Felon Friendly Jobs in Ohio | Second Chance Employment
In Cleveland, Ohio, various organizations and companies offer felon-friendly jobs and second-chance employment opportunities. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction’s Reentry Program and companies like Towards Employment provide job training and placement services. Over 1,500 ex-offenders are released from prison in Cuyahoga County each year, with 85% requiring employment assistance. Organizations like the Cleveland Workforce Development Center and the Cuyahoga County Office of Reentry support ex-offenders seeking employment.
Latest Felony Jobs (Second Chance) in Cleveland
Searching for job opportunities that don’t require a background check and living in Cleveland? Here are the latest opportunities for offenders in Cleveland.
Residents of neighborhoods like Downtown, Tremont, Ohio City, Glenville, Slavic Village, Old Brooklyn, University Circle, and others in Cleveland should explore the positions mentioned below. These roles are tailored to help individuals with criminal records find meaningful employment and take steps toward rebuilding their lives.
Some of these jobs welcome applicants with no prior experience with felony in OH. Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button to secure your position and start your new journey today.
Part-Time Felon-Friendly Jobs in Cleveland
Finding a part-time job as a felon in Cleveland can be challenging but not impossible. Many employers and organizations are open to providing second chances to individuals with criminal records. Here’s a detailed look at opportunities and tips for securing part-time employment in Cleveland, Ohio.
| Job Title | Company/Industry | Estimated Hourly Wage | Skills Required |
|---|
| Retail Associate | Walmart, Target, Dollar Tree | $12 – $16 | Customer service, stocking, cash handling |
| Warehouse Worker | Amazon, FedEx, UPS | $15 – $20 | Physical stamina, attention to detail, teamwork |
| Dishwasher | Local Restaurants, Fast-Food Chains | $10 – $14 | Basic cleaning, time management, teamwork |
| Delivery Driver | DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub | $15 – $25 (with tips) | Valid driver’s license, navigation skills |
| Stock Clerk | Dave’s Markets, Giant Eagle | $12 – $16 | Organizational skills, inventory handling |
| Laborer | LaborWorks Industrial Staffing | $14 – $18 | Manual labor, adaptability, safety awareness |
| Construction Helper | Local Construction Companies | $15 – $20 | Basic tool handling, physical strength |
| Retail Sales Associate | AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts | $12 – $16 | Sales skills, product knowledge, communication |
| Janitor | ABM Industries, Local Schools | $11 – $15 | Cleaning, organization, reliability |
| Customer Service Representative | Call Centers, Goodwill Stores | $12 – $16 | Communication, problem-solving, patience |
Tips for Finding Part-Time Jobs as a Felon
- Polish Your Resume
Highlight your skills and any training or certifications earned during or after incarceration. - Be Honest
Be upfront about your record if asked, focusing on how you’ve worked to improve yourself. - Network Locally
Connect with local reentry organizations, support groups, and community centers. - Apply Online and In Person
Use job boards like Indeed and Snagajob, but also consider visiting businesses directly to inquire about opportunities.
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Cleveland
Dave’s Markets
A local grocery store chain, Dave’s Markets is known for supporting community members, including those with felony records. They offer roles such as stock clerks, cashiers, and customer service associates. These positions often come with flexible schedules and opportunities for growth within the company.
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill is committed to providing employment opportunities to individuals with barriers to employment. They hire felons for part-time retail and donation center roles, such as sales associates or warehouse workers, while also offering job training programs to enhance career skills.
Cleveland Clinic
While many positions at Cleveland Clinic require background checks, they have entry-level roles in support services, such as housekeeping, food service, and patient transport, which may be accessible to individuals with criminal records.
LaborWorks Industrial Staffing
A staffing agency specializing in industrial and manual labor jobs, LaborWorks connects workers with part-time and temporary positions. They are known for giving individuals with felony convictions a second chance by focusing on work ethic and reliability over background checks.
Amazon (Cleveland Fulfillment Center)
Amazon offers numerous part-time roles in warehouse operations, including package sorting and inventory management. They are open to hiring felons, focusing on their ability to meet performance standards rather than their criminal history.
Walmart
As one of the largest employers in the U.S., Walmart often hires felons for entry-level positions such as stocking shelves, cashiering, and assisting customers. They provide training and opportunities for advancement.
