Felon Friendly Jobs
Can I find a job after a felony? This question arises for nearly every offender. The good news is yes! Many companies are embracing second chance employment and offering opportunities to ex-offenders. According to the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), employers are more open to hiring qualified applicants with a criminal history, especially those with good references, a strong work record, relevant skills, and proof of rehabilitation.
66% of HR professionals and 60% of managers believe the quality of work from employees with a criminal record is equal to those without.
Search Jobs for Immediate Hiring
Below is a list of job openings specifically tailored for ex-offenders, providing a significant second chance. Each listing includes the employer’s name, job location, and a brief description.
Click on the “Apply Now” button to secure your position and take a positive step forward in your career.
Which States Provide Second Chance Employment Opportunities for Felons?
Check your state in this section to get detailed insights about job opportunities, industries, employment conditions, and all available resources that can help former inmates improve their lives. This section provides comprehensive information tailored to each state.
Updated List of Employers that Offer Second Chance Employment
Finding employment after incarceration can be challenging, but there are many felon-friendly companies in the USA willing to give you a chance. We’ve compiled a list of these companies to help you in your job search.
Check the details of all employers, including their addresses, phone numbers, email, and more relevant information.
How Can Offenders Make Money Fast?
There are several legitimate ways for offenders to make money quickly. Companies like Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, and Instacart, which offer ride-sharing and delivery services, often have flexible hiring policies. Offenders with a valid driver’s license and a reliable vehicle can find opportunities with these companies.
Gig Economy Jobs For Felons
In today’s digital era, with just a laptop and an internet connection, you can dive into the gig economy. It’s amazing how a few skills can open doors to numerous opportunities of second chance employment. Think about what you’re good at and how you can offer that to clients. There are plenty of freelance platforms out there.
Just sign up, create a standout profile that showcases your talents, and you’re ready to go. Some of the most popular platforms include
- Fiverr
- Upwork
- Toptal
- Freelancer
- PeoplePerHour
- Guru.com
These sites offer quick gigs in fields like writing, graphic design, and data entry. The possibilities are endless, and the best part is, you can start right now!
Manual Labor and Day Work For Felons
Manual labor and day work in construction and landscaping provide immediate sources of income, as many companies in these fields hire on a day-by-day basis. Joining a moving company or offering independent moving services generates quick cash. Temporary employment agencies, such as Labor Ready and Manpower, place offenders in temporary jobs that pay daily or weekly.
Selling Goods
Selling items on online marketplaces like eBay, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace can quickly generate cash for felons. Pawn shops provide immediate funds for valuable items. Offering handyman services for general repairs and maintenance, such as fixing appliances and painting, is another fast way to earn money.
Recycling
Collecting and selling scrap metal can be a lucrative, albeit labor-intensive, way to make money quickly. Depending on the local laws of your state, recycling bottles and cans can provide quick cash.
Consignment Work
Creating and selling crafts, artwork, or handmade goods through consignment shops or online platforms like Etsy can generate income for felons. Buying items from thrift stores and reselling them at a profit, known as thrift store flipping, can also be a quick way to make money. These activities not only provide financial benefits but also allow you to express creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, helping to rebuild your life and showcase your talents.
Industries wise Hiring
Countless industries offer second chances of employment, and there is no specific limit to the number of industries where felons can be placed to build a better future.
Here are some of the most demanding industries that are open to hiring felons:
Staffing agencies
Several staffing agencies across the United States specialize in helping individuals like you find employment. These agencies truly understand the unique challenges you face and work closely with employers who believe in giving second chances.
They see your potential and want to help you succeed. Some of the notable felony-friendly staffing agencies include:
- Prisoner Reentry Network: Connects ex-offenders with job opportunities and reentry resources nationwide. They provide comprehensive support for reintegration.
- Integrity Staffing Solutions: Places former inmates in warehouse and manufacturing positions. They focus on roles that offer skill development.
- Spherion Staffing: Helps individuals with criminal records find work in diverse industries. They tailor their services to match job seekers with suitable employers.
