Garden Field Hand

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 part-time position supports the Farm & Garden Manager and Supervisor in all aspects of production and operation of the Farm and Garden.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Harvest a variety of crops and wash/pack (2 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.
• Support land stewardship through consistent weed whacking and lawn mowing across the Farm & Garden grounds.
• Demonstrates general maintenance abilities, including basic repairs and small building projects as needed.
• 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 residential students who are in a 1 to 3 month program.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 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.
• Experience in and/or willingness to learn Esalen communication skills using methods such as daily Gestalt style check-ins.

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 maneuver on uneven ground, drive trucks and tractors, often carry and lift up to 50 pounds, handle and use tools and machinery, and ability to do physical garden/farm work including harvesting, hoeing, stake pounding/pulling, digging.  Many of the activities require bending over, kneeling and sitting on uneven ground during cold and hot weather conditions. There is some exposure to dust, fumes, gas and chemicals.

COMPENSATION

• 6 Month position
• Wage range $18.50-$21/hour
• Part Time - 3 days a week, 24 hours total
• Housing is not offered for this role - complimentary commuter housing available
• All meals provided
• 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 Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.