Felon Friendly Jobs in Utah | Second Chance Employment
In Utah, second-chance recruitment is gaining momentum, creating new opportunities for individuals with criminal records to find stable employment. According to a 2023 report from the Prison Policy Initiative, formerly incarcerated people face unemployment rates of up to 27%, much higher than the general population.
In response, Utah’s job market has opened up with second-chance employment initiatives, especially in construction, manufacturing, and hospitality, often providing training and career growth potential. Organizations like Utah Workforce Services support this shift, helping connect individuals with resources and job leads that foster successful reentry and reduce recidivism, building a more inclusive workforce.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Utah
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience. Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button to secure your position.
Places That Hire Felons in Utah
In Utah, several sectors actively hire individuals with felony convictions, creating valuable second-chance employment opportunities.
1. Construction Industry Opportunities
The construction sector in Utah is one of the most welcoming to individuals with felony records. Companies like Sundt Construction and Granite Construction often consider applicants with past convictions for roles like laborers, equipment operators, and other skilled trade positions. Many construction jobs offer on-the-job training, allowing workers to build skills and advance in their careers.
2. Manufacturing Sector Employment
Utah’s manufacturing industry, with employers such as Nucor Steel and Autoliv, provides various roles that may be open to those with felony backgrounds. Positions in manufacturing typically involve operating machinery, assembly line work, or quality control. These jobs can offer stability and room for skill development, which is beneficial for those rebuilding their careers.
3. Warehouse and Logistics Jobs
Major logistics companies, including Amazon and UPS, frequently offer entry-level warehouse and distribution positions. These roles generally focus on dependability and physical capability, making background checks less restrictive in some cases. Warehouse jobs provide consistent work hours, potential for overtime, and on-the-job skill-building opportunities.
4. Food Service Industry Positions
The food service industry in Utah is widely known for its inclusive hiring practices, making it a solid option for second-chance employment. Fast-food chains such as McDonald’s and Subway are popular employers that hire individuals from diverse backgrounds. These positions help workers gain customer service experience, and teamwork skills, and provide a pathway to managerial roles for those interested in advancing.
5. Hospitality Industry Jobs
Tourism and hospitality are significant in Utah’s economy, especially in cities like Salt Lake City and areas near national parks. Hotels and resorts in these regions offer positions such as housekeeping, maintenance, and guest services that may be open to applicants with felony records. The hospitality sector values reliability and hard work, making it a favorable option for individuals seeking a fresh start.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Utah
Here are some specific companies in Utah known for providing job opportunities to individuals with felony records:
| Company | Industry | Opportunities | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| C.R. England | Transportation & Trucking | Truck drivers, logistics roles | Offers paid CDL training, opening up stable trucking opportunities |
| Labor Ready (PeopleReady) | Staffing Agency | Temporary and permanent placements in construction, warehousing, general labor | Flexible, entry-level work to build experience |
| U.S. Foods | Food Distribution | Warehouse roles, driver positions | Opportunities for skill-building and advancement in food distribution |
| Amazon | Warehousing & E-commerce | Warehouse associates, packers, inventory management | Competitive wages, benefits, and advancement in a large company |
| Hilton Hotels | Hospitality | Housekeeping, maintenance, customer service roles | Skill-building in guest services, helpful for re-entering the workforce |
| Smith’s Food and Drug (Kroger) | Retail & Grocery | Cashier, stock clerk, customer service | Flexible scheduling, potential for long-term roles in retail |
| Home Depot | Retail & Home Improvement | Sales associate, stocker, customer service | On-the-job training with room for career growth in home improvement |
| Teleperformance | Customer Service | Customer support representative positions | Builds communication skills; offers work-from-home options |
| Intermountain Healthcare | Healthcare | Custodial, food service, administrative support (non-clinical roles) | Stable healthcare sector with entry-level roles offering career development opportunities |
| Tyson Foods | Food Production | Food processing, packaging, maintenance | Competitive wages and stable employment in the food industry |
What are the Background Check Limits in Utah for Felon Hiring?
In Utah, background check laws for hiring felons are influenced by both federal and state regulations. Here are some key points about the background check limits and regulations specific to Utah:
- Seven-Year Reporting Limit: Utah generally follows the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines, which place a seven-year reporting limit on criminal convictions in certain cases. However, this limit doesn’t apply to jobs with salaries over $75,000 or for certain sensitive positions, in which case more extensive background checks may be conducted.
