Having a felony conviction can be a significant barrier to finding employment, but it's not impossible. Many companies are willing to give individuals a second chance, and some even specialize in hiring felons. In this article, we'll explore some job opportunities and industries that are more likely to hire individuals with felony convictions.
The Importance of Second Chance Employment
Second chance employment opportunities are crucial for individuals with felony convictions. It provides them with a chance to reintegrate into society, support themselves and their families, and start rebuilding their lives. Employment is also a key factor in reducing recidivism rates, as it provides individuals with a sense of purpose and stability.
Types of Jobs That Hire Felons
While many companies have policies against hiring felons, there are some industries and jobs that are more open to hiring individuals with felony convictions. Here are some examples:
- Construction and Labor Jobs: Many construction and labor companies hire felons, especially those with experience in the industry. Jobs may include construction laborers, carpenters, electricians, and plumbers.
- Warehouse and Manufacturing Jobs: Warehouse and manufacturing companies often hire felons for roles such as warehouse workers, assembly line workers, and material handlers.
- Food Service and Hospitality Jobs: Restaurants, cafes, and hotels often hire felons for roles such as kitchen staff, servers, and housekeeping.
- Customer Service and Call Center Jobs: Many companies hire felons for customer service and call center roles, especially those with experience in the industry.
- Trucking and Transportation Jobs: Trucking and transportation companies may hire felons for roles such as truck drivers, delivery drivers, and warehouse workers.
Companies That Hire Felons
While many companies have policies against hiring felons, there are some that are more open to hiring individuals with felony convictions. Here are some examples:
- Target: Target has a policy of hiring felons, especially those who have completed their sentences and have a clean record.
- Walmart: Walmart also hires felons, especially those with experience in retail or customer service.
- McDonald's: McDonald's has a program called "McDonald's Second Chance" which provides job training and employment opportunities to individuals with felony convictions.
- FedEx: FedEx has a policy of hiring felons, especially those with experience in transportation and logistics.
- Amazon: Amazon has a program called "Amazon Second Chance" which provides job training and employment opportunities to individuals with felony convictions.
Tips for Finding Jobs That Hire Felons
Finding jobs that hire felons can be challenging, but here are some tips to increase your chances of success:
- Use job search websites: Websites such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor often have job listings that specify "felony-friendly" or "second chance employment".
- Network with people: Networking with people in your industry or community can help you find job opportunities that are more open to hiring felons.
- Highlight your skills: Highlighting your skills and experience can help you stand out as a candidate, even if you have a felony conviction.
- Be honest: Being honest about your felony conviction is crucial when applying for jobs. Many companies appreciate honesty and may be more willing to hire you if you are upfront about your past.
Resources for Finding Jobs That Hire Felons
Here are some resources that can help you find jobs that hire felons:
- National H.I.R.E. Network: The National H.I.R.E. Network is a non-profit organization that provides job training and employment opportunities to individuals with felony convictions.
- Second Chance Jobs: Second Chance Jobs is a job search website that specializes in listing job opportunities for individuals with felony convictions.
- Felony Jobs: Felony Jobs is a job search website that lists job opportunities for individuals with felony convictions.
- Local non-profits: Many local non-profits provide job training and employment opportunities to individuals with felony convictions.
Conclusion
Finding jobs that hire felons can be challenging, but it's not impossible. By highlighting your skills and experience, networking with people, and being honest about your past, you can increase your chances of success. Remember to use job search websites, resources, and networking opportunities to find job opportunities that are more open to hiring individuals with felony convictions.
Gallery of Printable Job Search Resources for Felons
FAQs
What types of jobs hire felons?
+Many types of jobs hire felons, including construction and labor jobs, warehouse and manufacturing jobs, food service and hospitality jobs, customer service and call center jobs, and trucking and transportation jobs.
What companies hire felons?
+Some companies that hire felons include Target, Walmart, McDonald's, FedEx, and Amazon. Many other companies also hire felons, so it's essential to research and network to find job opportunities.
How can I find jobs that hire felons?
+You can find jobs that hire felons by using job search websites, networking with people, highlighting your skills and experience, and being honest about your past. You can also use resources such as the National H.I.R.E. Network and Second Chance Jobs to find job opportunities.