How to Find Free, On-the-Job Training in Long-Term Care

Career Guidance
Smiling healthcare worker in green scrubs holding hands and chatting with an elderly woman outdoors at a senior care facility.

Breaking into a career in healthcare can feel daunting, but Caring Careers Start Here offers a clear roadmap to free, on-the-job training and meaningful work in Minnesota.

Explore Entry-Level Roles That Offer On-the-job Training

Many senior care jobs—such as Resident Assistant, Dietary Aide, Housekeeper, and Activities Assistant—require no prior experience. Employers routinely offer free, on-the-job training to help new staff learn the essential skills needed for these roles so they can excel in their daily responsibilities .

Look for Employers Who Sponsor Certification

Certain roles—like Nursing Assistant (CNA), Trained Medication Aide (TMA), and Dietary Aide  —may come with employer-supported training and certification. Several employers offer in-house Nursing Assistant training, for example. And others may elect to send staff to training offered through colleges or community programs. Typically, the employer will cover both the training and licensure costs. 

Visit our Employer Match map to get paired with organizations offering training-inclusive jobs. Some employers even offer company-paid Nursing Assistant and Medication Aide training, tuition reimbursement, and benefits like health insurance and meal perks. 

Use the map filters to search for employers who provide free CNA training onsite or scholarships.

Expand Your Language Skills on the Job

For those improving their English, caregiving offers a natural way to build language fluency while working. Employers emphasize empathy, reliability, and teamwork over perfect language skills. Many positions become stepping-stones toward Nursing Assistant (CNA) roles or even social services careers. 

Learn more about the Top 5 Senior Care Jobs for English Language Learners.

Benefits of Free On-the-job Healthcare Training

  • No upfront cost: Employers often cover training and certification.
  • Earn while you learn: Gain real-world experience from day one.
  • Career flexibility: Start in entry-level roles and move into nursing, social work, or administrative positions.
  • Support networks: Community resources and agencies guide job placement and continuing education.

If you’re ready to begin a healthcare career without the burden of tuition, start with CaringCareersStartHere.com. Explore entry-level roles, sign up for training opportunities, or find school-based programs. Your caring career is waiting.