Business Services
On-the-Job Training (OJT)
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. Read more by clicking the link below.
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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, Monterey County Workforce Development Board agrees to reimburse the business for a portion of their wages to cover part of their training expenses. The MCWDB repays the business 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 Monterey County
- Commit to hiring Monterey 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 OJT program, businesses can call 831.755-5393 and speak to a Business Services Representative or email hernandezj1@co.monterey.ca.us
Is OJT Right For You?
Is Your Business Eligible for OJT Reimbursements?
OJT reimbursements are available to Monterey 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 Monterey County have the opportunity to participate, with priority for the following industries: Agriculture, Tourism/Hospitality, Health Care/Social Assistance and 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?
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.
Next Steps
Review grant application documents (we’re available to assist you with these forms):
- OJT Fact Sheet
- On the Job Agreement and Training Plan
- Equal Opportunity WIOA Section 188 Compliance Checklist
- Vendor Data Record
- Employer Questionnaire
If you haven’t already contacted us, please call a Business Services Representative at (831) 755-5393 or email a Business Services Representative Jerry Hernandez at hernandezj1@co.monterey.ca.us
Launch the Job Description Writer and Help Page Below
Please note our minimum requirements for job seekers:
- Authorization to Work. An individual must have the authorization to work in the United State to be eligible to receive Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act (WIOA) employment services, and
- Selective Service Registration. Men born on or after January 1, 1960, residing in the United States (citizen or non-citizen) must register with Selective Service between their 18th and 26th birthday to be eligible for WIOA services.
Benefits to Employers:
- Free screening, assessment, and applicant referral
- You decide who to hire
- You determine job performance standards
- Partial wage reimbursement during the training period
- Customized training, your way
- Simple process, minimal paperwork
- OJT programs can be developed for most skilled and semi-skilled jobs
Benefits to Employees:
- Skills attainment
- Earn as they learn
- Job coaching
- Employment
Contact Us!
To apply for the OJT program, businesses can call 831.755.5393 and speak to a Business Services Representative or email hernandezj1@co.monterey.ca.us.