DPW Purchasing Assistant Manager

Job Summary

The Department of Public Works (DPW) Purchasing Assistant Manager will play a vital role in sourcing and procuring requested goods to meet critical project deadlines for the build and operation of Black Rock City. Working closely with and assisting the Purchasing Manager, this role involves supervising the Purchasing team as needed and supporting key functions, including planning, logistics, scheduling, training, and daily operations such as buying, receiving, and delivering packages.

The Assistant Manager will also oversee budget tracking and ensure smooth coordination of the department’s activities. In addition to occasional hands‑on tasks, this role requires proficiency in using and updating existing online systems, file‑sharing platforms, and digital tools to maintain accurate records and workflows.

This temporary, ineligible for benefits role is:

• From April - September:
  Full‑Time, Non‑Exempt, based remotely, onsite in Gerlach, NV and in Black Rock City, Nevada

The Final date to receive applications for this role is 5:00pm Pacific on March 23rd.

• Collaborate with the Purchasing Manager to efficiently procure a high volume of goods through the online purchasing system, meeting or exceeding required deadlines
• Ensure all purchasing tasks are completed in alignment with Burning Man event operational timelines and milestones
• Supervise and guide the purchasing team, fostering a collaborative and high‑performing environment while ensuring adherence to established processes and objectives
• Determine product specifications, even with limited information, and assess suitable substitutions to meet end‑user requirements
• Delegate purchasing tasks to Buyers, balancing the workload to meet timelines and departmental goals
• Coordinate with finance and other departments to ensure purchases remain within budget and follow financial guidelines
• Oversee and maintain vendor accounts, updating contact details, payment methods, and delivery preferences as needed
• Maintain accurate and detailed records within the internal purchasing system and file‑sharing platforms, including receipts, invoices, bulk orders, and quotes
• Support purchase order billing and credit card reconciliation throughout the season and ensure completion by the season’s end
• Collaborate with the Purchasing Manager and Receiving Coordinator to process and document returns, exchanges, and credits accurately
• Schedule, correspond, and track all freight shipments for larger items to ensure on‑time delivery
• Prioritize and coordinate Reno Runner pick‑ups based on urgency and delivery needs
• Generate and analyze purchasing reports to monitor performance, identify improvements, and provide key updates to senior management on procurement metrics
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient work area to support productivity

• Act as a mentor, positive role model, and team leader by providing guidance and direction to team members as they carry out their tasks
• Ensure all documentation is completed accurately and on time, following established operational standards to maintain consistency and continuity within the Purchasing Department
• Review and verify that all reports meet the standards set by the Purchasing Department and DPW Management
• Maintain a professional and supportive demeanor while assisting requesters with order submissions, guiding them through Procurify, and helping them provide accurate information while setting realistic timeline expectations
• Oversee task completion to ensure alignment with operational standards, deadlines, and departmental objectives
• Prepare and submit a year‑end summary of processes, including key insights and recommendations for improvements to enhance future operations
• Understand and follow proper communication channels for escalating personnel issues, and, when directed, create and maintain accurate supporting documentation

• Attend and actively participate in daily Purchasing Department meetings
• Engage in ongoing training to stay updated on Purchasing Department processes and procedures
• Be prepared to operate…