VINS Nature Camp Position

Contact Us

Nature Center Hours

VINS Nature Center
10 AM to 5 PM Daily

Wild Bird Rehab
802.359.5000 x212
8 AM to 4:30 PM Daily

Lead Nature Camp Instructor

VINS Nature Camp helps young people develop the life skills necessary to be a positive force for their community and the environment in a fun and exciting summer adventure. Lead Nature Camp Instructors are responsible for leading and teaching natural science topics to children ages 4 – 13 in our outdoor camp environment.

PURPOSE: To help children thrive in VINS Nature Camp programs
REPORTS TO: Director, Nature Camp and Adult Education
JOB LOCATION: VINS Nature Center, 149 Natures Way, Quechee, VT 05059

Responsibilities

  • Provide direct leadership for up to 14 campers throughout weekly camp sessions at the VINS Nature Center and offsite camp locations
  • Oversee camper safety and create an emotionally healthy camp environment
  • Plan and teach educational programs related to the natural sciences for varied age groups
  • Facilitate a wide range of activities including group games, outdoor sports, adventure scenarios, leadership skills, crafts, nature hikes, and other hands-on activities
  • Supervise all aspects of assigned camp groups including but not limited to planning weekly curricula, managing camper behavior, and maintaining teaching supplies
  • Support and mentor Nature Camp Instructors and Leaders-in-Training (L-I-Ts)
  • Understand and be able to implement emergency procedures and approved safety practices
  • Develop and maintain excellent communication with the Director of Nature Camp, Nature Camp Coordinator, co-instructors, VINS staff and volunteers, and camper parents/guardians

Specific duties will vary according to program, age range, and camp location.

Requirements and Qualifications

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Education: Bachelor’s Degree or currently working towards a degree in education, natural sciences, or related field of study, preferred
  • Previous work experience with children in summer camp or other educational settings, preferred
  • Experience in program or curriculum development, a plus
  • Flexibility and willingness to adapt to and facilitate change
  • Excellent group communication skills
  • Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to carry bulky, heavy teaching equipment (up to 40 lbs.)
  • Ability to lead camp groups over diverse terrain in all weather conditions
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification, or willing to obtain
  • Lifeguard certification may be required, or willing to obtain
  • General computer literacy

All VINS staff working directly with children are subject to a thorough background check, including fingerprinting for an FBI criminal history records check.

Compensation & Work Schedule

  • Seasonal position from June 5, 2025, through August 22, 2025
  • Compensation: $17.50 per hour
  • Work schedule is Monday – Friday
  • Work week is 40 hours with the possibility of 1-2 part-time work weeks

Application

Or send cover letter, resume, and three references to camps@vinsweb.org

Position post date: January 2025

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.