Felon Friendly Jobs in Cincinnati | Second Chance Employment
In Cincinnati, Ohio, individuals with a criminal record can find felon-friendly job opportunities through various programs and employers. The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction’s (ODRC) Reentry Program, for instance, provides job training and placement services to ex-offenders, with a focus on industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Additionally, organizations like the Cincinnati-based non-profit, Easterseals Tristate, offer job training and placement services specifically for individuals with barriers to employment, including felony convictions. Many local employers, such as DHL, Kroger, and the Cincinnati Zoo, also offer second-chance employment opportunities to individuals with a criminal record. According to the ODRC, over 1,500 ex-offenders are released from prison in Hamilton County each year, with 85% requiring employment assistance.
Latest Felony Jobs (Second Chance) in Cincinnati
Searching for job opportunities that don’t require a background check and living in Cincinnati? Here are the latest opportunities for offenders in Cincinnati.
Residents of neighborhoods like Over-the-Rhine, Westwood, Price Hill, Walnut Hills, Clifton, Avondale, Northside, Mount Airy, Bond Hill, or other areas in Cincinnati should explore the positions mentioned below. These roles offer second chances and are designed to help individuals with criminal records rebuild their careers and lives.
Some of these jobs welcome applicants with no prior experience with felony in OH. Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button to secure your position and start your new journey today.
Part-Time Felon-Friendly Jobs in Cincinnati
| Industry | Job Role | Company Examples | Estimated Hourly Wage | Required Skills |
|---|
| Hospitality & Food Service | Line Cook | Skyline Chili, LaRosa’s, McDonald’s | $12 – $18 | Basic cooking skills, time management |
| Dishwasher | Olive Garden, IHOP | $10 – $15 | Attention to detail, reliability |
| Server | Applebee’s, Buffalo Wild Wings | $8 – $12 + tips | Customer service, multitasking |
| Hotel Housekeeper | Hilton, Marriott Hotels | $10 – $14 | Cleaning, organizational skills |
| Retail | Cashier | Walmart, Target, Dollar Tree | $10 – $15 | Customer service, basic math skills |
| Stock Associate | Kroger, Home Depot | $11 – $16 | Physical stamina, organization |
| Delivery Driver | Amazon Flex, DoorDash | $15 – $25 | Driving skills, time management |
| Warehousing | Package Handler | FedEx, UPS | $14 – $20 | Physical fitness, attention to detail |
| Forklift Operator | DHL, XPO Logistics | $16 – $22 | Forklift certification, safety awareness |
| Customer Service | Call Center Agent | Concentrix, Alorica | $12 – $18 | Communication skills, problem-solving |
| Construction & Labor | General Laborer | Local Contractors, Habitat for Humanity | $14 – $18 | Physical strength, basic tool knowledge |
| Cleaner/Janitor | ABM Industries, local cleaning services | $10 – $14 | Attention to detail, dependability |
| Technology & IT | IT Support Technician | Contract-based startups, Freelance | $15 – $20 | Basic IT troubleshooting, technical skills |
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Cincinnati
- Kroger
Kroger, headquartered in Cincinnati, is one of the largest supermarket chains in the U.S. Known for giving second chances, they hire felons for roles such as stock clerks, cashiers, and warehouse associates. Applicants must demonstrate reliability and a strong work ethic. - Amazon
Amazon has fulfillment centers in and around Cincinnati offering positions such as warehouse associates and delivery drivers. The company values efficiency and provides comprehensive training, making it accessible for individuals with limited experience. - UPS
UPS hires felons for part-time roles like package handlers and seasonal drivers. They emphasize physical stamina and team collaboration, making it a great option for those looking to build work history. - Hilton Hotels
Hilton’s Cincinnati locations frequently hire felons for positions in housekeeping, maintenance, and food service. Their inclusive hiring practices focus on skills and commitment rather than background. - LaRosa’s Pizzeria
A well-known local restaurant chain, LaRosa’s is open to hiring felons for roles such as cooks, dishwashers, and delivery drivers. They prioritize customer service and teamwork, offering a supportive environment. - FedEx
FedEx provides opportunities for felons in roles like package handlers and logistics support at their Cincinnati facilities. They value physical fitness and attention to detail, often offering flexible schedules. - Goodwill Industries
Goodwill is committed to employing individuals with criminal records in retail, donation center, and warehouse roles. They also provide training programs to help employees develop new skills and advance. - Concentrix
A call center company with offices in Cincinnati, Concentrix hires felons for customer service positions. Strong communication skills and problem-solving abilities are emphasized, with opportunities for advancement. - Staffmark
A staffing agency with a presence in Cincinnati, Staffmark works with employers open to hiring felons for temporary and permanent positions in industries like warehousing, manufacturing, and retail. They provide guidance throughout the hiring process. - ABM Industries
ABM offers janitorial and facility maintenance roles in Cincinnati and hires felons with a focus on dependability and attention to detail. Their positions often involve cleaning, sanitation, and general upkeep.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Cincinnati?
