Volunteer and Internship Manager

Position Title: Volunteer and Internship Manager Department: Education Supervisor: Education Director 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 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. Position Description The Volunteer and Internship Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the Zoo’s volunteer and internship programs, fostering an environment where volunteers feel engaged, appreciated, and empowered. This role ensures that volunteers are well-matched to opportunities that align with their skills and interests while advancing the mission of the zoo. Additionally, this position manages an innovative paid internship program in both animal care and education. With the oversight of the Director of Education, the Volunteer and Internship Manager serves as part of the Education Leadership Team which helps establish goals and determine the direction of the Education Department and its programming. Duties and Responsibilities: Oversees a volunteer corps of more than 300 active volunteers and docents, as well as more than 1000 episodic volunteers annually. Maintain professional conduct at all times and consistently model the organization’s values in all interactions with colleagues, guests, and stakeholders. Maintain regular and reliable attendance Cultivate relationships with volunteers to ensure they feel valued and see the impact of their contributions. Serve as the primary point of contact and advocate for volunteers, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive environment. Develop and implement strategies to recruit, train, and retain volunteers who support the Zoo’s operations, education programs, and guest experience. Coordinate ongoing training, enrichment, and recognition programs to enhance volunteer engagement and satisfaction. Maintain and refine volunteer policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure a well-organized and effective program. Oversee scheduling, communications, and feedback systems to keep volunteers informed and engaged. Oversee and expand an innovative paid internship program in animal care and education. Develop collaborative partnerships with educational institutions and community organizations to promote and recruit for the internship and other career pathways programs. Cultivate collaborative relationships with departments throughout the Zoo who utilize volunteers and interns. Work with Animal Care and Education Teams to design meaningful, hands-on learning experiences aligned with established curriculum and Zoo mission. Establish evaluation, tracking and feedback processes to assess program effectiveness and identify areas of improvement. Monitor and analyze program data to measure impact, identify trends, and guide fut…