OFO Offers Transitional Employment and Wage Subsidy Programs

What Is Employment Services?
Opportunities for Otsego Employment Services offers two partnership programs with local businesses and organizations to provide job opportunities for Otsego County’s low-income population.

Transitional Employment provides fully subsidized work experiences with local employers for up to 90 days. Through this program companies serve as a “training ground” for employees by offering the opportunity to learn the customs and routines of work while developing practical skills and gaining experience. As there is no obligation for companies to hire the program participant at the end of 90 days, there is virtually no risk. However, companies are encouraged to hire employees at the end of the training period.

Wage Subsidy facilitates partially subsidized job placement with local employers. Through this program companies can hire employees for up to 90 days. During this time employees become accustomed to the company culture and have the opportunity to develop their employability skills. The goal is that at the end of the 90-day period, companies will retain a qualified, well adjusted permanent employee with promise and company loyalty.

Through both employment models, employees have the support of a case manager to assist them with any work issues that arise during the try out period, facilitate access to community resources to ensure reliability, and offer training opportunities to
enhance productivity.

What Are The Benefits For Employers?
Subsidized Wages
• Transitional Employment wages are fully subsidized for 90 days
• Wage Subsidy wages are subsidized on a graduated system - 100% for the first 30 days, 75% for the next 30 days, and 50% for the last 30 days

Pre-Screened Employees through participation in a two week pre-placement workshop, candidates are assessed for interests, aptitude, and employability skills, thus ensuring an
appropriate placement in local companies.

Optimized Work Experiences for employers and employees through intensive job coaching and mentoring.

Increased Productivity through supplemental training and facilitating linkages to community resources that eliminate barriers to maintaining employment.

Economic Growth and Vitality for both the company and community.

An Opportunity To Make A Difference in the lives of Otsego County residents.

What Is Expected Of Employers?
• Consider program participants full-fledged employees
• Provide employment for a minimum of 30 hours per week
• Play an active role in employee mentoring and evaluation
• Provide complete payroll documentation to receive reimbursement

What Is Expected of Employees?
• Punctuality
• Appropriate work attire
• Respect
• Positive attitude
• Good work ethic

For more information:
607.433.8335 or 800.986.5463
Monday – Friday
8:00 AM – 5:00 PM