Esalen

BARISTA/BARTENDER/KITCHEN HELPER - PART TIME (3 or 6 Month Position)

55000 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA 93920-9546

On-site · Part-time

First seen by offpeak October 4, 2026

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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 60 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

The Bartender position is a key part of the Esalen Kitchen team and is expected to perform a variety of duties associated with the bar area, the serving of beverages and the overall dining experience of our seminarians and staff. The Bartender reports to the Food & Beverage Manager and is located on property in Big Sur. This will be a part-time 3 or 6 month position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The position requires the employee to spend the majority of their time on the following essential duties:
Keep bar clean and sanitary at all times
Keep storage areas clean and orderly
Properly sanitize blender cup, strainer, knives, and pour spout
Ring all necessary banquet beverage items and collect payment
Complete closing reports
Monitor alcohol consumption and behavior of guests
Ensure general housekeeping, including cleaning of fixtures, appliances, counters, dusting, and sweeping
Ensure that glassware is up to standard and is without spots or fingerprints prior to functions
Clean stainless steel sink and wells after usage
Set-up bar for each function and return liquor to Beverage Department storeroom after each function
Fill out work orders when needed
Fill out end of day reports and bank information clearly and accurately
Conduct inventory
Inform manager of problems immediately
Attend departmental meetings when scheduled
Wipe down and clean bar thoroughly after each use
Assist with wine and meal service as needed
Assist with the inventory of beverages when needed
Comply with the safety and health policies and procedures
Fill-in for other bartenders and servers as needed
Assist with special events as needed
Other duties as assigned by supervisor

QUALIFICATIONS

Previous experience working in a restaurant or bar setting is preferred  
Prior Barista experience is preferred 
Excellent Customer Service  
Punctuality and time keeping  
Ability to work under moderate pressure with strict timelines

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, sit for long periods of time, occasionally carry and lift up to 45 pounds, and be able perform daily repetitive hand motions as it pertains to computer mouse and keyboard.

COMPENSATION

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 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.