Desert Playa Cleanup Technician

Burning Man; Reno (NV); On-site; USD 21,000 - 23,000; Full time

Job summary

Burning Man is seeking crew members for the Playa Restoration team to support post-event cleanup on the Black Rock Desert, Nevada. You will walk miles daily with a large field crew, visually inspecting the dust surface to identify and remove MOOP, upholding Leave No Trace and safe work practices in challenging desert conditions.

This live/work field position requires reliability, punctuality, and the ability to collaborate within a safety-sensitive, team-based setting.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Burning Man values, ethos, and the Leave No Trace principle.
• Ability to temporarily relocate for work at the Burning Man event in Gerlach, NV.
• Willingness to live and work in a shared, remote environment.
• Must perform duties safely and with sound judgment in a safety-sensitive team setting.
• Capable of walking several miles daily in extreme desert conditions.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and follow instructions.

Responsibilities

• Uphold Leave No Trace in all duties and operate safely in extreme desert conditions.
• Walk in a coordinated line sweep with a large field crew to identify and remove MOOP across several miles.
• Use tools like trash grabbers, pickup tools, magnetic sweepers, and buckets to collect debris and maintain equipment.
• Maintain reliable attendance, track daily hours, and sign off on shifts.
• Support specialized cleanup operations (Forces, Highway Cleanup, Abandoned Items, Test Team).
• Communicate effectively with teammates and supervisors to foster a positive team environment.

Skills

Leave No Trace

Remote relocation

Teamwork

Desert endurance

Safety awareness

Follow instructions

Education

None

Job description

Burning Man is seeking crew members for the Playa Restoration team to support post-event cleanup on the Black Rock Desert, Nevada. You will walk miles daily with a large field crew, visually inspecting the dust surface to identify and remove MOOP, upholding Leave No Trace and safe work practices in challenging desert conditions.

This live/work field position requires reliability, punctuality, and the ability to collaborate within a safety-sensitive, team-based setting.