Join the Tune-Up Ground Team

Northwest Tune-Up doesn’t happen without the people behind it. From welcoming guests and supporting riders to helping the festival site come alive, our ground team helps keep the weekend rolling.

Shifts are now open for 2026 scheduling, and we’re currently recruiting team members across multiple departments. Whether you want to work a few shifts with friends, get involved behind the scenes or become part of the festival community, we’d love to have you on board. You'll receive credentialed festival site access valid throughout the weekend.

View positions & shifts

2026 Available Roles

Ground Team members support all corners of the festival, including:

  • Event setup & tear-down
  • Stagehand
  • Merchandise
  • Box office & ticketing
  • Ground team check-in
  • Exhibitor crew
  • Zero waste
  • Branding & signage
  • Hospitality
  • Parking & traffic
  • Bike shuttles & events
  • Site operations
  • Access & safety
  • ...And more

See all roles & shifts

Plug Into Specific Festival Programs

Some parts of Northwest Tune-Up are supported directly through our partner organizations—and they recruit their own crews outside of the main Ground Team schedule. If you’re interested in getting involved in a more focused role, connect directly with the teams below.

Ground Team FAQs

Are there any perks for joining the Ground Team?

Team members will receive a limited-edition NW Tune-Up Ground Team shirt and credentialed festival site access valid throughout the weekend, including access to designated festival areas associated with their participation.

What's the time commitment?

On-site support is needed July 7–13. We ask that Ground Team members register for 2 shifts, each ranging from 3–4.5 hours in commitment.

How does the Ground Team application process work?

Start by signing up for Ground Team notifications. We’ll email you when roles open, typically in May. (Those who are on the list get first dibs, so keep an eye out!) Once the registration portal opens, sign up for shifts through our self-serve platform.

Do I need a bike to help out?

No. Bikes are only recommended for Cascadia Dirt Cup team members and Galbraith parking attendant team members. Any shift at the Waterfront Festival Grounds does not require a bike.

What kind of qualifications do I need?

A friendly, helpful personality is essential. Team members are also required to join our online training and safety briefing on June 30 at 5:30 PM PT. The URL of the mandatory briefing will be emailed in advance.

When will I see my shift schedule?

After you sign up for your festival shift(s), you will be able to access your schedule, change/cancel a shift and contact your department lead. You can also email groundteam@nwtuneup.com for further assistance.

Are accommodations provided for the Ground Team?

No, we do not provide lodging or accommodations.

How do I get to the festival?

Find our address and transportation options on our Getting to the Festival page.

Where can I park while I'm on shift?

Limited pay parking is available in festival parking lots. We highly recommend taking public transit or riding your bike or walking, if possible. Bike parking by donation will be onsite on the festival grounds. See all transportation options on our Getting to the Festival page.

How do I get my festival credentials?

You can collect your festival credentials and festival t-shirt on Thursday, July 9 between 8AM–7PM at the check-in tent, located next to the Box Office on festival grounds. Our festival address is 1100 Granary Ave., Bellingham, WA, 98225.

Where do I check in for my shift?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled shift start time.

Waterfront (Main Festival Site)
All waterfront shifts check in at Trackside at the Bellingham Waterfront: 1100 Granary Ave., Bellingham, WA 98225

Set-Up & Strike Shifts (July 6, 7, 8 & 13)
Check in at the Operations Area on the far side of the festival site. From the public parking lot, head toward the shipping containers near the train tracks. Please review the festival map before arrival.

During-Event Shifts (July 9–12)
Check in at the Ground Team Booth in the main lot, just off Granary Ave. near the Chestnut intersection. See the festival map for exact location details.

Galbraith Shifts
Check in at the South Side Parking Lot: 5001 Samish Way, Bellingham, WA 98229. Do not check in at the Waterfront for Galbraith shifts.

What should I wear/bring to my shift?

Please check the weather forecast ahead of time and dress appropriately for the conditions. All team members are required to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and a supplied festival t-shirt. We suggest bringing a backpack with the following: refillable water bottle, snacks, hat, sunglasses, cell phone, sunscreen, and jacket/sweater. Weather in the PNW can change drastically from morning to night.

How long are the shifts?

Each shift is 3–4.5 hours long. Your schedule will confirm your shift lengths, as well as your department crew assignment. All parking, late-night zero waste and late-night parking shifts only need to fulfill a 4-hour shift to receive a 3-Day festival pass.

Will I be outside all day?

Yes. Please be prepared to be outdoors.

Will lunch be provided?

All shifts are responsible for their own food, but we will provide non-alcoholic beverages.

How old do I have to be to help?

You must be at least 16 and a citizen of the United States to join the Ground Team. If you are under 18, you are required to submit a waiver signed by a parent or guardian before or during the sign-in of your first shift.

What if I already bought a ticket but want to help out?

If you complete two qualifying shifts, we’ll refund your pass within 1 week. Allow up to 7 business days for the refund to appear.