On The Job Training

On-the-Job Training (OJT) is a remarkable and valuable opportunity for the employer and the individual with a disability. It provides a way for the employer to act as a mentor, helping the person with a disability develop the skills they need to achieve their career goals while gaining real-life experience in a professional setting. This program promotes inclusivity by providing equal job opportunities to all individuals. It is a wonderful way to cultivate a diverse, skilled workforce through a hands-on approach.

This program provides an environment where people with disabilities can interact with colleagues who do not have disabilities, helping to break down any barriers between employees. This promotes a sense of unity and teamwork within the workplace while ensuring employees with disabilities are no exception. Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that participants in OJT are entitled to a salary no less than minimum wage, proving that this program provides both experience and financial stability.

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Who arranges OJT?

VR staff or employment providers will arrange an OJT and coordinate placing the person in the training and any follow-up services needed. All parties will work closely together to develop an OJT experience that will benefit both the trainee and the employer.

After training begins, VR staff or an employment provider continues to offer support to the trainee and employer,including assistance with invoicing.

How to get started

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) this program, if a student expresses interest, the school district can refer them to Vocational Rehabilitation for limited pre-employment services. Students can also initiate the process themselves to enroll in the state’s Vocational Rehabilitation program through FL-ICI. This gives students greater independence and empowers them to explore various career opportunities.

If you want to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity and start building a career, FL-ICI provides an easy way to get started. You can initiate the process and enroll in the Vocational Rehabilitation program by clicking on the link below. Remember, this program is designed to help you achieve your career aspirations and live a fulfilling life. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of it. Start your journey today!

Get Started

Benefits for employers

By participating in OJT, you have the opportunity to see if the job and your business are a good fit for the trainee. Other benefits that VR provides may include:

  • Reimbursement for the trainee’s wages, taxes

and benefits.

  • Support services (e.g., uniforms, tools, bus passes).

  • Job-site assessment and needed accommodations.

  • Workers’ Compensation coverage for adult

    and youth work experience participants.

Accommodations will be too expensive.

Most accommodations are free or cost less than $500, and VR will provide advice on how to make accommodations, if needed.

If I hire a person with a disability, I will have to give them extensive training.

VR offers qualified applicants who are ready
to work or sponsors OJT to get the employee properly trained for the job.

My employees are not comfortable working with a person who has disabilities.

Workers with disabilities can have a positive effect on coworkers, and VR offers on-site and virtual Disability Awareness Training.

There are no benefits from hiring a person with disabilities.

People with disabilities have fewer scheduled absences and stay on the job longer than those without disabilities. This also helps businesses to reduce turnover costs.

It is too costly to participate in OJT.

VR will pay for uniforms, background checks and other necessary costs for the trainee including specialized equipment. Trainees are paid the way any other employees are paid, and VR reimburses the employer for the gross wages.

As an employer how do I sign up?

A VR employment service provider or your business may become the employer of record for an OJT. Visit the New Vendors page at http://RehabWorks. org/vendors_new.shtml to learn how to register to become a new vendor.

If you have any questions or need assistance, contact Vendor Registration at 866-580-7438 or email atVRVendors@vr.fldoe.org.

Coordinate an agreement with VR staff and the trainee that establishes salary, the type and length of training and lists any other costs associated with training. We look forward to working with you to create the best possible training experiencefor all involved. For more information, contact
a VR Business Relations Representative at VRBusinessRep@vr.fldoe.org.