VINS Nature Camp Position

Contact Us

802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

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

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Nature Camp Instructor

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) Nature Camp in Quechee, VT 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. VINS seeks passionate, conservation-minded individuals who desire to work with children in an outdoor setting to join our camp team. 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
LOCATION: VINS Nature Center, 149 Natures Way, Quechee, VT 05059

Responsibilities

  • Provide direct leadership for up to 14 campers throughout weekly day camp sessions at the VINS Nature Center and offsite camp locations
  • Assist in overseeing camper safety and creating an emotionally healthy camp environment
  • Work with Lead Nature Camp Instructor to 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
  • Assist Lead Nature Camp Instructor in overseeing all aspects of assigned camp groups including but not limited to planning weekly curricula, managing camper behavior, and maintaining teaching supplies
  • Support and mentor 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 18 years old or be 17 years old and have successfully completed at least one summer of volunteer work with VINS Nature Camp’s Leader-In-Training program.
  • Education: High School Diploma or equivalent preferred. Currently working towards a degree in education, natural sciences, or related field of study, a plus
  • Previous work experience with children in summer camp or other educational settings, preferred
  • 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 First Aid and CPR certification or willing to obtain
  • Lifeguard certification may be required or willing to obtain

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

Compensation & Work Schedule

  • Seasonal position from June 9, 2025, through August 22, 2025
  • Compensation: $16.50 per hour
  • Work schedule is Monday – Friday
  • Work week is 40 hours with the possibility of 1-2 part-time work weeks

Application

Apply online at: https://vinsnaturecampstaff.campbrainstaff.com/
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.