Felon Friendly Jobs in Maryland | Second Chance
Maryland provides over 15,000 “felon-friendly” job opportunities, primarily in industries like construction, warehousing, manufacturing, and hospitality. Programs such as the Maryland Reentry Initiative and partnerships with organizations like Goodwill help connect felons to these jobs, while employers benefit from tax incentives like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC). Stable employment significantly reduces recidivism, with employed former felons being 20% less likely to re-offend, making Maryland a leader in second-chance hiring and reintegration.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Maryland
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience and offer immediate hire. Simply click on the ‘Apply Now’ button to secure your position.
Places That Hire Felons in Maryland
Here are some key sectors and businesses in Maryland that commonly hire felons, offering second-chance employment opportunities:
Construction: The construction industry is open to hiring felons, with roles in labor, skilled trades, and site management. Many employers in construction value hands-on skills over background checks and often provide on-the-job training, making it a feasible path for those seeking steady work.
Warehousing and Logistics: Warehousing and logistics offer positions like package handling, shipping, and inventory management, which typically have flexible hiring requirements. This sector is known for its high demand and fast-paced environments, making it accessible for those with past convictions.
Manufacturing: Manufacturing jobs are widely available for felons, especially in areas like production lines, assembly, and packaging. This sector emphasizes reliability and teamwork, and it often includes training opportunities, providing a solid path for career growth.
Food Service and Hospitality: Many food service and hospitality companies, such as restaurants, hotels, and catering services, hire individuals with felony records. Positions like kitchen staff, maintenance, and customer service are popular in this sector and often offer flexible schedules and chances to advance.
Retail: Retail roles, including cashier, stocking, and customer service, are accessible to felons and provide a reliable source of income. The retail sector values customer service skills and generally has lower entry barriers, allowing individuals to start quickly.
Transportation: The transportation sector offers driving, delivery, and maintenance roles with flexibility and, in many cases, minimal background restrictions. This field is especially beneficial for those with driving skills, and many positions allow for a self-directed work environment.
Staffing Agencies: Some staffing agencies specialize in second-chance employment, connecting felons with roles in various industries like manufacturing, clerical work, and customer service. These agencies provide job matching, training, and ongoing support to help candidates succeed.
Healthcare Support Services: Healthcare support, such as janitorial, maintenance, and food service roles in hospitals and clinics, can be an option for felons. These positions focus on operational support and do not involve direct patient care, which can ease some background restrictions.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Maryland
Here are some specific companies in Maryland that are known to hire individuals with felony records, offering them an opportunity for stable employment and reintegration:
1. Amazon
This major employer has large fulfillment centers in Maryland and hires felons for warehouse positions, including package sorting, shipping, and inventory management. Amazon’s second-chance hiring policies make it a popular option for individuals reentering the workforce.
2. Perdue Farms
Based in Maryland, Perdue Farms hires felons for various roles in production, packaging, and maintenance. As a major player in the food processing industry, Perdue offers both entry-level and skilled positions with the potential for career growth.
3. Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake
Goodwill actively supports second-chance hiring by employing felons in retail, donation processing, and administrative roles. Beyond jobs, Goodwill offers job training and placement programs that help individuals build skills and secure long-term employment.
4. Home Depot
Known for its inclusive hiring practices, Home Depot provides opportunities for felons in customer service, stocking, and sales. Many locations across Maryland offer entry-level positions that provide steady hours and competitive wages.
5. Starbucks
Starbucks supports second-chance employment, hiring felons for barista, support, and shift supervisor roles. The company’s training programs also help employees gain valuable customer service and management skills.
6. Aramark
Aramark is a food service provider that employs felons for roles in food preparation, catering, and janitorial services. With contracts in schools, hospitals, and corporate environments, Aramark offers stable employment across a range of locations.
7. FedEx
FedEx hires individuals with criminal records for positions in package handling, sorting, and delivery. With multiple shifts available, FedEx provides flexible hours, allowing employees to balance other commitments as they rebuild their careers.
8. Walmart
With multiple locations across Maryland, Walmart hires felons for positions like cashier, stocker, and customer service associate. Walmart’s scale and diverse roles make it a practical option for those reentering the workforce.
What are the Background Check Limits in Maryland for Felon Hiring?
