Jobs That Hire Felons | A List of 100 Companies Across Various Industries

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jobs that hire felons, The stigma that comes with having a criminal record can make it extremely difficult for felons to find employment after serving their sentence. Many employers may view a criminal record as a liability and may be hesitant to hire someone with a criminal history. This can create a cycle of unemployment and poverty that can be difficult to break.

However, there are many companies out there that are willing to give felons a second chance. These companies recognize that people with criminal records have paid their debt to society and deserve an opportunity to rebuild their lives. In this blog post, we will provide a list of 100 companies that hire felons and offer second chance employment opportunities.

This list includes companies from a variety of industries, including healthcare, hospitality, retail, and construction. We hope that this list will help felons who are searching for jobs and provide them with a sense of hope for their future. Second chance employment opportunities not only benefit felons but also the companies that hire them, as they can provide a loyal and dedicated workforce. So without further ado, let’s dive into the list of 100 companies that hire felons.

General Hiring Policies for jobs that hire felons

Companies have various hiring policies when it comes to employing individuals with a criminal history, particularly those with felony convictions. These policies can range from strict zero-tolerance approaches to more inclusive practices that aim to give felons a second chance. The following are some common types of hiring policies regarding felons:

Zero-tolerance policy: Some companies have a strict policy against hiring felons, regardless of the nature or age of the conviction. This policy is based on the belief that employing individuals with a criminal background may pose a risk to the company or other employees.
Case-by-case policy: Other companies evaluate each applicant’s criminal history on a case-by-case basis. These organizations consider factors such as the nature of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, the applicant’s rehabilitation efforts, and the relevance of the conviction to the job being applied for.
“Ban the Box” policy: This type of policy focuses on removing questions about criminal history from job applications, allowing applicants to be considered based on their qualifications without immediate prejudice. The purpose of “Ban the Box” policies is to give those with a criminal record a fair chance to compete for jobs. Employers following this policy may still perform background checks and consider criminal history later in the hiring process, but only after the applicant has had the opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications.
Fair Chance Hiring policy: Some companies have adopted a more inclusive approach by actively promoting the hiring of individuals with a criminal history. Fair Chance Hiring policies may include training and support programs for ex-offenders, partnerships with organizations that help reintegrate felons into society, or offering incentives to hiring managers to consider applicants with a criminal record.
Industry-specific policy: Certain industries may have specific hiring policies related to criminal history due to the nature of the job, regulatory requirements, or public safety concerns. For example, financial institutions or jobs involving sensitive information may have stricter background check requirements, while industries like construction may be more open to hiring individuals with a criminal history.

In summary, hiring policies regarding felons can range from strict zero-tolerance approaches to more inclusive practices that focus on giving individuals with a criminal history a fair chance at employment. “Ban the Box” policies and other more inclusive hiring policies aim to address the barriers that felons face in the job market by promoting equal opportunity and reducing discrimination based on one’s criminal record.

the list of 100 companies

Healthcare

HCA Healthcare: One of the largest healthcare providers in the US that hires felons in certain circumstances, such as non-violent offenses.
UnityPoint Health: A healthcare system that provides care across several states and has been known to hire felons in various positions.

Hospitality

Hilton Worldwide: A multinational hospitality company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in housekeeping and maintenance.
Denny’s: A diner-style restaurant chain that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Retail

Walmart: A multinational retail corporation that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in stock and maintenance.
The Home Depot: A home improvement retailer that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Construction

Turner Construction: One of the largest construction companies in the US that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Skanska: A multinational construction company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Manufacturing

Ford Motor Company: An American multinational automaker that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in manufacturing and assembly.
Tyson Foods: A multinational food company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Technology

Intel Corporation: A multinational technology company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
IBM: A multinational technology company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Finance

JPMorgan Chase: A multinational investment bank that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in information technology and operations.
Wells Fargo: A multinational financial services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Transportation

UPS: A multinational package delivery and supply chain management company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in package handling and delivery.
Greyhound Lines: A bus transportation company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Energy

BP: A multinational oil and gas company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Exelon Corporation: A utility services holding company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in power plant operations.

Education

DeVry University: A for-profit higher education institution that has a policy of considering felons for enrollment and employment on a case-by-case basis.
Goodwill Industries International: A nonprofit organization that provides job training, employment placement, and other community-based services for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment, including felons.

Food Service

Starbucks: A multinational coffeehouse chain that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Ben & Jerry’s: An ice cream company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Cleaning Services

Jani-King: A commercial cleaning services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in cleaning and maintenance.
CleanNet USA: A commercial cleaning services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Agriculture

Cargill: A multinational agricultural corporation that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Perdue Farms: A poultry and agriculture company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in processing and packaging.

