Ghost Ranch
Ghost Ranch
Currently recruiting for the season from May 4th, 2026 to October 31st, 2026.
Ghost Ranch Education and Retreat Center, nestled amidst the breathtaking red and yellow cliffs of the Piedra Lumbre in Northern New Mexico, is a place of wide-open skies, mesmerizing clouds, and fierce natural beauty. Artists, adventurers, and seekers of all sorts find what they are looking for here: opportunities to learn, experiences that nourish and challenge, and connections that transform.
About an hour north of Santa Fe, Ghost Ranch sits on 21,000 acres of beautiful, northern New Mexico land, which inspires our mission to steward a place of great beauty and nurture the human spirit and mind.
- Location
- New Mexico
- Season
- Spring, Summer, Fall, and Year Round
- Staff size
- 60-85
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Housing details
- Rustic housing with shared bathrooms or campground site with access to newly renovated bathhouse. Three meals a day are provided in the Dining Hall.
- Family housing available
- No
- Single occupancy housing available
- Yes
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Some, ask for details
- Internet access
- Intermittent
About Ghost Ranch
Ghost Ranch, located within the stunning Piedra Lumbre in Northern New Mexico, is a place of wide-open skies, mesmerizing clouds, and fierce natural beauty. Artists, adventurers, and seekers of all sorts find what they are looking for here: opportunities to learn, experiences that nourish and challenge, and connections that transform.
Our guests come from near and far to take part in classes, workshops, and retreats; to camp, hike, and star gaze; and to reunite with family and friends. Many were originally drawn here because of their interest in Georgia O'Keeffe, the renowned 20th-century artist who lived and painted here for decades.
Workshop subjects are as wide-ranging as the 21,000 acres of the Ranch itself, in fine arts, spirituality, geology and paleontology, wilderness exploration, and more. In the summertime, the canyons echo with the sounds of children running wild, building forts, and practicing outdoors skills.
Working in a remote area brings unique challenges, requiring both collaboration and flexibility, and, sometimes, ingenuity. Our staff work together to let the wonder of Ghost Ranch speak for itself, stepping up to make sure guests have a great experience and leave with indelible memories. If you love the great outdoors, creating transformative experiences, and sharing in something truly unique, then Ghost Ranch may be the place for you.
The Employee Experience
Working at the Ranch, you have the chance to interact with lots of guests who travel from near and far to experience this special place. They are artists, adventurers, and lovers of the great outdoors, and many are on journeys of spiritual and personal growth. It feels pretty awesome when someone says, at the end of a week-long workshop or retreat, "I'm not the same person as when I arrived," and to know you had a part in creating that transformative experience.
Staff also come from near and far: some have grown up in the surrounding communities and others have moved here from across the country. People work closely within their departmental teams and also coordinate across departments. Staff hang out together at meals, compete and chill out at Game Night, marvel at the galaxy at star-gazing parties, go kayaking on the lake, do yoga or strength training in the yurt, and hike our many trails. They also can take in our guests' creative accomplishments at weekly Art Shows and showcase their own talents in our summertime coffeehouse series. There's also public events to enjoy, such as the free concerts during Bluegrass Camp, Chorale, and Gospel weeks. Summer Staff also organize trips to extraordinary places in the region, such as Plaza Blanca, the hot springs of Ojo Caliente, Taos Pueblo, and the Jemez Mountains.
Our staff share a deep love for this land, which nourishes all of us with its vastness, its geological timescale, its dark sky, and its rugged wildness.
Ideal Candidate
Our ideal candidate is collaborative and curious, flourishes in a culture of learning and feedback, exudes a welcoming, hospitable energy, and is generally flexible.
Collaborative and communicative: We're looking for people who are excited to work with others to provide a great guest experience. They balance attention to their specific responsibilities with communicating clearly with others around shared endeavors. Our constant goal is to ensure that guests have a seamless experience moving between activities, from their programs to Outdoor Adventures, and from the Dining Hall to our Museums: this means that we all collaborate to plan, coordinate schedules, and communicate across teams and departments.
Thrives in a culture of learning and feedback: We value open and direct communication, listening, feedback, compassion, and accountability. We commit to fostering an effective learning environment of action and reflection. While challenges inevitably arise, we start with identifying the strengths of our teams, studying our successes and "what works," and focusing on positive solutions.
Welcoming and hospitable: Our staff are welcoming and attentive to guests of all ages and backgrounds, fostering an environment that allows people to relax into their time here, whether its focused on learning, creativity, adventure, or rest. Willing to pitch in to answer a question or solve a problem. Since staff live in community and share daily meals with guests, you'll be happy if you like engaging with new people.
Flexible: In a remote place like Ghost Ranch, having a generally flexible temperament goes a long way. Working here requires an ability to pivot quickly and calmly when the weather or other factors demand it. We are looking for people who are able to think on their feet, create solutions, and adjust the plan when needed.