In Maryland, background check limits for felon hiring are governed by both state and federal laws, aiming to provide fair opportunities while maintaining employer safety standards. Here are key points regarding background check limits for felon hiring:
1. Ban the Box Law
Maryland enforces a “Ban the Box” law, which prohibits employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal history on the initial job application. Employers can only inquire about criminal history after an applicant has been deemed qualified for a position. This law aims to provide a fairer opportunity for individuals with criminal records to be considered for employment.
2. Background Check Timing
Employers in Maryland can conduct criminal background checks after a conditional job offer is made, but they cannot disqualify an applicant solely based on a felony conviction if the crime is unrelated to the job. For example, an applicant may be rejected for a position that involves financial responsibilities if they have a history of financial crimes, but not necessarily for other types of felonies.
3. Time Limits on Reporting Convictions
Under federal law, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) limits the reporting of criminal convictions to seven years for background checks. However, Maryland state law allows employers to consider felony convictions that are older than seven years if they are relevant to the job.
4. Expungement and Sealing of Records
In Maryland, individuals with felony convictions may be eligible to expunge or seal their criminal records, particularly for non-violent offenses or after a certain period of time. This process allows some individuals to have their criminal history hidden from employers, enhancing their job prospects.
5. Discriminatory Practices
Maryland’s Fair Employment Practices Act prohibits discrimination against individuals based on criminal records unless the conviction directly relates to the job. Employers must assess the nature of the crime, the time passed since the conviction, and the relevance to the specific role.
What are the Programs and Resources for Felons in Maryland to Find Employment?
Maryland offers various programs and resources aimed at helping felons find employment and successfully reintegrate into the workforce. These programs provide job training, placement services, and support to help individuals with criminal records overcome barriers to employment. Here are some key resources:
1. Maryland Reentry Initiative
The Maryland Reentry Initiative (MRI) supports individuals who are transitioning from incarceration to the community. It connects ex-offenders with job training, employment counseling, and job placement services. MRI works with employers who are open to second-chance hiring and offers support in navigating the application process.
2. Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake
Goodwill provides specialized job training and placement services for individuals with criminal records. They offer programs focused on skills development, including customer service, retail, and administrative training. Goodwill also helps with resume building and interview preparation.
3. Maryland Department of Labor’s Division of Workforce Development and Adult Learning (DWDAL)
This division offers a variety of employment services for felons, including workforce development programs, job readiness training, and access to career counseling. The American Job Centers provide assistance with job searches, resume writing, and interview coaching, specifically tailored for individuals with criminal backgrounds.
4. Second Chance Program
Maryland’s Second Chance Program offers financial incentives for employers who hire individuals with criminal records. Employers can receive tax credits, such as the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), for hiring ex-offenders. This initiative encourages businesses to consider qualified felons for employment.
5. The Maryland Criminal Justice Initiative
Managed by the Open Society Institute-Baltimore, this initiative advocates for policies that remove barriers to employment for people with criminal records. It provides resources and support for felons seeking jobs in fields like public service, healthcare, and education.
6. Job Opportunities Task Force (JOTF)
The Job Opportunities Task Force is a nonprofit organization that works to reduce employment barriers for individuals with criminal records. They provide legal advocacy, job training, and workshops on understanding rights and navigating the hiring process for individuals with felony convictions.
7. Federal Bonding Program
This program offers insurance bonds for employers who hire individuals with criminal records, reducing the risk of liability for businesses. The bonding covers potential losses due to employee dishonesty, which makes it easier for ex-offenders to find work in industries like retail and manufacturing.
8. Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)
WIOA funding is available in Maryland to provide training and education for individuals with criminal records. The program supports job placement, career development, and educational opportunities, making it a valuable resource for those seeking long-term employment.
Conclusion
Maryland offers a range of opportunities for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives through felony-friendly jobs and second-chance employment. With supportive programs like the Maryland Reentry Initiative, Goodwill Industries, and various workforce development organizations, jobs for convicted felons are increasingly accessible across industries like construction, retail, healthcare, and logistics. These programs not only provide valuable job training and placement services but also connect felons with employers willing to offer a fresh start. By taking advantage of these resources, individuals with criminal records in Maryland can find meaningful employment, reduce recidivism, and successfully reintegrate into society.
