Lead Nature Camp Instructor
Summary: 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 Nature Camp Instructors are responsible for leading and teaching natural science topics to children ages 4 – 13 in our outdoor camp environment.
Responsibilities:
- Provide direct leadership for up to 14 campers throughout weekly camp sessions at the VINS Nature Center and off-site camp locations
- 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
- 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 leadcamp groups over diverse terrain in all weather conditions
- Current First Aid and CPR certification, or willing to obtain
- Lifeguard certification may be required, or willing to obtain
- General computer literacy
All VINS staff working directly with children are subject to a thoroughbackground check, including fingerprinting for an FBI criminal history records check.
Compensation and Work Schedule:
- Seasonal position from June 9, 2026, through August 26, 2026
- Compensation: $17.50 per hour
- Work schedule is Monday – Friday
- Workweek is 40 hours with the possibility of 1-2 part-time work weeks
To Apply:
Apply online at: https://vinsnaturecampstaff.campbrainstaff.com/
or
Send cover letter, resume, and three references to camps@vinsweb.org