Room and Board
Housing: Staff and volunteers who come for a season receive simple housing. Generally they receive a single room with shared bathrooms, however sometimes they share a room with another person. These buildings are usually Staff House, Corral Block, or the 'solars' (two-room adobe buildings originally built as solar energy experiments). Sheets and towels are provided. We also offer campground spots for those who want to bring their own camper/RV or tent. A few glamping tents may also be available. Camping options provide access to a full bathhouse with amenities.
Those who participate in the Summer Staff Program (a cohort of 16) live together in two communal buildings called Roadrunner and Yucca. Each building has two bedrooms with bunkbeds, a kitchen, sitting area, and communal bathrooms.
Meals: Staff and volunteers receive three hearty meals daily in our Dining Hall. Hot buffet meals, salad bar, bagel station, and desserts are enjoyed by staff and guests alike.
Employee Perks
Staff receive three Ghost Ranch T-shirts upon arrival. The Trading Post (gift shop) and Museum store offer a 25% discount on everything, such as apparel, books, jewelry, snacks, and ice cream.
In the summer months, our Outdoor Adventures team offers special waterfront opportunities just for staff and volunteers, such as an early morning kayak or evening full-moon paddle, or an additional half-hour in the pool before it closes for the day. Yoga sessions are free for staff and volunteers.
Daily meditation/worship is open to all guests, staff, and volunteers. Occasional star-gazing events are offered as well. In July, during our Festival of the Arts, staff and volunteers can lead or participate (as schedules allow) in afternoon sessions of "Art on the Portal" to play with various techniques such as pastels, watercolor, stitching, and journaling.
Getting Here and Getting Around
Ghost Ranch is located 65 miles northwest of Santa Fe (40 miles north of Española) on U.S. 84, between mile markers 224 and 225. The drive from Santa Fe is about 1.25 hours.
For those traveling by plane, Albuquerque Sunport is the largest airport (2 hours drive), but flights are also available from the smaller Santa Fe Regional Airport. A commuter train from Albuquerque to Santa Fe is called the RailRunner. Shuttle van transportation is also available by contacting Abiquiu local, Kevin, at White Buffalo Shuttle.
For those participating in the Summer Staff Program, arriving on the same day to start with their cohort, Ghost Ranch will arrange transportation for arrival and departure.
The Ghost Ranch address for map navigation, and for receiving mail/packages, is: 280 Private Drive 1708, Abiquiu, NM, 87510-2001.
For Fun
Ghost Ranch is surrounded by Carson National Forest, providing five primary hiking trails for guests, staff, and volunteers to enjoy daily. In the summer, the pool is open most afternoons and nearby Abiquiu Lake provides other recreation opportunities. Games, coffeehouses, and community hang-outs are also part of the culture.
On their days off, staff and volunteers explore the surrounding region, with highlights such as:
Hot springs at Ojo Caliente or Pagosa Springs (CO)
Bandelier National Monument, Valles Caldera, and Jemez Mountains
Taos Pueblo
Plaza Blanca, Echo Amphitheater, and Cerro Pedernal
Shopping, galleries, museums, and restaurants in Santa Fe and Taos
Camping along the Chama River or other regional locations
Current Job Openings
Lead the planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement of youth, family, and outdoor adventure programs.
Develop curriculum, activity plans, training materials, and operational procedures that support high-quality participant experiences.
Oversee major annual programs, including Family Week, Community Camp, Church Youth Week, Youth Summer Adventure, Teen Adventure, January Term, and other seasonal offerings.
Ensure programs align with Ghost Ranch's mission, values, safety standards, and guest experience expectations.
Coordinate educational and recreational programming for school groups and field trips in collaboration with other Ghost Ranch staff.
Recruit, hire, train, supervise, mentor, and evaluate year-round and seasonal staff.
Provide leadership and support for the Youth Programming Guide, Outdoor Adventure Guides, and Pool and Waterfront Supervisor.
Recruit and oversee the Summer Staff program, a two-month work immersion program for 18 young adults.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team culture.
Ensure staff receive appropriate training in safety, risk management, participant engagement, and program delivery.
Oversee all outdoor adventure, recreation, and waterfront activities.
Manage equipment, facilities, inventory, inspections, maintenance schedules, and replacement planning.
Maintain accurate records related to equipment safety, inspections, certifications, and preventative maintenance.
Ensure facilities and equipment are safe, functional, and prepared for participant use.
Promote a culture of safety and responsible risk management across all youth and outdoor programs.
Develop and implement emergency response procedures and operational protocols.
Ensure compliance with applicable state and federal regulations, child safeguarding standards, and organizational policies.
Coordinate First Aid, CPR, Wilderness First Aid, and other safety trainings as needed through internal or external partners.
