Top 20 Companies That Hire Felons (with Job List) (2024)

Is being a criminal the end of the road? Or do some deserve a second chance at life? Today we provide you with a list of companies that believe in the latter, along with other relevant details. This does not mean that any criminal can just walk back into society. Some other processes and factors must be considered, so stay aboard to know more.

What Are Felon-Friendly Jobs?

Job profiles that are open to accepting those who have committed felonies are called felon-friendly jobs. Crimes are generally of two types: misdemeanors and felonies. A person who commits a felony is referred to as a felon.

Misdemeanors are typically less severe offenses that do not carry prison sentences. Felonies, on the other hand, are the more severe ones and can be punishable by imprisonment. Felons may struggle to re-integrate into society and face other challenges on the road to redemption and changing their lives.

Sectors For Jobs That Hire Felons

Some sectors tend to be comparatively more felon-friendly than others. It is important to know this beforehand when deciding where to work. Finding the right industry can make the transition into the work environment a lot easier.

Some common industry options include Retail, Automotive, Customer Support, Landscaping, Construction, Food Production, Hospitality, Transport, Manufacturing, Restaurants, groceries, Warehousing, etc.

Another plus point of the roles available in these industries for felons is that most of them don’t require a great deal of education. A lot of them are also hands-on and may require a bit of on-the-job training.

Top Felon Friendly Jobs

There are many job titles out there, and most companies are willing to recruit felons to fill those positions. Some companies have certain stipulations that must be followed when hiring an ex-convict, but there are more than enough opportunities available to those on the hunt.

1. Oil & Gas Rotary Drill Operator

National Average Salary: $37/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

Ex-convicts can be considered for the job if they are willing to work and learn. Candidates may have to reside in remote regions, as many gas and oil fields are situated far away from large towns and cities. They are involved in performing tasks such as setting up and controlling huge drills to help extract oil, gas, or underground samples.

It is a hands-on job that will require basic on-the-job training. If they attain a senior position, they may be required to train others who are their subordinates. They need to be good problem solvers and have a good aptitude for understanding how machines function.

2. SynkdUp Headhunter

National Average Salary: Depends Upon Performance (Source: SynkdUp)

The recruitment marketing industry is on the rise with the headhunter role gaining prominence quickly. A Headhunter simply connects job seekers and employers thereby acting as a middleman. The exact roles of the headhunter vary by company and industry.

SynkdUp has its own “SynkdUp Headhunter Program”. It follows a commission-based model enabling you to earn up to $25 for each successful application. The job can be carried out alone for the most part and does not require much social interaction making it suitable for ex-convicts. All you need to do is share jobs on social media or stick fliers around in relevant places.

It is great on a community level, as it helps people find jobs and provide for their families. It helps the economy by reducing unemployment. A lot of criminals turn to crime due to unemployment, so it can help prevent people from turning down the wrong path.

3. Commercial Diver

National Average Salary: $33/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a bit of an exciting one and allows for the employment of felons, depending upon the policies of the recruiter. It involves swimming underwater to help install, inspect, fix, and remove certain structures. The role requires both exceptional diving and swimming abilities along with technical knowledge.

Some commercial divers perform underwater search and rescue operations if needed. Commercial divers need to keep their diving equipment clean and maintain it to ensure it operates effectively. They need to be aware of safety protocols to keep themselves and others out of harm’s way.

4. Content Writer

National Average Salary: $31/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This job is primarily carried out individually and offers a great opportunity for felons. It requires candidates to have a good grasp of the assigned language along with good written communication abilities. It can even be performed by candidates without a degree, provided they can convince the recruiter of their capabilities.

Companies look for content writers in many industries and the job can be done on a freelance or work-from-home basis. Having good typing speed and the ability to conduct independent research help massively. It is a great job for those who possess good levels of creativity.

5. Film/Video Editor

National Average Salary: $29/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a great job title for felons, as the majority of their work is done individually. This makes it easier for them to be accepted in the workplace. It is great for candidates with an eye for creativity and has great scope for advancement as technology is on the rise.

