Felon Friendly Jobs in Birmingham | 2and Chance Employment
In Birmingham, Alabama, approximately 2,000 ex-offenders are released from prison each year, with 70% requiring employment assistance. To support their reintegration into society, various organizations offer felon-friendly job opportunities. Statistics show that 60% of ex-offenders who gain employment within the first year of release are less likely to recidivate.
Birmingham’s 2and chance employment initiatives have led to a 25% increase in job placements for ex-offenders over the past two years. The most in-demand jobs for felons in Birmingham include manufacturing, construction, and warehousing, with median salaries ranging from $25,000 to $40,000 per year. Additionally, 35% of Birmingham employers are willing to hire ex-offenders, providing a pathway to economic stability and rehabilitation.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Birmingham
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience and offer immediate hire. Simply click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to secure your position.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Birmingham
| Job Role | Potential Employers | Hourly Salary (Approx.) | Additional Benefits |
|---|
| Commercial Truck Driver | Swift Transportation, CR England | $20 – $30 | CDL training provided, consistent routes. |
| HVAC Technician | ARS/Rescue Rooter, Local Companies | $18 – $28 | On-the-job training, certification opportunities. |
| Electrician | Local Contractors, Apprenticeships | $18 – $26 | Union benefits, career advancement. |
| Welding Technician | Alabama Power, Local Firms | $20 – $25 | Paid training, high demand in manufacturing. |
| Construction Foreman | Brasfield & Gorrie, Local Builders | $20 – $35 | Project bonuses, overtime pay. |
| Delivery Driver | FedEx, UPS, Amazon | $18 – $25 | Health insurance, retirement plans. |
| Automotive Technician | Jiffy Lube, Valvoline | $18 – $24 | Training programs, tool discounts. |
| Plumber | Roto-Rooter, Local Services | $20 – $30 | Apprenticeship options, high earning potential. |
| Warehouse Supervisor | Amazon, UPS, Local Warehouses | $18 – $26 | Leadership training, performance bonuses. |
| Sales Representative | Local Call Centers, Remote Jobs | $18 – $30 (commission-based) | Remote options, flexible hours. |
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Birmingham
1. Walmart
Walmart is one of the largest retail chains in the U.S. and offers various roles such as stock clerks, cashiers, and warehouse associates. They conduct background checks but are open to hiring individuals with felony convictions depending on the severity and age of the offense. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, Walmart provides training opportunities and competitive pay to help employees grow within the company.
2. McDonald’s
McDonald’s franchises in Birmingham often hire felons for roles such as crew members and kitchen staff. They prioritize enthusiasm and reliability over an applicant’s past mistakes. Many locations provide on-the-job training and flexible scheduling, making it a good option for those looking to reenter the workforce.
3. FedEx
FedEx is a well-known logistics company that hires for positions like package handlers, drivers, and warehouse workers. While they perform background checks, they consider applications on a case-by-case basis. FedEx values hard work and offers consistent schedules, competitive pay, and opportunities for advancement.
4. DoorDash
DoorDash is a food delivery service that provides gig-based employment opportunities. As a DoorDash driver, felons can earn money delivering food while enjoying flexible hours. Applicants need a valid driver’s license, access to a vehicle, and insurance, but DoorDash has a lenient background check policy compared to many traditional employers.
5. Labor Finders
Labor Finders is a staffing agency that connects job seekers with temporary positions in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and hospitality. They specialize in second-chance employment, making them a great resource for felons in Birmingham. Many roles are labor-intensive, but the agency ensures fair wages and consistent opportunities.
6. Jan-Pro
Jan-Pro is a cleaning service company that offers roles in office and industrial cleaning. They emphasize trust and reliability, but they are known to give second chances to applicants with criminal records. Employees receive proper training, and the work often includes flexible hours.
7. Amazon Fulfillment Center
Amazon has a major presence in Birmingham and hires for roles like warehouse associates and delivery drivers. They conduct background checks but often overlook non-violent offenses. With benefits like health insurance and career advancement programs, Amazon provides an excellent opportunity for stable employment.
8. TruGreen
TruGreen specializes in lawn care and landscaping services. They hire individuals with felonies for roles such as lawn specialists and technicians. TruGreen values hard work and offers training, making it an ideal fit for those who enjoy outdoor work and physical activity.
