DPW Playa Restoration Special Forces Lead

Job Summary

The Department of Public Works (DPW) Playa Restoration Special Forces Lead will assist with supervising and working with the Playa Restoration crew members, offering on‑ground support in the field and executing proper playa restoration techniques. The role provides support in responding to environmental cleanup priorities in Black Rock City after the Burning Man event, coordinates with the Supervisors to plan and prioritize tasks, and ensures crew members are trained in Leave No Trace (LNT) practices and prepared to meet daily schedules.

This temporary, ineligible-for-benefits position runs from September to October and is full‑time, non‑exempt, based in Black Rock City, Nevada.

• Meet daily with the Playa Restoration Special Forces Supervisor to review status updates, assess projected workloads, and address any needs or concerns.
• Respond to radio calls requesting assessment of restoration‑related incidents.
• GPS locate, monitor, and document environmental impact concerns and remediation; take action as necessary.
• Assist the Supervisor and Environmental Restoration Manager in coordinating removal of decomposed granite (DG) and scrap metal, watering playa surfaces, and following up with MOOP sweep passes at burn sites.
• Demonstrate the BLM Site Inspection method for self‑testing and target high‑impact areas for additional observation.

• Supervise and lead the Playa Restoration Crew members in day‑to‑day duties, providing operational oversight as necessary.
• Mentor staff to nurture their growth.
• Ensure communications are prompt and professional and that discretion is maintained as needed.

• Assist the Supervisor with maintaining inventory of restoration tools.

• Assist the Supervisor and Environmental Restoration Manager with various other priorities as assigned.
• Work with the Team to plan and execute LNT and waste disposal plans for all relevant operations.
• Adjust workflow to support changing safety protocols as directed.
• Participate in meetings when requested and maintain related correspondence.
• Be familiar with, understand, and act in accordance with Burning Man’s staff policies, protocols and behavioral standards.
• Monitor personal well‑being by setting realistic goals and managing self‑care while proactively addressing any concerns with management.

• Documentation – Assist in the creation, publishing, and maintenance of process documentation related to assigned duties.
• Knowledge sharing – Help acculturate and educate junior staff in Burning Man culture and business processes.
• Training development – Collaborate with the education team to develop training materials in the area of expertise, as requested.
• Learning – Pursue ongoing learning in the area of expertise, working to stay current on emergent knowledge, skills, and processes.

• Knowledge of Burning Man values, ethos, and the 10 Principles; especially Leaving No Trace.
• Maintain a respectful demeanor and tactful communication with collaborators, participants, departments, and staff.
• Have experience with two‑way radio communication and the ability to sustain professionalism in any situation.
• Be able to work as part of a team, follow directions and receive constructive feedback; reliable, honest, and operate with a high level of behavioral integrity.
• Maintain organization of duties and adhere to tight scheduling, completing tasks safely and on time; be able to reprioritize workload as necessary.
• Capable of working in an extreme environment, including drastic temperature changes, high winds, poor air quality, and low or no visibility at times.
• Ability to temporarily relocate for work at the Burning Man event held in Gerlach, Nevada.

• It is helpful if the candidate has:
• Previously worked for Burning Man’s Playa Restoration Crew/cleanup for any Regional Events Playa Restoration and/or is familiar with the operations and methods.
• Been to Burning Man and/or is familiar with its culture.
• OSHA 10 Certification.
• Experience in event‑based production work, familiarity with…