Interpreter

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:

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  Must be at least 18 years of age

  
  


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  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:

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  Ability to move items up to 25 pounds

  
  


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  Ability to work outdoors in temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit

  
  


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  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.