VINS Education Position

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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 4pm

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Thank you for your interest in the Seasonal Educator position. This position has been closed. 

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Seasonal Educator

VINS Educators deliver live animal and natural history programs at the VINS Nature Center in Quechee, Vermont, and travel to schools and other sites throughout Vermont to teach outreach programs.

REPORTS TO: Director, Onsite & Outreach Programs

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

VINS' education programs are designed for all audiences. In addition to our public programs at the Nature Center, we serve communities throughout northern New England. Job location is in Quechee, Vermont, headquartered at the VINS Nature Center with some travel to other program sites as required.

Primary Responsibilities

  • Deliver place-based environmental education programs featuring live animal ambassadors (primarily raptors) to varied audiences at the VINS Nature Center and as outreaches to schools and other locations in Vermont and New Hampshire.
  • Lead guided tours of the VINS Nature Center and facilitate visitor experiences by interpreting exhibits and answering questions.
  • Provide excellent husbandry for ambassador animals including enclosure cleaning, diet preparation, enrichment, and assist with positive reinforcement training.
  • Work with other Education teams such as VINS Nature Camp and VINS School Programs to facilitate opportunities for integration.
  • Participate in and put together activities for monthly Special Events focused on different natural history themes.
  • Work closely alongside Education volunteers in animal husbandry and program presentations.
  • Attend VINS staff meetings and participate in organization functions as required.
  • Work a varied schedule that may include evenings, weekends, and long days.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in environmental education or teaching natural history.
  • Excellent skills in delivering dynamic educational presentations to audiences of all ages, aptitudes, and sizes, including large crowds.
  • General knowledge of New England natural history and native wildlife (or willingness and initiative to learn).
  • Previous ambassador animal experience, especially raptors, preferred.
  • Strong attention to detail, work ethic, and personal initiative desired.
  • Ability to work well independently and as part of a team.
  • Fluent with Microsoft Office suite and Google suite programs.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be able to traverse irregular terrain, and occasionally lift 10 pounds.
  • Must be able to see and respond to dangerous situations.
  • Must be able to work in hot, cold, and rainy weather conditions.

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