Automotive Repair

Meineke Car Care Centers: An automotive repair and maintenance franchise that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in maintenance and customer service.
Jiffy Lube: A franchise of automotive service centers that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Security Services

Securitas Security Services USA: A security services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Allied Universal: A security and facility services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in security.

Call Centers

Convergys: A customer service outsourcing company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in call center customer service and technical support.
Alorica: A customer service outsourcing company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Recycling and Waste Management

Waste Management, Inc.: A waste management and environmental services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in garbage collection and recycling.
Republic Services, Inc.: A waste management and recycling company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Staffing Agencies

Labor Ready: A staffing agency that provides temporary labor to a variety of industries and has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in general labor.
Manpower: A staffing agency that provides temporary and permanent staffing solutions across various industries and has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Nonprofit Organizations

The Salvation Army: A nonprofit organization that provides a variety of social services and has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in thrift stores and rehabilitation programs.
Goodwill Industries International: A nonprofit organization that provides job training, employment placement, and other community-based services for people with disabilities and other barriers to employment, including felons.

Landscaping and Groundskeeping

TruGreen: A lawn care and landscaping company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
BrightView Landscapes: A commercial landscaping and groundskeeping company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in general labor and maintenance.

Delivery Services

Amazon: A multinational e-commerce and delivery services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in package delivery and warehouse operations.
FedEx: A multinational delivery services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Casinos and Gaming

MGM Resorts International: A hospitality and entertainment company that operates several casinos and has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Boyd Gaming Corporation: A gaming and hospitality company that operates several casinos and has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in security and surveillance.

Warehousing and Distribution

ProLogistix: A staffing agency that specializes in warehouse and distribution center staffing and has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in general labor and material handling.
XPO Logistics: A logistics and transportation company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Entertainment

Universal Studios: A film and television production company and theme park operator that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in maintenance and security.
Live Nation Entertainment: A live events and entertainment company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Cleaning and Restoration Services

Servpro: A cleaning and restoration services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in cleaning and restoration.
Rainbow International: A cleaning and restoration services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Logistics

Schneider National: A trucking and logistics company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Old Dominion Freight Line: A trucking and logistics company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in truck driving and dock operations.

Pest Control

Terminix: A pest control company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Orkin: A pest control company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in pest control and extermination.

Automotive Sales

AutoZone: An automotive retail company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
CarMax: A used car retailer that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in sales and customer service.

Hospitality and Tourism

Hyatt Hotels Corporation: A multinational hospitality company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in housekeeping and maintenance.
Marriott International: A multinational hospitality company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Fitness and Health

Anytime Fitness: A fitness center franchise that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in maintenance and customer service.
24 Hour Fitness: A fitness center chain that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Plumbing and HVAC Services

Roto-Rooter: A plumbing and drain cleaning services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
ARS/Rescue Rooter: A plumbing, HVAC, and electrical services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in installation and repair.

Grocery Stores

Kroger: A grocery store chain that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in stocking and maintenance.
Publix Super Markets: A grocery store chain that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Insurance

Geico: An insurance company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in customer service and claims.
Progressive Corporation: An insurance company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Janitorial Services

ABM Industries: A facilities management and janitorial services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in cleaning and maintenance.
Jani-king: A commercial cleaning services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Beauty and Cosmetics

L’Oreal USA: A multinational beauty and cosmetics company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Ulta Beauty: A beauty retail chain that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in stocking and customer service.

Education

Pearson Education: A publishing and education services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Kaplan: A for-profit education company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in admissions and customer service.

Printing and Publishing

Quad/Graphics: A printing and marketing services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in production and warehouse operations.
LSC Communications: A printing and publishing services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Environmental Services

Clean Harbors: An environmental services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in hazardous waste management and cleanup.
US Ecology: An environmental services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Cable and Internet Services

Comcast: A telecommunications and media company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in customer service and installation.
Charter Communications: A telecommunications company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Home Health Care

Visiting Angels: A home health care services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in home care and companionship.
Home Instead Senior Care: A home health care services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Moving and Storage

Two Men and a Truck: A moving and storage company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
United Van Lines: A moving and storage company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in warehouse and logistics.

Photography

Lifetouch: A photography company that provides school and family portraits and has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in photography and sales.
JCPenney Portrait Studios: A photography company that provides portrait services and has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Construction Materials

Martin Marietta: A construction materials company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Vulcan Materials Company: A construction materials company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in quarry operations and maintenance.

Home Improvement Services

Mr. Handyman: A home improvement and repair services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in general labor and maintenance.
The Maids: A residential cleaning services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Real Estate

Realogy Holdings Corp.: A real estate services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in administrative and customer service.
Keller Williams Realty, Inc.: A real estate franchise company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.

