It’s no secret that felons face an uphill battle when it comes to securing gainful employment. But with a little effort and guidance, felons can find some of the best careers in 2024.
Whether you’re looking for a short-term job or something longer-term, felons with the proper training and attitude have plenty of options.
This article will examine some of the best careers for felons in 2024, from entry-level jobs to higher-paying positions.
We’ll also provide tips on how to make yourself a more attractive candidate to employers.
So if you’re ready to take control of your future, let’s get started.
The Challenges Felons Face When Seeking Employment
The road to recovering from a past felony can be a long and difficult one, especially when it comes to finding employment.
And while less than 1% of the population is affected by felony convictions, they still face an uphill battle for job opportunities.
Fortunately, several jobs without background checks are available, so felons can pursue these careers with the peace of mind of not having their criminal history excluded.
Felons are also encouraged to take advantage of resources such as job training, mentorship programs, and educational courses explicitly created for those with a criminal record.
These resources will help felons gain the skills necessary to pursue a career that fits their needs and stand out from other applicants.
By equipping themselves with the right tools and knowledge, felons, too, can have hope for a better future with employment opportunities available for them in 2023.
The Benefits of Felon-Friendly Employers
One of the great things about looking for felon-friendly careers is that many employers are willing to take a chance on you based on your skills and abilities.
Work-from-Home Opportunities
Many companies overlook your record and hire you for work-from-home jobs if you can work remotely.
Not only does this offer flexibility for scheduling around family commitments. But it also allows felons to explore careers in fields such as IT, software development, web design, and customer service without attending an in-person interview or explaining their past convictions.
Fair Wages
Many employers that accept felons also understand the need for fair wages and job security.
These employers will pay livable wages and provide a safe, secure working environment; something felons may not have experienced in the past.
Furthermore, many of these employers provide health insurance coverage and other benefits which can help ensure financial security for felons looking for work.
Employee Supports
Employers who employ felons often have employee support services to help employees transition back into work after release from prison or probation.
These can be anything from counseling services to job training programs that help felons gain new skills and adapt to their new environment quickly and easily.
Overall, employers that hire felons understand that people with significant life setbacks deserve a chance at redemption and success.
This is why they offer fair wages, employee support, and other benefits while giving opportunities still barred by other organizations.
Best Careers For Felons In 2024
Believe it or not, many career fields are generally open to felons and provide meaningful opportunities.
Finding a job may not be easy, but you can achieve it with proper research and effort.
So which career fields are generally open to felons? Here are a few of the best:
1. Healthcare
Healthcare is an industry that employs many people with criminal records in roles such as medical or dental assistants, patient care technicians, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), home health aides, and more.
Most healthcare employers perform background checks but will consider applicants with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis.
2. Truck Driving
Truck driving is a great career choice for felons since it often involves short-term travel and offers high wages and steady work.
Most companies will consider applicants with felonies depending on their nature when they occurred, and their related driving record.
3. Transportation & Warehousing
This sector covers many jobs, such as delivery drivers, warehouse workers, public transit operators, etc.
Felons may have an easier time applying for these jobs because employers may be more lenient regarding background checks.
4. IT & Computer Programming
The technology industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors today. Many IT companies are open to hiring felons for positions such as computer programmers, database analysts, and cybersecurity specialists.
Companies often focus on skills rather than past mistakes when reviewing applications from felons.
These career fields can offer great opportunities for those with criminal records if they are willing to apply themselves and do some research beforehand.
Many companies understand that past mistakes don’t define who you are today and
Companies That Hire Felons
One thing you might need to learn is that there are companies that hire felons! This means you don’t have to let your conviction keep you from having a successful career.
But where do you find these companies?
State Resources
You can start by checking out state resources like the Department of Labor and Rehabilitation Services or local businesses.
These organizations and businesses might have job postings specially catered to felons, and they can provide support with the job application process.
Private Sector Companies
Some private-sector companies hire felons. For example, Amazon, Home Depot, and Walmart are just some places where felons can seek employment. Some may even specialize in hiring ex-convicts, so watch for those.
It’s also important to note that different states have different laws when hiring felons or people with criminal records, so be sure to research the laws in your state before applying for any job opening.
With the right resources and opportunities, finding a career as a felon is possible!
How to Search for Jobs as a Felon
The job hunt can be challenging if you’re a felon trying to make a new start. It’s vital to research potential employers before applying—many companies won’t accept applications from felons.
If you’re unsure how to go about your job search, looking for jobs through reputable programs explicitly designed for felons might be helpful.
Here are some things to consider when searching for jobs as a felon:
1. Look into Programs Explicitly Designed for Felons
Numerous job placement programs and organizations can help felons find meaningful, entry-level positions across various fields.
2. Visit Websites With Felony-friendly Employers
Sites like Goodwill and Ban the Box list companies hiring felons dedicated to giving individuals with criminal backgrounds second chances in the workforce.
3. Search for Jobs Through State-run Programs
Reentry programs offer vocational training, educational resources, housing, and other assistance that could help you secure employment once you get out of prison.
4. Reach out to Local Community Groups and Religious Organizations
These groups often help former inmates reintegrate into society by providing mentorship, educational classes, and job placement assistance.
5. Contact Temp Agencies
Working through a temp agency is one of the easiest ways for someone with a criminal record to get their foot in the door at an employer since they don’t typically perform background checks on short-term employees.
Tips for Job Hunting With a Criminal Record
If you have a criminal record, you might think you don’t have many options for good jobs.
But that’s not necessarily the case! Here are some tips to help you find the best possible job in 2024.
1. Ensure Your Records are Accurate
Before you start job hunting, ensure all your records are accurate. You want employers to be looking at the right information, not an erroneous account of your history.
That way, when they see it, they can form a more accurate opinion of who you are and what makes you a great employee.
2. Take Advantage of “Ban-The-Box” Laws
Many states have “ban-the-box” laws, which means employers can’t ask about your criminal record until after deciding to make a job offer- If they make one.
Be aware of what these laws mean for your job search so that you can take advantage of them if possible.
3. Don’t Let Yourself Be Defined By Your Past
No matter what, don’t let yourself be defined by your past. Instead, focus on the skills and experiences that will make you stand out in the job market and for employers looking for qualified candidates in 2023.
4. Show off Your Soft Skills
Soft skills like communication and empathy often must be noticed during a standard resume review process.
Show these skills on your resume and during interviews so potential employers know why you’d be a great candidate for their open positions.
These tips should help give felons the edge they need when job hunting in 2023!
Conclusion
The good news is that there are plenty of careers for felons, and some of them pay better than you might think.
Of course, it’s essential to research the specific requirements for the job you’re interested in.
A background check is a standard part of the hiring process, so being open and honest about your situation is essential.
Diligence and perseverance are critical when finding the right job for you. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t find the perfect job immediately.
Many resources are available to help you find the best career for felons in 2024. With enough research and dedication, you can find the right job.