- Kelly Services: Offers job placements for former convicts across various sectors. They emphasize matching skills with job requirements.
- Manpower: Provides temporary and permanent jobs for individuals with criminal backgrounds. Their extensive network covers multiple industries.
- Labor Finders: Specializes in temporary placements for ex-offenders in industrial jobs. They offer immediate start positions to help integrate quickly.
- PeopleReady: Focuses on placing former inmates in temporary blue-collar jobs. They prioritize positions with flexible schedules.
- Staffmark: Works with employers open to hiring individuals with past convictions. They offer a wide range of job opportunities.
- Elwood Staffing: Offers industrial and manufacturing jobs to ex-offenders. Their positions often come with on-the-job training.
- ResourceMFG: Specializes in manufacturing jobs for former convicts. They connect skilled labor with appropriate job openings.
- PrideStaff: Assists individuals with criminal records in finding employment in various fields. Their personalized approach helps match job seekers with the right employers.
- TrueBlue (formerly Labor Ready): Provides blue-collar job opportunities for ex-offenders. They focus on industries that are more open to second chances.
- Express Employment Professionals: Connects former inmates with employers willing to hire them. They offer both temporary and permanent job placements.
- Adecco: Global staffing agency helping individuals with past convictions find jobs in different industries. Their extensive network provides a variety of opportunities.
- Hire Dynamics: Places ex-offenders in warehouse and production roles. They emphasize supportive work environments.
- Randstad USA: Works with companies that hire individuals with criminal records across multiple sectors. They offer career development services.
- Snelling Staffing Services: Offers job opportunities for former convicts in diverse industries. They focus on finding long-term employment solutions.
- TRC Staffing Services: Provides staffing solutions for ex-offenders seeking employment. Their positions range from entry-level to skilled roles.
- Onin Staffing: Focuses on industrial jobs for individuals with criminal backgrounds. They offer positions that include training and growth opportunities.
- Allied Forces Temporary Services: Offers temporary placements for former inmates. They prioritize quick placements to help reenter the workforce.
- Nesco Resource: Connects ex-offenders with jobs in manufacturing and other sectors. They offer both short-term and long-term positions.
- Aerotek: Provides employment opportunities for individuals with past convictions in various industries. They focus on high-demand fields.
- LaborMAX Staffing: Specializes in placing ex-offenders in temporary jobs. Their positions often include manual labor and construction roles.
- Loyal Source: Helps former inmates find work in healthcare and other sectors. They offer a range of job opportunities, including administrative roles.
- Volt Workforce Solutions: Offers job placements for individuals with criminal records in different industries. They provide career coaching and support.
- ProLogistix: Focuses on logistics and warehouse jobs for former convicts. They match candidates with roles that fit their skills and experience.
- Lyneer Staffing Solutions: Provides employment opportunities for ex-offenders in various fields. They emphasize flexibility and job training.
- CornerStone Staffing: Connects former inmates with employers in multiple industries. They offer personalized job search assistance.
- Surge Staffing: Specializes in placing ex-offenders in industrial and manufacturing jobs. They offer roles that often come with benefits and growth potential.
- Chartwell Staffing Solutions: Offers job placements for individuals with past convictions in diverse sectors. They focus on creating sustainable employment opportunities.
- Personnel Staffing Group: Provides employment opportunities for former convicts. They offer positions in both temporary and permanent roles.
- MVP Staffing: Specializes in placing ex-offenders in temporary and permanent jobs. Their network includes a variety of industries.
- Westaff: Offers job placements for individuals with criminal records in various industries. They provide resources for skill development and career advancement.
- Focus Workforce Management: Connects former inmates with warehouse and production jobs. They offer positions with the potential for long-term employment.
- CornerStone Staffing Solutions: Helps ex-offenders find employment in multiple sectors. Their services include resume building and interview preparation.
- All Star Labor & Staffing: Provides job opportunities for individuals with past convictions in different fields. They focus on roles that offer stability and growth.
