Massage Therapist
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
Cazadero, California
Live Among the Redwoods While Growing Your Massage or Acupuncture Practice
Job start date
Sep 01, 2026
Ratna Ling Work Study Volunteer Program
Ratna Ling Work Study Volunteer Program
Currently recruiting for the season from July 25th, 2026 to July 24th, 2027.
All-volunteer community dedicated to preserving Tibetan Buddhist culture and expanding our human potential based on Buddhist teachings. Includes housing, meals, living allowance, Buddhist classes and practice. Work includes making Buddhist books, support Retreat guests, Buddhist publishing, vegetable garden, kitchen, maintaining and beautifying the grounds. Learn new skills, share your own!
Located on a ridge in the beautiful redwood coastal mountains in northern California, 100 miles north of San Francisco. Hiking trails, redwood forests, wildlife and starry skies abound. Pacific Ocean and and ocean-side parks less than 15 minutes away.
- Location
- California
- Season
- Year Round
- Staff size
- 20
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Housing details
- Free, shared housing
- Pet friendly
- No
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Some, ask for details
- Internet access
- Good
About Ratna Ling Work Study Volunteer Program
Live, work and learn surrounded by natural beauty-redwoods, forested hills and gardens. Help preserve an ancient Buddhist culture whether making books, promoting wisdom through the internet, gardening, or welcoming guests to our Retreat Center. No religious affiliation is required to volunteer, although we are seeking those with a sincere interest in self-reflection, respect for Buddhist teachings, and a strong work ethic. It is not a work exchange program, but a full-time, 6 days a week volunteer work-study experience.
We require an initial commitment of 6 months, beginning with a one month trial period, with a possibility to extend.
Our work-study volunteers are full-time residents who work for one of three sister organizations located onsite:
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
Dharma Publishing
Tibetan Book making - Text Preservation Project
All of our organizations are non-profits. Funds raised from our retreat center support our sister organizations whose projects and activities work to preserve the Tibetan Buddhist culture
Ratna Ling provides a place for personal growth and self discovery with offerings from the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
The Volunteer Experience
Our volunteers have come from all over the world! Most volunteers stay 6 months to a year, but many stay longer and some become long-term community members.
Ratna Ling's full-time volunteer weekly schedule is rigorous with 6 days per week dedicated to working as a means for self-development and to benefit beyond ones self. Classes in a variety of subjects (Buddhist Studies, Kum Nye, a body/mind practice, meditation, Skillful Means-how work can be a path to inner knowledge- and more) are offered both on site and online by our sister organizations, but it is up to the individual volunteer to investigate what is available, register, attend, and do any additional class preparation. Schedules and selection of subjects vary.
Volunteers are also able to participate in Buddhist celebrations, ceremonies, and practices if they wish. Work-study participants learn valuable job and life skills with opportunities for personal growth, expanding beyond previously held limitations and tapping into inner potential. Being a part of our work-study program is an immersive and often life-changing experience.
Ideal Candidate
All candidates for Ratna Ling's work-study program should be reliable, hardworking, steady, open-minded, and interested in living in a community. Though it is not necessary to be Buddhist to participate, work-study participants should have an interest in self-development, introspection, and respect for Buddhist values.
Our requirement for all residents and visitors to be fully vaccinated before arrival demonstrates caring for fellow volunteers and ourselves.
We ask that applicants demonstrate:
Sincere interest in living in a community that values cultivating compassion and awareness
A volunteer spirit and a heartfelt dedication to service as a practice
Physical, mental, and emotional health
Flexibility and willingness
A cooperative, respectful attitude towards community life.
Room and Board
As a volunteer in our work-study program, you will receive:
Free housing - you may have a roommate(s), but no fees!
Free vegetarian meals
Free laundry, Wi-Fi and domestic phone calls
A modest monthly living allowance
Free classes in a variety of courses-such as meditation, mindful movement, self development, and Buddhist studies-subjects and schedules vary
Volunteer perks include:
Clean, fresh air, open spaces, natural beauty, close to hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean
Opportunity to engage in an environment where meaningful work and self-development are valued
Getting Here and Getting Around
Some volunteers drive, which is welcome, but not necessary. The nearest large city is an hour and a half away, so even with transportation volunteers don't choose to leave often.
There is bus transportation available from most major nearby airports to our pick-up point, Fort Ross. Accepted applicants will receive further direction as to transportation recommendations.
For Fun
Enjoy hikes around the property or on the trails of neighboring Salt Point State Park. The ocean is about a 15-20 minute drive from Ratna Ling. There is also a trail that leads to the ocean which volunteers can walk to or coordinate carpooling to the trailhead. Cycling is also popular on the road past our property, but roads are small, winding and can be steep!
