Nashville Zoo · 14 hours ago
Education Internship Summer 2026
Nashville, TN
Internship
Onsite
Intern
$12.50/hr - $12.50/hr
Start in 2026 SummerNashville Zoo is offering a paid internship program for the summer of 2026 in their Education Department. As an Education Intern, you will assist in developing and leading education programs, focusing on conservation, wildlife biology, and more, while gaining hands-on experience in various educational activities.
AssociationMedia and EntertainmentNon Profit
Responsibilities
Assisting in development, facilitation and evaluation of education programs and interpretive experiences for a wide range of audiences on grounds, off grounds and virtually
Interpreting for a variety of species throughout the zoo and at the Grassmere historic home and farm
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
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
Complete one project highlighting intern’s interest and take aways from the experience and benefitting intern’s department
Qualification
Required
Must be at least 18 years of age
Must have the ability to stand on feet for long periods and lift moderately heavy loads
Interest in working with animals and understanding animal behavior
This is an entry level position for those looking to gain experience in this field
Excellent communication and organizational skills
Willingness to learn about Nashville Zoo amenities, layout, operations, animal collection and conservation efforts
Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds
Must be able to work outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions
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
Submit to a criminal background check and drug screening
Provide proof of a negative TB test
Provide proof of a valid driver's license
Benefits
$700 living stipend for each 12-week term
Housing provided if outside of a 40-mile radius of Nashville Zoo
Provides opportunities to learn proper management of animals in human care
Observe and participate in husbandry, training, and additional care for our resident animals
Receive first-hand experience in an Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) accredited institution
Professional development series highlighting topics such as guest engagement, resume building, etc.
Company
Nashville Zoo
Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a 188-acre institution accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) whose mission is to inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership.
Founded in 1991
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
Jami Geselle
Chief Human Resources Officer
Suzanne Iler
Chief Development Officer
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