Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino today announced the availability of over $50,000 in Federal grant funds through the On-The-Job Training (OJT) Program for local businesses looking to expand their workforce, train employees, and return jobs to the community.  Under this program, the Town may partner with an eligible business and help defray costs (through wage reimbursement of up to 75% of the trainees salary) needed to help bring a candidate up to speed in a job where a skills gap exists.

“Through this On-the-Job Training Program, the Town will help put people to work while assisting employers in growing their businesses,” said Supervisor Saladino. “I encourage business owners to contact the Town’s Workforce Partnership program to obtain additional information about On-The-Job training, and learn if your business is eligible to benefit from this fantastic program.”

The OJT Program is designed to reimburse a business for the additional expenses needed to bring a job candidate up to speed in a position where they do not meet all the minimum qualifications normally required in the position. OJT will help bridge the skills gap by providing funds to help train a prospective employee. Under the OJT program, employers must present employment opportunities that will last at least 1 month and no more than 6 months in length.

Last year, the Oyster Bay Brewing Company was the first business to participate in this On-The-Job Training Program, ultimately helping train and employ two residents in product sales and manufacturing, which ultimately led to permanent positions within the company.  In addition to the On-The-Job Training Program, the Workforce Partnership program offers resume building and other career services, as the Town is committed to offering residents the opportunity to enhance their marketability and pinpoint employment opportunities, while helping local employers continue to grow their operations.

For more information about this program, including eligibility requirements for trainees and businesses, or information about the many other great services that the Town’s Workforce Partnership program offers, please contact (516) 797-4560 or business@oysterbay-ny.gov.