Interpreter

Nashville Zoo; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

EAP

401(k) retirement plan with companying

Paid time off

Exclusive zoo perks

AZA‑accredited facility

Job summary

Nashville Zoo in Tennessee seeks an enthusiastic Interpreter to on-site engage guests, provide narrations, and lead educational experiences across multiple zoo locations. The role includes designing tours, chats, and classes, with opportunities to lead behind-the-scenes experiences and participate in special events.

The position emphasizes collaboration, strong communication, and safety awareness, with regular training and a commitment to Nashville Zoo’s mission and values.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to engage with the public.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an on-ground interpreter at multiple zoo locations (e.g., Veterinary Center, Historic Croft Home) with narration during procedures and tours.
• Design and facilitate a variety of educational interactions, including tours, classes, chats.
• Engage guests to ensure a positive experience and high-quality service.
• Lead behind-the-scenes experiences and walking tours.
• Participate in interpretation and activities during special events (Boo at the Zoo, Zoolumination, etc.).
• Stay updated on Zoo information and best interpretive practices through regular training.
• Perform cleaning and maintenance of interpretive elements and equipment.
• Teach other departmental programming when needed and contribute to safety protocols.

Skills

Public speaking

Interpersonal skills

Written and verbal communication

Independence

Multitasking

Emergency protocols

Self-directed work

Education

HS diploma or GED

Job description

Department: Education

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.

Position Title: Interpreter

Supervisor: Interpretation Manager/Historic Site Manager

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

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• 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

• 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

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.

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: $15.17 USD - $15.17 USD