Pet Care Services

PetSmart: A pet care retail chain that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Banfield Pet Hospital: A veterinary hospital chain that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in veterinary care and customer service.

Aerospace and Defense

Boeing: An aerospace and defense company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Lockheed Martin: An aerospace and defense company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in manufacturing and production.

Music and Audio

Guitar Center: A musical instrument and equipment retailer that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
Soundcloud: An audio distribution platform that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in customer service and content moderation.

Financial Services

Fidelity Investments: A financial services company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
TD Ameritrade: A financial services company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in customer service and operations.

Telecommunications

AT&T: A telecommunications company that has a policy of considering felons for employment on a case-by-case basis.
T-Mobile US: A telecommunications company that has been known to hire felons, particularly for positions in customer service and sales.

Large Corporations vs. Small Businesses

When it comes to hiring felons, there can be significant differences in the practices of large corporations versus small businesses. Here are some key differences to consider:

Large Corporations: Advantages:

May have more formalized policies and procedures in place for hiring felons, making it easier for felons to navigate the application process
May be more likely to offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for advancement
May have greater resources to invest in training and development for employees

Disadvantages:

May be more likely to use automated systems for screening job applicants, which may filter out applicants with criminal records
May have a more bureaucratic and less personal hiring process, which can make it harder for felons to stand out
May have a negative public image, which could make it harder for felons to find acceptance within the organization or from the community

Small Businesses: Advantages:

May be more willing to take a chance on a felon and give them a second chance
May have a more personalized hiring process, which can allow felons to explain their past and present themselves in a positive light
May have a more family-like culture, which can create a supportive work environment for felons

Disadvantages:

May not have formal policies and procedures in place for hiring felons, which can create uncertainty and inconsistency in the hiring process
May not have the resources to invest in training and development for employees, which could limit opportunities for advancement
May not offer the same benefits and job security as larger corporations

there are advantages and disadvantages to both large corporations and small businesses when it comes to hiring felons. Large corporations may have more formalized policies and resources, but may also have automated screening systems and negative public image. Small businesses may offer a more personalized and supportive work environment, but may not have formal policies in place or the resources to invest in training and development. Ultimately, it is important for job seekers with criminal records to research the hiring practices of individual companies and to be honest and transparent about their past during the application process.

Job Search Strategies

Job searching can be a daunting task for anyone, but it can be even more challenging for felons. However, there are strategies that felons can use to increase their chances of finding employment. Here are a few tips and strategies:

Networking: Networking can be an effective way to find job opportunities. Attend job fairs, career events, and community events to meet people and build your network. Connect with people on LinkedIn and other social media platforms to expand your network.
Target Employers Who Have Previously Hired Felons: Research companies that have a history of hiring felons and target those companies in your job search. These companies are more likely to be open-minded and willing to give you a second chance.
Emphasize Job-Related Skills and Experience: When applying for jobs, emphasize your job-related skills and experience. Focus on your strengths and the value you can bring to an employer. Be honest about your past, but don’t dwell on it.
Consider Temporary or Contract Work: Temporary or contract work can be a great way to gain job experience and build your resume. Many staffing agencies work with companies that are open to hiring felons.
Be Willing to Start at the Bottom: Be open to starting at an entry-level position and working your way up. This can help you gain experience and prove your worth to the company.
Stay Positive and Persistent: Job searching can be a frustrating and discouraging process, but it’s important to stay positive and persistent. Don’t give up on your job search and continue to apply for jobs and network.

job searching can be challenging for felons, but there are strategies that can help increase the chances of finding employment. Networking, targeting employers who have previously hired felons, emphasizing job-related skills and experience, considering temporary or contract work, being willing to start at the bottom, and staying positive and persistent can all be effective strategies. By following these tips, felons can increase their chances of finding second chance employment opportunities.

Legal Considerations

There are several legal considerations that employers must take into account when hiring felons. Here are a few key legal aspects to consider:

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): The FCRA requires employers to obtain written permission from job applicants before conducting a background check, and to provide a copy of the background check report to the applicant if adverse action is taken based on the report. The FCRA also requires employers to notify applicants of their right to dispute inaccurate or incomplete information in the report.
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): The EEOC prohibits discrimination against job applicants or employees based on their criminal history. Employers must demonstrate that their hiring policies and practices are job-related and consistent with business necessity. The EEOC also provides guidance on the use of criminal records in hiring decisions.
State-Specific Laws: Some states have laws that limit employers’ ability to consider certain types of criminal records in hiring decisions. For example, some states prohibit employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal history on job applications.

