Felon Friendly Jobs in Wisconsin | Second Chance Employment
In Wisconsin, 70% of employers are willing to hire individuals with criminal records. Felon-friendly jobs include manufacturing, construction, and warehousing, with companies like Menards and Kohl’s offering second-chance employment. Wisconsin’s “Ban the Box” law and second chance initiatives have reduced recidivism rates by 15% and increased job placements by 25% for individuals with criminal records. Over 50% of released offenders find employment within their first year.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Wisconsin
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 Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s diverse job market offers several part-time opportunities for felons to rebuild their careers and contribute to the community. Taking proactive steps and utilizing available resources can significantly enhance job prospects.
| Industry | Job Roles | Employers/Programs | Required Skills | Average Salary |
|---|
| Food Service | Cook, Server, Cashier, Dishwasher | McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Pizza Hut | Customer service, multitasking, basic food safety knowledge | $10–$14/hour |
| Retail and Warehousing | Stock Clerk, Customer Service Associate | Walmart, Home Depot, Amazon | Communication, inventory management, organizational skills | $12–$15/hour |
| Delivery and Transportation | Delivery Driver, Package Sorter | Uber Eats, DoorDash, UPS | Navigation, time management, physical stamina | $10–$18/hour |
| Construction and Landscaping | General Laborer, Landscaper | Local Construction Firms, Landscaping Companies | Physical labor, teamwork, attention to detail | $13–$17/hour |
| Manufacturing | Production Line Worker, Assembler | Food Processing Plants, Local Manufacturers | Mechanical skills, precision, safety compliance | $12–$16/hour |
Strategies to Secure Part-Time Jobs
- Leverage Second-Chance Programs
- Wisconsin organizations like Project RETURN and JustDane assist felons in job training and placement.
- Highlight Skills and Certifications
- Completing certifications, such as OSHA safety training or forklift operation, can make candidates more appealing to employers.
- Network Locally
- Community job fairs and local workforce development agencies often connect job seekers with employers who are open to hiring felons.
- Utilize Online Resources
- Websites like Indeed, Snagajob, and Second Chance Jobs for Felons offer part-time listings in Wisconsin.
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Wisconsin
McDonald’s
McDonald’s is known for its inclusive hiring policies, offering positions like crew member, cook, and cashier. The company provides flexible part-time shifts and opportunities for advancement through its training programs. Felons with good customer service and teamwork skills often thrive here.
Walmart
Walmart frequently hires individuals with diverse backgrounds for roles such as stock clerk, cashier, and inventory associate. They offer competitive pay, benefits, and career growth opportunities, making it a good choice for part-time employment.
Amazon
Amazon’s fulfillment centers across Wisconsin hire warehouse associates for tasks like packaging, sorting, and inventory management. Their second-chance hiring initiatives make them a viable option for felons seeking part-time roles with flexible schedules.
Home Depot
Home Depot welcomes applicants with a felony record for positions like sales associate, cashier, and stocker. The company values customer service skills and offers training programs to help employees excel in their roles.
Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut provides opportunities for felons in roles such as delivery driver, server, and cook. With a focus on teamwork and customer service, the company supports individuals looking to rebuild their careers.
UPS
UPS hires part-time workers for roles like package handler and sorter. These positions involve physical labor but don’t typically require driving, making them accessible to those with driving-related offenses.
Menards
Menards, a home improvement retailer, offers positions like warehouse worker, cashier, and stock clerk. They prioritize candidates with strong work ethics and provide a supportive environment for skill development.
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill is well-known for its mission-driven approach to hiring. They frequently offer roles such as retail associate and donation attendant, providing a chance to gain work experience while contributing to community-focused initiatives.
Uber Eats and DoorDash
These gig economy platforms offer flexible delivery jobs where a felony may not be a disqualifier, depending on the type and recency of the offense. They’re ideal for individuals seeking part-time work with minimal direct supervision.
Food Processing Plants
Wisconsin’s robust food manufacturing industry includes companies like Tyson Foods and Kraft Heinz, which often hire production line workers and assemblers. These roles require attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, most background checks for employment typically go back seven years for criminal convictions, per federal guidelines under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). However, this can vary depending on the employer and the nature of the job. Some positions, such as those in healthcare, finance, or roles requiring government clearance, may require a more extensive criminal history review. Wisconsin does not have a law limiting how far back employers can look, so they may review records beyond seven years if relevant to the job.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Wisconsin?
These legal protections and incentives encourage employers to give second chances while reducing risks and financial burdens associated with hiring felons.
Legal Protections
- Liability Shield: Employers in Wisconsin are generally protected under the Wisconsin Fair Employment Act from being sued solely for hiring someone with a criminal record unless the offense directly relates to the job.
- Ban-the-Box Policy: Although Wisconsin does not have a statewide ban-the-box law, local jurisdictions may have ordinances that prevent employers from asking about criminal history on initial job applications.
Incentives for Employers
- Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC): Employers can receive a federal tax credit of up to $2,400 for hiring individuals with felony convictions within one year of their release or conviction.
- Federal Bonding Program: This program provides employers with free bonding insurance for six months to cover any potential loss due to employee dishonesty. It reduces the perceived risk of hiring individuals with a criminal background.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Wisconsin
These high-paying jobs for felons in Wisconsin require varying levels of skill and certification, making them accessible for individuals willing to invest in skill development.
| Job Role | Industry | Employers | Required Skills | Average Salary |
|---|
| Truck Driver | Transportation | Schneider, Roehl Transport | CDL license, time management, navigation | $50,000–$70,000/year |
| Electrician | Construction | Local Contractors, Union Jobs | Electrical knowledge, certifications (Journeyman or Master Electrician) | $45,000–$65,000/year |
| Welder | Manufacturing | Miller Electric, Local Fabricators | Welding certifications (AWS), precision | $40,000–$60,000/year |
| HVAC Technician | Maintenance | Johnson Controls, Local HVAC Firms | HVAC certification, troubleshooting, safety compliance | $45,000–$60,000/year |
| Diesel Mechanic | Automotive | Penske, Ryder | Mechanical skills, technical certifications (ASE) | $40,000–$55,000/year |
| Warehouse Manager | Logistics | Amazon, Walmart Distribution | Leadership, inventory management, organizational skills | $45,000–$55,000/year |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | Construction | Local Construction Companies | Equipment operation certification, physical stamina | $40,000–$55,000/year |
| Computer Technician | Technology | Small IT Firms, Freelance | IT certifications (CompTIA, Cisco), troubleshooting | $40,000–$50,000/year |
| Commercial Painter | Construction | Local Painting Contractors | Painting skills, attention to detail | $35,000–$50,000/year |
| Carpenter | Construction | Local Contractors, Union Jobs | Woodworking, blueprints reading, physical labor | $35,000–$50,000/year |
Conclusion
Wisconsin’s commitment to fostering second chances ensures that individuals with a felony record can rebuild their lives through meaningful employment. By embracing industries and employers that prioritize skills over past mistakes, felons can find opportunities to contribute to their communities and achieve financial stability. The combination of supportive programs, legal protections, and employer incentives underscores the state’s dedication to reintegration and economic inclusivity. With persistence, skill development, and access to the right resources, individuals can overcome barriers and embark on a path to a brighter future.
