Photos: Liberty Tax Hires Job Hoppers During Peak Season

Jeff Tydeman, a waver at the Burnet Road Liberty Tax, works his ten to two  shift. Halfway through tax season, Tydeman doesn’t know where his next job will come from, but he’s certain he’ll be costumed.

During the peak tax season, Jan. 1 to April 15, Liberty Tax hires seasonal employees. Due to the high stress of the job they constantly interview other possible workers for back up. 

Wavers rest during their four to six hour shifts to prevent wearing down too fast. Franchise owners spend a day as wavers before they open their stores to test how long they think a shift should be.

On his way out after his first break, Tydeman picks up his torn up foam fingers and his broken radio player. During his shift he listens to sports talk, comedy skits and various types of music. 

A.J. Johnson, born and raised Austinite, holds his sign on the side of Airport Boulevard during the congested lunch hour. 

Tydeman performs one of his handful of dance moves to the constant traffic. His moves are inspired from various entertainers, including Michael Jackson and Elvis Presley. 

Johnson sports a warm fur lined hat to get through a long, cold and windy shift.  

Pedestrians walking by take a few seconds to greet Johnson and on occasion talk about the services offered by Liberty Tax.  

Coca-Cola is Johnson’s drink of choice for the time he spends out side. Wavers come inside every hour for a five to ten minute break but are encouraged to stay hydrated while outside.  

A.J. Johnson works a variety of temporary jobs throughout the year. His current gig with liberty tax will last until mid April and then he will look for something in one of the trades he has mastered.