Education Intern

Position: Education Intern

Location: VINS Nature Center, Quechee, VT, USA (onsite)           

Reports to: Director, Onsite & Outreach Programs

Updated: January 2024

Primary Responsibilities:

• Deliver place-based environmental education programs featuring live animal ambassadors (primarily raptors) to varied audiences at the VINS Nature Center.
• 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.
• Complete a term project to create a new resource for the VINS Nature Center and/or educational programming; work with supervisory staff to design the project concept.
• Attend professional development workshops lead by VINS staff to hone skills relevant to environmental education and animal care.
• Work closely alongside Education volunteers in animal husbandry and program presentations.
• Attend VINS staff meetings and participate in organization functions as required.
• Participate in mid-point and final evaluations of internship goals and achievements.
• 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.
• Confidence 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).
• 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.

Apply: The application deadline is March 15th, 2024. To apply for this position, send a cover letter, resume, and three reference contacts to:

Anna Morris

Director, Onsite & Outreach Programs

amorris@vinsweb.org