Felon Friendly Jobs in Milwaukee | 2and Chance Employment
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, approximately 3,500 ex-offenders are released from prison each year, with 80% requiring employment assistance. To support their reintegration into society, various organizations offer felon-friendly job opportunities. Statistics show that 65% of ex-offenders who gain employment within the first year of release are less likely to recidivate.
Milwaukee’s 2and chance employment initiatives have led to a 30% increase in job placements for ex-offenders over the past three years. The most in-demand jobs for felons in Milwaukee include manufacturing, construction, and warehousing, with median salaries ranging from $25,000 to $40,000 annually. Additionally, 40% of Milwaukee employers are willing to hire ex-offenders, providing a pathway to economic stability and rehabilitation.
Latest Second chance Jobs in Milwaukee
Some of the listed jobs are open to felons with no experience. Click on the ‘Apply Now‘ button to secure your position.
Highest-Paying Felon-Friendly Jobs in Milwaukee
| Industry | Job Roles | Hourly Salary Range | Remarks |
|---|
| Construction | Carpenter, Electrician, Plumber | $20 – $35 | Skilled trades offer high wages and often require certifications that are accessible to felons. |
| Truck Driving | CDL Truck Driver | $22 – $30 | Many trucking companies offer felon-friendly policies for CDL-licensed drivers. |
| Healthcare | Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $18 – $25 | Entry-level healthcare roles like CNAs are accessible with proper certification. |
| Manufacturing | Machine Operator, CNC Operator | $18 – $28 | Skilled manufacturing roles prioritize technical abilities over background. |
| Logistics | Forklift Operator, Dispatcher | $17 – $24 | Roles in logistics and warehouse management are in high demand. |
| Delivery Services | Delivery Driver | $20 – $30 (including tips) | High demand for drivers in Milwaukee, with opportunities in food and package delivery. |
| IT & Technology | IT Support Specialist | $22 – $30 | Tech companies often hire felons for IT support roles with relevant training. |
| Utilities | Maintenance Technician | $20 – $28 | Utility companies hire for maintenance and repair roles with competitive pay. |
| Sales | Sales Representative | $18 – $25 (plus commissions) | Sales roles can lead to high earnings through commissions and bonuses. |
| Union Jobs | Various Skilled Trades | $25 – $40 | Union positions often provide excellent pay, benefits, and second-chance hiring. |
List of Specific Companies Hiring Felons in Milwaukee
These companies have shown a commitment to giving second chances, though hiring decisions may vary depending on the role and the nature of the offense. Always verify current hiring policies with each employer.
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill is known for its second-chance employment programs, offering roles like donation attendants, retail associates, and warehouse workers. They focus on helping individuals reintegrate into the workforce, providing on-the-job training and career development opportunities.
Amazon
Amazon offers warehouse and logistics positions such as pickers, packers, and delivery drivers. The company evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis and values reliability and a strong work ethic.
UPS
UPS frequently hires felons for package handling and warehouse positions. Their seasonal roles, especially during holidays, are a good entry point and may lead to long-term opportunities.
Home Depot
Home Depot provides felons with opportunities in roles like cashiers, stockers, and sales associates. They are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce.
McDonald’s
As one of the largest fast-food chains, McDonald’s often hires individuals with felony convictions for positions such as crew members, cooks, and maintenance staff. The work environment emphasizes teamwork and flexibility.
Walmart
Walmart offers positions such as stockers, cashiers, and warehouse workers. The company is known for its inclusive hiring policies and provides opportunities for advancement over time.
FedEx
FedEx hires felons for package handling and delivery roles. They focus on skills and dependability, and positions often include training and benefits.
Menards
Menards is a home improvement chain that hires felons for roles in stocking, sales, and customer service. They provide a supportive environment and prioritize a positive attitude and strong work ethic.
Alorica
Alorica operates call centers and hires felons for customer service roles. These positions often include paid training and can be remote or in-office, depending on location.
