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Posting Date: 17 February 2026

Closing Date: 30 June 2026

Location: Dartford, Kent

Job Type: Full-time, Permanent

Hours: Full-time

Salary / Maintenance:

This is a Minister of Religion role. In accordance with Buddhist monastic tradition, the position is non-salaried. The successful candidate will be provided with full maintenance, including accommodation, food, utilities, and support for daily living expenses. Reasonable out-of-pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

Summary

The Resident Buddhist Minister will support the religious activities of the temple and contribute to the advancement of Buddhism in accordance with the Theravāda tradition.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide religious guidance and teachings in accordance with the Theravāda Buddhist tradition

• Deliver Dhamma talks and support meditation sessions and religious programmes

• Support day-to-day religious activities of the temple

• Work with the head monk and trustees to ensure the temple operates in line with its religious principles

• Support members of the community, including elderly devotees

• Maintain and develop relationships with the local community and interfaith groups

• Continue personal spiritual practice and development in accordance with monastic discipline

• Comply with organisational policies including safeguarding and health and safety

Person Specification

Essential Requirements

• Knowledge and understanding of Theravāda Buddhism

• Ability to support religious activities and temple operations

• Ability to communicate effectively in English

• Ability to communicate in Sinhalese (desirable for community support)

• Understanding of Sri Lankan Buddhist culture and traditions

General Information

This is a full-time religious position based at a Buddhist temple in Kent. The role supports the delivery of religious teachings and practices for the benefit of the community.

The position is offered in accordance with Buddhist monastic tradition. The organisation provides full maintenance, including accommodation and meals, to enable the post-holder to carry out their religious duties.

Closing Date for Applications:

25 June 2026

Job Description:

Posting Date: 17th February 2026
Salary: Voluntary Work.
Additional salary information: The successful candidate would not be entital no wage as they would be a voluntary worker/ a resident member of a religious community

Hours: Full time

Closing Date: 30th June 2026.
Location: Dartford, Kent
Job type: permanent

Summary
Key Responsibilities:

• Provide spiritual guidance for the Buddhist Centre (temple) in line with the teachings of Theravada School of Buddhism.
• Work with the head monk and trustees to ensure the temple follows the principles and practice of its Spiritual Theravada Buddhist Tradition.
• Provide support for teaching sessions done by senior members for the temple users as appropriate, especially to provide support for the Sri Lankan & Indian elders
• Continue to develop their own spiritual practice and knowledge
• Maintain and develop the relationship between the Sri Lankan community and also Inter-faith communities.
• Abide by the key policies for the temple including Safeguarding and Health and Safety

PERSONAL SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL ATTRIBUTES:

• Experienced volunteer for supporting monks and daily activities of the Buddhist Centre.
• Ability to communicate in spoken and written Sinhalese language.
• Can communicate effectively in English
• Knowledge in Sri Lankan culture and Theravada Buddhist Tradition

GENERAL INFORMATION

The post is offered as a full-time position. The role is based at Kent Temple run by Kent Sri Lankan Buddhist Cultural Centre. In accordance with Buddhist principles no salary will paid to the successful candidate [as monastics/monks serve unconditionally]. However, food and accommodation will be provided free of charge. All reasonable out of pocket expenses will be reimbursed.

The successful candidate would not be entitled to the national minimum wage as they would be a voluntary worker/a resident member of a religious community.

Closing date for applications: 25.06.26

Apply for this job

Location: Kent Temple or Event locations within 5 miles of radius 

Duration: Temporary / Volunteer Basis (aligned with Buddhist calendar events)

Reports To: Monastery Administrator / Head Monk

Role Overview

The Volunteer Temporary Coordinator supports the planning, organization, and smooth execution of special events and observances within the monastery. These events are aligned with the Buddhist calendar and may include holy days, retreats, ceremonies, and community gatherings. The role requires sensitivity to Buddhist values, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a spiritual environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and assist in organizing events for important Buddhist observances (e.g., full moon days, festivals, retreats).
• Liaise with monks, volunteers, and visitors to ensure clear communication and smooth event flow.
• Prepare schedules, materials, and spaces for ceremonies and activities.
• Support logistical arrangements such as seating, offerings, decorations, and audio/visual needs.
• Welcome and guide visitors and participants during events.
• Ensure that monastery guidelines and cultural practices are respected during all activities.
• Assist with post-event clean-up and evaluation to improve future events.
• Maintain records of events, attendance, and volunteer participation.

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Respect for and basic understanding of Buddhist practices and traditions (preferred).
• Ability to work calmly and respectfully in a quiet, spiritual environment.
• Flexibility to work on weekends, early mornings, or evenings during special observances.
• Team-oriented with a willingness to support a variety of tasks.

Personal Attributes

• Mindful, respectful, and compassionate attitude.
• Reliability and punctuality.
• Adaptability in a dynamic, event-based environment.
• Willingness to learn and engage with the monastery community.

Benefits of Volunteering

• Opportunity to engage deeply with Buddhist teachings and practices.
• Experience in event coordination and community service.
• Personal growth in mindfulness, discipline, and teamwork.
• Being part of a supportive and spiritually enriching environment.

Additional Notes

This is a volunteer position intended to support the monastery’s mission and community activities. Volunteers are expected to uphold the values of respect, simplicity, and mindfulness in all aspects of their role.