Is OJT Right for Your Business?
Our On-the-Job Training Program (OJT) is a “hire-first” program that reimburses a company for the cost of training a new employee. This program is provided at no cost to the business. Companies can use OJTs to hire and train promising job candidates who have some – but not all – of the skills necessary for the job. A well-thought-out training plan is put in place to ensure that the employee has the skills needed to be successful. The OJT program is an efficient way to move new workers more quickly into jobs, provide them with needed skills, and help local businesses to develop and retain the workers that they need. Learn more by clicking any tab below.
What is On-the-Job Training (OJT)?
OJT program helps job seekers re-enter the workforce and gives businesses an incentive to hire and train them in full-time, skilled occupations.
The OJT program matches businesses with qualified job seekers who are eager to work, but need the specialized training only an employer can supply. In exchange, Montgomery County through WSM agrees to reimburse the business for a portion of their wages to cover part of their training expenses. Business’ may be repaid up to 50% of the trainee’s starting wage for a set period while the trainee masters the required skill.
How can employers get involved with an OJT Program?
In general, an OJT program will require that a business:
- Have a physical location in Montgomery County
- Commit to hiring Montgomery County residents
- Keep workers on the payroll for at least one year after they complete the OJT
- Offer positions in full time employment (32 hours a week)
- Provide wages of at least $14/hour or minimum $11.00 for the position (excluding commission, tips, or bonuses toward base salary)
- Complete training in 6 months or less
How to Apply for the OJT Program
To apply for the WSM OJT program, Complete the Business Grant Contact form to apply or get more info from one of our Business Services Reps.
Is OJT Right for You?
6 STEP OJT WORKFLOW PROCESS
Employer completes the WSM Business Grant Contact Form
WSM representative will provide required preliminary paperwork
Employer prescreens job candidates for OJT services
Employer trains employee while on-the-job
WSM conducts monthly worksite visits
Employer submits invoices/documents to be reimbursed
Is Your Business Eligible for OJT Reimbursements?
OJT reimbursements are available to Montgomery County employers willing to hire, train and supervise new employees.
The employer needs to meet minimum standards and provide both training and employment to an OJT-qualified participant (see employer pre-screening checklist). To assist businesses along the way, we are available to answer your questions and work with you to complete the application process. We want to help you succeed.
All businesses in Montgomery County have the opportunity to participate, with priority for the following industries:
- Agriculture
- Tourism/Hospitality
- Healthcare/Social Assistance and Higher
- Higher Education/Training
Our OJT funds provide reimbursements to businesses of up to 50% of the wage rate of OJT participants (in certain circumstances, up to 75%) to help defray the costs of training new employees.
Do Your New Employees Qualify for Training?
Your new employees must meet eligibility requirements for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding.
WIOA is designed to help job seekers access employment, education, training, and support services to succeed in the labor market and to match employers with the skilled workers they need to compete in the global economy.
New Employees Must Acquire a New Skill
An OJT program is not intended for long-term, continued training within the occupation.
An OJT agreement must be limited to the period of time required for a participant to become proficient in the occupation for which the training is being provided.
In determining the appropriate length of the contract, consideration will be given to the skill requirements of the occupation, the academic and occupational skill level of the participant, and prior work experience.
Free online tools such as O*Net SVP are helpful to employers in determining skills requirements, designing job descriptions and preparing an Employee Training Plan.
If you would like to enroll or receive more information, please fill out this quick interest form and someone from our staff will contact you within 7 business days!