At Esalen, we believe in the power of our potential -- both in our staff and in our global community of students and faculty who turn to us for transformative learning experiences. More than 50 years ago, Esalen co-founders imagined a place inspired by Abraham Maslow’s psychology of peak experiences and Aldous Huxley’s belief in “human potentialities”, the unrealized capacities of our mind and body. Today we build on this legacy by creating deep connections in a world challenged by disconnection and isolation; reigniting awe and wonder to spark greater curiosity about ourselves and others; and asking the questions that can lead to transformative change both for an individual and society.
Esalen isn’t just a place to work, it’s an invitation to help change the world.
OVERVIEW
This role plays a key part of the Esalen Lodging Experience Team. You are an integral part of advancing Esalen’s mission by ensuring our accommodations facilitate a transformative experience for our workshop participants. You will be expected to perform a variety of duties from preparing rooms to cleaning our baths. Certain designated days, this role will also support the Farm & Garden Manager in all aspects of production and operation of the Farm and Garden.Prior work experience at Esalen is preferred. Candidates that have graduated from Esalen’s 3 month REEP program or a current staff member who has been employed for at least three months will be given top consideration.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Clean and maintain the seminarian rooms and meeting roomsClean and maintain assigned public areas and the bathsWork cooperatively with team and communicate kindlyProcess laundry and stock inventoryAssist in the training and orientation of new stewardsBe a team liaison to other Departments such as the Office, the Gate,Healing Arts, Programs, and MaintenanceReliable and timely attendance – this position works on-siteMaintain and inspect equipmentMove furniture when requiredSupport the Lodging Experience Manager and Lead(s) with any operational needsHarvest a variety of crops and wash/pack (3 times per week)Compost, including mechanized turningBed preparations and plantingsSoil cultivation and weedingIrrigation of annual and perennial crops at both the farm and gardenNursery management, including weekly sowings and daily wateringMechanical cultivation with tractor implementsSupport production of value added Farm & Garden products; which may include fermented foods and herbal medicines.Assist development of packaging, material acquisition, and coordination with retail outlets for delivery and display.Leading and directing crews ranging from 2-8 people with a wide range of experience and backgrounds, from one-time volunteers with little to no experience to apprentices who are 6 months into a 12 month program.
QUALIFICATIONS
Adapt to a new work environment socially and physically. Integrate emotional work while meeting demands of your weekly work schedule.Handle physical labor involving lifting, bending, being on feet for long periods of time, and maintain repetitive motions. Carrying heavy objects; loading/unloading bundles and equipment, loading/unloading industrial washing equipment, and stocking boxes of inventory.Ability to be detail oriented and organized.Ability to work under pressure while meeting deadlines.Ability to handle a variety of cleaning products.Communicate well with others and be open to meeting new people at work.At least 6 months experience working in a production garden or equivalent training.Experience overseeing and directing work crews.An understanding of sustainable gardening principles and practices including soil health and fertility, irrigation systems, composting techniques, pest control, weed control etc.Working knowledge of organic crop production, including vegetables, flowers, and herbs, native and perennial crops.Working knowledge of creating and cultivating value added products such as; fermented foods and herbal medicines.Skilled in clear and authentic communication, including ability to share in and support personal sharing circles. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with people of diverse backgrounds in various situations.Demonstrated ability to safely lead and participate in physically demanding work on uneven terrain.Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with people of diverse backgrounds in various situations.Demonstrated ability to safely lead and participate in physically demanding work on uneven terrain.Experience in and/or willingness to learn Esalen communication skills using methods such as the Conscious Leadership Group and Gestalt. Experience in and/or willingness to learn Esalen communication skills using methods such as the Conscious Leadership Group and Gestalt.
FLEXIBILITY
Esalen functions best when all staff work toward the common mission of encouraging everyone to reach our highest human potential. With this goal in mind, this job description is not intended to cover or contain an all-encompassing listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice based on Esalen’s and your team’s needs.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
While performing the duties of this job: the employee must be able to work in a physically demanding environment; maneuver on uneven ground; stand for long periods of time; regularly lift and carry bags and bundles up to 30 pounds; carry, push and pull vacuums; lift, bend, carry, load and unload laundry in and out of industrial washing equipment; move furniture. There is daily exposure to biodegradable chemicals.
COMPENSATION
6 Month positionWage range $18.50-$21/hourFull Time - 40 Hours/weekHousing available on-site (residential fee charged)All meals providedThe pay for this position is commensurate with experience. Esalen gives teammates access to an extensive range of daily experiential classes (yoga, dance, tai chi, and meditation), and ongoing in-house education and training programs. In alignment with Esalen’s mission in advancing human potential, staff are encouraged to engage in a wide range of personal and professional development programs designed by Esalen faculty and staff.
Esalen provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
