VINS Intern Position

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802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

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VINS Nature Center
10 AM to 5 PM Daily

Wild Bird Rehab
802.359.5000 x212
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Education Intern

VINS Education Interns deliver live animal and natural history programs at the VINS Nature Center.

REPORTS TO: Director, Wildlife Ambassador Programs

JOB LOCATION: VINS Nature Center, 149 Natures Way, Quechee, Vermont

VINS' education programs are designed for all audiences. In addition to our public programs at the Nature Center, we serve communities throughout northern New England. Job location is in Quechee, Vermont, headquartered at the VINS Nature Center, with some travel to other program sites as required.

Education Intern Responsibilities

  • Deliver place-based environmental education programs featuring live animal ambassadors (primarily raptors) to varied audiences at the VINS Nature Center.
  • Provide excellent husbandry for ambassador animals including enclosure
    cleaning, diet preparation, enrichment, and assist with positive reinforcement
    training.
  • Work with other Education teams such as VINS Nature Camp and VINS School
    Programs to facilitate opportunities for integration.
  • Put together and participate in activities for monthly Special Events focused on
    different natural history themes.
  • Complete a term project to create a new resource for the VINS Nature Center
    and/or educational programming; work with supervisory staff to design the project
    concept.
  • Attend professional development workshops led by VINS staff to hone skills
    relevant to environmental education and animal care.
  • Work closely alongside Education volunteers in animal husbandry and program
    presentations.
  • Attend VINS staff meetings and participate in organization functions as required.
  • Participate in mid-point and final evaluations of internship goals and
    achievements.
  • Work a varied schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and long days.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in environmental education or teaching natural history.
  • Confidence in delivering dynamic educational presentations to audiences of all ages and sizes, including large crowds.
  • General knowledge of New England natural history and native wildlife (or willingness and initiative to learn).
  • Strong attention to detail, work ethic, and personal initiative.
  • Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
  • Fluency with Microsoft Office suite and Google suite programs.
  • Possession of a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to traverse irregular terrain, and occasionally lift 10 pounds.
  • Readiness to work in hot, cold, and rainy weather conditions.

Compensation and Work Schedule

Term of employment is May 4, 2025 through November 1, 2025. Compensation is $16/hour, paid every two weeks. The regular work week is 40 hours. Work days and schedule will vary according to program offerings.

All VINS staff working directly with children are subject to a thorough background check, including fingerprinting and a criminal record check.

Application

To apply for this position, send cover letter, resume, and a list of three references to:

Anna Morris
Director, Wildlife Ambassador Programs
amorris@vinsweb.org

Applications accepted on a rolling basis

START DATE: May 4, 2025

Position post date: December 2024

VINS is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization supported by membership dues, admission and program fees, donations, and grants.