Interpreter

Nashvillezoo; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 17,241 - 24,555; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive healthcare coverage

401(k) retirement plan with company matching

Exclusive zoo perks

Job summary

Nashville Zoo is looking for an Interpreter to engage with guests and provide educational tours and experiences throughout the zoo. You will play a key role in fostering understanding and appreciation of wildlife in a collaborative environment. The ideal candidate enjoys working with the public and has strong communication skills.

This position requires a high school diploma or GED, along with the desire to enhance guest experiences. Scheduled shifts may include weekends and holidays.

Qualifications

• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Desire to work with and speak to the general public.
• Ability to work well independently without direct supervision.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an on-grounds interpreter at various zoo locations.
• Engage guests and provide excellent service to ensure a positive experience.
• Participate in special events and regular training opportunities.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Public speaking

Time management

Multitasking

Education

High school diploma or GED equivalent

Job description

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:

• 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 the Veterinary Center, Historic Croft Home and Farm, animal exhibits and other locations across zoo grounds; provide narration during surgical procedures and guided tours of the historic home.
• Design 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 part of special events, including 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 practices.
• 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.
• 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 the ability 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 willingness 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 — $15.17 USD