Job Description
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 rooms Clean and maintain assigned public areas and the baths Work cooperatively with team and communicate kindly Process laundry and stock inventory Assist in the training and orientation of new stewards Be a team liaison to other Departments such as the Office, the Gate,Healing Arts, Programs, and Maintenance Reliable and timely attendance – this position works on-site Maintain and inspect equipment Move furniture when required Support the Lodging Experience Manager and Lead(s) with any operational needs Harvest a variety of crops and wash/pack (3 times per week) Compost, including mechanized turning Bed preparations and plantings Soil cultivation and weeding Irrigation of annual and perennial crops at both the farm and garden Nursery management, including weekly sowings and daily watering Mechanical cultivation with tractor implements Support 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. Experien