Felon Friendly Jobs in NYC | Second Chance Employment
According to a 2021 report by the Prison Policy Initiative, an estimated 700,000 adults in New York State have a felony conviction on their record. This can pose a significant barrier to reintegration into society, particularly when seeking employment in a competitive city like New York City (NYC).
New York City’s economy is diverse and robust, with a GDP of $1.7 trillion as of 2023. The city’s job market spans various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and hospitality. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, NYC’s unemployment rate was 5.3% in April 2023, reflecting a competitive but accessible job market with opportunities for diverse skill sets.
Latest Second chance Jobs in NYC
Searching for ‘no background check jobs near me‘ and living in New York State? Here are the latest opportunities hiring felons in the state. Residents of New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Yonkers, Syracuse, Albany, New Rochelle, Mount Vernon, Utica, or any other city in New York State should apply for the positions mentioned below.
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience. Click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to secure your position.
Is New York a Felon-Friendly State?
Yes, New York is a felon-friendly state. It offers a range of resources to support individuals with criminal records. The state provides access to free grants for felons. These grants aid in rehabilitation and help them get back on their feet. People with felony convictions can vote in New York once they have completed their sentence. They do not need to wait until after finishing parole.
Additionally, New York offers second chance apartments for felons. These apartments provide affordable housing options and a supportive community to help them rebuild their lives.
Places That Hire Felons in NYC
Before diving into specific job opportunities, let’s understand where ex-offenders can find employment in the city. While no place is entirely off-limits, certain sectors and organizations are more receptive to hiring individuals with criminal records. These include:
- Community-Based Organizations: Nonprofits, community centers, and social service agencies often prioritize community well-being and are willing to give second chances.
- Small Businesses: Smaller businesses may be more flexible in their hiring practices and willing to consider individual circumstances.
- Startups: Innovative startups often focus on skills and potential rather than past mistakes.
- Construction and Labor: The construction industry frequently hires workers with varying backgrounds.
Industries Open to Felons in NYC
- Hospitality and Food Service: Restaurants, hotels, and catering companies offer entry-level positions.
- Retail: Retail stores, especially those with high turnover rates, may hire ex-offenders.
- Healthcare: Medical Assistant, Nursing Assistant, Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant, Home Health Aide like Symplr..
- Transportation: Truck Driver, Delivery Driver, Warehouse Worker, Forklift Operator, Logistics Coordinator like Dolly.
- Labor & Manufacturing: Warehouse Associate, Production Worker, Maintenance Technician like Omnitrans..
- Customer Service: Call Center Representative, Customer Service Representative.
- Sales Customer Service: Sales Associate, Account Manager, Customer Service Representative like Spherion and Cottage Health
- IT & Technology: Network Administrator, IT Support Specialist, Data Entry Clerk, Web Developer, Cybersecurity Specialists like Mckesson and Toriangroup.
- Construction: Construction Laborer, Carpenter, Electrician, Plumber, Welder, Building Maintenance Worker.
- Administrative: Administrative Assistant, Office Manager, Administrative Assistant, Office Clerk, Data Entry Clerk, Receptionist, Bookkeeper.
- Trades: HVAC Technician, Automotive Technician, Machinist, Locksmith, Glazier
- Manufacturing: Manufacturing Associate, Assembly Line Worker, Quality Control Inspector, Packaging Worker, Material Handler, Skilled Labor
Specific Companies Hiring Felons in NYC
Aramark
Provides food, facilities, and uniform services. Hires felons for jobs like food service, custodial, and laundry.
Butterball Farms
Food manufacturing company that hires felons for production jobs.
Cascade Engineering
Large plastics manufacturer that has a program to hire felons.
Goodwill Industries
Hires felons for retail, donation attendant, and production jobs.
Peckham Inc.
Nonprofit that provides jobs and job training for people with disabilities and felons.
Wendy’s
Fast food chain that hires felons for crew member and management positions.
JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase, a leading financial institution, offers second chance employment opportunities in NYC 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 New York, 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 NYC, 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 NYC 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 NYC, 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 New York 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 NYc, 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 Nyc 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 NYC, 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.
These are just a few examples of the many companies in New York City that are open to hiring qualified candidates with criminal records. Felons should be upfront about their background but focus on their skills and experience.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
Job Market in New York
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the tri-state area, including NYC, experienced a job growth rate of 5.3%, surpassing the national average of 4%. Over the past year, 497,500 jobs were added, highlighting significant growth in sectors like leisure and hospitality, education, health services, and professional services.
The post-pandemic recovery in NYC’s job market is evident with non-farm payroll employment surpassing pre-pandemic levels by almost 28,000 jobs. Private sector jobs increased by 1.3%, adding 54,900 jobs over the past year. Despite these gains, disparities in employment rates persist among different demographic groups, and employers struggle to fill on-site roles.
