On-the-Job Training
On-the-Job Training (OJT) helps South Carolina businesses offset the cost of training eligible new employees who need additional job-specific skills to succeed in their roles.
Available through the SC Works workforce system, OJT may reimburse employers for up to 50% of an eligible employee’s wages during the training period and, in certain circumstances, up to 75%. The reimbursement helps defray the costs of skills development and reduced productivity while a new employee is learning the job.
Overview
On-the-Job Training is a workforce development program available through the federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
OJT is designed for newly hired employees who need additional training to develop the skills required for their position. The employee learns while working, and the employer may receive reimbursement for a portion of the wages paid during the approved training period.
Expanding the available talent pool
The right candidate does not always arrive with every skill needed on day one.
OJT can give companies greater flexibility to hire people with the potential to succeed and develop the additional job-specific skills they need after hiring. At the same time, wage reimbursement can help offset some of the cost associated with training and the temporary loss of productivity that can occur while a new employee gets up to speed.
Eligibility
OJT is intended for newly hired employees who require additional skills training to perform successfully in their positions.
Specific employer, employee and training requirements are determined through the applicable SC Works workforce area.
Companies should work with SC Works before beginning an OJT arrangement to determine whether the employer, employee and proposed training qualify.
How funding works
Participating employers may receive reimbursement of:
- Up to 50% of the employee’s wage rate during the approved OJT period
- Up to 75% in certain circumstances
OJT reimbursement is intended to help compensate businesses for the costs associated with skills upgrading and the loss of production that can occur while newly hired employees are being trained.
The amount of assistance and applicable requirements depend on the individual OJT arrangement and workforce program requirements.
Training
OJT takes place in the workplace, allowing a new employee to develop skills while performing the job.
Training is centered on the additional skills and competencies the employee needs to become proficient in the position. Depending on the job, that may include company-specific:
- Equipment and technology
- Processes and procedures
- Technical skills
- Production requirements
- Job duties and competencies
The training plan and approved training period are developed in coordination with SC Works based on the needs of the employee and position.
How to participate
Companies interested in OJT should contact their local SC Works center before beginning training under the program.
SC Works can help companies:
- Discuss hiring and training needs
- Determine employer and employee eligibility
- Identify the skills the new employee needs to develop
- Understand available wage reimbursement
- Develop the applicable OJT arrangement
- Navigate program requirements and approval
Learn more about On-the-Job Training
Explore current program information and connect with your local SC Works center for OJT requirements and assistance.
