Natural Resource Instructor

Natural Resource Instructors (NRIs) work under the Camp Director and Camp Coordinator. Instructors will be involved in teaching courses at a residential camp ranging from first aid education, hunter firearm safety, fishing, forestry, ecology, fish and wildlife management, and outdoor recreation. NRIs also directly supervise and support 8-10 campers, ages 12-16, on a weekly basis. They will also be responsible for mentoring campers in educational, social, and personal matters and assisting all staff members in carrying out camp goals, objectives, and the Vermont State Fish & Wildlife Department’s mission. Please note: this is a residential position at either the Edward F. Kehoe Camp in Castleton, VT or the Buck Lake Camp in Woodbury, VT. 

Specific Responsibilities:
1.Live near campers and be available for adolescent support and helping each camper adjust to camp life. This can include hearing about, taking action on, and supporting a camper through difficult situations. 

2.Encourage and lead each camper in their participation in camp activities and interactions with other campers.

3.Be able to teach courses independently and co-teach all courses with other staff members (teach 3-5 classes a day).

4.Oversee and interact with a cabin of 8-10 campers. Facilitate wake up and nighttime cabin activities. Sleep in the back of the camper cabins during designated weeks.

5.Coordinate one area of camp weekly, including supply inventory and repair, cleaning, and organization.

6.Check with the Camp Director and Junior Counselor Director to see if any work projects need to be completed before taking personal time off when not teaching classes.

7.Hold self to high standards regarding facilities maintenance and cleanliness, class equipment care, and time spent with campers at meal time, swim time, and cabin time.

8.Assist with camp activities, and other responsibilities including health and safety supervision, dining hall duties, inventory and organizing class materials, grounds maintenance, and similar tasks.

9.Be ‘on call’ to needs and responsibilities of camp and the campers 24 hours a day (excluding days off).

10.Be a positive role model and leader for the campers and volunteer staff.

11.Deal with discipline issues in an appropriate and sensitive manner.

12.Cooperate fully with the Director, Junior Counselor Director, other Instructors, volunteers, and all Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Staff.

Application Criteria:

Minimum one year of college, preferably in Natural Resources, Wildlife, Environmental Education, or similar field OR successful completion of the GMCC Junior Counselor Program. Willingness to work with and teach adolescents 12 to 16 years old is a must. Must be able to provide general guidance and leadership to campers, including hearing about, taking action on, and supporting campers in difficult situations. Leadership, teaching, and mentoring experience are highly desired. Applicants with camping, fishing, hunting/firearm experience, First Aid and CPR certifications or advanced emergency care certifications (WFA, WFR, OEC, etc.), and a valid driver’s license, are preferred. 

Additional Information: Positions are open until filled. Early applicants are encouraged. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Room and board are included. Position Dates: Early June to late August 

To apply: Applications are accepted online only. Follow the link to the Vermont Fish and Wildlife website for more information.