VHCB AmeriCorps Position

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802.359.5000
info@vinsweb.org

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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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VHCB AmeriCorps – Field Research Specialist

REPORTS TO: Lead Biologist

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

KEY ELEMENTS INCLUDE: This position is part of the Vermont Housing & Conservation Board AmeriCorps (VHCB AmeriCorps). The VHCB AmeriCorps program supports the innovative dual-goal approach to creating stable affordable housing opportunities for Vermont residents while preserving the natural and working landscape. VHCB AmeriCorps is a national service program that places members with non-profit housing or land and energy conservation organizations around the state. Serving on the front lines of community-based organizations, VHCB AmeriCorps members energize, engage, and empower residents to address unmet needs at the local level, collectively creating positive change and building a healthy future for Vermont.

Essential Functions

  • Conduct monitoring for resighting of color banded Broad-winged Hawks, and surveys for potential nests.
  • Conduct water quality sampling and transport samples throughout the Ottauquechee watershed.
  • Lead and expand community science projects including nest watch, crayfish monitoring, and amphibian monitoring.
  • Conduct inventory and monitor invasive species on VINS properties.
  • Participate in an Independent Service Project under the guidance of VHCB AmeriCorps.
  • Participate in all VHCB AmeriCorps Program Initiatives & outreach activities to promote AmeriCorps.
  • Engage in professional and personal development activities and networking opportunities.
  • Submit bi-weekly timesheets.
  • Complete all enrollment and exit requirements.

Secondary Functions

  • Participate in other VINS projects including breeding bird surveys, and Trout in the Classroom (TIC).
  • Assist in banding projects including our American Kestrel, and Broad-winged Hawk monitoring.
  • Assist at our overnight Northern Saw-whet Owl banding station.
  • Collaborate with camp staff to bring added content to lessons.
  • Attend VINS staff meetings and participate in organization functions as required.
  • Serve with other departments at VINS to both bring added content to public programs and facilitate opportunities for cross-promotion of programs.
  • Participate in disaster response and recovery activities.*

*AmeriCorps members may be asked on a volunteer basis or requested by SerVermont to assist in disaster response and recovery activities.

AmeriCorps Qualifications

  • Be at least 17 years of age at the commencement of service; or an out-of-school youth 16 years participating in an approved program.
  • Have a high school diploma or enrolled in an institution of higher education.
  • Be a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident alien of the United States.
  • Satisfy the National Service Criminal History Check eligibility criteria.

Additional information on AmeriCorps is available at americorps.gov.

Additional Qualifications

  • Pass Vermont AHS Child Protection and Adult Abuse Registry Checks.
  • Be committed to the VHCB AmeriCorps program’s ethic of service, appreciation of diversity, and personal and professional development of its participants.
  • Have the ability and enthusiasm to drive to, attend, and participate in all required trainings and events, and be prepared to drive up to 2 – 3 hours each way.
  • Available to regularly serve 40 hours per week.
  • Capable of serving in remote areas of Vermont individually or as part of a small team.
  • Experience with field work and/or degree in natural resources, wildlife biology, or environmental sciences.
  • General knowledge of water quality sampling procedures and Vermont flora and fauna (or a willingness and initiative to learn).
  • Ability to identify Vermont bird species by sight and sounds.
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with staff, volunteers, and landowners.
  • Strong organizational skills and service ethic.

Information & Benefits

  • Position begins May 4, 2026 and ends October 30, 2026. Some flexibility with the start and end date.
  • Requires 915 hours for an average of 40 hours per week for 26 weeks.
  • Receive a living allowance of $16,147 (pre-tax).
  • Receive an education award of $3,697.50 (pre-tax) upon successful completion of service.
  • Healthcare coverage provided.
  • Childcare assistance provided (must meet qualifications).
  • Loan forbearance for federally backed student loans, if qualified.

Application

TO APPLY VISIT VHCB AMERICORPS SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

For questions about this position or to send additional materials:
Jim Armbruster, Lead Biologist
jarmbruster@vinsweb.org
802.359.5000 x222

Position post date: February 2026

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.