Monitor and assess program risks and make operational decisions to ensure participant and staff safety.
Maintain records, reports, certifications, permits, and program documentation.
Coordinate with representatives from Carson National Forest and Santa Fe National Forest to support outdoor programming and land stewardship efforts.
Build and maintain relationships with community partners, schools, and volunteer organizations.
Support grant-funded projects and volunteer initiatives related to trail maintenance, conservation, and outdoor recreation.
Coordinate volunteer groups and community partners for land-based projects and stewardship activities.
Represent Ghost Ranch professionally in the community and with partner organizations.
Bachelor's degree in Environmental Education, Youth Development, Recreation Management, Education, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.
Three years or more experience leading youth programs, outdoor education programs, camps, recreation programs, or related experiences with diverse audiences. Must include experience working with children and youth.
Demonstrated success managing staff, volunteers, or youth leaders. Minimum three years.
Strong organizational, leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to lead activities safely in outdoor environments.
Calm, steady, and solution-orientated when unexpected challenges arise. Ability to respond creatively to changes in guest needs, program logistics, or inclement weather.
Willing and able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and terrain.
Able to lift and move equipment required for program operations.
Valid driver's license with at least three years of clear driving record.
Ability to pass a background check.
Experience coordinating seasonal staff teams.
Experience working with public land agencies, conservation organizations, or trail stewardship programs.
Experience with grant-funded projects.
Wilderness First Responder certification.
Prepare and portion food according to recipes and daily menus
Assist with line cooking during buffet-style meal service
Wash, chop, and prepare ingredients for cooking
Maintain stocked and organized service stations (coffee, juice, milk, ice, salad bar, etc.)
Follow all food safety and sanitation protocols
Maintain compliance with health department standards
Wash dishes, pots, pans, and utensils (machine and hand wash)
Sweep and mop floors as needed
Maintain clean, organized kitchen work areas and equipment
Sort and remove trash to designated areas
Assist with receiving food deliveries
Check in and properly store food orders (dry storage, walk-in, freezer)
Rotate product using FIFO (first in, first out)
Help monitor inventory levels and report shortages
Keep storage areas clean, labeled, and well organized
Assist with banquet or special event set-up
Support Kitchen Supervisor, Dining Services Manager, and culinary team as needed
Maintain a safe, professional, and team-oriented work environment
Minimum 1 year of professional kitchen experience (prep and/or line cooking preferred)
Valid Food Handler’s License OR ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire
Ability to lift 25–50 lbs regularly
Ability to stand for extended periods, bend, twist, and move equipment
Availability to work weekends, holidays, and occasional split shifts
Strong teamwork skills and professional demeanor
Youth Programs and Outdoor Adventures Manager
The Youth Programs and Outdoor Adventures Manager provides leadership for Ghost Ranch's youth, family, recreation, and outdoor adventure programs. This role creates safe, engaging, and mission-centered experiences that foster learning, personal growth, community connection, and appreciation for the natural world.
The Manager oversees the planning, delivery, and continuous improvement of youth and family programming, including curriculum development, staff training, risk management, and program operations. The position supervises a year-round Youth Programming Guide, seasonal Outdoor Adventure Guides, a seasonal Pool and Waterfront Supervisor, and the Summer Staff program.
In addition to youth programming, the Manager leads outdoor recreation and adventure offerings, including hiking, archery, low ropes initiatives, waterfront activities, swimming, yoga, and other experiences that connect guests with the landscape of Ghost Ranch.
The position serves as a key collaborator across departments and with external partners, including public land agencies, volunteer organizations, schools, and community groups. The successful candidate will be an organized, adaptable, and mission-driven leader who enjoys working with people of all ages and creating exceptional experiences in a dynamic outdoor environment.
About Ghost Ranch
Ghost Ranch is a historic, mission-driven retreat and education center set on 21,000 acres in the high desert of Northern New Mexico. Visitors come from around the country to experience awe, connection, and transformation through art, nature, science, spirituality, and adventure.
The land is an essential part of the learning experience at Ghost Ranch. With access to extensive hiking trails, ancient geological formations, the Chama River, and Abiquiu Lake, Ghost Ranch offers guests unique opportunities to explore the natural world, develop outdoor skills, and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the land and its stewardship.
Responsibilities
Program Leadership and Development
Staff Management
Outdoor Adventure and Recreation Operations
Safety, Risk Management, and Compliance
Partnerships and Community Engagement
Essential Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
Position Details
The Youth Programs and Outdoor Adventures Manager reports to the Director of Experience & Social Impact and serves on the management team. This is a full-time exempt (salaried) supervisory position with a target hiring range of $53,000–59,000. The role requires on-site work at Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu, NM. This position requires a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and seasonal peak periods. Housing options are limited but may be available as part of total compensation. Housing is rustic and often includes shared bathrooms or living spaces with coworkers.
