplies, or event equipment. These roles require clear verbal communication, strong customer‑service skills, and the ability to project one’s voice during programs, tours, and presentations. Employees regularly work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and may be exposed to noise, crowds, dust, and routine cleaning agents. Staff must safely navigate public areas, stairs, and uneven surfaces, while operating basic equipment such as radios, tablets, microphones, and point‑of‑sale systems. Positions may involve assisting with special events, school programs, or animal‑themed activities, requiring flexibility, professionalism, and adherence to safety and guest‑interaction protocols. Schedules may include weekends, holidays, early mornings, evenings, and occasional overtime based on programming or attendance needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions. 

  • 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

• 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.