PAID Education Internship
NASHVILLE ZOO PAID INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
EDUCATION INTERNSHIP | SUMMER 2023
Do you want to inspire a passion to conserve the natural world? As an Education Intern at Nashville Zoo you will have the opportunity to gain experience in presenting thematic interpretive programs, leading education programs and developing your knowledge on a variety of topics including conservation, wildlife biology, botany, history and park management.
Applicants must be college aged or a recent college graduate with interest in the natural, physical or cultural sciences, communication, education, natural science interpretation or recreation and resources management. As part of your internship, you will receive training in methods that were developed as part of Denver Zoo’s ROADMAP program as well as techniques taught as part of the National Association for Interpretation’s (NAI) Certified Interpretive Guide (CIG) Course. Education Internships will be on a full-time basis with intern working 30 to 40 hours per week.
JOB TITLE: Education Intern
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES -- This supervised education position interacts with animals, guests, volunteers, and other Zoo staff. Upon completion of training, the placement consists of:
- Assisting in development, facilitation and evaluation of education programs and interpretive experiences for a wide range of audiences on grounds, off grounds and virtually
- Working to create programs aligned with Nashville Zoo’s Program Content Standards, Next Generation Science Standards and Common Core Standards in Science, Math, Reading and Language Arts
- Developing program evaluations that assesses participant learning as well as informs program development
- Learning to make positive contributions to enhance the guest experience at Nashville Zoo
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES -- Applicants will be assessed according to their knowledge, skills and abilities in the following areas:
- Passion and interest in exploring a zoo or conservation related field
- Knowledge of biology, zoology and conservation issues
- Strong public speaking skills
- Ability to work with all age groups
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Ability to follow written and oral directions
- Guest-service oriented and enthusiastic about providing guests an enriching experience
APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS
- College aged or recent college graduate
- Willingness to study and learn curriculum provided by Zoo
- Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening
- Submit proof of a negative TB Test
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
- Requires frequent moving about for long distances and over uneven terrain
- Will be expected to wear the approved uniform and observe the same personal appearance standards required of all Zoo staff
- Must be able to work a set schedule which will include flexible hours, evenings, holidays, and/or weekends
- Frequent exposure to the outside elements and summer heat can be expected.
INTERN REQUIREMENTS
- Present and on time for all assigned shifts
- Active engagement in all aspects of assigned duties
- Attendance at all required training sessions and lectures
- Attendance at all meetings with assigned Intern Coordinator, Volunteer Manager and other mentors
- Completion of all assignments including two projects for each 12-week term
- Maintain a written journal throughout internship term
BENEFITS
- Hourly rate of $12.50 per hour for up to 40 hours per week
- $3000 living stipend for each 12-week term
- Receive training on current best practices for zoo interpretation and program development
- Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution
- Enhance personal creativity and portfolio