Retreat Manager

Position Summary Retreat Managers at Big Bear Retreat Center support and run the on‑site execution of our retreats (primarily residential 5‑7 day Insight meditation retreats). Retreat Managers (typically 2 per retreat) work all days of the retreat, from the morning of arrival to the afternoon of departure. During retreats, Retreat Managers are the main points of contact for all teachers and guests. They assist in setting up before the retreat, coordinate with BBRC staff to ensure smooth operations, and clean up and reset the space with volunteers after the retreat closes. They help ensure every detail is taken care of, every guest need is addressed, and teachers are fully supported throughout the retreat. They report regularly and directly to the Program Production Manager, including reporting, documenting, addressing, and communicating any major incidents during the retreat. Work Hours • 8‑hour shift during retreat days, from arrival day to departure day (including pre‑arrival briefing) • Responsibilities are onsite only during retreat days, brief prep/training call 1‑2 weeks prior • Typically 2 Retreat Managers per retreat • Reports to Program Manager or Lead Retreat Manager Compensation $20 per hour Responsibilities Support participants and teachers with questions, needs, and logistical guidance Offer calm, practical assistance when issues arise Redirect requests to the appropriate BBRC staff or department when needed Help maintain clear communication across retreat teams Work in a pair throughout the retreat to keep things organized and running smoothly Be accessible and present throughout the retreat (including use of phone for communication) Help interpret needs and coordinate responses Bridge communication between participants, teachers, and staff team Escalate or redirect issues appropriately rather than independently resolving operational decisions outside scope Support guest arrival, check‑in, and orientation Assist with opening announcements and initial retreat communications Serve as primary on‑site support contact for participants and teachers during the retreat Maintain a visible, calm, and approachable presence throughout the retreat Listen to questions, concerns, and needs, and either provide appropriate support within RM scope or redirect/escalate to the correct BBRC team member or department Coordinate closely with BBRC staff to ensure smooth operations Monitor the yogi board and retreat communication channels Meet daily with teachers to stay aligned on retreat flow and needs Support clarity, communication, and participant care throughout the retreat Support closing announcements and final participant communications Assist with retreat space reset and cleanup in coordination with staff and volunteers Participate in post‑retreat debriefs with the Program Production Manager and/or retreat team as requested Share relevant feedback, observations, or follow‑up items from the retreat Typical Shift Schedule Full days of retreat: AM 6:30 am–3:30 pm (1‑hour lunch) Full days of retreat: PM 12:30 pm–9:30 pm (1‑hour lunch) Opening and closing days differ slightly: Arrival Day: 11:30 am–9:30 pm Departure Day: 7 am–2 pm (with 30‑minute break within 6hours of start time) Benefits Paid hourly for hours worked, up to 8‑hour days Lodging and meals are covered during retreat work Opportunity to sit retreats at BBRC (contact for details) Community of retreat managers, practitioners, and other gatherings at the center Physical Demands Sitting, standing, walking Working at a computer or on calls Bending, reaching, kneeling Driving golf cart Candidate Qualities Grounded, dependable, and self‑directed Calm under pressure and able to respond thoughtfully in dynamic environments Organized, clear communicator, and detail‑oriented Community‑oriented and supportive Flexible, collaborative, and able to shift priorities as needed Warm, professional, and discreet in all interactions Strong at listening, assessing needs, and redirecting appropriately rather than over‑solving Comfortable with basic technology or quick to learn Technology Skills Microphone and audio setup Hybrid/Zoom support Basic troubleshooting for AV needs Qualifications • Meditation retreat experience, especially residential, is highly valued but not required. • All staff must be vaccinated for COVID‑19. Masks and testing may be required at certain times depending on the groups we are hosting. Equal Opportunity Big Bear Retreat Center is an equal opportunity employer. At BBRC we celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. Qualified candidates who self‑identify as a Black Indigenous Person of Color (BIPOC) and/or are part of the LGBTQI community are especially encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr