Felon Friendly Jobs in California
California is a state that believes in second chances, and this is reflected in its approach to employment for individuals with felony convictions. However, many employers are still hesitant to hire individuals with a criminal history due to fears of potential liability or negative impacts on their business. While finding a job with a felony record can be difficult, there are many felon-friendly jobs in California that offer a fresh start.
California’s “Fair Chance Employment Act” prohibits employers from asking about criminal history during the initial application process. This “ban the box” legislation allows individuals with criminal records a fair chance to demonstrate their qualifications and skills before their criminal history is considered.
Moreover, California automatically restores voting rights to individuals who have completed their felony sentences. No additional action is required.
Felon-friendly jobs are those more open to hiring individuals with criminal records. These jobs often require specific skills and training and may not involve direct contact with vulnerable populations.
Is California a felon friendly state?
California is considered a felon-friendly state, offering various resources to support individuals with criminal records. California provides access to free grants for felons to aid in their rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
Additionally, the state offers second chance apartments for felons, which provide affordable housing options and a supportive community to help them rebuild their lives. These initiatives aim to promote a smooth transition and a fresh start for individuals with criminal records.
Top Company that Offer Second Chances Jobs in California
Here are the top companies that are hiring! Several California companies are known for their fair hiring practices and actively recruit candidates with past convictions. You can find detailed information about each company and their job openings by searching the company name, which will direct you to their job boards.
Currently, there are over 500 job openings available, with new positions added daily. To increase your chances of getting hired, apply as soon as possible for positions that match your skills and interests. Remember, these companies offer a second chance for individuals with past convictions, providing a fresh start and a new career path.
JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase, a leading financial institution, offers second chance employment opportunities in California to individuals with felony convictions older than seven years. They provide entry-level positions, benefits, and career advancement opportunities, with the possibility of transferring to various locations nationwide.
The Home Depot
The Home Depot, a renowned home improvement retailer, hires felons in California, considering applications from those with convictions older than seven years. They offer a range of roles, from sales to warehouse positions, with opportunities for advancement and a stable work environment.
Starbucks
Starbucks, a global coffee giant, is committed to second chance hiring in California, welcoming applications from individuals with felony convictions. They offer barista and customer service roles, as well as opportunities for career growth and development within their inclusive work environment.
Walmart
Walmart, a leading retailer, provides second chance employment opportunities in California to individuals with felony convictions older than seven years. They offer various roles, including sales, customer service, and warehouse positions, with possibilities for advancement and career growth.
Target
Target, a popular retailer, hires felons in California, considering applications from those with convictions older than seven years. They offer roles in sales, customer service, and distribution, with opportunities for career advancement and a dynamic work environment.
UPS
UPS, a global logistics leader, offers second chance employment opportunities in California to individuals with felony convictions older than seven years. They provide roles in package handling, delivery, and customer service, with possibilities for career growth and advancement.
FedEx
FedEx, a leading logistics company, hires felons in California, considering applications from those with convictions older than seven years. They offer roles in package handling, delivery, and customer service, with opportunities for career advancement and a fast-paced work environment.
AutoZone
AutoZone, a leading auto parts retailer, provides second chance employment opportunities in California to individuals with felony convictions older than seven years. They offer roles in sales, customer service, and warehouse positions, with possibilities for career growth and advancement.
Lowe’s
Lowe’s, a home improvement retailer, hires felons in California, considering applications from those with convictions older than seven years. They offer roles in sales, customer service, and warehouse positions, with opportunities for career advancement and a stable work environment.
Temp/Staffing Agencies
Temp and staffing agencies like Adecco, Manpower, and Labor Ready offer temporary and contract work opportunities to felons in California, providing a path to permanent employment and career growth. These agencies place individuals in various roles, including administrative, warehouse, and customer service positions.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
Jobs By Categories for Felons in California
Healthcare Jobs
- Medical Assistant
- Nursing Assistant
- Pharmacy Technician
- Dental Assistant
- Home Health Aide
Transportation Jobs
- Truck Driver
- Delivery Driver
- Warehouse Worker
- Forklift Operator
- Logistics Coordinator
Labor & Manufacturing Jobs
- Warehouse Associate
- Production Worker
- Maintenance Technician
Restaurants/Hospitality Jobs
- Server
- Cook
- Hotel Staff
Customer Service Jobs
- Call Center Representative
- Customer Service Representative
Sales Customer Service Jobs
- Sales Associate
- Account Manager
- Customer Service Representative
- Call Center Agent
- Telemarketing Representative
- Help Desk Technician
- Retail Sales Associate
IT & Technology Jobs
- Network Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Data Entry Clerk
- Web Developer
- Cybersecurity Specialist
Construction Jobs
- Construction Laborer
- Carpenter
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Welder
- Building Maintenance Worker
Retail Jobs
- Retail Sales Associate
- Store Manager
- Cashier
- Stock Clerk
- Assistant Store Manager
Administrative Jobs
- Administrative Assistant
- Office Manager
- Office Clerk
- Data Entry Clerk
- Receptionist
- Bookkeeper
Trades
- HVAC Technician
- Automotive Technician
- Machinist
- Locksmith
- Glazier
Hospitality
- Hotel Staff (Housekeeping, Front Desk, etc.)
