VINS Nature Camp Position
Contact Us
Nature Center Hours
VINS Nature Center
10am to 4pm Daily
Accepting Injured Birds
8:00 am to 4:00 pm Daily
802.359.5000 x212
Nature Camp Instructor
The Vermont Institute of Natural Science is seeking energetic, conservation-minded educators to lead our Nature Camp programs. With 49 years of environmental education experience, VINS offers children in the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire a fun and safe way to learn about nature through an exciting summer of outdoor exploration, adventure and discovery.
REPORTS TO: Lead Nature Camp and Adult Programs
SUMMARY: Nature Day Camp - Environmental education programs for children ages 4-13
JOB LOCATION: VINS Nature Center, 149 Natures Way, Quechee, Vermont
Nature Camp Instructor Duties
- Work with Lead Instructor to plan and deliver a diversity of daily summer camp programs to a variety of age groups
- Create safe, fun and educational outdoor opportunities
- Assist Lead Instructor to develop, plan, teach and lead engaging activities related to natural science
- Facilitate a wide range of activities including group games, outdoor sports, adventure scenarios, crafts, nature hikes and other hands-on activities
- Maintain excellent rapport and constant communication with parents of camp participants on a daily basis
- Share and communicate teaching responsibilities and planning with Lead Instructor
- Support and mentor Leaders-in-Training (L-I-Ts)
- Develop and maintain excellent communication with the Lead Nature Camp, Nature Camp Assistant, other instructors, VINS staff and volunteers
- Act as a professional representative of the Vermont Institute of Natural Science
- Participate in all scheduled camp staff training sessions and camp events
Specific duties will vary according to program, age range, and camp location.
Requirements and Qualifications
- Must be at least 18 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 groups of children, experience with summer camps, environmental education, outdoor education preferred
- Knowledge of general ecological processes and New England natural history, a plus
- Passionate about conservation and environmental education
- 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 groups over diverse terrain in all weather conditions
- Current driver’s license and clean driving record
- Current First Aid and CPR certifications a must, or willing to obtain
- Lifeguard certification may be required, or willing to obtain
- General computer literacy including ability to use Microsoft Office programs
COVID-19 Special Requirements
- Anyone coming from outside Vermont must complete a state-mandated quarantine of 14 days or 7 days plus a negative COVID test result prior to beginning work for VINS.
- VINS may require camp instructors to be tested for COVID-19 prior to beginning work with our camp program or during the summer if they develop symptoms of or have a possible exposure to COVID-19 while working for VINS.
All VINS staff working directly with children are subject to a thorough background check, including fingerprinting and a criminal record check.
Compensation & Work Schedule
- Seasonal position
- Compensation: $11.75+ per hour commensurate with experience
- Work schedule is Monday – Friday
- Regular work week is 40 hours with the possibility of 1-2 weeks of part-time work of no less than 25 hours
- The term of employment is June 21, 2021 through August 27, 2021 with the possibility of one unpaid week off during the summer
Application
Apply online at vinsnaturecampstaff.campbrainstaff.com
APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 15, 2021
Position post date: January 2021
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.