Applicants need to possess basic computer skills, along with knowing how to operate video editing software and online tools. They have great opportunities in the entertainment and media industries.

6. Substance Abuse Counselor

National Average Salary: $28/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a job that offers felons not just the opportunity to earn money and attain a livelihood but also a chance to prevent others from falling down the same path as they did in the past. It has been found that individuals who have genuinely repented from their crimes offer useful insights that can help prevent others from trodding down that same path.

Individuals in such roles are typically hired by social agencies or rehabilitation programs. They may be required to conduct classes, group discussions, or even deliver seminars on the subject. Hence, good communication and even public speaking can help greatly.

7. Delivery Drivers

National Average Salary: $22/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a good, felon-friendly job option for candidates who have a driver’s license. Even criminals who have committed traffic infractions may be eligible for such jobs, provided they can convince employers that they have reformed.

Delivery drivers must transport goods from the distribution center to the consumer. Goods may be items of all types, like food, home decor, appliances, etc. They must be punctual to ensure timely service to customers. They must also ensure products are carried over safely and assigned vehicles are maintained well.

Warehouse Workers

National Average Salary: $20/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

It is a job title that acts as a bit of an umbrella term. It covers numerous roles responsible for performing all kinds of functions and ensuring a warehouse functions smoothly. Most of these roles are willing to accept ex-convicts as their applicants, provided they show signs of reform and can perform their duties well.

Some common professions in the warehouse industry include stocker, laborer, material handler, loader, receiver, warehouse clerk, etc. Most of these roles also do not require a degree and may be performed well with a bit of on-the-job training.

Top Felon Friendly Jobs

There are many job titles out there, and most companies are willing to recruit felons to fill those positions. Some companies have certain stipulations that must be followed when hiring an ex-convict, but there are more than enough opportunities available to those on the hunt.

1. Oil & Gas Rotary Drill Operator

National Average Salary: $37/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

Ex-convicts can be considered for the job if they are willing to work and learn. Candidates may have to reside in remote regions, as many gas and oil fields are situated far away from large towns and cities. They are involved in performing tasks such as setting up and controlling huge drills to help extract oil, gas, or underground samples.

It is a hands-on job that will require basic on-the-job training. If they attain a senior position, they may be required to train others who are their subordinates. They need to be good problem solvers and have a good aptitude for understanding how machines function.

2. SynkdUp Headhunter

National Average Salary: Depends Upon Performance (Source: SynkdUp)

The recruitment marketing industry is on the rise with the headhunter role gaining prominence quickly. A Headhunter simply connects job seekers and employers thereby acting as a middleman. The exact roles of the headhunter vary by company and industry.

SynkdUp has its own “SynkdUp Headhunter Program”. It follows a commission-based model enabling you to earn up to $25 for each successful application. The job can be carried out alone for the most part and does not require much social interaction making it suitable for ex-convicts. All you need to do is share jobs on social media or stick fliers around in relevant places.

It is great on a community level, as it helps people find jobs and provide for their families. It helps the economy by reducing unemployment. A lot of criminals turn to crime due to unemployment, so it can help prevent people from turning down the wrong path.

3. Commercial Diver

National Average Salary: $33/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a bit of an exciting one and allows for the employment of felons, depending upon the policies of the recruiter. It involves swimming underwater to help install, inspect, fix, and remove certain structures. The role requires both exceptional diving and swimming abilities along with technical knowledge.

Some commercial divers perform underwater search and rescue operations if needed. Commercial divers need to keep their diving equipment clean and maintain it to ensure it operates effectively. They need to be aware of safety protocols to keep themselves and others out of harm’s way.

4. Content Writer

National Average Salary: $31/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This job is primarily carried out individually and offers a great opportunity for felons. It requires candidates to have a good grasp of the assigned language along with good written communication abilities. It can even be performed by candidates without a degree, provided they can convince the recruiter of their capabilities.

