Need a summer job or know someone who does? The city of McMinnville is looking for young adults to work this summer at Gilley Pool. 

“A handful have applied, but we need 30,” said Kyle Clyde, program coordinator for the city’s Parks and Recreation Department. “We usually have a decent return, but some age out. They don’t need a summer job anymore. Then, we have to start looking for others to fill those spots. You have to be at least 16 years old to be a lifeguard.”

Certification is required, but not at the time of applying for a position. 

“You don’t have to have certification to apply,” said Clyde. “You will need it by the time you start work. We are holding a certification class April 23 thru 25. The cost is $150. Certification lasts two years. You’ll easily make that back. We are taking on a lot more swim lessons this year. Lifeguards who are also swim instructors make more money. Lifeguards can make up to $20 an hour offering private swim lessons. That’s in addition to what they make as a lifeguard.”

Regular lifeguards make $7.50 an hour. Lifeguards/ swim instructors make $8 an hour. Head lifeguards make $9.50 an hour. 

Instructors must take a course or have WSI (water safety instruction) certification through the Red Cross. 

“You can be a lifeguard without being a swim instructor,” said Clyde. “You do have to be a lifeguard to be a swim instructor. It’s a package deal. To be a swim instructor you have to go through our course or have WSI certification. They don’t need certification, if they are trained through us.” 

For those without WSI certification, a swim instruction class is set for May 15. Cost is $50.

McMinnville Civic Center can be reached at 473-1212 for more information. Applicants can apply online on the city’s website.