Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Apprenticeship Program

Certified Nursing Assistant Apprenticeship Program - Cohort 17

UTMB is accepting applications for our Certified Nursing Assistant Apprenticeship Program.

The program provides:

• Full-time employment and benefits as a Hospital Aide
• Minimum starting wage at $15/hour, with progressive increases during the first year
• Paid on-the-job learning and classroom instruction approved by Texas Health and Human Services
• Full year of mentorship by clinical instructors and experienced Patient Care Technicians
• Promotion to Patient Care Technician and eligibility to register for the CNA exam upon successful completion of the training

The minimum qualifications include:

• Age 18 or older
• Ability to meet the physical requirements of the job, including prolonged standing and lifting more than 50 pounds

Training Schedule

During the first five weeks of employment, CNA Apprentices will complete all required classroom education, hands-on skills training, and clinical experience. After successfully completing the initial training period, apprentices will transition to the regular schedule for their assigned unit.

Weeks 1–4

• Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
• Training is held at the UTMB Galveston Campus

Week 5

• Three 12-hour clinical shifts
• One 4-hour shift
• Graduation ceremony at the UTMB Galveston Campus

After Week 5

• Apprentices transition to their assigned unit and regular work schedule
• Typically three 12-hour shifts per week
• Weekend and scheduling requirements may vary depending on the assigned unit

Important Scheduling Information: The first five weeks of the program are an intensive training period that includes all required classroom instruction, skills training, and clinical experience. Full attendance is required, and time off cannot be accommodated during this period. Please consider any existing commitments or planned time off before applying.

After the initial five-week training period, time-off requests will be handled according to the assigned unit's scheduling needs and are subject to hiring manager approval.

The deadline for applications is September 18, 2026, and interviews will be conducted September 30, 2026.

The cohort will begin November 9, 2026.

Equal Employment Opportunity

UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. As a Federal Contractor, UTMB Health takes affirmative action to hire and advance protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.