Companies look for content writers in many industries and the job can be done on a freelance or work-from-home basis. Having good typing speed and the ability to conduct independent research help massively. It is a great job for those who possess good levels of creativity.

5. Film/Video Editor

National Average Salary: $29/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a great job title for felons, as the majority of their work is done individually. This makes it easier for them to be accepted in the workplace. It is great for candidates with an eye for creativity and has great scope for advancement as technology is on the rise.

Applicants need to possess basic computer skills, along with knowing how to operate video editing software and online tools. They have great opportunities in the entertainment and media industries.

6. Substance Abuse Counselor

National Average Salary: $28/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a job that offers felons not just the opportunity to earn money and attain a livelihood but also a chance to prevent others from falling down the same path as they did in the past. It has been found that individuals who have genuinely repented from their crimes offer useful insights that can help prevent others from trodding down that same path.

Individuals in such roles are typically hired by social agencies or rehabilitation programs. They may be required to conduct classes, group discussions, or even deliver seminars on the subject. Hence, good communication and even public speaking can help greatly.

7. Delivery Drivers

National Average Salary: $22/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

This is a good, felon-friendly job option for candidates who have a driver’s license. Even criminals who have committed traffic infractions may be eligible for such jobs, provided they can convince employers that they have reformed.

Delivery drivers must transport goods from the distribution center to the consumer. Goods may be items of all types, like food, home decor, appliances, etc. They must be punctual to ensure timely service to customers. They must also ensure products are carried over safely and assigned vehicles are maintained well.

8. Warehouse Workers

National Average Salary: $20/hour (Source: GlassDoor)

It is a job title that acts as a bit of an umbrella term. It covers numerous roles responsible for performing all kinds of functions and ensuring a warehouse functions smoothly. Most of these roles are willing to accept ex-convicts as their applicants, provided they show signs of reform and can perform their duties well.

Some common professions in the warehouse industry include stocker, laborer, material handler, loader, receiver, warehouse clerk, etc. Most of these roles also do not require a degree and may be performed well with a bit of on-the-job training.

Top 20 Companies That Hire Felons

There are a lot of well-known companies that offer second chances to felons. Some may even surprise you. Most of the roles that accept such candidates are usually blue-collar but that doesn’t mean they can’t pay a decent amount.

1. Amazon

Amazon is one of the big names in the E-Commerce industry, but you’ll be surprised to know that they still have a felon-friendly policy and show no bias toward ex-offenders. This is especially true for jobs like warehouse workers and delivery drivers.

The company pays more attention to resumes, interview skills, performance, etc. than criminal records. They also have bulk hiring for blue-collar roles in the company from time to time. They also offer task-related training in many cases.

2. Walmart

A trendy and well-loved international brand, Walmart, is felon-friendly too. Their job applications do not discriminate against past offenders, but they do conduct thorough background checks. If an ex-convict has a clean record after leaving jail, they have every chance of getting hired.

Some job titles that accept former criminals include store, driving, and distribution center jobs. Roles like stockers, cashiers, cart attendants, sales associates, truck drivers, freight handlers, etc. all offer the potential for those looking to get into the work environment again after jail.

3. PepsiCo

The company is mainly involved in the food and beverage industry. The company conducts background checks and is open to hiring felons. However, it does not have a uniform policy when hiring felons and reviews them on a case-by-case basis. Jobs like fleet technicians, warehouse workers, drivers, etc. do consider felons.

4. Dunkin’ Donuts

It is an accomplished coffee and doughnut brand. It is an American multinational corporation with a hiring policy that considers felons. While recruiting, it takes into account the severity of the crime committed and reviews each case separately.

Also, expect a background check, like any other company. Some roles where previously imprisoned candidates can try their luck are Baker, Delivery truck Driver, Crew Member, etc. Some of these jobs may require some basic training too.

5. Home Depot

They are America’s largest home improvement retailer. It is a member of the Ban The Box family and undertook the Fair Chance Pledge. Although they do not deny opportunities to criminals, being involved in those of a violent nature may reduce your odds of being hired.

