Due to a severe crossing guard shortage, Austin Public Works is asking the community to help spread the word about the need for people to apply to the Safe Routes to School program.

In an email sent to Community Impact Newspaper, officials with Austin Public Works said the department is “looking for crossing guards to help young students get to school safely.” They are currency hiring throughout the city of Austin.

“Not having enough crossing guards is a big concern for the city,” said Public Information Specialist Cheyenne Dolin.

There are currently 55 positions the program is hoping to fill for 36 schools. There are open positions within each council district, according to the city.

According to the public works department, they have more positions open than in previous years. Historically, Dolin said, they have 20-30 crossing guard vacancies to fill over the summer; this year, that number has more than doubled.


“Our crossing guards do more than keeping children safe crossing the street,” Dolin said. “They model good behavior for young children, observe and report suspicious activity and make parents feel more comfortable.”

Anyone interested in applying to become a crossing guard can contact Leticia Richardson at 512-974-9181, or follow this link to apply online.

Training is provided and the hourly wage for crossing guards is $15 an hour, 2.5 hours per weekday. A criminal background check is required for all applicants.