Felon Friendly Jobs in New Hampshire | Second Chance Employment
In New Hampshire, individuals with felony convictions have access to various second chance employment opportunities. According to the New Hampshire Department of Corrections, approximately 2,500 people are released from prison each year, and about 75% of them will find employment within the first year. Felon-friendly jobs in New Hampshire include industries like construction, manufacturing, and hospitality, with companies like Lowe’s and Hilton actively hiring individuals with criminal records.
Notably, New Hampshire’s recidivism rate is around 20%, one of the lowest in the country, due in part to initiatives like the New Hampshire Reentry Program, which provides job training, education, felon friendly apartments, and employment assistance to individuals with felony convictions. Additionally, the state’s Ban the Box policy removes barriers to employment for individuals with criminal records, and New Hampshire employers can receive tax credits and incentives for hiring felons.
Latest Second chance Jobs in New Hampshire
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience. Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button to secure your position.
Part-Time Felon Friendly Jobs in New Hampshire
Finding part-time employment as a felon in New Hampshire may seem challenging, but there are several opportunities for those seeking to rebuild their careers. Many industries and companies in the state are open to hiring individuals with criminal records, especially for part-time roles. Below is a detailed overview of the options available:
| Industry | Common Jobs | Top Employers | Average Hourly Salary | Why It’s a Fit |
|---|
| Hospitality and Food Services | Line cook, dishwasher, server, bartender, hotel housekeeping | McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Holiday Inn | $12–$18/hr | Focuses on customer service; part-time roles often require less background scrutiny. |
| Retail and Customer Service | Cashier, stocker, sales associate, warehouse helper | Walmart, Home Depot, local retailers | $13–$16/hr | Retailers prioritize immediate hiring needs over extensive background checks. |
| Transportation and Delivery Services | Package sorter, driver helper, warehouse associate | UPS, FedEx, Amazon | $15–$20/hr | Flexible hours with minimal public interaction; suitable for those with records. |
| Construction and Skilled Trades | General laborer, painter, landscaper | Small construction firms, trade businesses | $15–$22/hr | Skills-based industry prioritizes work ethic over background, especially part-time. |
| Nonprofit and Community Organizations | Event setup, administrative assistant, outreach worker | Goodwill, The Salvation Army | $12–$17/hr | Nonprofits often support second-chance initiatives and focus on social reintegration. |
| Seasonal Jobs | Ski resort staff, summer camp worker, tourist attraction staff | Local resorts, camps, and attractions | $13–$20/hr | High demand during specific seasons; ideal for short-term employment needs. |
| Remote Jobs | Customer service, data entry, freelancing | Various online platforms | $15–$25/hr | Flexibility to work from home; remote roles emphasize skills over background checks. |
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in New Hampshire
These companies and organizations provide opportunities for felons in New Hampshire to work part-time while gaining valuable skills and rebuilding their careers.
Walmart
Walmart is one of the largest employers in the U.S. and actively hires individuals with criminal records, including felons. They often offer part-time roles such as cashiers, stockers, and warehouse associates. Walmart values strong work ethics and provides training opportunities to help employees grow.
Home Depot
Home Depot is known for its inclusive hiring practices and willingness to give second chances. They offer positions like sales associates, customer service representatives, and warehouse helpers. Part-time employees benefit from a supportive work environment and opportunities to learn new skills.
UPS
United Parcel Service (UPS) frequently hires individuals with felony convictions for roles such as package sorters, driver helpers, and warehouse workers. These jobs typically require minimal public interaction and are ideal for part-time schedules, particularly during peak seasons like holidays.
FedEx
FedEx provides opportunities for part-time employment in roles such as package handlers and warehouse associates. The company values reliability and offers flexible hours, making it a good fit for individuals with a criminal background looking to re-enter the workforce.
Amazon
Amazon hires felons for various positions in their fulfillment centers, such as pickers, packers, and sorters. These roles are physically demanding but offer competitive pay and flexible shifts, allowing felons to work part-time while gaining valuable experience.
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill is a nonprofit organization committed to helping people re-enter the workforce. They offer roles in retail, donation processing, and logistics. Goodwill actively supports second-chance hiring and often provides additional training programs to enhance employability.
