Careers at HTCAR

Hindu Temple of Central Arkansas (HTCAR) (Little Rock, Arkansas) invites applications from qualified individuals seeking to serve our temple community. We are committed to supporting the devotional and spiritual needs of our devotees through dedicated, knowledgeable, and compassionate service.

Hindu Shaivagama Priest (Full-Time)

Location: Hindu Temple of Central Arkansas, Little Rock, Arkansas

HTCAR seeks a full-time Hindu Shaivagama Priest to serve the temple community in Central Arkansas. This role is central to supporting the spiritual and devotional life of our devotees.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform daily Vedic rituals, ceremonies, and other priestly duties as approved by HTCAR management, both at the temple and at off-site devotee locations as needed.
• Work a revolving schedule.
• Maintain a lifestyle and professional conduct consistent with accepted Hindu customs and traditions.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Credentials: Qualified Hindu priest with certification from Sri Venkateshwara University, TTD, and a Certificate in Agama Pravara, Vara, or Pravesa or equivalent, from a recognized Government Institution in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, or Karnataka.
• Ritual expertise: Well versed in Vedic rituals; experienced and willing to perform services in all sanctums of a Shivalayam and Vaishnavalayam. 
• Experience: At least five (5) years as a resident priest in Hindu temples (in India or abroad).
• Language skills: Working knowledge of English and bilingual ability in Indian languages (multilingual ability is a plus).
• Interpersonal skills: Strong communication and collaboration skills; able to work effectively with other priests, devotees, temple staff, and management.
• Relocation/visa: Willing to relocate to Central Arkansas within a reasonable timeframe after acceptance and contract signing, and to fully cooperate with the visa application process as necessary.
• Festival leadership: Multiple years of experience independently organizing major festivals or celebrations (e.g., Ganesh Chaturthi, Shivarathri, Satyanarayan Pooja, Kalyanotsavas, Homams, Vratams, Pratishthas, Brahmotsavams, Pavithrothsavams, Spiritual lectures, Satsangs).
• Alankara: Experience in Alankara.
• Teaching: Ability to teach Veda mantras, Stotras/Shlokas, and their meanings to devotees.
• Community engagement: Ability to lead Bhajans, chant Stotrams, and facilitate group spiritual activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Broader understanding of traditional Hindu rituals and festivals across multiple regions of India.
• Multiple years of experience serving in temples in the United States (preferred).
• Ability to drive and travel independently.
• Undergraduate degree.
• Basic computer proficiency (Word, Excel, email).

How to Apply

Interested candidates are invited to apply using our online application form.

HTCAR is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.