Karmê Chöling is a Shambhala Buddhist meditation center in Barnet, Vermont, set on 460 acres of forests, trails, gardens, and open land. Established in 1970, we offer mindfulness programs in a welcoming community setting for both new and experienced practitioners. Our campus includes retreat cabins, walking trails, an organic garden, and a main building that hosts residents and program participants.
Our one-acre organic garden provides fresh produce for our community and supplies our local farm stand. The garden includes vegetables, flowers, herbs, shiitake mushrooms, and berries.
We’re seeking a Garden Assistant to work closely with our Garden Manager through the remainder of the 2026 growing season, including preparing the garden for winter.
What You’ll Do
You’ll be part of a small garden team caring for a productive organic garden from planting through harvest and winter preparation. Your work will include:
- Seeding and transplanting plants
- Preparing soil, weeding, mulching, and maintaining irrigation
- Turning and distributing compost
- Harvesting and washing fresh produce
- Opening and closing the greenhouses according to an established schedule
- Maintaining clean, organized, and welcoming garden spaces
- Assisting with seasonal garden projects and preparing the garden for winter
- Helping wherever needed to keep the garden healthy and productive
What We’re Looking For
- Some gardening experience and an eagerness to learn
- An interest in regenerative and organic gardening practices
- Enjoyment of physical, hands-on work outdoors
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively
- Comfort with repetitive physical tasks, including lifting, carrying, bending, kneeling, and working on your feet
- Flexibility with work hours, including some weekend availability
- An openness or interest in meditation, mindfulness, and community living
What You’ll Receive
Residential option:
- $800 monthly stipend, plus room and board
- Access to shared community spaces, including the staff gym and recreation room
Commuter option:
- Hourly compensation for staff who do not reside at Karmê Chöling
All Garden Assistants receive:
- Paid time off
- Free access to qualifying meditation programs and retreats
- Support for your meditation practice, including a personal Meditation Instructor
- The opportunity to live and work in a beautiful, rural Vermont setting and contribute to a vibrant community
Start: Immediately | Seasonal position through the end of the 2026 growing season
To apply, contact: [email protected]