SideBurn is a regional Burning Man event held each May long weekend in Stone Mills, Ontario, on the traditional territories of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, Mississaugas, and Huron-Wendat peoples. Rooted in radical inclusion, communal effort, and “leave no trace,” it brings together over 1,000 people to celebrate creativity, collaboration, and community.
Run entirely by volunteers, SideBurn thrives on the DIY spirit and communal effort. From theme camps and interactive art to skill-sharing and collective care, everyone is invited to show up, contribute, and be part of something larger than themselves.
Details
About CAREKubota
CAREKubota is SideBurn’s accessible ride program, offering on-site transportation for
participants who need a little extra support getting around the Haya. Whether it’s
mobility needs, rough ground, or fabulous shoes that are half a size too small,
CAREKubota helps people get where they need to go. As a team under the Equity
Producer, we believe that access isn’t an afterthought; it’s foundational.
About the Role
CAREKubota ran as a pilot in 2026 with a shared vehicle and limited hours. For 2027,
we’re looking for a lead to take it further: find us a dedicated vehicle and figure out how
the program works best. This is a great fit for someone who enjoys building something
from the ground up.
Off-Haya: The CAREKubota Lead will work with the Equity Producer to shape the program.
Their first task is to research and source an appropriate rental vehicle. They will also
determine the team’s structure and volunteer needs, develop driver protocols, and help
recruit and train volunteers.
On-Haya: The CAREKubota Lead oversees the program during the event (can be shared
with a Co-Lead), supporting volunteer drivers and making sure participants get safe,
friendly, and reliable rides, from flag-downs to pre-booked setup and teardown rides to
burn-night shuttles.
This is a hands-on leadership role that requires organizational skills, good judgment, and
a genuine commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
Responsibilities
- Research appropriate rental vehicles, contact rental companies, and bring
options to the Equity Producer for booking - Determine the program’s structure, operating hours, and volunteer needs
- Assist in recruiting and onboarding volunteer drivers
- Develop short volunteer manuals on driver protocols.
- Lead a pre-Burn training to brief drivers before their shifts on protocols,
consent practices, and boundaries - Coordinate with other departments as needed
- Track and document rides given to inform future planning
- Respond calmly and practically to unexpected situations or changing needs on
the ground
What We’re Looking For
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- A warm, patient, and non-judgmental approach to supporting others
- Comfort working independently and figuring things out as you go
- Familiarity with Burning Man principles, particularly Radical Inclusion and Civic
Responsibility - Comfort using radio communication (training provided)
- A valid Class G driver’s licence or equivalent is an asset
Time Commitment
- Pre-event: planning & coordination (2 hours a week at most – virtual)
- During SideBurn: present for a share of on-site operating hours (total time
commitment is dependent on how well you plan and delegate – in person) - Post-event: Debrief with Equity Producer (virtual)
This Might Not Be the Right Fit If…
- You’re uncomfortable with direct participant interaction or problem-solving on
the fly - You’re not able to stay fully sober during your on-site shifts
- You prefer a role where the details are already worked out (there are other
great volunteer opportunities!)
Deadline to Apply
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
How to Apply
Interested? Reach out to the Equity Producer (equity@sideburn.ca) with a few sentences
about yourself and why this role speaks to you. No formal application required.
This is a directed ticket opportunity. You will receive a guaranteed purchase offer for a directed
ticket to the 2027 event.
