How the WorkBC Wage Subsidy Program may help you land your next job
Sometimes, when we are looking for work, we find ourselves in a dilemma: we can’t get a job because we lack experience, and we can’t gain experience without a job. If this sounds familiar, the WorkBC Wage Subsidy program might be a solution for you.
The Wage Subsidy program can help job seekers connect with employers who are willing to hire them and provide on-the-job training, supervision, and coaching. Eligible employers receive a reimbursement for a portion of the wages they pay. This financial incentive helps offset the cost of training while an individual builds their skills.
You may be eligible for the program if you are unemployed (or working very few hours each week). It is not necessary to be receiving Employment Insurance or Income Assistance to qualify; all unemployed residents of British Columbia can access services and support from an Employment Consultant. An Employment Consultant will assess your skills and experience against the local job market and skills requirements, and review your recent job search activities to determine if the Wage Subsidy program is a good fit for you.
Some scenarios where the Wage Subsidy program could be suitable are:
- You have some relevant work experience, but it is outdated or from a different region or industry.
- Your previous occupation is no longer in demand, requiring a career change.
- You recently completed a related educational program but lack practical experience.
- You are returning to the workforce following an injury/health situation which has impacted your ability to work
The above is not a complete list of examples and each person’s situation is considered on a case-by-case basis.
Generally speaking, employers’ eligible for the program include businesses and non-profits that operate in BC, demonstrate appropriate insurance and WorkSafeBC coverage is in place, and are committed to providing fulsome on the job training with supervision. (Government bodies and agencies, such as BC Ferries, Island Health, RCMP, Municipalities, etc. are not eligible for the funding.) Our staff is also available to support our local employers with each step of the wage subsidy application and claim submission process.
If you would like more information and are already working with an Employment Consultant, please ask about the Wage Subsidy program during your next appointment. If you are not yet connected with WorkBC, call 250.248.3205 to inquire about registering for services.