- American Staffing: Connects former convicts with employers willing to hire them. They offer a wide range of job opportunities across various industries.
- Crown Services: Offers job placements for ex-offenders in various industries. They provide support throughout the job search process.
- Work Personnel: Helps individuals with criminal records find employment in diverse sectors. Their positions include both entry-level and skilled roles.
- Cortech: Provides staffing solutions for former inmates in multiple industries. They focus on matching skills with job requirements.
- Flexicrew Staffing: Focuses on industrial and manufacturing jobs for ex-offenders. They offer positions that often come with training and development opportunities.
- First Call Staffing: Offers employment opportunities for individuals with past convictions. They provide support in finding and securing jobs.
- First Rate Staffing: Specializes in placing ex-offenders in temporary jobs. Their positions include a variety of manual labor and entry-level roles.
- Peoplelink Staffing Solutions: Connects former inmates with employers across various sectors. They offer comprehensive job placement services.
- Randstad Inhouse Services: Offers job placements for individuals with criminal records in different industries. They provide on-site management and support.
- Lyneer Staffing Solutions: Provides employment opportunities for ex-offenders in multiple fields. They offer job search assistance and career counseling.
- First Choice Staffing: Helps individuals with past convictions find work in various industries. Their positions range from entry-level to skilled roles.
- LaborWorks: Specializes in placing ex-offenders in temporary industrial jobs. They offer quick placements and supportive work environments.
- Labor Ready Midwest: Provides blue-collar job opportunities for former inmates. They focus on roles that offer immediate start dates.
- Decton Staffing Services: Connects individuals with criminal records with job opportunities in diverse industries. They offer a range of positions, from temporary to permanent.
Temp agencies
Although the terms “temp agencies” and “staffing agencies” are often used interchangeably, they serve distinct functions. Temp agencies focus on short-term assignments, while staffing agencies provide a broader range of employment services, including temporary, temp-to-perm, and permanent placements. This guide covers the unique aspects of both types of agencies, specifically for felons. I believe this will give you a better understanding and be beneficial for your needs.
Given below is the list of the 50 Temp agencies.
- Dillard & Associate Staffing: Offers various temp positions, focusing on matching skills with job requirements.
- Elite Staffing: Provides job opportunities in multiple industries, including those willing to hire felons.
- Express Employment Professionals: Offers temporary and permanent job placements in various sectors.
- ExpressPross: Connects job seekers with shipping, forklift, maintenance, welding, and warehouse jobs.
- Kelly Services: Known for providing second chances to felons, with diverse job opportunities in warehouse and administrative roles.
- Labor Ready: Focuses on providing temporary blue-collar job opportunities for ex-offenders.
- Manpower: Offers a range of temporary jobs, including industrial and clerical positions.
- MVP Staffing: Provides temporary jobs in manufacturing, distribution, warehouse, and light industrial sectors.
- Nesco Resource: Offers temporary and permanent positions in fields like IT, accounting, finance, and light industrial.
- Oasis Outsourcing: Provides temp staffing solutions across various industries.
- Onin Group: Focuses on industrial jobs for individuals with criminal backgrounds.
- Pirate Staffing: Specializes in manual labor jobs in industries like food service, construction, and skilled trades.
- PrideStaff: Works with businesses across many industries to provide temporary job opportunities for felons.
- Reserves Network: Offers a wide range of temporary jobs in fields such as assembly, food services, and maintenance.
- S&K Staffing: Michigan-based agency providing job opportunities in various sectors.
- Spherion: Provides temporary jobs in administrative, clerical, light industrial, and customer service roles.
- Staffmark: Offers temporary employment in a wide range of fields.
- The Reserves Network: Provides temporary staffing solutions in various industries, focusing on worker care.
- Westaff: Offers both skilled and unskilled labor positions in multiple fields across 19 states.
- LaborMax Staffing: Operates in various states, offering job opportunities to felons.
