Lead Nature Camp Instructor: Wilderness Specialist

Lead Nature Camp Instructor:

Wilderness Specialist Vermont Institute of Natural Science Quechee, Vermont Job Type Temporary Salary $17.50 per hour Deadline May 24, 2026 Min. Experience 0 - 1 year 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.

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, nature hikes, 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 maintain excellent 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 Previous work 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, and backcountry travel, a plus 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 camp groups over diverse terrain in all weather conditions Current Wilderness First Aid certification, or willing to obtain Lifeguard certification may be required, or willing to obtain General computer literacy

Compensation and Work Schedule:

Seasonal position from June 9, 2026, through August 26, 2026

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

How To Apply To Apply:

Apply online at: https://vinsnaturecampstaff.campbrainstaff.com/ or Send cover letter, resume and references to camps@vinsweb.org Applications accepted on a rolling basis