Felon Friendly Jobs in Massachusetts | Second Chance Employment
In Massachusetts, individuals with criminal records face employment barriers, but many companies now embrace second-chance hiring. Over 650,000 residents have a criminal record, making up 1 in 5 adults. Initiatives like “Ban the Box” and the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission’s Employment Services program increase job opportunities for felons.
Top felon-friendly jobs include IT and tech positions, nursing and healthcare roles, and culinary arts. Massachusetts leads the way in providing opportunities for individuals with criminal records to rebuild their lives and contribute to the workforce.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Massachusetts
Part-Time Felon-Friendly Jobs in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers a variety of opportunities for individuals with felony convictions, including part-time jobs that can serve as a stepping stone to full-time employment. Employers in the state are increasingly open to giving second chances, particularly in industries where there is a high demand for workers. Here are some part-time felon-friendly jobs in Massachusetts:
| Job Type | Job Examples | Salary Range (Per Hour) |
|---|
| Retail and Customer Service | Sales associate, cashier, stock clerk, customer service rep | $14 – $18 |
| Food Service Industry | Server, dishwasher, cook, barista, host | $12 – $18 |
| Construction and Manual Labor | Laborer, maintenance worker, warehouse assistant, mover | $15 – $25 |
| Cleaning and Janitorial | Custodian, housekeeper, office cleaner | $12 – $18 |
| Landscaping and Lawn Care | Groundskeeper, landscaper, gardener, tree trimmer | $13 – $20 |
| Delivery and Ride-Sharing | Food delivery driver (DoorDash, Uber Eats), ride-sharing driver (Uber, Lyft) | $15 – $25 |
| Security and Protective Services | Security guard, loss prevention officer | $15 – $20 |
| Warehouse and Distribution | Warehouse worker, packer, inventory clerk | $14 – $20 |
| Administrative and Clerical | Office assistant, data entry clerk, receptionist | $14 – $18 |
| Nonprofit and Social Services | Outreach coordinator, program assistant, case manager | $15 – $22 |
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Massachusetts
These companies are just a few examples of employers in Massachusetts that are willing to offer job opportunities to individuals with felony convictions. Each company has different policies and practices regarding the hiring of felons, but many are open to second chances, especially if the individual demonstrates a strong work ethic and commitment to their role.
1. Walmart
Walmart is a major employer in Massachusetts and has a reputation for offering job opportunities to individuals with criminal records. The company provides a variety of positions, including retail associates, cashiers, and stock clerks. Walmart is known for its commitment to second chances, and many of its stores have adopted inclusive hiring practices that welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those with felony convictions.
2. Home Depot
Home Depot frequently hires felons for a range of positions in its Massachusetts stores. These can include roles in sales, stock management, and customer service. The company is well-known for its focus on skill-based hiring, meaning that individuals are considered for their potential to contribute to the team, rather than being excluded due to past convictions.
3. Target
Target has been recognized for hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds, offering them a path to employment in various part-time and full-time positions. In Massachusetts, Target often hires for roles such as cashiers, sales floor associates, and stockers. Target’s inclusive culture emphasizes a commitment to second chances, focusing on the ability of applicants to perform the job rather than their criminal history.
4. UPS
United Parcel Service (UPS) is another company in Massachusetts that hires individuals with felony convictions, particularly for part-time and seasonal positions. UPS provides job opportunities in areas like package handling, driver assistants, and warehouse work. The company has an established policy of giving people with criminal records a chance to prove their work ethic, especially in its logistics and shipping operations.
5. Starbucks
Starbucks has a commitment to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce, which includes giving individuals with criminal records the opportunity to work in their Massachusetts stores. Starbucks hires for a variety of positions, including baristas, shift supervisors, and customer service representatives. The company’s strong focus on employee development and career growth makes it a great option for those looking to rebuild their careers.
6. McDonald’s
McDonald’s is another well-known company that provides part-time and full-time employment to individuals with felony convictions. In Massachusetts, McDonald’s hires for positions such as crew members, cashiers, and cooks. The fast-food giant often emphasizes the importance of a positive attitude and willingness to learn over past mistakes, offering a great entry point for felons looking to re-enter the workforce.
