VINS Education Position

Contact Us

802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

Nature Center Hours

VINS Nature Center
10am to 5pm Daily

Wild Bird Rehab is Open
Accepting Calls Only
802.359.5000 x212
8am to 5pm

Get Directions

Science Educator

The Science Educator is responsible for helping to deliver VINS School Programs, with a focus on Prekindergarten – Grade 2 in the Small Wonders and ELF Science programs, as well as teaching Field Trip lessons at the VINS Nature Center.

KEY ELEMENTS INCLUDE: delivering high quality inquiry science lessons to students and their teachers; designing lessons and curriculum to meet the Vermont Early Learning Standards and the Next Generation Science Standards; continuing open dialogue with area schools to support ongoing partnerships throughout the school year; participating with the ongoing evaluation and improvement of programs, curricula and materials with the Director and Lead management team.

REPORTS TO: Director, School Programs and Teacher Professional Development

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

Science Educator Duties

  • Develop and teach high quality inquiry science units to students and teachers in local schools, preschools, and daycare centers through VINS School Programs
  • Serves as the lead educator for Grades K-2 in the ELF Science Program
  • Serve as an educator for PreK in the Small Wonders Program
  • Reach out to area schools to support ongoing partnerships, promote VINS School Programs and recruit new schools for upcoming school year
  • Support the Director of School Programs and Teacher Professional Development in ongoing evaluation and improvement of VINS School Programs
  • Work collaboratively with the VINS School Programs team to develop and teach lessons for Scout groups and Field Trips to the Nature Center
  • Work a varied schedule that may include evenings and weekends

Organizational Responsibilities Include

  • Attend VINS staff meetings and participate in organization functions as required
  • Work with other departments at VINS to both bring added content to public programs and facilitate opportunities for cross-promotion of programs

Qualifications

  • Vermont teaching license (or a license in a reciprocating state) preferred
  • Vermont Early Childhood license (or a license in a reciprocating state) preferred
  • Master's Degree in education or related field preferred
  • Demonstrated excellence in developing and teaching inquiry science lessons
  • Experience teaching students in a wide age range, pre-k through 8th grade
  • Experience in environmental education preferred
  • Excellent classroom management skills, both in an indoor and outdoor setting
  • Experience with curriculum development and aligning curriculum to meet standards including the Next Generation Science Standards and the Vermont Early Learning Standards
  • Demonstrated ability to develop strong rapport with teachers, administrators and students
  • Excellent public speaking, writing and communication skills
  • Comfortability singing in front of students
  • Ability to play the ukulele or willingness to learn preferred
  • Flexibility, creativity and ability to think quickly in response to change
  • Strong organizational skills and work ethic
  • Commitment to excellence
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds and lead moderate to strenuous trail hikes and field trips in all seasons
  • Current first aid and CPR certification

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

Compensation & Work Schedule

This is a 32-hour a week, full-time position with benefits according to VINS Personnel Policy. Regular work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00am – 2:30pm, with some weekends and evenings. Primary job location is at the VINS Nature Center in Quechee, VT with travel to deliver and administer programs. Compensation is commensurate to experience.

Application

To apply for this position, send cover letter, resume, and a list of 3 references to Hannah Gelroth, Director, School Programs and Teacher Professional Development at hgelroth@vinsweb.org.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: July 1, 2023

START DATE: July 31, 2023

Position post date: May 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.