Felon Friendly Jobs Rhode Island | Second Chance Employment
In Rhode Island, individuals with felony convictions have access to second chance employment opportunities, with a focus on rehabilitation and reintegration. According to the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, approximately 70% of employers are willing to hire individuals with criminal records.
Felon-friendly jobs in Rhode Island include hospitality, food service, and construction, with 35% of hospitality jobs, 30% of food service jobs, and 25% of construction jobs held by individuals with felony convictions. Through 2and Chance employment programs, Rhode Island has successfully placed over 300 individuals with felony convictions in jobs, with a recidivism rate of only 12%, significantly lower than the national average.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Rhode Island
Searching for “no background check jobs near me” and living in Rhode Island? Here are the latest opportunities hiring felons in the area. Residents of Providence, Warwick, Cranston, Pawtucket, Newport, East Providence, Woonsocket, Central Falls, and other nearby cities in Rhode Island are encouraged to apply for the positions listed below. Rhode Island’s job market provides a variety of felon-friendly roles across industries such as retail, construction, logistics, and customer service, helping individuals with criminal records secure stable employment and take the next step toward rebuilding their lives.
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience. Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button to secure your position.
What are the Felon-Friendly Jobs in Rhode Island That Require No Experience?
Finding felon-friendly jobs in Rhode Island that require no experience is possible in various industries. Here are some job options that may be open to individuals with a criminal record and typically don’t require prior work experience:
1. Warehouse Worker
Warehouse workers assist with tasks like packing, sorting, and shipping products. The job involves physical labor and organization but does not require prior experience. Many employers in this field are open to hiring individuals with felony convictions, as they value hard work and reliability.
2. Construction Laborer
Construction laborers perform a variety of tasks on building sites, such as lifting materials, digging trenches, and assisting skilled tradespeople. These positions often require no experience, and many construction companies are willing to hire felons due to the demand for labor in the industry.
3. Food Service Worker (Dishwasher, Cook, Server)
Food service jobs such as dishwasher, cook, or server involve working in restaurants and kitchens. These roles often provide on-the-job training, and employers tend to focus on attitude and dependability rather than past convictions, making them accessible for individuals with felonies.
4. Delivery Driver (Non-CDL)
Delivery drivers transport goods or food to customers using a regular driver’s license. These jobs generally don’t require experience, and employers are often open to hiring felons as long as the applicant has a clean driving record and a reliable work ethic.
5. Landscaping or Grounds Maintenance
Landscaping jobs involve maintaining lawns, gardens, and outdoor spaces by mowing grass, trimming bushes, and planting flowers. These roles typically don’t require previous experience, and the physical nature of the work makes it an accessible option for those with criminal records.
6. Retail Associate (Cashier, Stock Clerk, Customer Service)
Retail positions such as cashier, stock clerk, or customer service representative are entry-level and often provide on-the-job training. Employers in the retail industry are increasingly open to hiring individuals with felony convictions, especially if they demonstrate good communication and customer service skills.
7. Janitorial Services
Janitors are responsible for cleaning and maintaining buildings, such as offices, schools, or hospitals. The tasks typically include sweeping, mopping, and taking out trash. These jobs are usually available without experience, and many employers are open to hiring individuals with a criminal background.
8. Car Wash Attendant
Car wash attendants clean vehicles by washing, waxing, and vacuuming them. This job requires minimal prior experience, and many car wash businesses are open to hiring felons, as the work is straightforward and focused on attention to detail.
9. Security Guard
Security guards protect property and maintain order at various locations, such as retail stores or events. While some security positions may require background checks, entry-level, unarmed security jobs often do not require prior experience, and employers may overlook past convictions for the right candidate.
10. Housekeeping
Housekeeping involves cleaning rooms, making beds, and ensuring cleanliness in hotels, motels, or private homes. This job typically requires no previous experience, and many employers value dependability and attention to detail over past criminal history.
11. Customer Service Representative (Call Center)
Customer service representatives handle customer inquiries over the phone or online, resolving issues and providing information. These positions usually provide training and do not require previous experience, and many employers are willing to hire felons based on communication skills and reliability.
12. Manufacturing Worker
Manufacturing workers are responsible for tasks like assembly, packaging, and operating machines in factories or production lines. These jobs offer on-the-job training and often do not require prior experience, with many employers in the industry open to hiring individuals with criminal records, especially for entry-level positions.
Part-Time Felon Friendly Jobs in Rhode Island
There are some part-time felon-friendly jobs in Rhode Island that do not require extensive experience:
| Job Title | Description | Salary Range (Hourly) |
|---|
| Retail Associate (Part-Time) | Work as a cashier, stock clerk, or customer service representative in stores. Responsibilities include assisting customers, stocking shelves, and processing transactions. | $12 – $16 per hour |
| Food Delivery Driver | Deliver food to customers using a personal vehicle for services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, or Grubhub. Flexible hours and minimal experience needed. | $15 – $25 per hour (including tips) |
| Janitorial Worker (Part-Time) | Clean offices, schools, or hospitals. Tasks include sweeping, mopping, and maintaining cleanliness. Mostly evening or night shifts. | $12 – $14 per hour |
| Landscaping Worker (Part-Time) | Assist with lawn care, tree trimming, and garden maintenance. This job requires physical labor and outdoor work. | $13 – $17 per hour |
| Warehouse Associate (Part-Time) | Work in a warehouse, sorting, packing, and shipping products. Physical work with flexible part-time shifts. | $14 – $18 per hour |
| Security Guard (Part-Time) | Monitor and protect property in retail stores, offices, or events. Some positions require basic security training but little experience. | $14 – $18 per hour |
| Customer Service Representative (Part-Time) | Handle customer inquiries via phone or chat in call centers. Training is provided, and no previous experience is necessary. | $13 – $16 per hour |
| Housekeeper (Part-Time) | Clean hotel rooms, make beds, and perform light maintenance tasks. These roles often offer flexible hours. | $12 – $15 per hour |
| Car Wash Attendant (Part-Time) | Clean and detail vehicles, including washing, waxing, and vacuuming. No experience needed, and flexible part-time shifts available. | $12 – $14 per hour |
| Grocery Store Clerk (Part-Time) | Stock shelves, assist customers, and help bag groceries. Entry-level work with part-time shifts. | $13 – $15 per hour |
| Pet Care (Dog Walker, Pet Sitter) | Offer pet sitting or dog walking services. Flexible hours and minimal experience needed, great for animal lovers. | $15 – $20 per hour |
| Tutoring or Homework Help (Part-Time) | Tutor students in subjects you are knowledgeable about. Can be done independently or through online platforms. | $15 – $25 per hour |
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Rhode Island
There are specific companies in Rhode Island that are known to hire felons:
1. Home Depot
Home Depot is a large home improvement retailer that hires felons for positions such as cashier, stock associate, and delivery driver. The company values hard work and commitment, offering second chances to those with criminal records, especially if the conviction is not related to the job.
2. Walmart
Walmart, one of the largest employers in the U.S., offers a variety of roles, including cashier, stock clerk, and customer service positions. Despite conducting background checks, they are known for their open-minded approach toward hiring felons, providing opportunities for individuals to rebuild their careers.
3. Macy’s
Macy’s, a well-known retail chain, hires felons for jobs like sales associate and stock clerk. They focus on the applicant’s qualifications rather than their past, offering second-chance opportunities and advancement potential for individuals overcoming criminal histories.
4. Goodwill Industries
Goodwill Industries, a nonprofit organization, provides jobs in retail stores, donation centers, and administrative roles. Known for its inclusive hiring practices, Goodwill offers training and support to felons, helping them re-enter the workforce with dignity and stability.
5. PepsiCo
PepsiCo hires felons for roles such as warehouse workers, delivery drivers, and production assistants. With a commitment to fair hiring practices, PepsiCo provides opportunities for felons to join their workforce, depending on the nature of their convictions.
6. Cintas
Cintas, a company that supplies uniforms and safety products, hires felons for positions such as warehouse staff, service representatives, and production workers. They are known for their culture of second-chance hiring, offering felons the opportunity to grow within the company.
7. Kroger
Kroger, one of the largest grocery chains in the U.S., hires felons for positions in retail, stocking, and customer service. The company values skills over past mistakes and is committed to offering second-chance employment and career advancement.
8. United Parcel Service (UPS)
UPS, a global logistics and shipping company, hires felons for various roles including package handlers, drivers, and warehouse workers. UPS is known for offering job opportunities to individuals with criminal records, emphasizing their belief in second chances.
9. Amazon
Amazon hires felons for positions in warehouses, delivery services, and customer service roles. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, Amazon provides flexible hours and entry-level positions to help felons re-enter the workforce and grow within the company.
10. Circle K
Circle K, a convenience store chain, offers part-time and full-time roles such as cashier, customer service, and store management. The company is open to hiring felons, particularly if they demonstrate strong customer service skills and a positive work ethic.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Rhode Island
| Job Title | Description | Salary Range (Annual) |
|---|
| Construction Laborer | Work on construction sites performing manual labor like lifting materials, digging, and assisting tradespeople. | $35,000 – $50,000 |
| Truck Driver (Non-CDL) | Drive delivery trucks or small vehicles to transport goods locally. No commercial driver’s license required. | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| Security Officer | Protect property, monitor surveillance, and ensure safety at various locations. | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Warehouse Supervisor | Oversee warehouse operations, manage inventory, and supervise workers. | $45,000 – $60,000 |
| Retail Manager | Manage retail store operations, including staffing, inventory management, and customer service. | $45,000 – $55,000 |
| Landscape Manager | Supervise landscaping teams and manage residential or commercial landscaping projects. | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| Electrician (Apprentice) | Assist licensed electricians in installing, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems. | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Plumber (Apprentice) | Work under licensed plumbers to install and repair plumbing systems in homes and businesses. | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| Personal Care Aide | Provide care and assistance to elderly or disabled individuals in home settings. | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Construction Equipment Operator | Operate heavy machinery like bulldozers, cranes, and backhoes on construction sites. | $45,000 – $65,000 |
| Custodian Supervisor | Manage custodial staff in schools, offices, or hospitals, overseeing cleaning and maintenance tasks. | $40,000 – $50,000 |
| Customer Service Manager | Oversee customer service operations, manage teams, and ensure customer satisfaction. | $45,000 – $60,000 |
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Rhode Island?
In Rhode Island, most background checks for employment go back 7 years, although this can vary based on the job type and the check. For criminal background checks, the typical look-back period is 7 years, but for jobs involving vulnerable populations, employers may check longer histories, including serious offenses that could be reviewed indefinitely. Credit checks typically cover the past 7 years, though financial roles may look further back. For driving records, employers generally check the last 3 to 5 years, and employment and education history is usually verified for the past 7 years.
Rhode Island’s Ban the Box law prevents employers from asking about criminal convictions on job applications, allowing applicants to be considered first based on qualifications. However, background checks can still be conducted later in the hiring process.
Conclusion
Rhode Island offers a variety of felon-friendly jobs across industries like retail, construction, logistics, and customer service. Companies such as Home Depot, Walmart, and Amazon provide second-chance employment opportunities, helping individuals with criminal backgrounds rebuild their careers. With a focus on skills, commitment, and the potential for growth, these employers give felons the chance to contribute positively to the workforce and achieve long-term success. By offering accessible roles and supportive environments, Rhode Island is creating a pathway for individuals seeking a fresh start.
