Interpreter

**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:** 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:** **The following skills and experience are desired and are considered a plus:** - 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 pro…