Education Internship 2027 at Nashville Zoo

<p><strong>NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM</strong><br><strong>EDUCATION INTERNSHIP | Spring 2027 | 1/18/2027- 4/16/2027</strong></p> <p><strong>OVERVIEW:</strong> As an Education Intern at Nashville Zoo, you will have the opportunity to gain experience in interpretation, developing and leading education programs, and developing your knowledge on a variety of topics including conservation, wildlife biology, botany, history and park management.</p> <p>Education interns will assist with all aspects of the Nashville Zoo Education Department. These duties include interpretation on grounds, onsite education programs, animal outreach programs, historic site management, and volunteer/teen program evaluations.&nbsp; Education interns will become familiar with conservation education best practices and demonstrate the effectiveness of its programs for achieving mission-based outcomes.</p> <p><strong>TIME COMMITMENT:</strong> This is a full-time position, 30-40 hours a week, for ~12 weeks. There are no opportunities to work overtime. <strong>Start Date is 1/18/2027. End Date is 4/16/2027.</strong></p> <p><strong>RESPONSIBILITIES</strong>:</p> <ul> <li>Assisting in development, facilitation and evaluation of education programs and interpretive experiences for a wide range of audiences on grounds, off grounds and virtually</li> <li>Interpreting for a variety of species throughout the zoo and at the Grassmere historic home and farm</li> <li>Creating programs aligned with Nashville Zoo’s Program Content Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and Common Core Standards in Science, Math, Reading and Language Arts</li> <li>Developing program evaluations that assesses participant learning as well as informs program development</li> <li>Learning to make positive contributions to enhance the guest experience at Nashville Zoo</li> <li>Complete one project highlighting intern’s interest and take aways from the experience and benefitting intern’s department</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Must be at least 18 years of age and current</li> <li>Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads</li> <li>Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior</li> <li>This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field</li> <li>Excellent communication and organizational skills</li> <li>Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts</li> <li>Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds</li> <li>Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>INTERN TRAINING:</strong></p> <p>All interns will be present for New Hire Orientation, Animal Care Orientation, Education Orientation, and a 4 presentation professional development series throughout the course of their internship.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>BENEFITS: </strong></p> <ul> <li>Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week</li> <li>$700 living stipend for each 12-week term</li> <li>Housing provided if outside of a 40 mile radius of Nashville Zoo</li> <li>Provides opportunities to learn proper management of animals in human care</li> <li>Observe and participate in husbandry, training, and additional care for our resident animals</li> <li>Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution</li> <li>Professional development series highlighting topics such as guest engagement, resume building, etc.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Pre-Employment Requirements:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening.</li> <li>Provide proof of a negative TB test.</li> <li>Provide proof of a valid driver’s license.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>APPLICATION PROCESS –</strong> Interested candidates should complete the application <a href="https://www.nashvillezoo.org/jobsinternships">HERE</a> and attach the following documents:</p> <ul> <li>Resume</li> <li>Cover Letter</li> <li>(2) Letters of Recommendation</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p><div class="content-pay-transparency"><div class="pay-input"><div class="title">Pay Range</div><div class="pay-range"><span>$12.50</span><span class="divider">&mdash;</span><span>$12.50 USD</span></div></div></div>