7. CVS Health
CVS Health, with numerous locations throughout Massachusetts, has a history of hiring individuals with criminal records. The company hires for various roles, including pharmacy technicians, cashiers, and customer service representatives. CVS is known for its commitment to creating opportunities for people to rebuild their lives, offering a supportive work environment.
8. Goodwill Industries
Goodwill Industries operates several stores across Massachusetts and is a significant employer for individuals with criminal records. They offer various entry-level and part-time roles in retail, warehousing, and logistics. Goodwill is particularly known for its rehabilitation programs, which help employees transition back into stable employment while providing support services.
9. JPMorgan Chase
JPMorgan Chase is a financial services company that offers positions in Massachusetts, such as call center representatives, administrative assistants, and other support roles. The company has made significant efforts to provide second chances for individuals with criminal backgrounds, including those with felony convictions. JPMorgan Chase emphasizes skills training and personal development, offering opportunities for advancement.
10. Boston Market
Boston Market is a popular fast-casual restaurant chain that hires felons for various positions in their Massachusetts locations. These roles can include cooks, cashiers, and servers. The company offers flexible hours, making it a great option for those looking for part-time work or individuals re-entering the workforce after serving time. Boston Market is known for its focus on customer service and teamwork, providing a supportive environment for its employees.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, most criminal background checks for employment purposes go back up to 10 years for convictions. However, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) restricts reporting of criminal convictions older than 7 years, unless the position offers a salary over $75,000. Arrests that didn’t result in convictions are generally not reported after 5 years.
Massachusetts also has a Ban the Box law, which prevents employers from asking about criminal history on job applications until a conditional offer is made. Certain industries may conduct more extensive background checks, and sealed or expunged records may not show up in checks.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, legal protections for employers hiring individuals with criminal records include the Ban the Box law, which prevents asking about criminal history on job applications, and the CORI law, which limits the use of certain criminal records in hiring decisions.
Incentives include the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC), offering tax credits for hiring felons, and the Federal Bonding Program, providing insurance to protect against theft or dishonesty. Additionally, the Second Chance Law reduces employer liability when hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Massachusetts
These positions offer good salaries and are often accessible to individuals with a criminal background, especially when they have the relevant skills or certifications.
| Job Title | Salary Range | Skills Required |
|---|
| Construction Manager | $75,000 – $110,000 per year | Project management, leadership, budgeting, knowledge of building codes, scheduling, problem-solving |
| Truck Driver | $50,000 – $80,000 per year | CDL (Commercial Driver’s License), time management, route planning, vehicle maintenance, safety compliance |
| Warehouse Manager | $50,000 – $70,000 per year | Inventory management, leadership, problem-solving, logistics, forklift operation, communication skills |
| Plumber | $60,000 – $80,000 per year | Plumbing systems installation, pipefitting, troubleshooting, knowledge of local codes, physical stamina |
| Electrician | $55,000 – $75,000 per year | Electrical systems installation, troubleshooting, knowledge of electrical codes, physical stamina, problem-solving |
| IT Support Specialist | $50,000 – $70,000 per year | Technical troubleshooting, customer service, knowledge of hardware/software, network support, communication |
| HVAC Technician | $55,000 – $75,000 per year | HVAC system installation, troubleshooting, knowledge of refrigerants, system design, mechanical skills |
| Security Manager | $50,000 – $70,000 per year | Security systems knowledge, leadership, communication, risk management, surveillance operation, problem-solving |
| Sales Representative | $50,000 – $80,000 per year (with commission) | Sales techniques, communication, negotiation, customer service, product knowledge, relationship building |
| Massage Therapist | $50,000 – $70,000 per year | Massage techniques, anatomy knowledge, communication skills, physical stamina, customer service |
Conclusion
Massachusetts offers a variety of promising opportunities for individuals with felony convictions through 2and Chance employment programs. By leveraging skills and certifications, felons can access high-paying jobs across industries such as construction, IT, and skilled trades. With supportive laws like “Ban the Box” and tax incentives for employers, those seeking a fresh start can find pathways to rebuild their careers and contribute meaningfully to the workforce.