- Trojan Labor: Provides job opportunities in Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina.
- AppleOne: Matches felons with job opportunities in California, Florida, and other states.
- Snelling Staffing: Offers job opportunities to felons in Georgia, Indiana, and Texas.
- Labor Systems: Provides temporary labor solutions in various industries.
- Labor Source: Specializes in placing workers in temporary positions.
- Laborocity: Offers a quick way to find temporary jobs for ex-offenders.
- Link Staffing Services: Connects felons with temporary job opportunities.
- Patriot Staffing: Provides various temp jobs, focusing on flexibility and support.
- Prime Staffing: Offers diverse temporary job opportunities.
- Quick Employment: Provides quick placements in temporary roles.
- SOS Staffing: Offers a range of temporary jobs for individuals with criminal records.
- Superior Staffing: Provides job opportunities in multiple industries.
- Team Staffing Solutions: Connects ex-offenders with temporary job opportunities.
- Tradesmen International: Specializes in providing skilled labor for temporary positions.
- Trillium Staffing: Offers a wide range of temporary job opportunities for felons.
- United Staffing Solutions: Provides job opportunities across various sectors.
- US Staffing Agency: Offers temporary job placements in multiple fields.
- US Tech Solutions: Connects felons with temporary tech-related job opportunities.
- VanderHouwen & Associates: Provides staffing solutions, including temporary jobs.
- Veritude: Offers a variety of temporary job opportunities.
- VIP Staffing: Provides temporary employment in various industries.
- Volt Services Group: Offers job placements for felons in different sectors.
- Workforce Logiq: Provides temporary employment opportunities for ex-offenders.
- Acro Service Corporation: Connects felons with temporary job opportunities.
- Amotec: Offers diverse temporary job opportunities across various fields.
- Adecco: Offers a range of temporary jobs and is known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Aerotek: Provides temporary job opportunities in skilled and unskilled labor, with a focus on career development.
- Aramark: A large temp service specializing in food industries, uniform services, and facilities management.
- Artisan Talent: Connects creative professionals, including those with criminal records, with temporary jobs.
- CareerCo: Helps job seekers connect with employers through virtual events, providing diverse job opportunities.
Factories that Hire Felons
Several factories and manufacturing companies in the USA are known for hiring individuals with felony records, offering them a second chance to reintegrate into the workforce.
Manufacturing and Industry
- Caterpillar
- General Electric (GE)
- Ford Motor Company
- PepsiCo
- Kellogg’s
- Koch Industries
- Tyson Foods
- Nucor
- Whirlpool
- John Deere
- International Paper
- Georgia-Pacific
- Weyerhaeuser
- Alcoa
- Siemens
- Honeywell
- Cummins
Food and Beverage
- Conagra Brands
- Coca-Cola
- Nestlé
Automotive
- General Motors
- Chrysler
- Honda
Building Materials and Construction
- Vulcan Materials
- Martin Marietta
- USG Corporation
Aerospace and Defense
- Boeing
- Lockheed Martin
- Northrop Grumman
- Raytheon
Steel Industry
- U.S. Steel
- ArcelorMittal
- Steel Dynamics
Plastics and Chemicals
- Dow
- DuPont
- BASF
Electronics
- Intel
- Texas Instruments
Packaging
- Ball Corporation
- Crown Holdings
Paper and Pulp
- Domtar
- WestRock
Industrial Machinery and Equipment
- Deere & Company
- Caterpillar
- Parker Hannifin
Pharmaceuticals
- Pfizer
- Merck
Energy and Utilities
- ExxonMobil
- Chevron
- ConocoPhillips
- Duke Energy
- Southern Company
These companies provide numerous job opportunities for individuals with felony convictions, helping them rebuild their lives and achieve financial stability.
Felon Friendly Jobs Near Me?
This is a very personalized question, as your state and city matter at this point. On our site, we mention jobs for felons state by state. You can explore all of those sections one by one. We believe every state page will add valuable information with sources and factual data for you.
