DPW Organics Supervisor

Burning Man•Reno, NV

11h•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Public Works (DPW) Organic Waste Supervisor facilitates the daily operations of the Black Rock City Organic Waste Collection Station from pre-event setup to post-event breakdown. This role involves assisting coordination of the Organic Waste Crew, maintaining the facility, and following plans for efficient material handling, including the safe operation of the pressure washer. The Supervisor helps to oversee resources and a safe work environment. Additionally, this role supports the application of best practices within the crew and cross-departmental collaborations, demanding adaptability and a proactive approach to safety and operational efficiency in a fast-paced setting.

Requirements

Knowledge of Burning Man values, ethos, and 10 Principles; especially Leaving No Trace.
Experienced in waste stream sorting or similar, preferably with a strong knowledge of Resource Recovery Management (Organics/Recycling) and operational waste management processes.
Able to follow directions, receive and integrate feedback into action, maintain a professional demeanor, and respectfully interface with collaborators- Keeping a good attitude is key!
Effective at task switching, with good time-management skills, can evaluate and reprioritize workload as necessary.
Ability to think quickly, problem solve, apply critical thinking to create solutions, and remain calm under pressure; Situationally aware and safety-minded, able to work long hours in extreme conditions.
Proven leadership skills and experience guiding a diverse team with a willingness to promote their strengths and respect their limitations; Ability to lead by example, energize and engage people while still maintaining firm boundaries and adhering to set standards.
Operates with behavioral integrity, is organized and detail-oriented, reliable, and fulfills obligations.
Clear, service-oriented, and respectful communication, verbally and written, with good interpersonal teaching skills.
Experienced with using 2-way radios and following radio protocol.
Capable of working in an extreme environment including drastic temperature changes, high winds, poor air quality and low to no visibility at times.
Ability to temporarily relocate for work at the Burning Man event held in Gerlach, Nevada.
Valid driver’s license and a good driving record.

Nice To Haves

Previously worked for Burning Man’s TSA Team and/or is familiar with its operations, or has at minimum been to Burning Man and/or is familiar with its culture.
OSHA 10 Certification.
Experienced (1+ years) leadership experience in event-based production work.
Practiced in facilitating team meetings and mediation.
Basic carpentry skills.

Responsibilities

Review current SOPs, plans, and inventory requirements for the season.
Assist with the survey, build, and strike of the Organic Waste collection station and Commissary remote recycling collection point; oversee storage of all related equipment and materials.
Support and oversee daily operations at the Organic Waste collection station and material removal from the Commissary collection station.
Coordinate with management and waste stream leads on the layout and function of the Organic Waste collection stations.
Support the DPW Transfer Station Crew in sorting and removing recycling and burnable waste streams from the Commissary.
Ensure a clean and safe work environment; enforce best practices and the use of OSHA-approved personal protective equipment (PPE) among the crew.
Regularly communicate with waste stream leads at Staff Camps, Ranger, and ESD Outposts to ensure correct material sorting.
Execute and refine Leave No Trace (LNT) plans, including line sweeps of the Organics Collection Stations and the Commissary compound.
Remain available via radio during working hours, on-call shifts, and respond to emergencies as applicable.
Engage the crew as a positive role model and team leader, instructing in skills and best practices.
Uphold respectful behavior within the live/work areas, engaging the Behavioral Agreement when necessary.
Enhance workflow through education, empowerment, and delegation, fostering a strong team identity, monitoring morale, and setting manageable work expectations.
Report any injuries or issues immediately; proactively address performance changes.
Help to train crew members on the proper use and safety precautions for all relevant equipment, especially the cardboard baler and burnable incinerator.
Support accurate collection and submission of staff working hours for bi-weekly payroll.
Provide end-of-season feedback via the designated form or the EMBER process, highlighting successes and challenges to enhance future efficiency and effectiveness.
Read, understand, and act in accordance with Burning Man’s staff policies, protocols, and behavioral standards.
Engage in cost reduction and implement sustainability practices actively.
Promptly communicate any personal or interpersonal issues, injuries, or concerns about duty performance to your Manager.
Provide clarity about your capabilities, boundaries, and self-care needs.
Perform various other duties as directed.
Takes a leadership role in the acculturation and training of staff.
Teaches live or e-learning classes, as requested.
Promotes a culture of teaching and learning throughout the community.
Mentors subordinates in acquiring the knowledge, skills, and experience that will allow them to advance in the organization.
Aids, encourages, and inspires their team.
Pursues ongoing learning in their area of expertise, working to stay current on emergent knowledge, skills, and processes.
Participates in conferences, forums, and networking events, where appropriate.