Felon Friendly Jobs in Maine | Second Chance Employment
In Maine, individuals with felony convictions have access to second-chance employment opportunities, with around 80% of Maine employers willing to hire individuals with criminal records. According to the Maine Department of Corrections, approximately 1,500 people are released each year, and about 60% of them will find employment within the first year. Felon-friendly jobs in Maine include industries like construction, manufacturing, and healthcare, with companies like Hannaford Supermarkets and Maine Medical Center actively hiring individuals with criminal records.
Additionally, Maine’s recidivism rate is around 30%, lower than the national average, due in part to initiatives like the Maine Prisoner Reentry Program, which provides job training, education, and employment assistance to individuals with felony convictions, helping them reintegrate into society and build a productive life.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Maine
Searching for “felon-friendly jobs near me” and living in Maine? Here are the latest opportunities hiring felons across the state. Residents of Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, Augusta, Biddeford, South Portland, Waterville, Sanford, Auburn, or any other surrounding area in Maine should consider applying for the positions listed below. Each role offers a potential pathway to employment for individuals with a criminal record, providing opportunities to reintegrate into Maine’s diverse and growing job market.
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience. Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button to secure your position.
Part-Time Felon-Friendly Jobs in Maine
Maine, known for its beautiful landscapes and close-knit communities, offers a range of part-time job opportunities for individuals with felony convictions. While finding a job as a felon can be challenging, there are numerous businesses and industries in Maine that prioritize second chances and are open to hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds.
| Job Type | Employer Examples | Skills Needed | Salary Range (Hourly) |
|---|
| Retail Jobs | Walmart, Home Depot, Target | Customer service, math, cash handling | $12 – $16 |
| Food Service Industry | Dunkin’, McDonald’s, Local Restaurants and Cafes | Communication, customer service, multitasking | $10 – $14 |
| Construction and Labor Jobs | Maine Construction, Landscaping Companies, Local Builders | Physical stamina, tool knowledge, teamwork | $14 – $18 |
| Warehouse and Distribution | Amazon, UPS, Local Distribution Centers | Attention to detail, physical stamina | $13 – $17 |
| Transportation and Delivery | Amazon Flex, DoorDash, Uber Eats, Local Courier Services | Time management, vehicle maintenance | $15 – $20 |
| Cleaning and Janitorial | Local Janitorial Services, Merry Maids, Jani-King | Attention to detail, independent work, time management | $12 – $16 |
| Freelancing and Gig Work | Upwork, Fiverr, TaskRabbit | Varies by job (writing, design, customer service) | $10 – $25 |
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Maine
In Maine, several companies are known for their commitment to second chances and for offering employment opportunities to individuals with felony convictions. These employers are part of a broader effort to reduce recidivism by providing meaningful work to people reentering the workforce after incarceration. Below is a list of specific companies that are known to hire felons in Maine:
1. Walmart
Walmart is one of the largest employers in the U.S. and has a strong reputation for offering second-chance employment. The company follows a policy of not automatically disqualifying applicants based on criminal history, instead focusing on the skills and qualifications of the individual. Walmart often hires for a range of positions, including cashiers, stockers, and sales associates, both full-time and part-time.
2. Home Depot
Home Depot is another large national retailer that hires individuals with criminal records. The company is known for its commitment to providing employment opportunities for people who have served time, particularly in positions such as sales associates, cashiers, and warehouse workers. Home Depot values hard work and offers opportunities for advancement, making it an excellent choice for felons looking to build a stable career.
3. McDonald’s
McDonald’s franchises across Maine are open to hiring individuals with felony convictions. The company frequently offers part-time and full-time positions, including crew members, cashiers, cooks, and supervisors. McDonald’s has a history of supporting second chances and providing flexible schedules, making it an ideal employer for felons seeking reentry into the workforce.
4. Dunkin’
Dunkin’ (formerly Dunkin’ Donuts) is another well-known employer in Maine that provides job opportunities to felons. With locations throughout the state, Dunkin’ offers positions such as baristas, crew members, and shift leaders. The company is known for its willingness to hire people with criminal records and provides a flexible work environment that can accommodate various schedules.
5. UPS
UPS is a national logistics and transportation company that hires felons for a variety of positions, including package handlers, delivery drivers, and warehouse workers. While the company does conduct background checks, it is open to considering applicants with criminal histories on a case-by-case basis. UPS offers both part-time and full-time roles, providing ample opportunities for individuals with felony convictions to find employment.
6. Amazon
Amazon is known for offering a wide range of employment opportunities, including warehouse roles, delivery positions, and customer service jobs. Amazon has a second-chance hiring policy and does not automatically disqualify applicants based on their criminal background. For individuals in Maine, Amazon’s fulfillment centers and delivery service providers offer accessible job opportunities with the potential for growth.
7. Maine State Government
The state of Maine itself is a significant employer of individuals with felony records. Several government agencies and departments offer positions in a variety of fields, including maintenance, clerical work, and public service roles. While some positions may require specific qualifications, the state has programs that support the hiring of people with criminal records, especially for roles where skills or work experience are valued over a past conviction.