WiFi is available in the lodge, Ethernet and WiFi in living quarters. Cell phone service varies - currently Verizon is the only service provider that works (usually) at our location. Ratna Ling has extensive libraries, primarily of Tibetan Buddhist teachings by our own founder, but work-study participants bring and exchange books as well.
We have a shared building near our work-study housing with a music studio and a media center. Our volunteers get together there on their day off for movie and popcorn nights, jam sessions, and celebrations.
Ratna Ling is home to a beautiful meditation temple open to our residents and a yoga room that is available in between group visits.
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Jobs in the Spotlight
Current Job Openings
Prepare and serve wholesome vegetarian meals for retreat guests and residents
Develop hands-on skills in nutrition, food preparation, menu coordination, and kitchen organization
Work collaboratively in a fast-paced kitchen environment
Practice mindfulness while balancing timing, flexibility, and teamwork
Support a welcoming retreat experience for guests
Participate in organic gardening projects when possible, connecting seasonal harvests with the kitchen
Take part in meditation and life in an intentional community
Enjoy cooking and learning new skills
Appreciate working as part of a team
Are adaptable, dependable, and willing to contribute to community life
Have an interest in mindfulness, meditation practice, or intentional living (prior experience is not required)
Are excited to live and work in a peaceful natural setting
Free on-site housing
A shared community lunch, plus self-service breakfast and dinner.
A modest monthly living allowance of $200
Free Wi-Fi
Free laundry facilities
Complimentary classes in meditation, Buddhist studies, and personal development
(subjects and schedules vary)The opportunity to live among majestic redwoods, with easy access to hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean
A supportive community dedicated to cultivating awareness, compassion, and mindful living
Free on-site housing
A shared community lunch, plus self-service breakfast and dinner.
A modest monthly living allowance of $200
Free Wi-Fi
Free laundry facilities
Complimentary classes in meditation, Buddhist studies, and personal development
(subjects and schedules vary)The opportunity to live among majestic redwoods, with easy access to hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean
A supportive community dedicated to cultivating awareness, compassion, and mindful living
- Free shared housing
- Free vegetarian meals
- Living allowance stipend $200 per month
- Free laundry and WIFI
- Free onsite and online classes - Tibetan yoga, meditation, self-development, Buddhist studies.
- Optional morning meditation and Buddhist practices
- Living among the redwoods, close to hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean
- Free shared housing
- Living allowance stipend
- Free vegetarian meals
- Free WIFI
- Free onsite and online classes - Tibetan yoga, meditation, self-development, Buddhist studies.
- Optional morning meditation and Buddhist practices
- Living among the redwoods, close to hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean
Shipping
Marketing
Digital promotion
Social media
Free shared housing
Living allowance stipend
Free vegetarian meals
Free laundry and WIFI
Free onsite and online classes - Tibetan yoga, meditation, self-development, Buddhist studies.
Optional morning meditation and Buddhist practices
Living among the redwoods, close to hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean
Interested in personal growth through work and daily activity
Reliable and self-motivated
Flexible and cooperative
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
Residential Kitchen Apprentice
Ratna Ling Retreat Center, Cazadero, California
Live, Learn & Cook
at a Buddhist Retreat Center in the California Redwoods
at a Buddhist Retreat Center in the California Redwoods
Are you looking for more than a kitchen job? Do you enjoy cooking, working with others, and living in a beautiful natural setting? The Ratna Ling Kitchen Practice & Learning Program is a unique residential opportunity to develop practical vegetarian cooking skills while experiencing life in a Buddhist retreat center on the Northern California coast.
This is a hands-on learning program where mindfulness is part of everyday work. Participants become part of our kitchen team, preparing nourishing meals for retreat guests and residents while living in a community surrounded by redwood forests.
About the ProgramThe program focuses on vegetarian cooking in an active retreat center kitchen, integrating practical culinary skills with awareness, meditation, teamwork, and community life. You'll gain experience planning and preparing meals on a schedule, organizing kitchen workflow, and supporting guest hospitality.
Learning extends beyond the kitchen through opportunities to work with our organic gardens, offering a deeper understanding of the connection between food, the land, and caring for others.
What You'll DoWe welcome applicants who:
Previous kitchen experience is helpful but not required. Curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a positive attitude are just as important.
Housing & CommunityParticipants live in shared accommodations and become part of a small, collaborative community. Life at Ratna Ling emphasizes service, mutual support, and the opportunity to integrate mindfulness into everyday activities.
What We OfferIn addition to this unique learning opportunity, participants receive the same benefits as Ratna Ling volunteers, including:
Though not required, we strongly encourage prospective participants to experience Ratna Ling firsthand by arranging an introductory guest stay of approximately two weeks before applying.
