Jobs for Felons Near Me. Having a criminal record may be difficult, but you can still find work if you are determined and creative! Recidivism happens when men and women escape prison and can not find support such as housing or jobs. Employers may be less likely to hire you when you have a criminal record.
However, others are willing to take a chance on you! Did you know some politicians are felonies and go back into politics when they get out of prison? There was a United States, D.C. mayor with a felony record and drug conviction.
After his release, he was elected as a DC council member and later became Mayor again! So please don’t give up. There is a good job or position out there with your name on it. Some programs can help you go back to school. Don’t let your past determine your future, and don’t take no for an answer!
Jobs for Felons Near Me – Felon-Friendly Companies
When looking for a job, you will have a greater possibility of success if you apply for work in a field that is friendly to people with criminal backgrounds. When looking for employment, you must inform your potential employer that you have and record.
This will avoid the heartbreak of getting hired only to have your employer discover that you have been hiding your past and lose your job. Many employees are open to hiring people with felonies if they see you have the background, the potential, and the attitude necessary to be successful on the job.
- Ace Hardware
- Allied Van Lines
- Aramark
- AT&T
- Caterpillar Inc
- Chipotle
- Dupont
- Firestone Complete Auto Care
- Goodwill
- General Mills
- Greyhound
- K-Mart
- Lowe’s
- Haul
- Subway
- Chick-fa-la
- Pet Smart
Local Re-entry Programs Help Prepare for a Job
A re-entry program is designed to help promote the successful reintegration of ex-offenders into their communities after their release. A re-entry program is committed to helping people find employment and housing to become productive members of citizens. Some of the programs offer ex-offenders, vocational training, and help with drug rehabilitation.
More than likely, convicts are enrolled in a reentry program before their release from prison. These support systems are put in place to ensure that these men and women have a pathway to normalcy and success.
A reentry program may be the only support for those with criminal backgrounds, and both secular and faith-based programs are available. The United States Department of Justice supports the Prisoner Reentry Initiative. This program targets both youthful offenders as well as adults. (See links at the end of the article for reentry programs)
Industries that Hire Felons for Jobs
It can be an uphill battle to find work when you have a criminal record. Yet, some industries don’t write you off just because you made a mistake. If you have a record, consider some of these fields.
- Trucking industry
- Construction
- Manufacturing
- Self-employment
- Barber/Cosmetology
- Food industry
- Hospitality
- Family business
- Customer Service
Truck Driving Jobs
Many people with a record have found successful careers in the trucking industry. The industry is always hiring, and you can get a job depending on the type of crime. There is also a requirement that the criminal offense is 5 to 10 years old. Talk to the recruiter about your background to learn the company’s rules.
Trucking is also great if you hate to be cooped up and love to stay on the road! Many trucking companies are looking for drivers with and without experience.
You will need to check the company’s hiring policy, as many companies hire people with criminal records. Many offer help with financing for training and getting your CDL license. Within a few months, you can be on the road and earn a living.
Become your Own Boss
A criminal record doesn’t stop you from starting your own small business. Being self-employed is a great way to regain your place in society and earn a living for yourself and your family. Furthermore, you will not have to worry about others digging into your background or judging you for past mistakes.
What skills do you have? What can you do well that you are proud of? Can you take down a tree? Do you have a green thumb? Are you artistic? Are you good with computers? Can you paint a room? What can you do well that you can turn into a business?
Restaurant Work
Don’t turn your nose up at work in the food industry. It is an excellent place to get started, and money is money. If you are smart, personable, and have leadership abilities, you can eventually work your way into managerial positions. Most food industry jobs have training programs for those who are considering management. Keep in mind that the food industry is very stressful, and if this is not your cup of tea, that is OK. There are other jobs to be considered.
Job Hunting Guide with a Criminal Record
When a person with a criminal record begins a job search, they must prepare for the interview just like everyone else. That means being appropriately attired, having a current resume, and knowing what the employer is looking for.
When going on an interview, if you are a man, wear a dress shirt and tie; if you are a woman, always wear a skirt or dress in stockings or dress slacks. You want to look as professional as possible and give the impression that you are serious and mean business. This is true, even if going for a labor position.
Your appearance is your calling card, and you will be judged instantly by your appearance. You know the saying, “you only have one chance to make a good first impression!” If you do not have the attire necessary to give a good impression, call around to see what agencies, churches, Dress for Success, or thrift stores for appropriate clothes.
Tell the Truth about your Past
As an ex-offender, you need to be prepared to discuss with your interviewer the reason for incarceration. It is always good to share what you learned from prison and how you have been rehabilitated. Do not dwell on your past; explain and move on to the strengths and skills you bring to the job!
Look at Your Strengths and Abilities
These skills can be turned into small businesses or contract work. Are you starting to see the possibilities? Self-employment works best when you have someone to support you until you can get the business going. However, it is also something you can do on the side while working another job as you develop a steady clientele.
In addition, some programs give Small Business Grants to those with a criminal past. (check out the links below) Once you decide what you want to do, go online to Vista. There you can order inexpensive business cards. Begin to tell friends and family to look out for those needing your services.
Talk about your Skills
When interviewing, discuss any on-the-job training or apprenticeship programs you have. while in or out of prison. It is helpful to let the employer know one of the benefits of hiring someone with a criminal history is a tax credit provided by the government. A federal bonding program provides an employer with up to $5,000 against any damages.
Other Resources
- Transitional Housing
- Housing for Ex-Offender
- Second Chance Act
- Reentry Employment Opportunities (REO)
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