WAGE REIMBURSEMENTS FOR NEW HIRES

Hire now. Train with confidence.

On-the-job training (OJT) helps you invest in a new employee from day one.

What is on-the-job training (OJT)?

OJT helps you hire someone and train them to do the job well—with a portion of wages reimbursed during the training period. It’s especially helpful when you’re willing to train, but the time and cost of ramp-up is a real barrier.

OJT is a workplace training opportunity where the employer provides the training (with additional specialized training, if needed).

Ready to get started?

We currently have $250,000 through June 2026 to support employers with on-the-job training. We encourage businesses to apply as quickly as possible, as funding is available on a first come, first served basis.

If you’re interested in participating in OJT, or learning about other ways we can support you through work-based learning opportunities, please submit our interest form. A member of our team will follow up to learn more about your needs and help you determine next steps.

Complete the interest form

Employers often use OJT to:

  • Lower the cost of training and ramp-up

  • Hire for potential (not just a perfect resume)

  • Train to your standards and your equipment / processes

  • Build a pipeline for hard-to-fill positions

  • Increase retention by investing in the employee early

How does on-the-job training work?

  • 1 You tell us about your role and what “success on the job” looks like.
  • 2 We review your interest against qualifying criteria and confirm the role is a fit for OJT.
  • 3 We build a simple training plan with the skills the new hire will learn.
  • 4 We finalize the contract (our goal is to have contracts signed by Thursday, April 30 to use this year’s remaining funds).
  • 5 You hire and train; reimbursement is processed based on the contract and agreed schedule.

How are employers reimbursed for wages during the training period?

OJT helps offset the cost of training while your new employee ramps up. During the approved training period, your business may be reimbursed for a portion of the employee’s regular wages for the hours they are actively in on-the-job training.

How does the reimbursement rate work?

Reimbursement is typically up to 50% of eligible wages for up to six months, but may be higher for some small and mid-size businesses based on qualifying criteria. Your final rate is confirmed during the review process and documented in your OJT contract.

What wages can be reimbursed?

Reimbursement is based on the employee’s regular hourly wage or regular salary for hours worked during the approved training schedule.

What wages are not reimbursable?

  • Overtime or premium pay
  • Commissions, bonuses, tips, or other “extra” wage types
  • Paid time not worked (such as holidays, vacation, or sick leave)

(Employees can still earn these types of pay — they’re just not part of what OJT can reimburse.)