With on-the-job training reimbursement, California employers can hire someone who needs to build skills and get back a portion of that worker's wages while they are being trained. It is usually offered through WIOA programs at your local America's Job Center of California, and it starts with a written agreement before the training begins.
This guide explains On-the-Job Training (OJT) in plain English for employers in San Bernardino and the Inland Empire.
What Is On-the-Job Training (OJT)?
On-the-Job Training is an employer service under the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA). Here is the basic idea:
- You hire a worker who is eligible for WIOA services.
- You train them on the job, in a real role, while paying their regular wages.
- The local workforce program reimburses you for part of those wages during the training period, to help cover the extra cost of training.
For job seekers, OJT is one of the few paid training programs for adults, because they earn a paycheck while they learn. For employers, it lowers the risk of hiring someone who is new to the work.
On-the-Job Training Reimbursement: California Basics and How It Works
- Contact your local workforce board. Start with your nearest America's Job Center of California.
- Find an eligible candidate. The AJCC may refer candidates, or you may have someone in mind who can be checked for eligibility.
- Write a training plan. List the skills the worker will learn and how long training will take.
- Sign an OJT agreement before the hire. Reimbursement usually depends on having the contract in place first.
- Train and document. Keep records of hours, wages, and progress.
- Submit for reimbursement. Follow the program's steps to request payment.
The share of wages reimbursed, the length of training, and other rules are set by federal law and local workforce boards, and they can change. Always confirm current details with your local America's Job Center of California.
Is OJT a Good Fit for Your Business?
OJT tends to work well when:
- You have a full-time or steady role you plan to keep filled
- The job has skills you can teach on site
- You are willing to keep the worker after training if they succeed
- You can track hours and progress clearly
It may not be the right tool for short seasonal jobs or roles that need a license the worker does not have yet.
Where to Start in San Bernardino
Workforce development in San Bernardino County is supported by local workforce boards and America's Job Centers. The East Valley America's Job Center of California is at 500 Inland Center Dr, San Bernardino, (909) 382-0440. Confirm hours at workforce.sbcounty.gov. Ask about On-the-Job Training and other employer services, such as incumbent worker training. You can also look into the Employment Training Panel at etp.ca.gov for state training support.
How The Ayangbah Foundation Helps Employers and Job Seekers
The Ayangbah Foundation is an adult education and career training nonprofit in downtown San Bernardino. Our enrollment process includes intake, a WIOA eligibility check, and CalJOBS registration help. Our Career Readiness & Entrepreneurship Employment Training is a 40-hour, 4-week certificate program that covers leadership, digital marketing, grants and financial literacy, and business development, with a career assessment and a personal 30/60/90-day plan. It is $0 for WIOA-eligible residents. Graduates leave with skills and a plan, which can make them strong candidates for employers.
FAQ
Who qualifies as an OJT trainee?
OJT trainees must be eligible for WIOA services, which are decided by your local America's Job Center of California. Eligibility often depends on factors like employment status and income.
Can I use OJT for someone I already employ?
OJT is generally meant for new hires. For current employees, ask about incumbent worker training or look into the Employment Training Panel.
How much will on-the-job training reimbursement in California cover?
The amount depends on federal rules, your local workforce board, and your agreement. Confirm current details with your local America's Job Center of California.
On-the-Job Training can help you hire with more confidence while giving someone a real chance to grow. Visit our Employers page to connect with The Ayangbah Foundation, and learn about our Career Readiness & Entrepreneurship Employment Training graduates.