Highest Paying Jobs for Felons
The skill set determines the pay for felons. There are countless high-paying careers for felons. By choosing highly demanded skills with low competition, you can earn more money. It’s all about having the right skills. The table below lists some categories of the highest-paying jobs for felons, along with the salary range and qualifications needed for each job.
| Job Title | Earnings | Qualifications |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Truck Driver | $45,000 to $70,000 | Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) |
| Construction Manager | $60,000 to $100,000 | Experience in construction, sometimes a degree |
| Electrician | $55,000 to $75,000 | Apprenticeship, state licensing |
| Plumber | $50,000 to $70,000 | Apprenticeship, state licensing |
| Welder | $40,000 to $60,000 | Certification, technical training |
| HVAC Technician | $45,000 to $65,000 | Technical training, certification |
| Sales Representative | $50,000 to $90,000 | Communication skills, sales experience |
| Oil and Gas Industry Workers | $50,000 to $100,000 | Physical fitness, technical training |
| Commercial Diver | $50,000 to $90,000 | Diving certification, training |
| Computer Support Specialist | $50,000 to $70,000 | Technical training, certification |
| Auto Mechanic | $40,000 to $60,000 | Technical training, certification |
| Carpenter | $45,000 to $65,000 | Apprenticeship, experience |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $50,000 to $75,000 | Training, certification |
| Network Support Specialist | $55,000 to $75,000 | Technical training, certification |
| Solar Panel Installer | $40,000 to $60,000 | Technical training |
| Massage Therapist | $40,000 to $60,000 | Certification, training |
| Paralegal | $45,000 to $65,000 | Certification, associate degree |
| Chef | $40,000 to $70,000 | Culinary school, experience |
| Insurance Sales Agent | $50,000 to $90,000 | Licensing, sales experience |
| Personal Trainer | $40,000 to $70,000 | Certification, training |
| Freelance Writer | $40,000 to $70,000 | Writing skills, portfolio |
| Landscaper | $35,000 to $55,000 | Experience, physical fitness |
| Property Manager | $45,000 to $65,000 | Real estate experience |
| Real Estate Agent | $50,000 to $100,000 | Licensing, sales experience |
| Taxi Driver | $30,000 to $50,000 | Driver’s license, vehicle |
| Roofer | $40,000 to $60,000 | Experience, physical fitness |
| Painter | $35,000 to $55,000 | Experience |
| Bartender | $30,000 to $50,000 | Experience, bartending school |
| Security Guard | $30,000 to $45,000 | Licensing, physical fitness |
| Warehouse Worker | $30,000 to $45,000 | Physical fitness, experience |
How to get a job with a Criminal record?
Securing a job with a criminal record can be challenging. Our step-by-step, in-depth guide will make it easier for you to secure employment.
We cover everything about felons, including industries that offer second chances, employers within those industries, state-by-state job explanations, high-demand and quick-hiring opportunities, the latest job openings, application processes, interview procedures, job benefits, remuneration, termination or ending of employment, and much more, comprehensively explained below.
Job Hunting
This is the initial stage where you identify the “why” factor—why you are looking for a job and which type of job fascinates you. When you choose a job that perfectly aligns with your skill set, experience, and interests, your chances of success increase. At this stage, networking with friends, family, or organizations can significantly enhance your job hunting prospects. However, if you don’t have a diverse network or if it is very limited, it’s not a big issue.
We update our site regularly with the latest job opportunities across the USA and provide state-by-state employment hunting opportunities for felons. Click on the ‘search job’ button to access the latest job opportunities section, where you can find various types of jobs.
Prepare a Resume or CV
A resume is a document that features personalized attributes about yourself. It helps you present yourself effectively to potential employers. Ensuring your resume is comprehensive and appealing is crucial. When you apply for a position, a well-constructed resume can significantly boost your chances of securing employment.