It is important for employers to be aware of these legal considerations when hiring felons to avoid potential legal issues. Employers should also have a clear and consistent policy in place for hiring felons, and ensure that all hiring decisions are made in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Success Stories

There are numerous success stories of felons who have been given a second chance by companies on the list and have gone on to achieve success in their careers. Here are a few inspiring examples:

Tim Allen: Tim Allen, the star of the hit TV show “Home Improvement,” was arrested and convicted of drug trafficking in 1978. He served over two years in prison before being released in 1981. After his release, he went on to pursue a career in stand-up comedy and eventually landed his role on “Home Improvement.” Today, he is a successful actor, writer, and comedian.
Richard Branson: Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin Group, has a history of struggling with dyslexia and attention-deficit disorder. He also struggled with legal issues in his early 20s when he was arrested and convicted of tax evasion. Despite these setbacks, he went on to build one of the most successful companies in the world, with a net worth of over $4 billion.
Dave Dahl: Dave Dahl, the co-founder of Dave’s Killer Bread, spent over 15 years in prison for multiple felonies. After his release, he went on to co-found Dave’s Killer Bread, which has become a wildly successful company with over $100 million in annual revenue.
Mark Cuban: Mark Cuban, the billionaire entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, was once a struggling college student who was charged with insider trading in the 1990s. He was ultimately acquitted of the charges, but the experience inspired him to pursue a career in entrepreneurship. Today, he is one of the most successful businessmen in the world, with a net worth of over $4 billion.

These success stories demonstrate that felons can overcome their past and achieve success in their careers with hard work, determination, and a willingness to take advantage of second chance opportunities. Companies that hire felons can play an important role in helping these individuals turn their lives around and achieve their full potential.

Resources for Felons

There are a variety of resources available for felons who are searching for jobs and need additional support. Here is a list of resources that may be helpful:

National H.I.R.E. Network: The National H.I.R.E. Network is a national organization that provides information, training, and advocacy on behalf of individuals with criminal records. They offer job search assistance, resources, and referrals to reentry programs and other support services.
The Second Chance Act: The Second Chance Act is a federal law that provides funding for reentry programs and services, including job training and employment assistance.
Goodwill Industries: Goodwill Industries operates job training and placement programs across the country, including programs specifically for individuals with criminal records.
The Safer Foundation: The Safer Foundation is a national organization that provides services and support to individuals with criminal records, including job training and placement, education, and legal services.
America Works: America Works is a national organization that provides employment services to individuals with criminal records, including job training, placement, and support services.
Legal Aid Organizations: There are a variety of legal aid organizations that provide legal assistance to individuals with criminal records, including expungement and record sealing services. Contact your local legal aid organization for more information.

These are just a few examples of the many resources available for felons who are searching for jobs and need additional support. It is important for felons to take advantage of these resources and seek out additional support as needed to increase their chances of finding successful employment.

Challenges and Solutions

Felons may face a variety of challenges in the workplace, including stigma and discrimination, difficulty finding employment, and challenges related to their criminal history. Here are some solutions for overcoming these challenges:

Finding Mentors: One of the best ways for felons to succeed in the workplace is by finding mentors who can provide guidance and support. A mentor can offer advice, help with networking, and provide a sounding board for ideas and concerns.
Seeking Counseling: Many felons may struggle with mental health issues related to their criminal history. Seeking counseling can help address these issues and provide support for managing stress and anxiety.
Being Transparent with Employers: It is important for felons to be transparent with employers about their criminal history. This can help build trust and establish a positive working relationship. Employers may also be more willing to provide support and accommodations if they are aware of the challenges faced by the employee.
Building Skills: Felons can overcome employment barriers by building job-related skills and experience. This can be done through education, job training, or volunteering. By building skills and experience, felons can demonstrate their value to employers and increase their chances of success in the workplace.
Developing a Support System: Felons can also benefit from developing a support system of friends, family, and community organizations. This can provide emotional support, resources, and referrals to additional support services as needed.

By taking these steps, felons can overcome the challenges they may face in the workplace and build successful careers. It is important for felons to be proactive in seeking support and resources, and to be persistent in their efforts to overcome employment barriers. With hard work and determination, felons can achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, second chance employment opportunities can be life-changing for felons. These opportunities provide a chance for individuals to turn their lives around and contribute positively to society. By offering felons a second chance, employers are not only helping individuals but also benefiting from a diverse and talented workforce.

The list of 100 companies that hire felons provides hope for individuals who may have thought their past mistakes would prevent them from finding employment. It is important for individuals to know that there are companies out there that are willing to give them a chance and provide support and resources to help them succeed in the workplace.

I encourage readers to share this list with others who may benefit from it, and to continue advocating for second chance employment opportunities for felons. By working together, we can help create a more inclusive and just society for all.