Lead Nature Camp Instructor: Wilderness Specialist

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 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