Programs and Resources for Felons in NYC
There are many programs and resources available in New York City to help felons find employment:
NYC Department of Small Business Services
The NYC Department of Small Business Services (SBS) operates Workforce1 Career Centers throughout the city. These centers provide job search assistance, training, and other employment services specifically for felons, including:
- Referrals to felon-friendly employers
- Resume and interview preparation
- Skills assessments and career planning
- Vocational training and apprenticeships
SBS also partners with community-based organizations to provide additional support for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill Industries has several programs in New York City to help felons, including:
- Goodwill Staffing Services – Temporary staffing agency that places felons in jobs
- Goodwill Employment Services – Job search assistance, training, and placement
- Goodwill Prisoner Re-Entry Program – Helps felons transition back into the community
Goodwill has over 30 locations throughout the NYC metro area and serves thousands of felons each year.
Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO)
CEO is a nonprofit organization that provides comprehensive employment services exclusively for people with criminal records. Their programs include:
- Job readiness training
- Transitional employment
- Job placement and retention support
- Legal services
The Doe Fund
The Doe Fund is a nonprofit that operates social enterprises and provides job training, housing, and other support services for the homeless and formerly incarcerated. Their “Ready, Willing & Able” program helps felons gain skills and find employment in fields like environmental services, construction, and food service.
Federal Bonding Program
The Federal Bonding Program is a U.S. Department of Labor initiative that provides fidelity bonds to employers who hire at-risk job seekers, including felons. The bonds provide insurance coverage to the employer against theft, forgery, larceny, or embezzlement by the bonded employee. The bonds are free to the employer and employee and can be a powerful incentive for hiring felons.
Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers
There are several laws and programs in New York that protect employers who hire felons and provide incentives:
Ban the Box Laws
New York City has “ban the box” laws that prohibit employers from asking about criminal history on job applications. Employers can still conduct background checks later in the hiring process, but this gives felons a chance to be considered based on their qualifications first.
Fair Chance Act
The New York City Fair Chance Act further restricts when and how employers can consider an applicant’s criminal record. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment and provide a written justification before denying employment.
Equal Employment Opportunity Laws
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces federal laws that prohibit discrimination in hiring, including against felons. Employers can only consider a felony conviction if it’s directly related to the job duties. Blanket bans on hiring felons are illegal.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit available to employers who hire individuals from certain target groups, including felons. The credit is worth up to $2,400 per eligible employee.
Federal Bonding Program
As mentioned earlier, the Federal Bonding Program provides free fidelity bonds to employers who hire felons. This insurance coverage protects the employer in case of theft or other crimes by the bonded employee.
Tips for Felons Seeking Employment in NYC
- Be honest about criminal history
- Highlight skills and qualifications
- Consider job training and placement programs
- Prepare for job interviews
- Follow up with employers
Skills and Qualifications
Felons seeking employment in NYC should focus on developing skills and qualifications in:
- Skilled labor trades like construction and manufacturing
- Customer service and support roles
- Transportation and logistics
- Technology and computer skills
- Communication and teamwork
Innovative Approaches to Felon Employment in NYC
NYC has implemented innovative approaches to felon employment, including:
- Community-based employment models
- Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives by local businesses
- Job training and placement programs
- Mentorship and support services
Conclusion
Employment is a critical component of successful reentry for felons in NYC. With the support of local programs, understanding industries open to hiring, and leveraging legal protections, felons can find meaningful employment and contribute positively to their communities. Utilizing the resources and strategies discussed can pave the way for a brighter future for those with a criminal record, fostering a more inclusive and supportive society.
FAQs
Yes, there are companies in NYC that are willing to hire individuals with a felony record. Many companies prioritize skills and potential over past mistakes.
Felon-friendly jobs in NYC include construction, hospitality, food service, retail, customer service, and administrative roles.
You can find felon-friendly job opportunities in NYC through job training and placement programs, community-based organizations, and online job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn.
Yes, there are resources and organizations in NYC that help felons find employment, such as the NYC Employment and Training Coalition, Goodwill’s Employment Services, and the Salvation Army’s Employment Services.
Having a felony record may affect your chances of getting hired in NYC, but many companies are willing to consider individual circumstances.
To improve your chances of finding a job as a felon in NYC, focus on developing skills and qualifications, consider job training and placement programs, and be honest about your criminal history.
Yes, industries like construction, hospitality, and food service are more open to hiring individuals with felony convictions.
Yes, you need to disclose your felony record during the job application process in NYC, as hiding it can lead to termination. (Source: NYC Human Rights Law)
Yes, there are government programs and incentives in NYC to help felons find employment, such as the Federal Bonding Program and the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC).
To address your felony record in a job interview in NYC, be honest, highlight your skills and qualifications, and explain what you’ve learned from your experiences.
