VINS Nature Camp Position

Contact Us

802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

Nature Center Hours

VINS Nature Center
10am to 5pm Daily

Accepting Injured Birds
8am to 5pm 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 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: Updated April 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.