FedEx Ground
FedEx Ground hires felons for package handler roles, offering competitive pay and part-time schedules. These jobs typically require physical stamina and attention to detail, with opportunities to move into full-time roles over time.
AutoZone
AutoZone provides part-time positions such as retail associates and stockers. They value individuals who are eager to learn about auto parts and customer service, offering a welcoming environment for those with a criminal history.
Giant Eagle
This regional grocery chain offers part-time roles in departments like stocking, cashiering, and bakery. Giant Eagle has a history of employing individuals with diverse backgrounds, focusing on providing supportive and inclusive workplaces.
ABM Industries
ABM Industries offers janitorial and maintenance roles, which are often part-time and accessible to felons. They emphasize reliability and work ethic, providing a consistent source of employment in various settings, including schools and commercial buildings.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Cleveland?
In Cleveland, most background checks for employment typically go back seven years, aligning with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines. This limitation applies to private employers using third-party background check services. However, the length of time can vary depending on the employer and the type of job. Positions in industries such as healthcare, finance, and education may require more extensive checks, potentially going back further or even encompassing the individual’s entire criminal history.
Additionally, Ohio law prohibits the reporting of certain records, such as arrests that did not lead to convictions, ensuring some level of protection for applicants. Felons seeking employment should research the company’s policies and utilize resources like sealing or expunging eligible records to improve their job prospects.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Cleveland?
Employers in Cleveland have access to several legal protections and incentives designed to encourage the hiring of individuals with criminal records. These programs aim to reduce the risks associated with second-chance hiring while providing economic benefits to businesses.
- Federal Bonding Program
This program offers free fidelity bonds to employers as insurance against potential risks when hiring individuals with criminal records. Bonds cover losses of up to $25,000, giving employers peace of mind and reducing liability concerns. - Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Employers can receive a tax credit of up to $2,400 per qualified individual hired from target groups, including felons. This incentive reduces the financial burden of hiring and encourages workplace inclusivity. - Ohio Ban-the-Box Law
Cleveland adheres to Ohio’s “ban-the-box” policy, which prohibits public employers from inquiring about criminal history on initial job applications. This policy gives individuals with records a fair chance to present their qualifications before background checks are conducted. - Negligent Hiring Protections
Employers in Ohio are protected from certain negligent hiring claims if they make hiring decisions based on sound practices, such as reviewing evidence of rehabilitation and job readiness. - Local Reentry Programs
Organizations such as the Greater Cleveland Reentry Strategy provide resources to employers, including guidance on hiring practices, training, and support for employing individuals with felony records.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Cleveland
| Job Title | Estimated Hourly Wage | Industry/Employer Examples | Skills Required |
|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | $20 – $30 | Local Freight Companies, Amazon, FedEx | Valid CDL, driving experience, punctuality |
| Skilled Tradesperson (Electrician, Plumber, Welder) | $18 – $30 | Local Trade Companies, Union Opportunities | Technical training, certification, physical fitness |
| HVAC Technician | $20 – $28 | Local HVAC Contractors | Certification, troubleshooting, technical knowledge |
| Construction Foreman | $22 – $35 | Local Construction Firms | Leadership, technical skills, project management |
| Warehouse Supervisor | $18 – $26 | Amazon, FedEx, Local Warehousing Companies | Inventory management, leadership, organization |
| Auto Mechanic | $18 – $25 | Auto Repair Shops, Dealerships | Automotive repair skills, certifications (optional) |
| Commercial Driver (Delivery, Bus) | $18 – $24 | RTA (Public Transit), Delivery Companies | Valid CDL, route management, customer service |
| Appliance Repair Technician | $18 – $28 | Sears Home Services, Local Repair Companies | Repair expertise, customer service, technical knowledge |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $20 – $30 | Construction Firms, Public Works | Equipment operation skills, safety certification |
| IT Support Technician | $18 – $25 | Local IT Firms, Cleveland Clinic | Basic IT knowledge, troubleshooting, communication |
Conclusion
Cleveland offers a growing landscape of opportunities for individuals seeking a second chance to rebuild their careers. With the support of inclusive employers, community resources, and legal incentives, the city is creating a more equitable job market for those with felony records. By focusing on skills development, networking, and leveraging available protections, job seekers can find meaningful employment and contribute positively to their communities. The path to reintegration may have challenges, but Cleveland’s commitment to second-chance hiring demonstrates that a criminal record doesn’t have to define the future.
