Felon Friendly Jobs in Michigan | Second Chance Employment
According to the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC), approximately 70% of ex-offenders return to prison within three years of release. This statistic highlights the significant challenge of reintegration into the workforce faced by these individuals.
Fortunately, Michigan has adopted a “fair chance” hiring approach, encouraging employers to consider an applicant’s qualifications alongside their criminal history.
Employment plays a crucial role in reducing recidivism rates. Fortunately, there are numerous resources and opportunities available for individuals with a criminal record.
Is Michigan a Felon-Friendly state?
Yes, Michigan is a felon-friendly state, offering a range of resources to support individuals with criminal records. The state provides access to free grants for felons, which can aid in their rehabilitation and help them get back on their feet.
Additionally, Michigan offers second chance apartments for felons, providing affordable housing options and a supportive community to help them rebuild their lives. It also offering voting rights to felons, allowing them to participate in the democratic process once they have completed their sentence. With these resources and initiatives, Michigan demonstrates its commitment to promoting reintegration and rehabilitation for individuals with criminal records, making it an ideal place for them to start anew.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
List of companies that hire felons in Michigan
Here are the few top best companies that are hiring! Several Michigan 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 clicking on the company name, which will direct you to their job boards.
JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase, a leading financial institution, offers second chance employment opportunities in Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan 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 Michigan, 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 Michigan, providing a path to permanent employment and career growth. These agencies place individuals in various roles, including administrative, warehouse, and customer service positions.
Job Opportunities in Michigan
Felon Friendly Industries in Michigan
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
- Administrative Assistant
- 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
Michigan’s Laws and Regulations
Michigan’s Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA)
The ELCRA prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, or marital status. Although it does not explicitly cover criminal records, it ensures fair employment practices for all.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
Title VII at the federal level prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The EEOC interprets this to include discrimination based on criminal records when it disproportionately affects certain racial or ethnic groups.
Background Check Regulations
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how employers conduct background checks. Employers must obtain written consent before conducting a background check and provide a copy of the report and a “Summary of Rights” if any adverse action is taken.
Ban-the-Box Law
In 2018, Michigan implemented a “ban-the-box” policy for state employment, prohibiting questions about criminal records on initial job applications for state positions. This allows ex-offenders to be judged on their qualifications first.
Reentry Programs and Resources
Michigan’s Prisoner Reentry Initiative (MPRI) provides job training, placement assistance, and support for housing and transportation. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funds job training and employment services, including programs for individuals with criminal records. The Legal Aid and Defender Association (LADA) offers legal assistance and expungement services.
Incentives for Employers
Employers who hire individuals from targeted groups, including ex-felons, can benefit from the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), reducing their federal tax liability. The Federal Bonding Program provides insurance against theft or dishonesty committed by high-risk employees, including those with criminal records.
Expungement Laws
Michigan’s Clean Slate Law, effective April 2021, allows for the automatic expungement of certain misdemeanors after seven years and some felonies after ten years, provided there are no subsequent offenses. Individuals can petition for the expungement of up to three felonies and an unlimited number of misdemeanors, subject to conditions.
Places that hire felons in Michigan
- Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC): Offers job training programs and resources for ex-offenders.
- Michigan Works: Provides career counseling, job placement services, and training programs.
- Goodwill Industries of Michigan: Offers job training, education, and employment services.
- National H.I.R.E. Network: A national organization providing job search assistance and resources for ex-offenders.
- Temp Agencies: Many temp agencies, like Manpower, Kelly Services, and Labor Ready, hire individuals with felony convictions for temporary or contract work.
Pouplar Areas for felons in Michigan
- Lansing mi
- Detroit mi
- Grand rapids MI
- Detroit Mi
- Muskegon Mi
- Kalamazoo
Solutions for Felons in Michigan
To overcome these challenges, felons in Michigan can:
- Seek job training and education
- Consider entrepreneurship or starting their own business
- Look for felon friendly industries and companies
- Utilize resources and support services
- Work to reduce stigma and promote reentry programs
Final Thought
Felon friendly jobs in Michigan offer a vital second chance for individuals with criminal records to rebuild their lives and contribute to their communities. By understanding the laws, regulations, and industries that support felon employment, ex-offenders can navigate the job market with confidence. With the right resources and support, felons in Michigan can find meaningful employment and start their journey towards a brighter future.
FAQs
Yes, individuals with felonies can get jobs in Michigan. While some employers may be hesitant to hire individuals with criminal records, Michigan laws and regulations aim to promote fair employment practices. The Michigan Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, or marital status, but not explicitly criminal records. However, employers must consider applicants’ qualifications and skills before inquiring about criminal history.
Yes, Michigan Works! provides job training and employment services to individuals with criminal records. The Michigan Prisoner Reentry Initiative (MPRI) and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) offer comprehensive support, including job training, placement assistance, and support for housing and transportation.
In Michigan, individuals with felony convictions may lose certain rights, such as:
- Voting rights (restored after completion of sentence)
- Firearm possession rights (depending on the type of felony)
- Public office holding rights
- Professional licensing rights (depending on the field)
Felony convictions remain on an individual’s record indefinitely in Michigan unless expunged or set aside. The Clean Slate Law, effective April 2021, allows for automatic expungement of certain misdemeanors after seven years and some felonies after ten years, provided there are no subsequent offenses.
Employers in Michigan can conduct background checks going back indefinitely, but they must obtain written consent and provide a copy of the report and a “Summary of Rights” if any adverse action is taken.
Michigan’s Clean Slate Law, effective April 2021, allows for automatic expungement of certain misdemeanors and felonies after specified time periods.
Individuals can search for criminal records on the Michigan State Police’s Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) website for a fee.
Yes, Michigan implemented a “ban-the-box” policy for state employment in 2018, prohibiting questions about criminal records on initial job applications for state positions.
Michigan’s Clean Slate Law, effective April 2021, allows for automatic expungement of certain misdemeanors after seven years and some felonies after ten years, provided there are no subsequent offenses.
Michigan does not have specific “Jack and Jill” laws, but it has laws related to criminal records and employment, expungement, and background checks.
Michigan has repealed or amended various laws over time, making them obsolete. Examples include outdated criminal penalties or regulations no longer enforced.
