Volunteer & Internship Programs Manager

Nashville Zoo; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 46,363 - 51,916; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare coverage

EAP

401(k) with company match

PTO and sick leave

Zoo membership benefits

Collaborative culture

Job summary

Nashville Zoo is seeking a Volunteer and Internship Manager to lead all volunteer and internship programs, ensuring volunteers are engaged and aligned with our mission. The role includes managing a paid internship track in animal care and education and reporting to the Director of Education as part of the Education Leadership Team.

The Manager will supervise two full‑time staff, help set program goals, and partner with other departments to deliver meaningful learning experiences while driving

Qualifications

• 3+ years of volunteer management, program management, community engagement, education or related fields.
• Demonstrated understanding of and commitment to the value of volunteer engagement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee a volunteer corps of 300+ active volunteers and docents and 1,000+ episodic volunteers annually.
• Model professional conduct and organizational values in all interactions.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Cultivate relationships with volunteers to ensure they feel valued and impact is visible.
• Serve as primary point of contact and advocate for volunteers; ensure welcoming environment.
• Develop strategies to recruit, train, and retain volunteers across operations and guest experience.
• Coordinate ongoing training, enrichment, and recognition programs.
• Maintain volunteer policies and procedures for a well‑organized program.
• Oversee scheduling, communications, and feedback systems for volunteers.
• Oversee and expand paid internship program in animal care and education.
• Develop partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations.
• Collaborate with Zoo departments that utilize volunteers and interns.
• Work with Animal Care and Education Teams to design hands‑on learning experiences.
• Establish evaluation, tracking, and feedback processes to measure impact.
• Monitor and analyze program data to guide improvements.
• Directly supervise 2 full‑time staff; provide mentorship.
• Prepare and administer the annual program budget with the Director of Education.
• Coordinate with Events to ensure volunteer coverage for multi‑day events.

Job description

Nashville Zoo is seeking a Volunteer and Internship Manager to lead all volunteer and internship programs, ensuring volunteers are engaged and aligned with our mission. The role includes managing a paid internship track in animal care and education and reporting to the Director of Education as part of the Education Leadership Team.

The Manager will supervise two full‑time staff, help set program goals, and partner with other departments to deliver meaningful learning experiences while driving