9. Jiffy Lube
Jiffy Lube is an automotive service chain that offers roles in maintenance and customer service. They welcome felons who demonstrate a willingness to learn and work hard. The company provides training programs and opportunities for career advancement in the automotive industry.
10. Local Call Centers
Several call centers in Birmingham hire felons for customer service and technical support roles. These jobs typically require good communication skills and a friendly attitude. Employers in this sector often prioritize skills and trainable qualities over past convictions, providing a pathway for stable, part-time or full-time employment.
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Birmingham?
In Birmingham, most background checks for employment typically go back seven years, which aligns with the guidelines of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). However, this timeframe can vary depending on the employer, the industry, and the nature of the job. Positions in industries such as healthcare, finance, and government may require more extensive background checks, which can go back further, sometimes indefinitely, especially for serious crimes. It is also important to note that Alabama has no statewide law restricting how far back employers can look, so practices may differ among companies.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Birmingham?
In Birmingham, employers hiring individuals with felony convictions have access to several legal protections and incentives designed to encourage second-chance employment:
1. Federal Bonding Program
The Federal Bonding Program provides free insurance bonds to employers who hire individuals with criminal records. These bonds protect employers against theft, fraud, or dishonesty by the employee, offering coverage of up to $25,000 for the first six months of employment. This program minimizes risk for employers and supports hiring decisions.
2. Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Employers hiring felons in Birmingham can benefit from the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). This federal tax credit provides incentives of up to $9,600 per hire, depending on the employee’s background and the duration of their employment. It is specifically aimed at encouraging businesses to hire individuals from disadvantaged groups, including those with felony convictions.
3. Ban-the-Box Ordinances
Although Alabama has no statewide ban-the-box law, certain employers in Birmingham may voluntarily adopt this practice. It involves removing criminal history questions from initial job applications, allowing candidates to be considered based on their skills and qualifications before background checks.
4. Equal Employment Opportunity Protections
Employers must comply with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines, which discourage discrimination against applicants with criminal records. Decisions to disqualify candidates based on a conviction must be job-related and consistent with business necessity, protecting felons from unjust bias during hiring.
5. Liability Protection Under Negligent Hiring Laws
Employers in Birmingham can mitigate the risk of negligent hiring claims when they demonstrate due diligence in the hiring process. Programs like the Federal Bonding Program further alleviate employer concerns by offering additional protection.
Part-Time Felon-Friendly Jobs in Birmingham
| Job Category | Potential Employers | Typical Job Requirements | Hourly Salary (Approx.) |
|---|
| Retail | Walmart, Target, Dollar General | Basic customer service skills, no violent felony convictions. | $12 – $15 |
| Food Service | McDonald’s, Subway, Domino’s | Food handling certification may be required. | $10 – $14 |
| Delivery Services | Amazon Flex, DoorDash, Uber Eats | Valid driver’s license, vehicle, and insurance. | $15 – $20 |
| Warehouse | FedEx, UPS, Amazon Fulfillment Center | Ability to lift 50 lbs, background check leniency. | $14 – $18 |
| Construction | Local Contractors, Labor Finders | Ability to perform physical labor, no recent violent felonies. | $15 – $22 |
| Cleaning Services | Jan-Pro, Jani-King, Merry Maids | Attention to detail, trustworthiness. | $12 – $16 |
| Landscaping | TruGreen, Local Lawn Care Companies | Basic knowledge of landscaping tools, physical stamina. | $14 – $18 |
| Automotive | Jiffy Lube, Valvoline, Local Mechanics | Basic automotive skills, willingness to learn. | $14 – $20 |
| Customer Service | Call Centers, Remote Support Roles | Good communication skills, access to phone and internet. | $12 – $17 |
Conclusion
Birmingham offers a growing range of opportunities for individuals seeking a second chance to rebuild their careers and lives. Employers across various industries are recognizing the value of hiring skilled and motivated workers, regardless of their past, and are supported by legal protections and incentive programs that encourage fair hiring practices. For felons looking to reintegrate into the workforce, exploring these opportunities with persistence and a focus on personal growth can lead to stable employment and a brighter future. With resources like second-chance organizations and supportive employers, Birmingham continues to pave the way for an inclusive and equitable job market.