- Restaurant Worker (Server, Host/Hostess, etc.)
- Bartender
- Event Coordinator
- Travel Agent
Manufacturing
- Manufacturing Associate
- Assembly Line Worker
- Quality Control Inspector
- Packaging Worker
- Material Handler
Skilled Labor
- Electrician’s Assistant
- Plumber’s Assistant
- Carpenter’s Assistant
- Welder’s Assistant
- HVAC Technician’s Assistant
Food Service
- Cook
- Baker
- Food Prep Worker
- Dishwasher
- Food Service Manager
Note: Some employers may still conduct background checks or have specific requirements for certain positions. Additionally, some industries may require specialized training.
Legal Landscape in California
Fair Chance Employment Act
California’s ‘Fair Chance Employment Act’ (AB 1008) went into effect on January 1, 2018. According to this law, employers with five or more employees are prohibited from asking about criminal history during the initial application process. Employers can only inquire about criminal history after the applicant has been deemed qualified for the position.
Ban the Box
California’s “ban the box” legislation (AB 1634) aims to reduce recidivism rates by giving individuals with criminal records a fair chance to find employment. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, individuals who find employment shortly after release from prison are less likely to recidivate.
Job Market in California
California is a felon-friendly state with laws and programs that support second chances. The state limits background checks to the past seven years, so felonies older than that won’t affect job prospects. California also offers various re-entry programs to help former felons get back to work. However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of April 2024, this state has a large workforce with over 17.99 million people employed in different sectors. Despite these supportive measures, the job market in California is highly competitive, and individuals with felony convictions often face significant barriers to employment.
Best Resources for Finding Felon-Friendly Jobs
Building a Strong Application
- Skills and Qualifications: Highlight transferable skills on your resume.
- Transparent Disclosure: Address your criminal record honestly during interviews.
- Resume Writing and Interview Preparation: Seek assistance from reentry programs and nonprofit organizations.
Final Thoughts
Finding a job with a felony conviction can be challenging, but it is not impossible. California offers many felon-friendly jobs and resources to help individuals with criminal records find employment. By understanding the job market, the challenges faced by felons, and the resources available, individuals can increase their chances of success and find a fresh start in California.
FAQs
In California, felons may face restrictions on certain activities, such as possessing firearms, holding public office, or obtaining certain professional licenses. However, many felons can still find employment, housing, and education opportunities with the help of reentry programs and second chance initiatives.
Yes, many employers in California hire individuals with felony convictions. California law prohibits employers from asking about criminal history on initial job applications, giving felons a fair chance to demonstrate their qualifications.
California has enacted several laws to support reentry and second chances for felons, including the Fair Chance Act (AB 1008) and the Criminal Justice Reforms (SB 180 and AB 2942). These laws aim to reduce recidivism and promote rehabilitation.
In California, employers can only consider criminal convictions from the past seven years when making hiring decisions. This rule aims to give individuals a fresh start after serving their time.
No, a felony conviction does not automatically “go away” after seven years in California. However, employers can only consider convictions from the past seven years, and individuals may be eligible for expungement or certificate of rehabilitation after completing their sentence.
California Live Scan, a background check system, can reveal criminal history from throughout an individual’s life, not just the past seven years. However, employers are only allowed to consider convictions from the past seven years.
The Fair Chance Act (AB 1008) prohibits California employers with five or more employees from asking about criminal history on initial job applications. Employers can only inquire about criminal history after a conditional offer of employment has been made.
No, California employers are prohibited from asking about criminal history on initial job applications, thanks to the Fair Chance Act. They can only inquire about criminal history later in the hiring process.
California has several laws aimed at giving individuals a second chance, including the Fair Chance Act, Criminal Justice Reforms, and expungement laws. These laws aim to reduce recidivism and promote rehabilitation.
In California, employers can only deny employment based on a criminal record if the conviction is directly related to the job duties or poses a risk to public safety. Employers must also consider the individual’s qualifications and rehabilitation efforts.