8. Goodwill Industries of Northern New England
Goodwill Industries is known for its commitment to hiring individuals who have faced challenges in finding work, including those with criminal histories. In Maine, Goodwill operates several locations and offers jobs in retail, donation processing, and administrative support. Goodwill’s mission includes providing job training and support for individuals reentering the workforce, making it a supportive environment for felons looking to rebuild their careers.
9. Local Construction and Landscaping Companies
Several local construction and landscaping companies in Maine are open to hiring individuals with felony convictions. These employers value hard work and are willing to offer opportunities for labor-intensive roles such as general laborers, landscapers, and maintenance workers. While some construction companies may require specific skills or certifications, many are open to training and providing opportunities to individuals looking for a fresh start.
10. The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is another employer in Maine that often hires individuals with felony convictions, especially for roles related to retail, maintenance, and social services. The organization’s mission is to serve those in need, and they offer a supportive work environment for people reentering the workforce after incarceration. Positions can include retail sales, warehouse work, and program assistance.
11. L.L. Bean
L.L. Bean, headquartered in Freeport, Maine, is a well-known retailer that offers opportunities to individuals with criminal records. The company is known for its inclusive hiring practices and is open to considering applicants with felony convictions. L.L. Bean hires for various positions, including customer service, retail associates, and warehouse staff. The company is committed to providing opportunities for growth and advancement within its organization.
12. Maine’s Small and Independent Businesses
In addition to the larger corporations, many small businesses across Maine, including restaurants, stores, and local service providers, are often open to hiring individuals with criminal records. These businesses are usually more flexible and willing to consider applicants based on their current skills, work ethic, and potential for success rather than focusing solely on past convictions.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Maine
| Job Type | Employer Examples | Skills Needed | Salary Range (Hourly) |
|---|
| Construction Laborer | Local construction companies, general contractors | Physical stamina, tool use, teamwork | $18 – $25 |
| Truck Driver | Local delivery services, regional trucking companies | CDL license, navigation, time management | $20 – $30 |
| Warehouse Supervisor | Amazon, UPS, local distribution centers | Organizational skills, leadership, inventory management | $18 – $25 |
| Electrician | Independent electrical contractors, larger firms | Electrical knowledge, certification, safety protocols | $20 – $35 |
| Plumber | Plumbing companies, construction firms | Plumbing skills, certifications, problem-solving | $20 – $30 |
| HVAC Technician | Local HVAC companies, construction companies | HVAC knowledge, problem-solving, customer service | $18 – $28 |
| Elevator Installer/Repairer | Elevator companies, construction firms | Mechanical skills, problem-solving, safety knowledge | $22 – $35 |
| Computer Programmer | Tech companies, freelance opportunities | Coding, problem-solving, software development | $25 – $40 |
| Medical Billing and Coding | Hospitals, insurance companies, healthcare providers | Knowledge of medical codes, organization, attention to detail | $18 – $25 |
| Sales Representative | Various industries (e.g., pharmaceuticals, tech) | Sales skills, communication, negotiation | $20 – $30 (commission-based) |
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Maine?
In Maine, most background checks for employment typically go back 7 years. This is in line with the state’s laws, which generally limit the reporting of criminal convictions older than 7 years for employment purposes. However, some positions, particularly those involving sensitive roles like government work or positions in healthcare, may involve checks that go further back. It’s important to note that Maine’s laws prohibit employers from inquiring about arrests that did not lead to convictions, and some employers may have their policies regarding the depth of background checks they conduct.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Maine?
In Maine, there are several legal protections and incentives for employers who hire individuals with criminal records, providing a supportive environment for second-chance employment.
Legal Protections for Employers in Maine
In Maine, the Maine Human Rights Act (MHRA) protects individuals from being discriminated against solely based on their criminal record. Employers cannot automatically reject candidates with felony convictions unless the offense directly relates to the job. Additionally, the Ban the Box law prohibits employers from asking about criminal history on job applications, allowing candidates a fair chance without immediate bias. Under the Fair Chance to Work Act, employers must assess criminal convictions on a case-by-case basis, ensuring fairness during the hiring process.
Incentives for Employers in Maine
Employers in Maine can take advantage of programs that offer financial incentives for hiring individuals with criminal records. The Federal Bonding Program provides fidelity bonds to employers at no cost, which acts as insurance against employee theft. Additionally, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) offers employers a tax break for hiring individuals with felony convictions, helping reduce the financial burden of hiring those from disadvantaged backgrounds. These programs aim to encourage second-chance hiring by providing safeguards and tax benefits.
Conclusion
Maine offers a variety of felon-friendly job opportunities across several industries, from construction and warehouse roles to healthcare and technology positions. Employers in the state, including large national companies and local businesses, are increasingly open to providing second-chance employment. With legal protections in place and several incentives for businesses, Maine creates a supportive environment for individuals with criminal records to rebuild their careers. By acquiring the right skills, certifications, and experience, felons can access higher-paying roles and contribute positively to the workforce, proving that a criminal past doesn’t have to define one’s future success.
