Education Internship at Nashville Zoo

<p>NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM EDUCATION INTERNSHIP | Fall 2026</p> <p><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>OVERVIEW: </strong></span></p> <p>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.<br>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. Education interns will become familiar with conservation education best practices and demonstrate the effectiveness of its programs for achieving mission-based outcomes.</p> <p><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>TIME COMMITMENT: </strong></span></p> <p>This is a full-time position, 30-40 hours a week, for ~12 weeks. There are no opportunities to work overtime.</p> <p><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>RESPONSIBILITIES:</strong></span><br><br>Assisting in development, facilitation and evaluation of education programs and interpretive experiences for a wide range of audiences on grounds, off grounds and virtually<br><br>Interpreting for a variety of species throughout the zoo and at the Grassmere historic home and farm<br><br>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<br><br>Developing program evaluations that assesses participant learning as well as informs program development<br><br>Learning to make positive contributions to enhance the guest experience at Nashville Zoo<br><br>Complete one project highlighting intern’s interest and take aways from the experience and benefitting intern’s department.</p> <p><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS:</strong></span><br><br>Must be at least 18 years of age and current<br><br>Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads<br><br>Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior<br><br>This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field<br><br>Excellent communication and organizational skills<br><br>Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts<br><br>Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds<br><br>Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions.</p> <p><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>INTERN TRAINING:</strong></span></p> <p><br>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><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>BENEFITS:</strong></span><br><br>Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week<br><br>$700 living stipend for each 12-week term<br><br>Housing provided if outside of a 40 mile radius of Nashville Zoo<br><br>Provides opportunities to learn proper management of animals in human care<br><br>Observe and participate in husbandry, training, and additional care for our resident animals<br><br>Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution<br><br>Professional development series highlighting topics such as guest engagement, resume building, etc.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Pre-Employment Requirements:</span></strong><br>● Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening.<br>● Provide proof of a negative TB test.<br>● Provide proof of a valid driver’s license.</p> <p><br>APPLICATION PROCESS – Interested candidates should complete the application HERE and attach the following documents:<br><br>Resume<br><br>Cover Letter<br><br>Two (2) Letters of Recommendation</p> <p></p> <p>Additionally,&nbsp;we ask you to complete this anonymous&nbsp;<a href="https://form.jotform.com/232716265594160" target="_blank" data-cke-saved-href="https://form.jotform.com/232716265594160">survey</a>.</p> <p></p> <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>