Permanent/Paid Staff

Tara Mandala permanent staff are asked to make a long term commitment to Tara Mandala. We work as a community providing assistance to retreatants, facilities maintenance, bookkeeping, practice-study, hospitality, food service, registration, construction, cottage industry product development, gardening, desktop publishing, website work, mailing list updates, and bookstore services.

There are no permanent staff positions open at this time.

Resident Retreatant

The Resident Retreatant Program allows those interested in spending a longer time at Tara Mandala the opportunity to engage in deep personal practice while being part of the working community of the center.  Resident retreatants work 20 hours per week in the office or on the land, and participate in all community practice sessions, study groups, and personal interviews with Lama Tsultrim.  Resident retreatants may attend one retreat on the land per year (up to 9-day retreat) and may attend other talks as their work schedule allows.  Resident retreatants are expected to use their free time to engage iin dedicated practice.  No money is exchanged in this arrangement.

Housing on the land, in a rustic yurt or cabin, is provided.  Resident retreatants are responsible for all personal expenses, including food, fire wood, and transportation.  Resident retreatants participate in weekly karma yoga chores (1-2 hours/week) in addition to their work and attend all staff meetings and councils.

Resident retreatants initially commit for a minimum of three months and maximum of 6 months; after 4 months an extension may be reviewed.  Resident retreatants receive all official Tara Mandala holidays but receive no vacation in the first 6 months (special circumstances may be discussed with supervisors).

Please attach a letter of intent and résume to the resident retreatant application and send to Anna Raithel, Volunteer Manager, at Tara Mandala, PO Box 3040, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147 or email anna@taramandala.org.

Resident Retreatant Application

Volunteer Opportunities

Come Volunteer With Us!

Summer Staff & Volunteer Opportunities

We are currently accepting applications for summer staff positions for Summer 2010, which will run from June 4th - November 15th. Our intention for summer staff is to provide a place where people can incorporate their Dharma practice into their work and lives. In contrast to spending a short time doing a retreat, this is an opportunity to bring the Dharma into life in community.  Interpersonal relations, physical work tasks, community life and meditation practice merge to create an experience of work that is far different than anything you've experienced. Tara Mandala is located in a remote area and access to the distractions of modern life will be limited. You will be in a reflective environment close to nature, learning meditation and other contemplative disciplines, as well as learning the art of council and community life. If interested, please contact Anna at anna@taramandala.org.

Instruction in sitting meditation will be offered at the beginning of the season. We will have the precious opportunity to practice together daily (in the early morning) and to meet in circle regularly. During circle time, we will share our ongoing experiences in taking service and teamwork as part of our spiritual path.  Staff will also be welcome at most evening practices and teachings when those take place. However, most day-time teachings will probably conflict with work duties, and staff may attend these only on days off. Being on summer staff is not only a great opportunity to practice, but also a way to bring work and community living onto the spiritual path.

We are hiring cooks that receive a small stipend and lead meal prep, and cook assistants who help to prepare meals.  In addition to cook positions we will also be hiring a land manager to oversee various land projects, a participant coordinator to assist with retreat management, an experienced gardener to work in our grow dome and gardens, a bookstore assistant to help in the bookstore, and floaters to do a variety of tasks as needed.  All positions are full-time and can be strenuous; regular days off and meals are supplied for the duration of the summer. Folks who can stay for longer periods of time will be given preference in the application process, and a 4-6 week minimum stay is optimal. All staff camp on Tara Mandala land and are expected to bring their own tent, sleeping bag and camping gear.

Summer Staff Application (Word)
Summer Staff Application (PDF)

For more information or to request an application by mail, please call 970-731-3713 x113, and speak to Anna or email anna@taramandala.org.