VINS Nature Camp Position

Contact Us

802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

Nature Center Hours

VINS Nature Center
10 AM to 4 PM Daily

Wild Bird Rehab
802.359.5000 x212
8 AM to 4:30 PM Daily

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Nature Camp Second Assistant

The Vermont Institute of Natural Science is seeking an energetic, conservation-minded educator to lead our Nature Camp programs located at VINS Nature Center in Quechee, VT. 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: Assist in management of environmental education camp programs; children ages 4-13

JOB LOCATION: VINS Nature Center, 149 Natures Way, Quechee, Vermont

Responsibilities

  • Assist the Lead, Nature Camp and Nature Camp Assistant with the administration, management, and supervision of VINS’ camp program, serving children ages 4-13
  • Share responsibility for the safety, supervision, and general well-being of all campers
  • Act as Head Instructor during VINS Nature Camp’s two weeks of overnight camp including planning and delivery of curriculum and supervision of campers
  • Supervise VINS Nature Camp’s Extended Day program at VINS Nature Center and
    off-site locations
  • Act as camp registrar and assist Lead, Nature Camp in managing registrations, camper documents and weekly program rosters
  • Provide the highest level of customer service to parents/guardians and campers before, during and after their participation in camp including maintaining excellent communication with parents/guardians of camp participants on a daily basis
  • Travel to off-site camp locations to provide support to staff and campers
  • Assist the Lead, Nature Camp and Nature Camp Assistant with the support of all camp instructors in daily execution of camp plans including providing behavior management and disciplinary support and filling in for instructors not able to work
  • Assist the Lead, Nature Camp and Nature Camp Assistant with the training and supervision of up to 10 camp instructors including the execution of a formal two week training program
  • Support all camp special event planning, preparation, set-up and breakdown
  • Recognize and respond effectively to emergencies; responsible for supporting Lead Nature Camp in risk management

Requirements and Qualifications

  • Minimum 21 years of age
  • Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher in education, recreation/outdoor management, environmental science/studies preferred
  • Previous work experience with summer camps, managing groups of children a must
  • Familiarity and comfort with teaching natural science to children
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and customer service skills
  • Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to carry bulky, heavy teaching equipment (up to 40 lbs.)
  • Current driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Ability to assist with leading educational activities over diverse terrain and in all weather conditions
  • Current CPR and First Aid certifications a must, or willing to obtain
  • Lifeguard Certification a must, or willing to obtain
  • Organizational and administration skills required
  • Computer skills and knowledge of 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: $500+ per week stipend based on experience
  • The regular work week is 40 hours, Monday – Friday with two weeks of overnight camp work approx. 55 hours, Sunday – Friday
  • The term of employment is May 22, 2020 through August 21, 2020

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: March 15, 2020

START DATE: May 22, 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.