Those previously convicted of felony crimes can apply for job profiles in retail stores or distribution centers. These include job titles like warehouse workers, office associates, cashiers, customer service, delivery drivers, merchandising, etc.

6. Chipotle Mexican Grill

It is a Mexican fast-casual restaurant that offers Mexican cuisine to customers. They have over 2,000 outlets in the United States itself. They are known for their good quality meat and for doing all their cooking in-house.

They strongly believe in diversity and inclusion. The main vacancy a former felon can fill is that of a crew member. They also provide training, even for cooking-related jobs, so even those who are not the best in the kitchen can catch on.

7. FedEx

They are a prominent multinational conglomerate that has ventures in business services, transport, e-commerce, etc. The company also often asks for references to examine your integrity. This usually involves people from previous jobs to see if you are a good worker and also see if you’ve reformed after time in prison.

The company also analyzes your substance use history to ensure you do not have any addiction issues. A good resume and cover letter are also given priority by them when recruiting felons, or anyone for that matter.

8. Tyson Foods

It is a multinational company that is based in the United States and works in the food industry. The company typically avoids questions about criminal records in its job applications. Their idealogy when recruiting is to emphasize more on qualifications.

The company is known for providing good-quality meat to consumers. The work environment is quite fast-paced. Job titles like groundskeepers, attendants, general laborers, etc. can be filled by felons.

9. IKEA

It is a Swedish multinational conglomerate that offers various home-related products and services. It is also currently the top furniture retailer in the world. Applicants at IKEA must agree to a pre-employment check that examines several factors.

If a candidate rejects this, they cannot be employed. If they agree then they have every chance of being hired, even if they have a prison history. Some roles where felons have a good chance of acceptance are Contact Center Co-workers, cashiers, Stockers, etc.

10. Uber

It is a well-known global brand that operates in freight transport, ride-hailing and food delivery. Uber has strongly voiced support for criminals looking for a second chance in life and entering the work environment. If the crime a candidate was involved in took place years ago, Uber is likely to ignore it.

The main role felons can apply for is that of driving partner. Firstly, one will need a driving license as they will be needed to drive around passengers in either a private vehicle or one leased out by a company. They must drive well and safely, as well as keep the ride clean and presentable.

11. Prudential Financial

The American corporation is listed in the Fortune 500 and Fortune Global 500 too. The company and its subsidiaries together provide various services, like managing investments, insurance, retirement planning, etc. They serve clients from over 40 countries.

Due to the field in which they operate, crimes such as fraud or others that are financial may lead to immediate rejection. Other crimes may alone not get you rejected, as long as you have a good CV and showcase the skills needed for the job.

12. Ben & Jerry’s

It is a U.S.-based company that focuses on the production of food items like sorbet, ice cream, frozen yogurt, etc. The company takes a more open position concerning recruitment and is willing to hire felons.

A lot of their suppliers, too, like Greyton Bakery, offer second chances to criminals and believe in giving them opportunities to re-integrate with society. These include both entry-level roles and even management positions if they can prove themselves.

13. Unilever

It is an MNC that offers packaged goods of various types like beauty products, food, home care, etc. It was formed as a merger between the British company Lever Brothers and the Dutch firm Margarine Unie. The company has multiple offices in the United States as well.

The company has a progressive viewpoint in terms of hiring convicts. They do conduct background checks to get an idea of the client’s history. A huge part of a felon being hired comes down to the person interviewing them. But there have still been a good number of candidates with convictions who have landed the job.

14. Gap

It is a major player in the global clothing and accessories market. Most of the roles available for ex-convicts will involve direct interaction with customers. Good interpersonal skills are a huge plus point for those interested in working with the organization.

As mentioned earlier, since these jobs involve dealing with customers, certain crimes may immediately disqualify felons. Jobs like stockers, cashiers, etc. are good options. Most roles require high school graduates, though, and past retail experience also helps. So being a former criminal alone may not get you overlooked, but there are also other factors involved.