Cintas
Cintas, a supplier of uniforms and facility services, hires felons for positions such as production workers and delivery drivers. The company values consistency and dependability.
Which other states offer Second Chance Employment?
Part-Time Felon-Friendly Jobs in Milwaukee
| Industry | Job Roles | Hourly Salary Range | Remarks |
|---|
| Retail | Stocker, Cashier, Sales Associate | $12 – $16 | Many large retail chains offer second chance hiring programs. |
| Food Service | Cook, Server, Dishwasher, Delivery Driver | $11 – $15 | Fast food and casual dining often hire without extensive background checks. |
| Construction | General Laborer, Painter, Carpenter | $15 – $20 | Entry-level construction roles are often open to individuals with records. |
| Warehouse/Logistics | Picker/Packer, Forklift Operator | $14 – $18 | Logistics roles prioritize physical capability over background checks. |
| Cleaning Services | Janitor, Housekeeper, Maintenance Worker | $12 – $17 | Cleaning companies are often flexible with hiring requirements. |
| Customer Service | Customer Support Representative | $13 – $18 | Remote and on-site roles available with minimal background scrutiny. |
| Delivery Services | Delivery Driver | $15 – $22 (including tips) | Flexible schedules; background checks focus more on driving history. |
| Manufacturing | Assembly Line Worker, Machine Operator | $14 – $20 | Manufacturing jobs often prioritize skills over past records. |
| Landscaping | Gardener, Groundskeeper | $13 – $18 | Seasonal work available with little emphasis on background checks. |
| Nonprofits | Donation Attendant, Retail Associate | $12 – $16 | Nonprofits like Goodwill actively support second chance employment. |
How Far Back Do Most Background Checks Go for Employment in Milwaukee?
In Milwaukee, most background checks for employment typically go back seven years. This is consistent with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) guidelines, which limit how far back certain criminal records can be reported for positions paying under $75,000 annually.
However, some employers may review records beyond seven years, especially for roles in healthcare, finance, or childcare, where stricter regulations apply. The scope and depth of the background check often depend on the employer’s policies and the nature of the job.
What are the Legal Protections and Incentives for Employers in Milwaukee?
Milwaukee offers various legal protections and incentives to encourage employers to hire individuals with criminal records, including:
1. Wisconsin Fair Employment Act (WFEA):
This law prohibits employers from discriminating against individuals based on arrest or conviction records unless the offense directly relates to the job. It ensures fair hiring practices and helps individuals with records secure employment.
2. Federal Bonding Program:
Employers in Milwaukee can access free fidelity bonds through this program. These bonds protect against employee theft or dishonesty, providing reassurance to businesses when hiring individuals with criminal records.
3. Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC):
Employers who hire individuals from target groups, including those with felony convictions, can claim a federal tax credit. The credit can range up to $9,600 per eligible employee, depending on their employment and hours worked.
4. Ban-the-Box Initiative:
Although Wisconsin does not mandate a statewide “Ban-the-Box” policy, many Milwaukee employers voluntarily delay asking about criminal history until later in the hiring process, ensuring fair consideration for all candidates.
5. Community Reinvestment Programs:
Local Milwaukee programs, such as those offered by Employ Milwaukee and other workforce development organizations, provide training and financial incentives to businesses that hire from disadvantaged populations, including individuals with criminal records.
These protections and incentives aim to reduce employment barriers for individuals with records while supporting businesses in making inclusive hiring decisions.
Conclusion
Milwaukee’s commitment to second-chance employment reflects a growing recognition of the value individuals with criminal records bring to the workforce. The city is paving the way for a more inclusive job market with a range of industries and employers offering opportunities, combined with supportive legal frameworks and community programs. By focusing on skills, reliability, and potential, rather than past mistakes, Milwaukee provides a pathway for individuals to rebuild their lives while addressing the city’s workforce needs. This collaborative approach benefits not only job seekers but also businesses and the community as a whole.
