The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS), in Quechee, VT, is seeking energetic, conservation-minded educators to lead our Nature Camp programs. With 49 years of environmental education experience, VINS offers children in the Upper Valley of Vermont and New Hampshire a fun and safe way to learn about nature through an exciting summer of outdoor exploration, adventure and discovery.

Raptor Instructor Duties:

• Plan and deliver a diversity of daily summer camp programs to a variety of age groups
• Create safe, fun and educational outdoor opportunities
• Supervise and facilitate quality camp programming
• Develop, plan, teach and lead engaging activities related to natural science with an emphasis on raptor biology, natural history and behavior
• Present educational sessions to camp groups while handling live raptor
• Facilitate a wide range of activities including: group games, outdoor sports, adventure scenarios, leadership skills, craft activities, nature hikes and other hands-on activities
• Maintain excellent rapport and constant communication with parents of camp participants on a daily basis
• Share and communicate teaching responsibilities and planning with co-instructors
• Support and mentor other instructors and Leaders-in-Training (L-I-Ts)
• Develop and maintain excellent communication with the Lead Nature Camp, Nature Camp Assistant, other instructors, VINS staff and volunteers
• Act as a professional representative of the Vermont Institute of Natural Science
• Participate in all scheduled camp staff training sessions, including two weeks of raptor handling training prior to camp season, and camp events
• Consult with VINS educators and wildlife rehabilitation specialists to bring added content to camp programs, as appropriate

Specific duties will vary according to program, hours, age range, and camp location.

Requirements and Qualifications:

• Must be at least 18 years old
• Education: Bachelor’s Degree or currently working towards a degree in education, natural sciences, biology or related field of study preferred
• Previous work experience with groups of children is a must, experience with summer camps, environmental education, outdoor education preferred
• Must be willing to work with live raptors
• Previous animal handling experience, especially raptors, preferred
• Knowledge of raptor biology, natural, history and behavior and general knowledge of basic ecological processes and New England natural history a must, or willing to learn
• Experience developing curriculum or programs, a plus
• Passionate about conservation and environmental education
• Flexibility and willingness to adapt to and facilitate change
• Excellent group communication skills
• Ability to work well independently and as part of a team
• Ability to carry bulky, heavy teaching equipment (up to 40 lbs.)
• Ability to lead field trips over diverse terrain in all weather conditions
• Current driver’s license and clean driving record
• Current First Aid and CPR certifications a must, or willing to obtain
• Lifeguard certification may be required, or willing to obtain
• General computer literacy including ability to use Microsoft Office programs

COVID-19 Special Requirements:

• Anyone coming from outside Vermont must complete a state-mandated quarantine of 14 days or 7 days plus a negative COVID test result prior to beginning work for VINS.
• VINS may require camp instructors to be tested for COVID-19 prior to beginning work with our camp program, or during the summer if they develop symptoms of or have a possible exposure to COVID-19 while working for VINS.