Companies That Hire Felons

Finding work after a felony conviction can seem impossible. Many businesses, particularly large ones, will not even consider hiring someone with a criminal record. But it’s not all bad news. Depending on your state of residence and the nature of your felony, you may still be a viable candidate for a variety of jobs. A promising career could be right around the corner with a little research and some solid references. To get you started, let’s look at a few different types of companies that hire felons.

Skilled Labor Positions

Companies that hire skilled laborers like welders, electricians, carpenters, and HVAC technicians are frequently willing to overlook a felony conviction. While some of these options necessitate licensing or trade school, employers are frequently willing to train you on the job with only a high school diploma or GED.

Skilled labor jobs are among the highest-paying professions for convicted felons, and there is a growing demand for these workers. However, keep in mind that these jobs are frequently performed at odd hours, both indoors and outdoors, and in sometimes uncomfortable conditions such as heat, cold, and tight spaces. Do your research and understand what you’re getting yourself into before applying. If one of these positions is a good fit for you, chances for advancement are often available.

Grocery Stores

Costco, Krogers, Whole Foods Market, and Safeway are among the grocery store chains that have shown a willingness to hire felons. While you won’t likely start with a high salary, there is usually room for advancement and you’ll be able to establish a track record of stability.

These positions will almost certainly include stocking shelves, bagging groceries, and unloading trucks. Some of these jobs require overnight work, and you must be able to work in cold environments while stocking freezers and refrigerated storage areas.

Retail

Similarly, many large retail outlets have demonstrated that a prior felony conviction will not prevent you from working for them. Walmart, Target, Home Depot, IKEA, and a slew of other retailers are eager to give you a second chance.

These positions are typically associated with stocking and warehouse work. Managers may choose to let you work the cash register, depending on your track record. To increase your chances of finding a hiring manager willing to overlook your record, apply to as many open positions as possible.

Delivery Services

Depending on the nature of the conviction, many delivery services, including FedEx, UPS, Amazon, and DoorDash, will hire felons. A clean driving record is required for these positions, so make sure you won’t be disqualified on that basis before applying.

Delivery drivers are in high demand. However, getting your foot in the door will most likely be easiest around November. The holiday season is the busiest time for drivers, so be prepared to work long hours.

Hotels

Hotels and motels are excellent places to start in the custodial/maintenance industries. Marriott, Hilton, and other hotel chains will not turn you away because of a previous conviction.

Cleaning, maintenance, and assisting customers with luggage are common tasks in these hospitality jobs. While these positions can be demanding, they are an excellent way to establish a track record as a reliable employee.

Restaurants

Working in a restaurant may be the simplest job for a convicted felon to obtain. Many fast-food restaurants have a good track record of not discriminating against people with criminal records. McDonald’s, Burger King, KFC, Taco Bell… and so on. If you don’t want to work in fast food, you can get a good job at places like Chili’s, Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, and Buffalo Wild Wings. Look online for a list of restaurants that are known for hiring felons.

Restaurants are excellent places to demonstrate your dedication and hard work in order to be considered for promotions.

Oil and Gas

Companies like ExxonMobile, Chevron, and BP are willing to hire felons. The majority of these jobs provide on-the-job training and do not even require a high school diploma.

This is a rapidly growing industry, but many people do not apply because the work is difficult. Oil and gas companies, on the other hand, can be an excellent opportunity for a long and well-paying career if you’re willing to put in the time and effort.

Never Give Up

Though getting started on a new career path with a felony conviction can be difficult, it is not impossible to find work. You can be back in the workforce and on your way to a promising future with some research, a few solid references for work and character, and a lot of determination. What is the quickest way to get started? Contact Allegiance Staffing right away. We work with many companies that hire felons and can help you get back to work as soon as possible.

An editorial team that comes together to facilitate the processes that job seekers will encounter.

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