The DC Department of Employment Services (DOES), through its Office of Talent and Client Services (OTCS), offers the On-the-Job Training (OJT) program to help District employers hire and train qualified DC residents. The program reduces upfront hiring and training costs by reimbursing employers for a portion of the participant’s wages. OJT is funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) and is available to eligible employers at no cost beyond their regular wage obligations.
REIMBURSEMENT STRUCTURE
Employers participating in the OJT program may receive wage reimbursements of up to 75% of the participant’s wages during the training period, depending on the salary for the position. Reimbursement rates are determined using a sliding scale that considers the wage offered, the size of the employer, and the candidate’s skill level relative to the role.
| Reimbursement Rate | Basis | Notes |
| Up to 75% | Lower wage positions; candidates with limited work experience, barriers to employment, or special qualifiers | Special qualifiers include: youth ages 18–24, seniors 55+, returning citizens, individuals with disabilities, chronically unemployed, homeless veterans, or those without a high school diploma or GED |
| 50% – 75% | Mid-range wage positions; candidates who are job ready with some work experience and/or post-secondary education | Rate determined based on a combination of employer size, candidate profile, and wage offered |
| 35% – 50% | Higher wage positions; candidates who are job ready with significant work experience | Rate determined based on a combination of employer size, candidate profile, and wage offered |
For FY26, OJT reimbursements are limited to $35,000 per agreement, no matter what the reimbursement rate or salary is. Employers need to keep this cap in mind when planning compensation packages.
Salary and compensation details should be shared with the OTCS OJT Coordinator before making any formal offers to candidates. This guarantees that the reimbursement rate and cap are approved ahead of time, preventing discrepancies between approval and offer.
SPOSITION REQUIREMENTS
Positions considered for the On-the-Job Training program must meet the following requirements:
- Minimum of 32 hours per week
- Pay rate at or above DC minimum wage — positions are not capped at an hourly maximum, but total reimbursement is capped at $35,000 per agreement
- W-2 employment status (no 1099 or independent contractor arrangements)
- 3:1 employee-to-trainee ratio
- Position must be an active, unsubsidized hire — not a pre-existing position that was previously filled
Note: Seasonal positions will not be considered.
EMPLOYER ELIGIBILITY
Employers participating in the OJT program must demonstrate that they have the fiscal and operational capacity to administer the proposed training program. The following documentation is required to assess eligibility:
- IRS Form W-9 (signed and dated)
- Valid and current business license
- Documentation confirming taxes are in good standing
- Proof of Liability Insurance and Workers’ Compensation
- Supervisor or Trainer’s resume
- Active employer profile and job order in DC Networks
- Training outline (training timeframe, proposed reimbursement amount, and hourly wage or salary)
- Assurance document
- Worksite review
HOW THE OJT PROGRAM WORKS
| Step | Action | Details |
| 1 | Employer Inquiry | Contact DOES/OTCS to express interest in the OJT program and confirm eligibility. |
| 2 | Job Order Submission | Employer creates an active employer profile and submits a job order in DC Networks. |
| 3 | Candidate Referral | OTCS refers a qualified, WIOA-enrolled DC resident whose profile matches the position. |
| 4 | Interview & Selection | Employer interviews and selects the candidate. Salary must be confirmed with OTCS before an offer is extended. |
| 5 | Agreement Execution | OTCS and the employer execute a formal OJT agreement including a structured training plan and reimbursement schedule. |
| 6 | Training Period | The participant begins employment. The training period is up to 6 months based on the candidate’s skillset and training plan. |
| 7 | Monthly Reporting | Employer submits monthly progress reports to DOES throughout the training period. |
| 8 | Reimbursement Processing | DOES reimburses the employer according to the agreed rate and schedule, up to the $35,000 cap. |
PREFERRED OJT OCCUPATIONS
Preferred occupations are those that develop a marketable, in-demand skillset during the term of the training. This includes roles across a wide range of industries – from technology and healthcare to construction, utilities, hospitality, and professional services. As a general guide, if the position requires structured training, builds transferable skills, and leads to a career pathway with growth potential, it is likely a strong fit for the OJT program. Employers are encouraged to reach out to our team if they have questions about whether a specific role qualifies.
CONTACT & NEXT STEPS
For more information about the DOES OJT program or to begin the application process, please contact the Office of Talent and Client Services:
| [email protected] | |
| Phone | (202) 724-7000 |
| Location | 4058 Minnesota Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20019 |
| Office Hours | Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM |