Felon Friendly Jobs in Houston | Second Chance Employment
According to recent data from the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, approximately 530,000 adults in Texas have a felony conviction on their record, posing a considerable barrier to employment, particularly in a bustling city like Houston. As one of the most economically diverse cities in the nation, Houston’s economy boasts a GDP of over $500 billion, driven by sectors such as energy, healthcare, aerospace, and construction.
In August 2023, the city’s unemployment rate stood at 4.6%, reflecting a stable yet competitive job market with a variety of entry-level and skilled positions. Despite challenges, several programs and employers in Houston are actively providing job opportunities for individuals with felony convictions, aiding in their reintegration and contributing to the local economy’s workforce needs.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Houston
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience. Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to secure your position.
Places That Hire Felons in Houston
Finding employment can be challenging for those with felony records, but Houston offers a variety of opportunities across several industries. Certain sectors and organizations tend to be more open to hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds, helping provide second chances and career growth. These include:
- Community-Based Organizations: Many nonprofits, local charities, and community outreach programs in Houston focus on rehabilitation and are dedicated to supporting individuals re-entering the workforce. They often partner with companies to help place felons in jobs, prioritizing stability and growth.
- Small Businesses: Smaller businesses in Houston may be more flexible in their hiring practices, especially if they are family-owned or community-focused. These employers often consider personal circumstances over background checks alone.
- Startups: Houston’s growing startup scene, especially in the tech and service industries, frequently focuses on skills and potential. Many startups value diverse perspectives and are more likely to hire candidates with criminal records.
- Construction and Labor: The construction and labor industries are essential to Houston’s economy. Many employers in these fields are open to hiring individuals with diverse backgrounds, particularly in roles requiring manual labor and specialized skills.
Industries Open to Felons in Houston
- Hospitality and Food Service: Restaurants, hotels, and catering companies in Houston often have high employee turnover rates and are open to hiring individuals with criminal records. Positions such as line cooks, dishwashers, and servers are frequently available.
- Retail: Many retail stores in Houston, especially large chains and warehouse-style outlets, are receptive to hiring ex-offenders. Entry-level roles like cashiers, stock associates, and customer service representatives are commonly available.
- Healthcare: Some healthcare-related positions, like Medical Assistant, Nursing Assistant, and Home Health Aide, are accessible to felons, especially through employers such as Symplr and certain local home healthcare agencies. Background checks may vary, and certifications can help improve employment chances.
- Transportation: Truck driving, delivery services, and warehouse roles are strong options in Houston. Companies often hire felons for roles such as Delivery Driver, Warehouse Worker, and Forklift Operator. Employers like Dolly are known to be open to hiring ex-offenders.
- Labor & Manufacturing: Houston’s manufacturing sector provides roles for Production Workers, Warehouse Associates, and Maintenance Technicians. Local employers like Omnitrans are known for hiring individuals with varied backgrounds.
- Customer Service: Many call centers and customer service departments in Houston hire felons, providing opportunities as Call Center Representatives and Customer Service Representatives. Companies value communication skills and customer interaction over background.
- Sales: Retail and commercial sales roles are accessible to individuals with felony records, including Sales Associate, Account Manager, and Customer Service Representative positions. Companies like Spherion and local sales firms are often flexible in their hiring criteria.
- IT & Technology: For those with technical skills, IT positions like Network Administrator, IT Support Specialist, and Web Developer offer opportunities, with companies like McKesson and Toriangroup open to qualified candidates, including those with past convictions.
- Construction: Construction Laborer, Carpenter, and Electrician roles are abundant in Houston’s construction industry, which is often willing to provide jobs to felons. Training programs are available to help build skills in these areas.
- Administrative: Entry-level office roles, such as Administrative Assistant, Office Clerk, and Receptionist, are available through staffing agencies and some Houston-based companies willing to offer second chances.
- Trades: Skilled trade jobs, including HVAC Technician, Automotive Technician, and Locksmith, provide steady employment and may require trade certifications. Trade schools in Houston offer short programs for acquiring necessary credentials.
- Manufacturing: Houston’s manufacturing industry often needs workers for roles such as Manufacturing Associate, Assembly Line Worker, and Quality Control Inspector. Positions are available in larger facilities that are open to diverse hiring practices.
Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Houston
1. Aramark
Aramark provides food, facilities, and uniform services across various locations in Houston. The company hires felons for roles such as food service workers, custodial staff, and laundry attendants. Aramark values second-chance hiring and offers opportunities for growth within the company.
2. Goodwill Industries
Goodwill Industries is well-known for hiring individuals with criminal records in Houston. They offer positions like retail associate, donation attendant, and warehouse roles, providing job training and skill development for employees looking to re-enter the workforce.
