Lead Nature Camp Instructor: Wilderness Specialist

The deadline to apply for this job has passed.

Organization

Vermont Institute of Natural Science

Job Posted

January 28, 2025

Job status

Job Category

Job Type

Job Duration

Job Compensation Type

Remote

No

Contact Name

Sarah Strew

Contact Email

sstrew@vinsweb.org

Contact Phone

802-359-5000

Deadline to Apply

Location

149 Natures Way
Quechee, VT
United States
VINS Nature Camp 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 adventure. Lead Wilderness Camp Instructors are responsible for leading and teaching natural science topics with an emphasis on backcountry and wilderness survival skills to children ages 6 – 13 in our outdoor camp environment.

Summary

Responsibilities:

  • Provide direct leadership for up to 14 campers throughout weekly day camp sessions and for up to 12 campers for overnight camp experiences including week-long overnight camps
  • Oversee camper safety and create an emotionally healthy camp environment
  • Plan and teach educational programs related to the natural sciences for varied age groups
  • Facilitate a wide range of activities including group games, outdoor sports, adventure scenarios, leadership skills, crafts, naturehikes, and other hands-on activities
  • Supervise all aspects of assigned camp groups including but not limited to planning weekly curricula, managing camper behavior, and maintaining teaching supplies
  • Support and mentor Nature Camp Instructors and Leaders-in-Training (L-I-Ts)
  • Understand and be able to implement emergency procedures and approved safety practices
  • Develop and maintainexcellent communication with the Director of Nature Camp, Nature Camp Coordinator, co-instructors, VINS staff and volunteers, and camper parents/guardians

Requirements and Qualifications:

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Education: Bachelor’s Degree or currently working towards a degree in education, natural sciences, or related field of study, preferred
  • Previouswork experience with children in summer camp or other educational settings, preferred
  • Experience in program or curriculum development, a plus
  • Experience and knowledge of wilderness survival skills, instruction experience in archery, canoeing, backcountry travel, a plus
  • Flexibility and willingness to adapt to and facilitate change
  • Excellent group communication skills
  • Ability to workwell independently and as part of a team
  • Ability to carrybulky, heavy teaching equipment (up to 40 lbs.)
  • Ability to lead camp groups over diverse terrain in all weather conditions
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification, or willing to obtain
  • Current Wilderness First Aid certification, or willing to obtain
  • General computer literacy

To Apply:

Apply online at: https://vinsnaturecampstaff.campbrainstaff.com/

or

Send cover letter, resume and references to camps@vinsweb.org

Compensation Information

Compensation and Work Schedule:

  • Seasonal position from June 5, 2025, through August 22, 2025
  • Compensation: $17.50 per hour
  • Work schedule is Monday – Friday
  • Work week is 40 hours except weeks of overnight camps when schedule will exceed 40 hours