Ghost Ranch offers a generous benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance; retirement savings plan (RSP) with employer match; student loan assistance (if eligible); employee assistance program (EAP); and flexible spending account (FSA). Staff receive paid sick leave and paid annual leave, 12 paid holidays, and opportunities for community service. Lunch is provided daily in our Dining Hall. Staff are encouraged to participate in one Ghost Ranch workshop each year at no cost and receive discounts on lodging and retail.
Kitchen Staff - Cook, dishwashing, buffet service
Ghost Ranch, a nonprofit retreat and education center in Abiquiu, NM, is seeking a dependable, full-time (40 hours per week) Food Services Associate with at least one year of professional kitchen experience to support food prep, cooking, and other kitchen operations in our Dining Hall. Ghost Ranch feeds guests and staff three meals a day buffet style in our Dining Hall.
This position plays an essential food and beverage role by preparing meals for guests, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, and supporting overall kitchen operations. We’re looking for someone who works well on a team, takes pride in preparing delicious, nourishing meals, adheres to sanitation and food safety standards, and is ready to contribute in a fast-paced environment.
Food Services staff work either a morning shift (6am-2:30pm) or evening shift (11am-7:30pm). This position requires weekends and occasional overtime with flexibility in scheduling when necessary.
Seeking either Seasonal (up to six months May-Oct) or Year-round staff.
This position is open for candidates who can bring their own camper, RV, or tent. Compensation includes wages ($15-$18/hour depending on experience) as well as a campsite, access to the bathhouse, and three meals a day.
If Year-round, this position comes with a full benefits package of medical insurance, retirement plan, student loan assistance for qualified individuals, and discounts on workshops and retail. Paid time off includes sick leave, annual leave, and twelve paid holidays.
Food Preparation and Cooking
Sanitation and Safety
Inventory and Storage Support
General Support
Volunteer Nurse / First Aid
There are many roles to play as a volunteer, depending on your skills and interests. Yet our most important need in 2026 is First Aid volunteers. Ghost Ranch is 45 minutes from the nearest medical facilities, therefore nurse volunteers provide important first response, care, or ongoing support to guests and staff at Ghost Ranch.
As a volunteer nurse, you will provide basic first aid to guests, respond to medical emergencies within your educational parameters, and refer guests to regional facilities as necessary. You'll assist in weekly Orientation for new guest groups, staff the First Aid Trailer before and after meals, and carry a walkie-talkie so you can be reached in an emergency. While on call (within radio distance), you'll have an opportunity to hike, explore the Ghost Ranch museums, read, or pursue your own creative interests.
Depending on the time of the year, you may treat adult guests with dehydration, altitude sickness, or flareups of ongoing medical issues. Occasionally, but rarely, serious injuries result from hiking or other adventurous activities. In those situations, the volunteer and trained staff coordinate to provide immediate response while waiting for regional medical personnel to arrive. In the summer months, when more kids are at the Ranch, the nurse provides welcoming care and support for children with skinned knees, bruises, and other common concerns.
As a volunteer, you must provide your own liability insurance, as well as a copy of your current license and CPR certification. You can serve if you have a valid license in NM or a compact state. If you are accepted as a volunteer, but do not currently have insurance, we recommend purchasing it through the Nurses Service Organization (NSO) www.nso.com. Ghost Ranch will reimburse up to $150 for purchase of your liability insurance. (In our years of experience with our First Aid Station, nurses are the best qualified and easiest to admit as volunteers. While physicians are allowed to apply, they must have their own liability insurance and ability to serve in New Mexico. Unfortunately, we are not able to accept EMTs unless they can provide their own insurance and medical oversight.)
Volunteer nurses typically stay for one to two weeks, but could serve longer if desired. Ghost Ranch provides a guest room, typically with a private bathroom. If space allows, the nurse is able to bring a guest to stay in your accommodations with you. If you bring a camper/RV, a campsite and access to the Bathhouse is provided. You'll also receive three meals a day in the Dining Hall.
Nurses receive an orientation in advance (via video call) from our senior nurse volunteer, and on-site orientation upon arrival from one of our staff. During the time of service, they have access by phone to the local physician who oversees our First Aid Station.
Please complete the application in full, answering the Questionnaire about your interest in serving at Ghost Ranch as well as times of year you may be available.
How to Apply
Please apply online through the Ghost Ranch website. For most positions, you'll be asked to provide a resume and cover letter demonstrating your interest and qualifications.
For Volunteer Nurses, please answer the Volunteer Questionnaire. You may choose to upload a resume or write your nursing experience within the application sections or the Questionnaire.
Contact Info
- Jeffrey Nickels
- jeffreyn@ghostranch.org
- www.ghostranch.org