3. Butterball Farms
Butterball Farms, a food manufacturing company, hires felons in production and warehouse positions. The company supports second-chance hiring practices and offers opportunities for skill development within the manufacturing sector.
4. Walmart
Walmart, one of the largest retail chains, has a history of hiring individuals with felony records in Houston. They offer a variety of roles, including cashier, sales associate, and stock clerk, with opportunities for career growth and advancement.
5. Home Depot
Home Depot is a prominent home improvement retailer that considers applicants with felony convictions, particularly those with convictions older than seven years. Roles include sales associates, warehouse workers, and stockers, with a focus on training and career advancement.
6. Starbucks
Starbucks is committed to second-chance hiring, and welcoming felons to apply for barista and customer service roles in Houston. The company provides a supportive and inclusive environment, with opportunities for career development and internal growth.
7. Lowe’s
Lowe’s is another home improvement giant that hires felons in Houston, offering positions such as sales associates, customer service representatives, and warehouse workers. The company emphasizes growth opportunities and a supportive workplace for employees with diverse backgrounds.
8. UPS
UPS, a leading logistics provider, offers second-chance employment in Houston, hiring felons for roles in package handling, customer service, and delivery. UPS is known for its structured training and advancement opportunities, making it a stable option for ex-offenders.
9. FedEx
FedEx, a logistics and delivery company, provides roles such as package handler, delivery driver, and warehouse associate in Houston. They hire felons with older convictions and offer opportunities for career growth within a fast-paced work environment.
11. AutoZone
AutoZone, a popular auto parts retailer, hires felons for customer service, sales, and stock roles in Houston. They offer a supportive work environment and opportunities for advancement, particularly in customer-facing roles.
12. Target
Target is a major retailer that considers applications from felons, especially those with convictions over seven years old. They offer positions in sales, customer service, and warehouse roles, with a focus on creating a positive work environment and potential for career growth.
13. McDonald’s
McDonald’s franchises in Houston hire felons for crew and management positions. The company is known for providing structured training programs, competitive benefits, and a path for employees to advance from entry-level positions.
14. Temp/Staffing Agencies
Staffing agencies like Adecco, Manpower, and Labor Ready in Houston offer temporary and contract work to individuals with felony records, leading to opportunities in administration, warehousing, and customer service positions.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
Job Market in Houston
The job market in Houston is one of the most robust in the U.S., driven by diverse industries including energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and technology. As of August 2023, Houston’s unemployment rate stood at 4.6%, slightly above the national average of 3.8%, reflecting the city’s ongoing recovery from economic disruptions and the demand for a skilled workforce.
The Greater Houston Partnership reported that Houston added approximately 78,000 new jobs in 2022, driven largely by expansions in construction, healthcare, and professional services. Known as the Energy Capital of the World, Houston is home to over 5,000 energy firms, employing a significant portion of its labor force in high-demand sectors like oil and gas, renewable energy, and technology.
Moreover, with over 320,000 healthcare workers, Houston’s medical sector, led by the Texas Medical Center (the world’s largest medical complex), plays a crucial role in employment. As Houston continues to expand, workforce development programs and educational initiatives are helping residents, including those with criminal records, to secure positions across the city’s diverse industries.
Programs and Resources for Felons in Houston
Houston offers several programs and resources to support the reintegration of individuals with felony convictions, focusing on employment, education, and personal development. Here are some key programs available in the area:
1. Houston Health Department Community Re-Entry Network Program
The Community Re-Entry Network Program (CRNP) offers reentry services for individuals with criminal backgrounds, including job readiness training, financial literacy classes, and case management. They focus on helping participants rebuild their lives and secure sustainable employment. CRNP also connects individuals with healthcare, housing assistance, and mental health resources.
2. WorkFaith Connection
WorkFaith Connection is a nonprofit that provides job training, resume workshops, interview practice, and personal development programs. They offer an eight-day job readiness program specifically designed for individuals who have faced barriers to employment, including those with felony convictions. WorkFaith Connection’s resources include ongoing mentorship and access to job placement services.
3. Goodwill Industries of Houston
Goodwill Industries has a Second Chance program tailored to help individuals with criminal records find employment. This program offers training in skills like retail, warehousing, and customer service, along with job placement assistance. Goodwill also partners with local employers to help place individuals in stable, second-chance jobs.
4. Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) – Project RIO (Re-Integration of Offenders)
TWC’s Project RIO offers employment support to ex-offenders looking to reenter the job market. Services include job placement, career counseling, and vocational training. Project RIO collaborates with businesses willing to hire individuals with criminal backgrounds and provides resources such as transportation assistance and access to high-demand certifications.
5. Career and Recovery Resources, Inc. (CRR)
CRR offers a range of services for those reentering the workforce, including job training, addiction recovery support, and housing assistance. They provide employment workshops and certifications in areas such as forklift operation and hospitality. CRR also partners with local companies that are open to hiring individuals with a criminal history.