Here is the key attribute for resume build for felons
Contact Information
- Name
- Address (optional)
- Phone Number
- Email Address
- LinkedIn Profile (if available)
Summary Statement
A brief section that summarizes the individual’s qualifications and strengths. This should be tailored to the type of job being sought and emphasize skills and experiences that are relevant to the position.
Skills
List of relevant skills. This could include both hard skills like software proficiency or machinery operation, and soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Professional Experience
Detailed descriptions of past employment. It’s important to focus on achievements and responsibilities rather than just job duties. Use action verbs and quantify achievements when possible.
Education
Information on educational background. Include the highest level of education completed and any relevant certifications or training. Degree or Certification – Institution Name, Location (Year of Graduation or Completion)
Prepare your cover letter
Writing a cover letter is a key step for any felon ready to make a comeback in the professional world. It’s more than just a document—it’s your chance to share your story openly and show how you’ve turned challenges into strengths.
The cover letter is your opportunity to express genuine motivation and showcase the unique qualities that make you the perfect fit for the job. By highlighting how your experiences have equipped you to thrive, you invite potential employers to see your potential.
To assist you on this journey, we have created seven distinct sample cover letters for felons to provide insights on crafting your own. You can use any of these templates and tailor them according to your requirements. We believe these samples can significantly enhance your chances of securing the job you deserve, opening doors to new beginnings and brighter futures.
Interview
There’s a well-known saying: ‘Your first impression is the lasting impression.’ An interview is your initial face-to-face opportunity to leave a mark. For those with felony convictions, the interview phase is particularly crucial. The interview stage is where hiring managers decide if your skills and experiences make you a good fit for the role. Note that an interview doesn’t necessarily mean a physical one-on-one meeting; it could also be conducted online or via telephone before any in-person interaction.
Remuneration
Research reveals significant wage disparities between felons and non-felons, influenced by industry restrictions and societal stigma. According to a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, felons, especially in high-paying sectors, often earn less, with the median weekly earnings for individuals with felony records being approximately 40% lower than those without criminal records.
Strategies for Salary Negotiations
For successful salary negotiations, felons must develop effective strategies to advocate for fair compensation. Recognizing their worth and articulately presenting it to potential employers is crucial. Felons should prepare a negotiation script that highlights key achievements and addresses any potential concerns about their record, directly relating their skills to the job’s requirements.
Understanding Benefits Packages
Benefits packages vary significantly between industries, and felons should understand what they might expect. For instance, eligibility for health insurance or retirement plans often requires careful examination. An informed approach to evaluating these benefits can greatly influence both job choice and satisfaction.
Access to Incentives and Bonuses
Incentives and bonuses, while common in many sectors, may be less accessible to those with felony records. Felons should understand the criteria for these financial perks and advocate for inclusion. Employers known for equitable treatment in bonus eligibility should be prioritized.
Legal Rights Under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
The legal framework, including the Fair Labor Standards Act, ensures that minimum wage and overtime protections apply universally, regardless of criminal history. Felons must be aware of these rights to avoid exploitation.
Job Security and Felony Records: At-Will, Layoffs, and More
Reintegrating into the workforce as an ex-offender or someone who has been previously incarcerated can seem daunting. This guide is designed to empower you by elucidating the key aspects of employment that affect job security, helping you navigate the complexities of the job market with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Finding employment after a felony conviction is challenging, but opportunities are increasing as more companies embrace second chance employment. Organizations like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) report that employers are becoming more open to hiring qualified applicants with criminal histories, especially those with strong references, work records, relevant skills, and proof of rehabilitation. This shift is evident as 66% of HR professionals and 60% of managers believe that employees with a criminal record can deliver work quality equal to those without.
Various industries and companies now offer second chances, and detailed state-by-state information is available to help former inmates find suitable job opportunities. Resources include a comprehensive list of felon-friendly companies, staffing agencies, gig economy jobs, manual labor positions, and ways to make money quickly, such as selling goods or recycling. Additionally, felons can explore high-paying careers by acquiring in-demand skills and leveraging platforms like Uber, Lyft, Fiverr, and Upwork to gain employment.