- Ban-the-Box Law: Utah does not have a statewide “ban-the-box” law for private employers, meaning employers can ask about criminal histories on job applications. However, some local governments and individual companies voluntarily apply “ban-the-box” practices, allowing applicants to reach later hiring stages before disclosing any criminal record.
- Utah State Code on Background Checks: Utah Code § 53-10-108 allows employers to request background checks for prospective employees, especially when the job involves working with vulnerable populations, handling sensitive data, or managing finances. The state places limits on accessing certain types of information unless required by the position.
- Conditional Employment: Many Utah employers offer conditional employment pending the results of a background check. This practice gives employers more flexibility in hiring and enables individuals with records to begin the onboarding process, which may lead to job opportunities despite certain past convictions.
- Expungement Benefits: Felons in Utah who successfully have their records expunged (cleared) can benefit significantly since expunged records do not appear in standard background checks, allowing for a broader range of employment opportunities.
Programs and Resources for Felons in Utah to Find Employment
Finding employment after incarceration can be challenging, but Utah offers a variety of programs and resources specifically designed to help felons re-enter the workforce. Here’s a guide to some key programs and resources available in Utah to support felons in their job search:
1. Department of Workforce Services (DWS)
- Utah’s Department of Workforce Services offers specialized services for job seekers, including individuals with criminal records. The DWS provides career counseling, skills training, and job placement assistance through job fairs and workshops.
- Work Success Program: This program specifically aids individuals in building essential skills like resume writing, job interviewing, and effective communication.
2. Utah Job Corps
- Utah Job Corps is a free education and vocational training program that prepares young adults (16-24) for careers by offering job training in various fields. Job Corps centers also provide career counseling and placement assistance to help participants transition into the workforce.
3. Second Chance Programs
- Utah hosts several second-chance programs that offer career training and job placements for felons. These include partnerships with employers willing to hire individuals with criminal records.
- Specific Programs: Nonprofits like The Road Home and Volunteers of America work with 2and chance employers in Utah, helping felons connect with jobs, housing, and other essential services.
4. The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
- This federal tax credit incentivizes employers to hire individuals from specific groups, including ex-felons. Many Utah employers participate in this program, as it provides tax breaks for hiring individuals with past convictions, making it easier for felons to find willing employers.
- How It Helps: Job seekers can encourage potential employers to take advantage of the WOTC as an added reason to hire them.
5. Apprenticeship Programs
- Utah offers apprenticeships in various skilled trades, such as carpentry, electrical work, and welding, through organizations like the Utah Apprenticeship Program. These programs provide hands-on training while earning a wage and offer pathways into industries that often offer opportunities for individuals with criminal backgrounds.
6. Educational and Vocational Training Programs
- Utah State University Extension and other institutions provide vocational training and educational programs for felons, covering fields like technology, construction, and healthcare. Scholarships and financial aid options are available, making it easier to pursue certification and skills enhancement.
- Goodwill Industries also offers a variety of job training programs specifically targeted at helping those with barriers to employment, including past felonies.
7. Nonprofit Organizations Supporting Employment for Felons
- TURN Community Services: Provides job placement services and life skills training for individuals facing barriers, including criminal histories.
- The Other Side Academy: Offers a two-year, residential training program focusing on life skills, job readiness, and personal growth. Graduates have access to employment opportunities within partner organizations.
8. Utah Second Chance Coalition
- This coalition advocates for policy changes to support individuals with criminal records, such as record expungement, but also provides resources and connections to employers who are willing to hire people with a past conviction.
9. Utah Reentry Resource Guide
- This guide, provided by the Utah Department of Corrections, lists organizations, housing, educational, and employment resources available to those re-entering society after incarceration. The guide is an excellent tool for locating resources statewide and is regularly updated with new services.
10. Faith-Based and Community Services
- Various faith-based groups in Utah, like Catholic Community Services and The Salvation Army, provide job placement services, resume workshops, and interview training tailored for individuals with criminal backgrounds. They also offer additional support such as housing and clothing assistance.
Securing employment for felons in Utah has become increasingly achievable due to supportive programs and second chance initiatives. Many industries, including manufacturing, warehousing, retail, and customer service, are more open to hiring individuals with a criminal background.Overall, Utah’s approach to second chance employment emphasizes the value of diverse workforces, helping felons reintegrate and contribute positively to their communities. With consistent effort and available resources, many individuals find stable, fulfilling jobs that help them rebuild their lives.