6. The Prison Entrepreneurship Program (PEP)
The Prison Entrepreneurship Program is a Texas-based organization that supports incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals with training in business and entrepreneurship. PEP’s initiatives include mentoring, leadership development, and even helping participants start their businesses. PEP boasts a high job placement rate and helps alumni integrate back into the workforce with competitive salaries.
7. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Reentry Program
This program offers comprehensive reentry services to those exiting incarceration. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office provides job skills training, substance abuse counseling, mental health services, and GED preparation. Participants gain access to a support system and job placement assistance designed to help them transition smoothly back into society.
8. SER-Jobs for Progress
SER-Jobs is a workforce development organization that offers vocational training, job readiness workshops, and placement services for individuals facing barriers to employment. SER collaborates with local employers to connect qualified candidates with job opportunities and provides additional support in career planning, financial education, and digital literacy.
9. The Beacon
The Beacon provides supportive services for individuals with criminal backgrounds who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Alongside offering meals, shelter, and hygiene facilities, The Beacon has case managers who help participants with job searches, resume creation, and access to transitional housing.
10. Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative (T.O.R.I.)
T.O.R.I. is a statewide program that serves the Houston area, offering comprehensive reentry services, including career development, housing assistance, and health and wellness resources. T.O.R.I. works with community partners to provide job training, mentorship, and job placement, giving individuals with felony convictions tools for long-term success.
Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Houston
There are several legal protections and incentive programs in Houston that encourage employers to hire individuals with felony convictions and provide some protections:
Ban the Box Initiative
While Texas does not have a statewide “ban the box” law, Houston has adopted this initiative for city jobs. It removes the criminal history question from initial job applications for public sector positions, allowing candidates to be considered based on skills and qualifications before discussing criminal backgrounds.
Fair Chance Policies
Houston encourages fair chance hiring practices, promoting transparency and individualized assessments. Although not mandated citywide, many local organizations encourage businesses to consider an applicant’s qualifications rather than focusing solely on criminal history. The goal is to create fairer hiring practices across private sectors and provide more employment opportunities to ex-offenders.
Equal Employment Opportunity Laws
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws against discriminatory hiring practices, including protections for applicants with criminal records. Employers in Houston are prohibited from using criminal history as a blanket reason to deny employment; instead, they must show that the conviction is directly related to job responsibilities if it’s to be considered at all.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit offers a financial incentive to employers who hire individuals from specific groups, including ex-felons. This credit, worth up to $2,400 per eligible employee, encourages businesses to provide job opportunities for qualified felons while reducing the costs associated with new hires.
Federal Bonding Program
The Federal Bonding Program offers insurance to businesses that hire individuals with criminal records. This free, six-month fidelity bond protects employers against theft, fraud, and other job-related crimes, providing an added layer of security and reducing perceived risk when hiring someone with a felony record.
Texas Workforce Commission’s Project RIO
Project Re-Integration of Offenders (RIO) supports both job seekers with criminal backgrounds and businesses looking to diversify their workforce. By partnering with companies in Houston, Project RIO offers resources, including job placement services and candidate screenings, helping employers feel more confident in their hiring decisions.
Texas Business Incentives
In addition to federal programs, Texas provides several local business incentives for hiring disadvantaged populations. While these are not felony-specific, they may apply to businesses willing to hire from various groups, including those with criminal backgrounds, by offering state tax deductions, workforce training grants, and other resources.
Tips for Felons Seeking Employment in Houston
Here are some practical tips for felons seeking employment in Houston to improve their chances and ease the job search process:
- Focus on Job-Ready Skills
Consider training in fields that are often more open to hiring individuals with criminal records, such as construction, transportation, and warehousing. Programs like Houston’s WorkFaith Connection and Project RIO offer skill-building workshops and job-readiness courses specifically for individuals with felony convictions.
- Look into Houston’s Reentry Programs
Houston offers several reentry programs, including those provided by the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the Texas Workforce Commission. Organizations like SER-Jobs and Goodwill Houston offer employment services, job training, and connections with employers who are willing to hire ex-offenders.
- Utilize Temporary and Staffing Agencies
Many staffing agencies in Houston, such as Labor Ready, PeopleReady, and Minute Men Staffing, provide temp-to-perm opportunities that allow individuals with felonies to demonstrate their work ethic and skills. Temp roles can lead to permanent positions if performance and attendance are strong.
- Practice Honesty in Applications
Be open about your background without dwelling on it. Employers appreciate transparency and honesty. Be prepared to explain how you’ve changed and are prepared for success in the workplace. Reframe your experiences to show personal growth and responsibility.