Applications include basic personal information, relevant experience, and your availability. We welcome applicants from a variety of backgrounds who are eager to learn, contribute, and participate in community life.
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
Massage Therapist
Ratna Ling Retreat Center, Cazadero, California
If you are a massage therapist or acupuncturist who is looking for an opportunity to practice your skills while living in a beautiful natural setting, Ratna Ling Retreat Center on the Northern California coast offers you that chance.
What You Will Do
We have just expanded our Wellness Center that has two beautiful treatment rooms as well as a Wellness Cabin right in the middle of the forest. Guests make appointments for relaxing massage or acupuncture treatments while they are attending a program of yoga, self-care or retreats based on the teachings of Tharthang Tulku Rinpoche, the founder of the retreat center.
You will also have the opportunity to join other volunteers in their work in the community such as in the organic garden, the vegetarian kitchen, the maintenance team or the lodge where you would help guide the guests or set up the buffet for meals.
What We Offer
In addition to this unique practice opportunity, you will receive the same benefits as all Ratna Ling volunteers, including:
Before You Apply
Though not required, we strongly encourage prospective participants to experience Ratna Ling firsthand by arranging an introductory guest stay of approximately two weeks before applying.
Applications include basic personal information, relevant experience, and your availability. We welcome applicants from a variety of backgrounds who are eager to learn, contribute, and participate in community life.
Housing & Community
Participants live in shared accommodations and become part of a small, collaborative community. Life at Ratna Ling emphasizes service, mutual support, and the opportunity to integrate mindfulness into everyday activities.
For questions or additional information, please contact our Wellness Center Coordinator, Shari Sunshine, at alohasharisunshine@gmail.com.
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
Retreat Center Support
Ratna Ling Retreat Center, Cazadero, California
Be a Resident Volunteer at Buddhist center in northern CA, close to coast. Includes housing, vegetarian meals, Buddhist classes and practices, living allowance stipend.
About Us
Join this opportunity to live and work at a rural Buddhist Retreat center surrounded by the serene beauty of forested redwood hills, abundant wildlife and beautiful gardens.
Join the Retreat Center team - welcoming and supporting guests attending retreats, workshops, seminars or personal retreats. Engage weekend retreat ( Fri-Mon) tasks such as guest services and support, kitchen support and check-in/ out.
During the week you share retreat center office duties: registration, phone answering, retreat reservation system, updating website, social media, blog posts and retreat news, and other projects in the lodge and gardens. Day off is Monday or mid-week.
You receive:
Contact Us to request an application or ask questions.
Or download the application here Apply Now
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
Maintenance/Groundskeeping
Ratna Ling Retreat Center, Cazadero, California
Be a Resident Volunteer at Buddhist center in northern CA, close to coast. Includes housing, vegetarian meals, Buddhist classes and practices, living allowance stipend.
Seeking all-around handy persons! Responsible for simple maintenance/repair of electrical, mechanical, irrigation, and plumbing infrastructure, as well as mowing and other vegetation control.
The ideal candidate is self-motivated, reliable, hard-working, work well with minimal supervision, and with others.
You receive:
Contact Us to request an application or ask questions.
Or download the application here Apply Now
Ratna Ling Retreat Center
Garden Workers
Ratna Ling Retreat Center, Cazadero, California
Work with our Head Gardener to keep the produce from our organic gardens flowing from farm to table! This is a full-time volunteer opportunity, not a work exchange program. The work week is rigorous-6 days a week, Tuesday through Sunday.
Some garden/farm experience is preferred, and ability to work without direction as needed is a must. Flexibility (such as in work schedule), steadiness, and a strong work ethic are essential qualities.
Dharma Publishing
Marketing & Shipping
Ratna Ling Retreat Center, Cazadero, California
Be a Resident Volunteer at Buddhist center in northern CA, close to coast. Includes housing, vegetarian meals, Buddhist classes and practices, living allowance stipend.
Join Dharma Publishing's dynamic team to promote visionary teachings and Buddhist classics; located at beautiful Ratna Ling Buddhist Retreat Center.
Dharma Publishing is currently seeking one or two tech-savvy residential volunteers to work in the areas of:
You receive:
Successful team members are:
Contact Us to request an application or ask questions.
Or download the application here Apply Now
How to Apply
Visit our website to apply, or to find out more about volunteering at Ratna Ling. Go to Contact us to ask us questions, request an emailed application, share your aspirations, or submit your resumé. Email your application, and resumé to volunteer@ratnaling.org.
Please note: We require all volunteers and visitors to be vaccinated against COVID before arrival.
We receive many inquiries and will work to get back to you as quickly as possible. Thank you!
Contact Info
- Volunteer Coordinator
- volunteer@ratnaling.org
- 707 291 2037 or 510 809 4667
- ratnaling.org
