VINS Nature Camp Position

Contact Us

802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

Nature Center Hours

Accepting injured birds
8am to 4:30pm daily
802.359.5000 x212

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Nature Camp Instructor

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science is seeking energetic, conservation-minded educators to lead our Nature Camp programs. With 48 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
  • Be able to help 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
  • Help to support and mentor Leaders-in-Training (L-I-Ts)
  • Develop and maintain excellent communication with the Lead Nature Camp, Nature Camp Assistant, 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 organizational and 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
  • General computer literacy including ability to use Microsoft Office programs

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

Compensation & Work Schedule

  • Full time, seasonal position
  • Compensation: $11.00+ per hour commensurate with experience
  • The regular work week is 40 hours, Monday – Friday
  • The term of employment is June 9, 2020 through August 21, 2020 with the possibility of one week off during the summer

Application

Apply online at vinsnaturecampstaff.campbrainstaff.com

OR

Send resume, cover letter, and three professional references to Sarah Strew at sstrew@vinsweb.org.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: April 15, 2020

START DATE: June 9, 2020

Position post date: January 2020

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.