WORK SCHOLAR PROGRAM - Full-time / Part-time

WHY? 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. Over 60 years ago, Esalen co-founders, Michael Murphy and Richard Price, imagined a place inspired by 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.



WHAT?

The Work Scholar program is a service-minded, 3-month stewardship experience designed to support our Kitchen, Housingkeeping/CABinS, and Farm & Garden teams with their work loads, while empowering participants with new skills. 

WHO?

The Work Scholar participants have the opportunity to contribute three months of service, while simultaneously exploring their human potential in partnership with the majesty of the Esalen campus. 

In a life transition and/or seeking purposeful opportunities to serve

Already grounded in emotional regulation and self-awareness and ready to give back

Capable of contributing and self-regulating in physically and socially demanding environments

Drawn to community living, selfless devotion and the stewardship of sacred space

In acute emotional or mental health crisis or deep burnout

Intentionally seeking healing or a therapeutic retreat

Resistant to feedback, teamwork, or physical labor

HOW?

As a Work Scholar, you’ll contribute through focused, physically engaged roles that support the guest experience and the living ecosystem of Esalen.

Changing over guest rooms and cleaning with care and attention

Washing dishes and stewarding the heart of our kitchen spaces

Chopping vegetables, following recipes, and assisting with meal prep

Folding laundry and supporting the flow of sacred guest spaces

Planting, weeding, harvesting, and tending to the land in the Farm & Garden

Supporting operational flow with mindfulness, rhythm, and precision

Participating in daily rhythms of purposeful action, accountability, feedback, and shared intention

DURATION

Esalen co-founder Dick Price described his experience of living and working at Esalen as part of life’s cosmic journey, viewing Esalen as a mere stop along the cosmic bus line. This 3-month opportunity to work in service at Esalen Institute allows a great number of individuals to contribute to our mission and vision, then take the experience back out into the world, where they can affect cultural change. 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

While performing the duties in your assigned department, each Work Scholar participant must be able to  to work in a physically demanding environment; maneuver on uneven ground, stand for long periods of time, often carry and lift up to 50 pounds, carry, bend, push/pull, tolerate exposure to changes in temperature, and be able perform daily repetitive hand movements.

COMPENSATION, HOUSING & MEALS

In alignment with Esalen’s mission in advancing human potential, Work Scholar Participants are encouraged to engage in a wide range of personal and professional development programs designed by Esalen faculty and staff.

Each Work Scholar Participant will be paid $.

Live in shared accommodations.

All meals will be provided.