15. Facebook

It is one of the top companies in the world in terms of its online presence. It has hundreds of millions of users and is a social media giant. The company strongly believes in unbiased recruitment. It has been vocal about it in the past and has also signed the Fair Chance Pledge.

The company conducts background checks and has a thorough application process too. It is important to showcase skills and qualifications well in the resume. If you have the capabilities and do well in the interview, you have every chance of being hired.

16. Pizza Hut

They are a top brand in the fast food industry. It also has a well-established franchise system for its restaurant chain. The company’s application processes vary by location. They typically expect candidates to be over 18 and at least high school graduates.

The company does not discriminate against felons while hiring. It is recommended that candidates mention it in their application. It is better to let the company know beforehand than hide it and have them find out later on. Lots of ex-prisoners have been able to find jobs here. Also, some roles allow workers to make extra cash from tips.

17. American Airlines

It is one of the most important airline companies in the world. It is the top airline when it comes to revenue passenger miles and scheduled passenger traffic. It also takes good care of employees and offers them perks like health coverage, 401(k) plans, travel discounts, etc. It is a good option for former convicts to kickstart their journey back into the workplace.

Also, aviation-related job titles require candidates to undergo a Federal Aviation Administration background check. These are known to be a lot more thorough than some of the other background checks. But in the end, the company does give those with a criminal record a chance to join.

18. General Mills

It is a big-shot MNC that carries out the marketing and production of processed consumer food items sold in retail stores. The company offers job openings in a wide variety of roles, which increases your chances of landing a job with the company.

As part of the recruitment process, candidates must consent to a drug test or a background check. A felony may not necessarily turn you down but they do consider how long ago it was and also the nature of the crime.

19. Google

The company is an internet powerhouse and is known for treating and compensating employees well. It also signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge, which was an important initiative allowing criminals a second chance on a large scale.

The firm allows felons to join, provided they have relevant experience and training too. As long as one is well-qualified a criminal record should not hurt. Also, a good interview, as well as knowing how to write an effective resume, can help you go a long way.

20. McDonald’s

The company is one of the top fast-food chains on the planet. Although the company is not officially for or against either, there have been plenty of criminals who have been able to gain employment with the company.

Also, since it has a lot of franchises, the application procedures tend to vary a bit from location to location. Most outlets run background checks, but some choose not to. It is still best to not hide crimes from employers and also be specific about what role you want to perform in the company.

How To Find And Apply For A Job As A Felon

Figuring out how to get a job can be challenging for anyone. For a felon, the task can get all the more daunting. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back!

Be Honest

It is best to come out with the truth early on in the application process rather than hide it and have them find out later on. The latter will look bad on you as a person, while the former shows a bit of sincerity and intent to reform.

Do Your Homework

There are many companies currently that are very open about their felon-friendly hiring policies. Research these things beforehand, and also see if the nature of your crime may be held against you for the job that you are applying for.

For example, if you want to work for a financial services company but your crime involves monetary fraud, it may be better to try another industry like fast food or retail. This will help you save time later on too.

Be Well Prepared

Of course, you’ll need to have a good resume and, if you feel necessary, a cover letter too. For this, go through what they are looking for and find skills you have that can match that. Also, work on your communication skills so that you can give a good interview. So make sure you have all of these bases covered. Dressing well and formally can help out too.

Bonus: Felony-Friendly Temp Agencies And Staffing Agencies

Staffing agencies are organizations that work as intermediaries between companies and aspiring employees to fill vacancies. A temp agency is a type of staffing agency that specializes in short-term contracts.

Many such agencies are felon-friendly too, so doing some reading online and finding a good one that specializes in the type of job you are looking for helps. It acts like having someone vouch for you as well.

BEWARE: Typically, companies pay staffing and temp agencies to fill their vacancies. The job seeker's DO NOT HAVE TO PAY ANY AMOUNT AT ALL. Some agencies may ask you to pay an upfront fee for “registration purposes” or something. These are to be avoided and are likely to be scams. So make sure you determine the credibility of these agencies if you use them.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)