Overnight Educator

Position Title: Overnight Educator

Department: Education

Supervisor: Family Programs 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.

Job Description: 

The Overnight Educator is part of a dedicated team who are committed to integrating education into the guest experience and recognize the significance of education in fostering community support for the Zoo. The Overnight Educator is an experienced leader in non-formal education with excellent supervisory skills and who has demonstrated results through effective collaboration both within and external to the organization.

This position provides support in the following areas:

• Night Owl overnight Programs
• Special Events and Utility Educator

Duties and Responsibilities:

• 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
• Night Owl overnight Programs: Utilize developed lessons, hands-on learning activities, night and morning hikes, and games to create a comprehensive experience for program participants. This position stays at the Zoo overnight with groups, prepares snacks and breakfast, and communicates effectively with Zoo security staff. This position will assist with planning, preparation, and purchasing of program materials as needed.
• Special Events and Utility Educator: The Overnight Educator may be asked to assist with Zoo events throughout the year. This position may also be asked to teach other departmental programming when the schedule necessitates.

Required Skills:

The successful candidate must have:

• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal communication skills and be able to collaborate effectively with other zoo departments

• Ability to self-direct work tasks while ensuring safety and productivity.

• 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

Desired Skills:

The following skills and experience are desired and are considered a plus:

• Familiarity with technology relevant to use in a zoo education setting
• Knowledge and experience with live animal education programming

Work Schedule:

• Weekend and evening work are required.
• Some holiday work may be required.
• Programs are typically on Friday and Saturday evenings: 4:30pm – 10:30am the following morning.
• Required to work at least two overnight programs per month.

Physical Responsibilities:

Staff must frequently stand and walk for extended periods, interact with guests throughout their shift, and occasionally lift, carry, or move items up to 25–30 lbs, such as program materials, supplies, or event equipment. These roles require clear verbal communication, strong customer‑service skills, and the ability to project one’s voice during programs, tours, and presentations. Employees regularly work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions and may be exposed to noise, crowds, dust, and routine cleaning agents. Staff must safely navigate public areas, stairs, and uneven surfaces, while operating basic equipment such as radios, tablets, microphones, and point‑of‑sale systems. Positions may involve assisting with special events, school programs, or animal‑themed activities, requiring flexibility, professionalism, and adherence to safety and guest‑interaction protocols. Schedules may include weekends, holidays, early mornings, evenings, and occasional overtime based on programming or attendance needs. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Education/ Experience:

• Must be at least 18 years of age
• High school diploma or GED equivalent

Pre-employment requirements:

Nashville Zoo is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and maintains a drug-free work environment. All employment is at-will.

• All candidates are required to successfully complete a criminal background check and drug screening prior to hire.
• Pre-employment and annual tuberculosis (TB) screenings are a condition of continued employment.