In Cincinnati, as in most of Ohio, the standard timeframe for employment background checks typically covers the past seven years. This limitation aligns with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which restricts certain types of criminal history, such as arrests without convictions, from being reported beyond this period. However, there are exceptions.
For instance, roles in sensitive industries such as healthcare, finance, or positions involving children may require an extended or unrestricted review of an applicant’s criminal history. It’s important to note that Ohio does not have a “ban-the-box” law for private employers, meaning some companies may inquire about criminal records upfront, while others assess this information later in the hiring process. Candidates with concerns about their records should consider obtaining their criminal history report to understand what employers may see.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Cincinnati?
In Cincinnati, employers have access to several legal protections and incentives designed to encourage hiring individuals with criminal records while reducing risks and liabilities. These measures aim to support reentry efforts and enhance workforce diversity.
Legal Protections
- Negligent Hiring Protections
Ohio provides employers with limited liability protections against negligent hiring claims when hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds. Employers who demonstrate due diligence during the hiring process can mitigate potential legal risks. - Certificate of Qualification for Employment (CQE)
Issued by Ohio courts, a CQE helps individuals with criminal records gain employment by providing legal relief from certain barriers. Employers hiring someone with a CQE are protected from liability in negligent hiring lawsuits related to the employee’s past convictions. - FCRA Compliance
Employers are required to comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) when conducting background checks. This ensures that candidates are notified of adverse actions based on their criminal history, protecting both employers and job seekers during the hiring process.
Incentives for Employers
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Employers can receive federal tax credits of up to $2,400 for hiring individuals from certain target groups, including those with felony convictions. This incentive offsets training and onboarding costs. - Federal Bonding Program
Employers hiring individuals with criminal records are eligible for free fidelity bonds provided through the Federal Bonding Program. These bonds protect employers against theft, forgery, and other workplace risks for the first six months of employment. - State and Local Grants
Ohio occasionally offers grants and subsidies to companies that participate in workforce reentry programs, particularly for high-demand industries such as construction, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Cincinnati
| Industry | Job Role | Company Examples | Estimated Hourly Wage | Required Skills |
|---|
| Technology & IT | IT Support Technician | Freelance, Local Startups | $20 – $30 | Basic IT troubleshooting, technical skills |
| Construction & Labor | Electrician | Local Contractors, Union Positions | $25 – $35 | Electrical knowledge, certification |
| Plumber | Roto-Rooter, Local Contractors | $22 – $30 | Plumbing knowledge, trade certification |
| Transportation & Logistics | CDL Truck Driver | Schneider, Swift Transportation | $20 – $30 | CDL license, driving experience |
| Delivery Driver | Amazon Flex, UPS | $18 – $25 | Driving skills, punctuality |
| Healthcare | Phlebotomist | Mercy Health, TriHealth | $18 – $25 | Certification, attention to detail |
| Medical Assistant | Local Clinics, Urgent Care Centers | $15 – $22 | Certification, medical knowledge |
| Manufacturing | Machine Operator | Procter & Gamble, GE Aviation | $18 – $28 | Equipment operation, safety protocols |
| Welder | Local Factories, Trade Companies | $20 – $30 | Welding certification, precision skills |
| Warehousing | Forklift Operator | DHL, FedEx | $18 – $24 | Forklift certification, safety awareness |
| Logistics Coordinator | XPO Logistics, C.H. Robinson | $20 – $30 | Organizational skills, inventory management |
| Sales | Retail Sales Manager | Verizon, Best Buy | $18 – $25 + commission | Sales experience, customer service |
Conclusion
Cincinnati’s commitment to second-chance employment reflects the city’s understanding of the value that individuals with diverse backgrounds bring to the workforce. By fostering inclusive hiring practices and providing opportunities for skill development, Cincinnati employers empower individuals with criminal records to rebuild their lives while contributing meaningfully to the local economy. Whether through part-time roles, high-paying jobs, or supportive reentry programs, the city offers a pathway to stability and growth. With ongoing efforts to expand opportunities and reduce stigma, Cincinnati is paving the way for a more equitable and thriving community.