The Salvation Army
Similar to Goodwill, The Salvation Army is a nonprofit organization that hires felons for roles such as store associates, warehouse workers, and outreach support. They focus on helping individuals rebuild their lives and contribute positively to their communities.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s franchises in New Hampshire are known to hire individuals with felony convictions for part-time positions such as crew members, cashiers, and kitchen staff. The fast-food giant emphasizes teamwork and offers flexible schedules.
Lowe’s
Lowe’s, another major retailer, hires felons for various roles, including customer service associates, sales assistants, and stocking team members. They provide a supportive environment and on-the-job training for part-time employees.
Staffing Agencies
Agencies like Express Employment Professionals and Adecco work with local businesses to fill part-time roles. These agencies are often more lenient about background checks and can connect felons with jobs in industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, and retail.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, most employment background checks typically go back seven years, in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines. This limit applies to criminal convictions reported by third-party background check companies. However, certain roles, such as those in law enforcement, healthcare, or positions working with vulnerable populations, may require more extensive checks that go further back.
Additionally, employers may inquire about convictions beyond seven years if they conduct their own investigations or if the position involves high responsibility or security. It’s important for job seekers to be aware of their rights and how state laws interact with federal regulations regarding background checks.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in New Hampshire?
Employers in New Hampshire hiring individuals with criminal records are supported by legal protections and financial incentives designed to encourage second-chance hiring while mitigating potential risks.
Legal Protections
- Negligent Hiring Liability Protections
Employers in New Hampshire are protected from liability for negligent hiring when they employ individuals with criminal records, provided they conduct proper due diligence. This reduces the fear of legal repercussions while offering second chances. - Federal Bonding Program
The Federal Bonding Program offers free insurance to employers hiring individuals with criminal records, covering up to $25,000 for the first six months. This safeguards businesses against risks like theft or fraud and encourages hiring.
Incentives for Employers
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Employers can claim a federal tax credit of up to $2,400 for each eligible hire with a criminal record through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit program, reducing hiring costs. - State Workforce Programs
New Hampshire’s workforce initiatives provide training subsidies, recruitment assistance, and financial incentives for hiring felons, making it easier for businesses to integrate second-chance hires. - Reentry Program Partnerships
Employers partnering with local reentry programs gain access to pre-screened, job-ready candidates and demonstrate their commitment to social rehabilitation, often at no additional cost.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in New Hampshire
| Job Title | Industry | Average Salary | Why It’s Suitable for Felons |
|---|
| Commercial Truck Driver | Transportation | $50,000–$75,000/year | CDL training programs often accept felons, and the industry values experience over background. |
| Construction Manager | Construction and Trades | $65,000–$95,000/year | Construction focuses on skills and leadership; many felons start as laborers and move up. |
| HVAC Technician | Skilled Trades | $50,000–$70,000/year | Certifications and apprenticeships are accessible, and the field emphasizes technical skills. |
| Welding Specialist | Manufacturing and Trades | $45,000–$70,000/year | Welding requires certifications but offers high pay, and many employers overlook records. |
| Electrician | Skilled Trades | $55,000–$80,000/year | Licensed electricians are in demand, and apprenticeships are open to felons. |
| Delivery Driver (CDL) | Logistics | $40,000–$65,000/year | Companies like FedEx and UPS hire CDL drivers and focus on reliability rather than background. |
| IT Support Specialist | Technology | $45,000–$60,000/year | Remote and entry-level IT roles are increasingly open to candidates with certifications. |
| Sales Representative | Retail and Wholesale | $45,000–$70,000/year | Many sales roles prioritize performance and interpersonal skills over background checks. |
| Auto Mechanic | Automotive Services | $40,000–$65,000/year | Mechanics with technical skills are in high demand, and the trade is often forgiving of records. |
| Forklift Operator | Warehousing and Logistics | $35,000–$55,000/year | Warehousing roles prioritize reliability, and forklift certifications are attainable. |
Conclusion
Finding felon-friendly jobs in New Hampshire is not only possible but offers a path to rebuilding lives and contributing to the community. With industries like construction, transportation, and skilled trades actively welcoming second-chance hires, individuals with criminal records can secure meaningful employment that provides stability and growth opportunities. Programs, incentives, and protections for both employers and job seekers further enhance these possibilities. By leveraging resources, developing new skills, and staying persistent, felons in New Hampshire can find rewarding careers that align with their goals and help them reintegrate into society with dignity and purpose.
