Find a Job You Really Want In
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, securing employment that offers training while you work is invaluable. With the increasing complexity of many careers, the ability to learn on the job can alleviate the pressure of juggling work and education. This article explores ten professions that provide on-the-job training, allowing you to earn an income while developing essential skills. We will also discuss the responsibilities associated with each role and the potential for career advancement.
Key Takeaways:
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Prominent jobs that offer pay while training include truck driver, electrician, and dental assistant.
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From 2021 to 2031, the HVAC sector is projected to grow by 5%, creating approximately 20,200 job opportunities across the U.S.
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On-the-job training is similar but distinct from an apprenticeship.
Top 10 Jobs That Train You While You Work
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Truck Driver
Average Annual Salary: $51,000
Job Outlook: Truck driving jobs are projected to grow by 4%, resulting in approximately 90,900 job openings across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).As a truck driver, you will benefit from paid CDL training provided by most employers, enabling you to enhance your trucking skills and earn certifications while you work. Typically lasting three weeks, CDL training covers essential operational procedures and trucking regulations, serving as a strong foundation for your career.
Truck drivers are vital to U.S. commerce, transporting goods nationwide. The industry has faced a significant driver shortage, making this a lucrative and promising career path.
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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN/LVN)
Average Annual Salary: $45,000
Job Outlook: LPN and vocational nurse jobs are projected to grow by 6%, generating around 41,300 job openings in the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.The healthcare sector offers numerous well-paying and expanding opportunities in licensed practical and vocational nursing (LPN/LVN). These positions allow you to enter paid training programs that provide both income and clinical experience while earning your certification.
Training programs typically require 500-750 hours of work and can be completed in about one year. Following your training, you can specialize in lucrative areas such as geriatric, hospice, or long-term care.
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Phlebotomist
Average Annual Salary: $34,000
Job Outlook: Phlebotomist positions are expected to grow by 10%, resulting in about 13,900 job openings across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, based on BLS data.Phlebotomy, the process of drawing blood from patients, provides several paid training opportunities. While no specific training program is mandatory, you will need to pass your state’s licensing exam(s) to gain certification.
Your employer will typically train you in-house, often through shadowing experienced medical professionals or via an apprenticeship.
Common workplaces for phlebotomists include hospitals, medical offices, and testing facilities.
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Food Service Worker
Average Annual Salary: $22,000
Job Outlook: Food service worker jobs are projected to grow by 9%, creating approximately 372,900 job opportunities across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, based on BLS projections.Food service roles provide on-the-job training, making them an excellent choice for those seeking temporary employment with little prior experience.
While becoming a chef often requires culinary training, numerous support staff positions, such as food prep assistant and cleaner, require no prior experience.
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Electrician
Average Annual Salary: $49,000
Job Outlook: Electrician jobs are projected to grow by 7%, generating around 50,200 job opportunities in the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.Being an electrician is a highly rewarding career that offers both training and a competitive salary. Organizations like Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) provide paid vocational training, allowing you to gain practical experience while studying.
In this role, you’ll learn to install, repair, and maintain various electrical systems for homes and businesses. Committed companies may even offer to finance your vocational schooling and licensure.
Electricians enjoy strong job security and competitive pay, especially in a fluctuating economy.
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Plumber
Average Annual Salary: $56,000
Job Outlook: Plumber jobs are expected to grow by 2%, resulting in approximately 9,100 job opportunities across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, according to BLS forecasts.Most plumbers enter the field through an apprenticeship lasting four years, where they gain hands-on training under the guidance of experienced plumbers.
Typically, pay starts at 45% of the journeyman rate in the first year, gradually increasing to 70% by the final year.
After completing the apprenticeship, you will become a journeyman plumber, with many choosing to work for their training company until they achieve master plumber status, allowing them to establish their own businesses.
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Carpenter
Average Annual Salary: $41,000
Job Outlook: Carpenter jobs are projected to grow by 2%, creating around 20,500 job opportunities across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, according to BLS estimates.Most carpenters start their careers through employer-sponsored training or apprenticeships, which provide paid learning experiences.
Apprenticeships are an excellent way to receive on-the-job training. You will partner with a seasoned carpenter to learn the trade.
Completing a carpentry apprenticeship often leads directly to full-time employment with the same company, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce.
The profession traditionally enjoys robust job security, particularly during periods of housing growth. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts above-average growth in the carpentry sector compared to other occupations.
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HVAC Technician
Average Annual Salary: $48,000
Job Outlook: HVAC jobs are expected to grow by 5%, with approximately 20,200 job openings across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, as reported by the BLS.To become an HVAC technician, you typically do not need a college degree or prior certification. Many apprenticeship programs will finance your courses, provided you pass the necessary assessments.
HVAC technicians handle various tasks related to heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems, including:
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Installation
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Maintenance
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Repair
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Evaluation
The role also offers numerous specialization options, leading to increased income potential.
Popular specializations include:
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Metal fabrication
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Residential boilers
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Commercial furnaces
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Heat pump pool heaters
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Mason
Average Annual Salary: $45,000
Job Outlook: Masonry jobs are projected to decline by 2%, resulting in a loss of about 5,900 job opportunities across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, according to BLS data.Many masonry positions require only a GED, and training can be acquired through a three-to-four-year apprenticeship that combines work and education.
During the program, you’ll learn essential skills, including building codes, blueprint reading, and mathematics. The field also offers various specialization options to enhance your income. Many masons focus on specific materials, adopting titles such as stonemason, block mason, or brick mason.
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Dental Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $38,000
Job Outlook: Dental assistant jobs are expected to grow by 8%, generating approximately 30,100 job opportunities across the U.S. from 2021 to 2031, according to the BLS.Established dental practices and clinics often invest in training programs to elevate your skills in the field. Many paid training opportunities arise once you secure your first position.
To become a dental assistant, you’ll need to complete various training and certification processes, which vary by state.
Typically, programs accredited by the Commission of Dental Accreditation (CODA) last between one to two years. Unlike many other professions listed here, most dental offices require completion of these programs before hiring.
However, many programs offer externship opportunities, providing you with valuable experience and income while you learn.
What’s the Difference Between an Apprenticeship and On-the-Job Training?
An apprenticeship is typically a structured program with a defined timeframe, where a new worker learns under the supervision of an experienced professional. In contrast, on-the-job (OTJ) training is generally less formal and may not follow a specific timeline.
While it’s easy to confuse the two, receiving OTJ training does not automatically classify you as an apprentice unless it meets the formal requirements.
However, both apprenticeships and OTJ training share similarities. Many OTJ training programs require testing to qualify candidates, much like apprenticeships. In both scenarios, participants are compensated while they work and learn.
Jobs That Train You While You Work FAQ
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Are there jobs that will pay for your training?
Yes, numerous jobs will pay for your training or reimburse you after completion. Professions such as electrician, HVAC technician, and plumber often provide financial support for training.
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What is an example of on-the-job training?
Shadowing is a common example of on-the-job training. When shadowing, you follow an experienced employee to observe their tasks. Generally, you are not permitted to perform any duties, only to take notes and learn.
References
Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Occupational Outlook Handbook.” Accessed on September 18, 2022.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
