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
Thank you for your interest in the Nature Camp Instructor position. This position has been closed.
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. Nature Camp Instructors assist in leading and teaching natural science topics to children ages 4 – 13 in our outdoor camp environment.
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 off-site 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 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 a 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.
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.