NVO Gerlach Waste Streams Crew

Burning Man • Gerlach, NV

2d • $15 - $17 • Onsite

About The Position

The Gerlach Waste Streams Crew will execute the Nevada Operations (NVO) Ecological Waste Diversion Plan focusing on Resource Recovery; including hauling and sorting waste, maintaining resources, materials, and inventories, and processing waste materials through their lifecycle. This position will also collaborate with the DPW Transfer Station Authority to provide seamless oversight of the waste stream during the Burning Man Event (The Event) operations cycle from pre-event in Gerlach before the move to the Playa through post-event after the move back to Gerlach. This is a temporary, full-time , non-exempt role, based in Gerlach, NV running from May to October 2026. The deadline to apply for this role is 5:00 pm Pacific on March 27th, 2026.

Requirements

• Ability to move to Gerlach, Nevada for the duration of the contract.
• Knowledge of Burning Man values, ethos, and 10 Principles.
• Be familiar with and act following Burning Man Project staff policies and abide by the rules and codes of conduct as described in the Staff Behavioral Agreement.
• A professional demeanor in verbal and written communications with strong communication, interpersonal, and teaching skills.
• Able to follow directions, lead by example, and respectfully interface with collaborators.
• Effective at task switching, with good time-management skills and self-motivation; able to evaluate and reprioritize workload as necessary.
• Situationally aware and safety-minded, able to work long hours in extreme conditions including winter weather with repetitive snow, rain and ice.
• Ability to think quickly, problem solve, apply critical thinking to situations, and remain calm under pressure.
• Well organized and detail-oriented.
• 2+ years in waste handling, preferably with a strong knowledge of Resource Recovery.
• Knowledge of vehicles and equipment; ability to operate a manual transmission.
• Working knowledge of Google products (Gmail, Groups, Docs, Sheets, Drive).
• Experienced and comfortable with using two way radios.
• Ability to energize and engage people.
• Reliable, fulfills obligations.
• Valid driver’s license and a good driving record.

Nice To Haves

• Previously been to Burning Man and/or is familiar with its culture.
• Previously worked for GWS, DPW, TSA, or other equivalent event-based waste stream department(s) and is familiar with operations and methods.
• 1+ years of experience in event-based production work.
• Basic carpentry skills and knowledge of basic tools.

Responsibilities

• Collections Operations (45%): Work with the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager to execute the NVO Waste Streams Sustainability Plan. Monitor recycling collection stations for contamination, sort, and service them as needed. Transport all collected materials to the Gerlach Waste Streams storage and processing sites. Sort and transport all cardboard produced by Burning Man Staff and Gerlach Residents to Black Rock Station for baling. Collect, transport, and process organic waste produced by Burning Man Staff. Coordinate with the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager for dumpster servicing and removal of cardboard bales and built-up streams that have been staged. Facilitate Gerlach community waste handling support as needed.
• Site Coordination (30%): Maintain a safe work site at all properties; ensure all crew members use provided and necessary OSHA-approved personal protective equipment (PPE). Maintain clean and organized worksites and sorting stations; MOOP sites regularly for windblown materials or food on the ground, keep piles of materials organized, and disinfect areas as necessary. Coordinate with the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager to deploy and maintain recycling collection stations in Gerlach and BMP Nevada Properties and set up extra collection stations for special events. Coordinate with the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager for dumpster deliveries and placement. Coordinate with the Ranch Operations staff to set up and maintain the base of operations for materials processing and storage at Black Rock Station, including cardboard baling and organics handling. Work with Gerlach Waste Streams Manager and Assistant Manager to improve worksites and sorting stations with upgraded display and education.
• Asset Oversight (10%): Coordinate with the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager to maintain, inventory, and/or store all assets. Report all procurement needs to the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager promptly. Maintain clean and organized storage of all GWS assets in Gerlach and at Black Rock Station. Coordinate with the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager to maintain the inventory of NVO assets stored in Gerlach and at Black Rock Station. Ensure proper use, maintenance, and cleanliness of all BMP assets, including fleet vehicles and housing allocated to GWS, and promptly report any issues.
• Outreach (10%): Communicate and connect with staff and community members on best waste stream practices. Coordinate with the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager to update and provide the most current sorting guidelines to all collection locations. Help document processes and take photos and video content for educational, training, and communication purposes.
• Other Functions and Responsibilities (5%): Attend necessary meetings. Assist the Gerlach Waste Stream Manager and Assistant Manager in maintaining updated Standard Operating Procedures for Ecological Waste Diversion. Perform other duties as assigned.
• LEARNING AND TEACHING Documentation - Assists in the creation, publishing, and maintenance of process documentation related to their assigned duties. Knowledge sharing – Helps acculturate and educate junior staff in Burning Man culture and business processes. Training development - Collaborates with the education team to develop training materials in their area of expertise, as requested. Learning – Pursues ongoing learning in their area of expertise, working to stay current on emergent knowledge, skills, and processes.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed