Felon Friendly Jobs in South Dakota | Second Chance Employment
In South Dakota, individuals with felony convictions can find employment opportunities in various fields. Approximately 1,500 people are released from prison each year, and about 70% find jobs within the first year. Felon-friendly jobs in South Dakota include construction, manufacturing, and agriculture, with companies like Sanford Health and Smithfield Foods hiring individuals with criminal records.
The state’s recidivism rate is around 30%, but initiatives like the South Dakota Reentry Program and the Federal Bonding Program aim to reduce this rate by providing job training, education, and employment assistance. Additionally, some South Dakota employers receive tax credits and incentives for hiring felons, promoting 2and chance employment and reintegration into society.
Latest Second chance Jobs in South Dakota
Searching for “no background check jobs near me” and living in South Dakota? Here are the latest opportunities hiring felons in the area. Residents of Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Aberdeen, Brookings, Mitchell, Pierre, Watertown, Yankton, and other nearby cities in South Dakota are encouraged to apply for the positions listed below.
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 South Dakota
When it comes to part-time felon-friendly jobs in South Dakota, various opportunities across different industries can offer second chances for individuals with felony convictions. The key is finding employers who are willing to provide a supportive environment for those with a criminal record. Below are some common part-time job options in South Dakota, along with a focus on employers that may be more open to hiring individuals with felony convictions:
1. Retail Jobs
Retail positions often provide flexible hours and can be a good starting point for individuals seeking part-time work. Many large retailers and local businesses may hire felons, especially for entry-level positions.
- Role: Sales associate, cashier, stocker, customer service
- Salary: $12–$16 per hour
Dollar Tree:
- Role: Cashier, stocker, sales associate
- Salary: $10–$14 per hour
Target:
- Role: Cashier, sales associate, stocker
- Salary: $13–$17 per hour
2. Construction and Labor Jobs
The construction industry is one of the most accessible fields for individuals with felony convictions, especially for those with physical work skills. Many companies are open to hiring part-time workers for various manual labor positions.
Labor Ready (now PeopleReady):
- Role: General laborer, construction worker, landscaper
- Salary: $13–$18 per hour
Independent Contractors:
- Role: Various manual labor tasks (e.g., landscaping, demolition, cleaning)
- Salary: $12–$20 per hour
3. Warehouse and Distribution Jobs
Part-time positions in warehouses or distribution centers can offer flexible hours and opportunities for individuals with felony convictions. Employers in this field are often more focused on the ability to perform the job than on an applicant’s background.
Amazon:
- Role: Warehouse associate, picker, packer, sorter
- Salary: $15–$18 per hour
- Role: Package handler, warehouse worker, delivery assistant
- Salary: $14–$17 per hour
UPS:
- Role: Package handler, warehouse worker, loader/unloader
- Salary: $15–$18 per hour
4. Food Service and Hospitality Jobs
The food service industry can be a good option for part-time employment, as many establishments are willing to offer second chances for individuals with felony convictions. Positions can range from entry-level to more skilled roles depending on the establishment.
McDonald’s:
- Role: Cook, cashier, crew member
- Salary: $10–$14 per hour
Subway:
- Role: Sandwich artist, cashier, customer service
- Salary: $11–$14 per hour
Local Restaurants/Cafes:
- Role: Server, dishwasher, host, cook
- Salary: $10–$15 per hour (plus tips for server roles)
5. Cleaning and Janitorial Jobs
Part-time janitorial or cleaning jobs are available in various settings, such as offices, schools, hospitals, or hotels. These roles often have flexible hours and minimal background checks.
ABM Industries:
- Role: Janitor, cleaner, maintenance worker
- Salary: $12–$15 per hour
Local Cleaning Companies:
- Role: Residential or commercial cleaner
- Salary: $12–$16 per hour
6. Customer Service and Call Centers
Customer service roles, especially in call centers, may offer part-time employment opportunities for individuals with felony convictions. Many companies provide training, and the work can often be done remotely or in flexible hours.
Teleperformance:
- Role: Customer service agent, call center representative
- Salary: $13–$16 per hour
Alorica:
- Role: Customer service representative, call center agent
- Salary: $12–$15 per hour
7. Transportation and Delivery Jobs
If you have a clean driving record, transportation or delivery work can be a great way to earn part-time income. Many delivery services are open to hiring felons, as long as the candidate meets other requirements such as having a valid driver’s license.
Uber:
- Role: Rideshare driver
- Salary: $15–$25 per hour (varies based on hours worked and location)
DoorDash:
- Role: Delivery driver
- Salary: $12–$18 per hour (including tips)
Postmates:
- Role: Delivery driver
- Salary: $12–$20 per hour (including tips)
8. Nonprofit and Community Organizations
Many nonprofit organizations are focused on offering second chances to individuals who have faced criminal justice challenges. These organizations may offer part-time employment opportunities in roles such as outreach, administration, or support services.
- South Dakota Nonprofits: Local nonprofits may hire part-time workers for various roles, including outreach, food service, or office assistance. These positions can provide a chance to give back to the community while earning an income.
- Salary: $12–$16 per hour
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in South Dakota
| Job Title | Description | Estimated Salary |
|---|
| Construction Worker | Performs physical labor in construction, including heavy lifting, digging, and site preparation. | $17–$25 per hour |
| Truck Driver | Transports goods locally or across regions. Requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL). | $20–$30 per hour |
| Warehouse Supervisor | Manages warehouse operations, including inventory, shipping, and receiving. | $20–$27 per hour |
| HVAC Technician | Installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. | $21–$30 per hour |
| Retail Manager | Oversees store operations, including staff, sales, inventory, and customer service. | $18–$24 per hour |
| Security Guard | Provides security and surveillance for various businesses, events, or facilities. | $14–$20 per hour |
| Sales Representative | Sells products or services, often in industries like wholesale or real estate. | $18–$35 per hour (including commission) |
| Electrician | Installs and repairs electrical systems in homes, businesses, and industries. | $22–$30 per hour |
| Plumber | Installs and repairs plumbing systems, including water lines and fixtures. | $22–$30 per hour |
| Customer Service Manager | Manages customer service teams, overseeing inquiries and ensuring customer satisfaction. | $17–$25 per hour |
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, most background checks for employment typically go back seven years. This is in line with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which restricts the reporting of certain criminal convictions beyond seven years, except in cases involving positions with salaries over $75,000 or for jobs that require a security clearance.
However, some employers may request a longer history or be able to access criminal records indefinitely, depending on the nature of the position and state-specific laws. It’s also important to note that South Dakota law does not have a “ban the box” law, so employers can ask about criminal history early in the hiring process.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in South Dakota?
In South Dakota, there are several legal protections and incentives for employers hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds, including those with felony convictions.
1. South Dakota’s “Second Chance” Law
South Dakota has a law that provides some protections for individuals with criminal records seeking employment. Employers are generally prohibited from automatically disqualifying applicants based on criminal history, especially for positions unrelated to the crime. This law aims to encourage employers to consider the applicant’s qualifications, rehabilitation, and the nature of the offense.
2. Federal Bonding Program
The U.S. Department of Labor’s Federal Bonding Program offers employers a bonding tool to reduce risk when hiring individuals with criminal records. The bond protects the employer against theft or dishonesty for the first six months of employment. The program is available to employers in South Dakota and serves as an incentive to hire individuals with criminal backgrounds, including felons.
3. Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
South Dakota employers can take advantage of the federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit, which provides financial incentives for hiring individuals from certain target groups, including ex-felons. Employers can claim a tax credit of up to $2,400 for hiring a qualified individual, and the credit increases for hiring individuals who have been unemployed for long periods or have specific criminal records.
4. Ban the Box
While South Dakota does not have a statewide “ban the box” law (which prohibits employers from asking about criminal history on job applications), some cities and counties within the state may have local ordinances that limit when employers can inquire about criminal history. Employers may be required to wait until after a conditional offer of employment is made before asking about criminal records.
5. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Protections
Federal law, including the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines, prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, and religion. While criminal records are not a protected category, the EEOC provides guidelines to ensure employers do not use criminal history in a way that disproportionately affects certain groups. Employers are encouraged to assess criminal records in a way that is consistent with business necessity and the nature of the job.
Conclusion
South Dakota provides a variety of opportunities for individuals with felony convictions to re-enter the workforce. With a range of industries offering part-time and full-time positions, individuals can pursue stable careers in construction, transportation, retail, and skilled trades. While challenges may exist, the state’s growing acceptance of second-chance employment and available support programs enable felons to rebuild their lives and contribute to the local economy. By focusing on skills development and leveraging available resources, those seeking a fresh start in South Dakota can find rewarding career paths that promote long-term success.
