Nashville Zoo at Grassmere is a 200-acre institution accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) whose mission isto inspire a culture of understanding and discovery of our natural world through conservation, innovation and leadership. Located inthe heart of Nashville, the zoo has an extensive animal collection within its current 88 acres of developed exhibits. The Zoo attractsmore than one million visitors annually as well as serving a diverse community through outreach programs within greater Nashvilleand mid-Tennessee.
The Volunteer Programs Specialist is part of the dedicated team of Nashville Zoo education leaders who are committed tointegrating education into the guest experience and recognize the significance of education in fostering community support for theZoo. The Volunteer Programs Specialist is an experienced leader in volunteer and community programming who has demonstratedexcellent volunteer management skills and success motivating groups of people. Weekend, holiday, and evening work will berequired.
Position ResponsibilitiesThe Volunteer Programs Specialist reports to the Volunteer Programs Manager, who in turn reports to the Education Director. TheVolunteer Programs Specialist is part of the dedicated team of Nashville Zoo education leaders who are committed to integratingeducation into the guest experience and recognize the significance of education in fostering community support for the Zoo. TheVolunteer Programs Specialist is experienced in creating and providing public programming and has excellent communication skills.This position provides support in the following areas:• Volunteer and Docent Programs, with support for Intern and ZooTeen Programs• Special Events Recruitment• Community Partner Relations
Primary Areas of ResponsibilityVolunteer Programs: With the Volunteer Programs Manager, the Volunteer Programs Specialist works to recruit, place,communicate with, and coordinate volunteers participating in designated events and projects. This position may also be responsiblefor preparing event materials, and coordinating event set-up and breakdown.
Special Events Recruitment: The Volunteer Programs Specialist is responsible for recruiting community volunteers for larger Zooevents. This includes receiving applications, waivers, assigning roles, and managing volunteers during some events.
Community Partner Relations: The Volunteer Programs Specialist works with the Volunteer Programs Manager to identify andnominate outstanding volunteers, and the volunteer program as a whole, for special recognition opportunities in the community. Thisposition also assists with building community support and partnerships through volunteer opportunities, as well as increasing theZoo’s community visibility through fairs and networking events. This position regularly represents Nashville Zoo and our volunteerprogram before other organizations.
Job RequirementsMinimum Requirements:• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age• High school diploma or GED equivalent required
Required Skills:The successful candidate must have:• Excellent communication, leadership, and time management skills; and the ability to work as part of a team• Must work well without direct supervision• Ability to lead and motivate groups of people• Must have the ability to follow written and oral instructions• Must work well with audiences of varying ages• Computer experience, including use of Microsoft Office and digital media• Ability to respond to emergency situations calmly and follow protocols• Experience interacting with the public
Desired Skills:The following skills and experience are desired and are considered a plus:• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Environmental Education/Interpretation, Volunteer Management, Non-Profit Management, orrelated field• Experience working with volunteers or volunteer programsPhysical Requirements:• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds• Ability to work outdoors in temperatures above 90 degrees Fahrenheit• Ability to walk zoo grounds for long periods of time, up and down stairs, bend down, and ambulate quickly
Employee Requirements:Prior to hire, the successful candidate must:• Submit to a criminal background check and drug screen• Provide proof of a negative TB test• Provide proof of a valid driver’s license
Nashville Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug-Free Workplace. You will be contacted via email regarding your application. No phone calls, please.