VINS Nature Camp Position
Contact Us
Nature Center Hours
VINS Nature Center
10am to 4pm Daily
Wild Bird Rehab is Open
Accepting Calls Only
802.359.5000 x212
8am to 4pm
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 of exploration and adventure. With 51 years of environmental education experience, VINS seeks passionate, conservation minded individuals who desire to work with children in an outdoor setting. Nature Camp Instructors are responsible for leading and teaching natural science topics to children ages 4 – 13 in an outdoor camp.
REPORTS TO: Lead Nature Camp and Adult Education
JOB LOCATION: VINS Nature Center, 149 Natures Way, Quechee, Vermont
Responsibilities
- Provide direct leadership for up to 14 campers throughout weekly day camp sessions at
the VINS Nature Center and offsite camp locations - Oversee the health and safety of campers, create emotionally healthy environment
- Work with Lead Instructor to plan weekly camp curriculums
- Teach educational camp programs related to natural sciences for a variety of 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
- Work with Lead Instructor to coordinate aspects for camp group including but not limited to, equipment usage, lesson and activity plans, cleanliness of camp area, risk management, and camper behavior
- Support and mentor Leaders-in-Training (L-I-Ts)
- Maintain excellent rapport and constant communication with parents of camp participants
- Utilize approved safety practices in all activities
- Understand and be able to implement emergency procedures
- Use and maintain VINS equipment appropriately
- 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: High School Diploma or equivalent. 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
- Passionate about conservation and environmental education
- Knowledge of general ecological processes and New England natural history, a plus
- 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
- 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
- Seasonal position
- Compensation: $14.00+ per hour commensurate with experience
- Work schedule is Monday – Friday
- Work week is 40 hours with the possibility of 1-2 part-time work weeks of 25 hours
- The term of employment is June 13, 2023 through August 25, 2023
Application
Apply online at: https://vinsnaturecampstaff.campbrainstaff.com/
or
Send cover letter, resume, and references to camps@vinsweb.org
Position post date: January 2023
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.