- Highlight Transferable Skills and Positive Qualities
Focus on your skills and experiences, such as time management, communication, and dependability. If you have certifications or completed training programs, especially those acquired during incarceration, be sure to highlight these. Emphasize any soft skills and your dedication to starting anew.
- Know Your Rights Under EEOC Guidelines
Understand that Houston employers cannot deny employment solely based on your record unless the conviction is directly related to job duties. Familiarize yourself with EEOC guidelines on fair hiring practices and be prepared to discuss your eligibility if criminal history is raised.
- Explore Job Fields with High Demand in Houston
Sectors like construction, logistics, hospitality, and customer service often have consistent demand and are generally more open to hiring individuals with diverse backgrounds. Start by researching employers in these industries and tailoring your resume to highlight relevant skills.
- Consider ‘Ban the Box’ Employers and Fair Chance Companies
Although Houston’s “ban the box” law primarily applies to public-sector jobs, some private companies also follow fair chance hiring practices. Companies like Goodwill, Walmart, and various local construction firms are known to consider applications from those with criminal records.
- Network Through Community Organizations
Local organizations, such as the Houston Area Urban League, WorkFaith Connection, and Career and Recovery Resources, can connect you to supportive employers and offer job search assistance. Networking can often open doors to opportunities that may not be advertised.
- Prepare for Interviews with Confidence
Practice answering questions that address your record, focusing on what you’ve learned from past experiences. Demonstrating confidence and a positive attitude can leave a strong impression on employers. Be ready to discuss how you’ve grown and why you’re a great fit for the role.
Following these steps can help individuals with felony convictions approach the job market with confidence and position themselves for success. Houston’s supportive programs and community resources make it possible to rebuild a professional path, especially with determination and preparation.
FAQs
In Houston, felons can find job opportunities across various sectors such as construction, hospitality, retail, manufacturing, transportation, and food services. Many positions are entry-level, but some employers offer training and advancement paths, allowing individuals to build a career. Industries with labor shortages, like construction and warehousing, are particularly open to hiring felons, as are companies committed to second-chance employment.
Yes, several companies in Houston are known to hire individuals with felony convictions. These include well-known names like Goodwill Industries, The Home Depot, Walmart, Amazon, and several staffing agencies that offer temporary and permanent roles. Smaller local businesses, construction firms, and some restaurants are also open to hiring felons, often focusing on candidates’ skills and experience rather than their past.
Houston has several programs dedicated to helping felons find employment. The Texas Offender Reentry Initiative (TORI) and Career and Recovery Resources, Inc., provide job placement assistance, training programs, and support services for felons reentering the workforce. Additionally, community organizations and workforce centers offer resume workshops, interview coaching, and guidance on how to navigate the job market with a criminal record.
While Texas does not have a statewide “Ban the Box” law, some employers in Houston voluntarily follow fair-chance hiring practices. Additionally, federal protections under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) prevent employers from discriminating solely based on a criminal record unless it’s relevant to the job. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) also incentivizes employers to hire felons, potentially opening more doors.
Felons can improve their job prospects by gaining certifications or skills relevant to their target industries, such as obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) for transportation roles or completing certifications in welding, HVAC, or construction trades. Attending local job fairs, joining reentry programs, and building a strong resume that emphasizes skills, reliability, and positive attributes can make a significant difference.
Yes, several industries in Houston are more receptive to hiring felons. The construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and transportation sectors often hire individuals with various backgrounds. Positions such as warehouse associates, truck drivers, customer service representatives, and entry-level trades roles are common in these fields. Many of these industries are expanding, which has created a demand for a diverse workforce, including second-chance hires.
Felons who are having difficulty finding work in Houston may benefit from enrolling in local workforce programs tailored to reentry. Networking with community organizations, updating their resumes, acquiring certifications, and using temp or staffing agencies can also help them get started. Additionally, Houston’s reentry programs offer resources and guidance on addressing criminal records in applications and interviews, which can improve job search outcomes.
Yes, employers in Houston may qualify for federal incentives like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) for hiring felons. Additionally, the Federal Bonding Program offers free bonding insurance to employers who hire felons, reducing the perceived financial risk. These incentives encourage more businesses to consider candidates with felony backgrounds, broadening employment opportunities for felons in Houston.
Wages for felon-friendly jobs in Houston vary widely depending on the industry and position. Entry-level jobs in retail, hospitality, or warehouse settings may start around $10 to $15 per hour, while skilled trades such as construction and HVAC can offer significantly higher wages, often ranging from $20 to $30 per hour. With experience and training, felons can work toward higher-paying roles over time.
Yes, many temp agencies in Houston assist felons in finding temporary or contract work. Agencies like Express Employment Professionals, Manpower, and Adecco work with various industries and may place candidates in roles that could lead to permanent employment. Using a temp agency can be a useful way for felons to gain work experience, build their resumes, and establish reliability with local employers.
