Best Industries For Felons To Find Jobs In 2025

Finding a job with a criminal record is tough, but it’s not impossible. Many industries are opening up to help people with past convictions get hired. New jobs and skills are opening doors for those who want to work.

Even with this progress, it’s still hard for felons to find work because of unfair biases. This can cause poverty and make it easier to re-offend.

But there are ways to overcome this—show your skills, build your support network, and prove you’ve changed.

Best Industries For Felons Looking For Work

A number of fast growing industries offer excellent career paths for individuals with criminal records, providing opportunities to develop valuable skills and build stable careers.

These roles often prioritize practical skills and reliability, minimizing the impact of past convictions.

Construction: High demand exists for skilled trades such as carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and general labor. Annual earnings range from $40,000 to $80,000+, depending on experience and location. Apprenticeships provide valuable training and certification.

Transportation: E-commerce growth has significantly increased demand for delivery drivers, warehouse staff, and truck drivers. These roles offer flexibility and good earning potential ($35,000 to $65,000+ annually); some may require a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Manufacturing: Increased automation creates opportunities for skilled technicians, machine operators, and maintenance personnel. These positions often offer advancement opportunities and on-the-job training, with salaries ranging from $40,000 to $75,000+. Prior mechanical skills or relevant experience are beneficial.

Hospitality: The hospitality sector (hotels, restaurants, etc.) consistently needs customer service-oriented employees. Roles include cooks, servers, housekeepers, and front desk staff. While entry-level wages may be lower, advancement and higher earnings are possible with experience and strong performance. Excellent communication and teamwork are crucial.

Transferable Skills Sought by Employers

Many employers are seeking individuals who possess a range of transferable skills, which can be applied across various job roles. Felons often possess a diverse skill set due to their life experiences, making them valuable assets to employers. Some transferable skills sought by employers include:

Problem-Solving: Felons often develop strong problem-solving skills through overcoming challenges and navigating complex situations.

Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and adapt to new environments is essential in many work settings.

Teamwork: Felons can have experience working effectively with diverse individuals, which is crucial for success in team-oriented roles.

Communication: Building rapport, conveying ideas clearly, and effectively communicating with others are essential skills in most work environments.

Time Management: Experience in managing time and meeting deadlines can be a valuable asset in any job.

Navigating the Job Search with a Criminal Record

Navigating the job search with a criminal record can be challenging, but it is achievable with a strategic approach. Here are some tips for increasing the chances of success:

Highlight transferable skills: Emphasize your transferable skills, such as problem-solving, resilience, teamwork, communication, and time management. Frame these skills in a way that showcases your value to potential employers.

Tailor your resume: Customize your resume for each job application, highlighting skills and experiences that are relevant to the specific role. Use keywords that are likely to be searched by employers in their recruiting software.

Focus on rehabilitation: Show employers that you’ve taken steps toward rehabilitation. Include volunteer work, educational achievements, or other positive contributions to your community.

Be transparent and prepared: Be prepared to address your criminal history in a professional and honest manner. Explain the circumstances surrounding your conviction, how you’ve grown since then, and the steps you’ve taken to improve yourself.

Leverage support networks: Connect with organizations and individuals who can provide guidance and support during your job search. These networks can offer career counseling, resume assistance, and networking opportunities.

Workplace Policies and Legal Protections for Felons

In recent years, there has been a growing movement to promote fair hiring practices and provide legal protections for felons. These efforts aim to level the playing field and create a more inclusive job market.

Workplace policies and legal protections for felons include:

The Fair Chance Act: This federal law prohibits employers from asking about criminal history until a conditional job offer is made. This allows candidates to showcase their skills and qualifications before their criminal record is considered.

Ban the Box: This initiative removes the “check the box” question on job applications that asks about criminal history. By eliminating this barrier, Ban The Box allows felons to apply for jobs without immediately disclosing their criminal past.

State-level laws: Many states have implemented laws that restrict employers’ ability to discriminate against felons, including limitations on background checks and restrictions on asking about criminal history.

Strategies for Securing Meaningful Employment

Securing meaningful employment is a journey that requires persistence, resilience, and a positive mindset. Here are some strategies to increase your chances of success:

Networking: Expand your professional network through online platforms, industry events, and community groups. Connect with individuals who can provide insights, guidance, and referrals.

Skill development: Continuously invest in your skills and knowledge through online courses, vocational training programs, or higher education. This will enhance your marketability and open doors to new career opportunities.

Volunteer work: Volunteer for organizations that align with your interests and values. This demonstrates your commitment to community involvement and builds valuable skills.

Mentorship: Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and support throughout your career journey. Mentors can offer valuable insights, share their experiences, and help you navigate the complexities of the job market.

Persistence: Don’t give up. Rejection is a part of the process, but it’s important to remain persistent and keep searching for opportunities that match your skills and aspirations.