Best Jobs For Felons In New York: Opportunities For A Fresh Start

New York offers a wide range of job opportunities for individuals with felony convictions seeking to rebuild their lives.

While some industries may present challenges, many employers in New York recognize the value of giving second chances to motivated individuals.

Jobs For Felons In New York

Lets dive into some of the best jobs available to felons in New York, focusing on industries, specific roles, salaries, and tips for securing employment.

1. Truck Driving

Why It’s a Good Fit:

The trucking industry is known for its openness to hiring felons, provided certain conditions are met, such as the type and age of the conviction.

New York, with its ports and extensive highway systems, has a high demand for truck drivers.

Job Options:

-CDL-A Truck Driver: Average salary $55,000–$85,000 per year.
-Delivery Driver: Average salary $30,000–$45,000 per year.

Companies Hiring Felons:

-Swift Transportation
-CRST Expedited
-Schneider National

How to Get Started:

If you don’t already have a CDL, consider enrolling in a CDL training program. Many companies, like Swift, offer paid training.

2. Construction and Skilled Trades

Why It’s a Good Fit:

New York’s booming real estate market has led to a strong demand for construction workers and skilled tradespeople. These roles often prioritize hands-on experience and certifications over background checks.

Job Options:

-General Laborer: Average salary $30,000–$40,000 per year.
-Electrician: Average salary $50,000–$60,000 per year.
-Plumber: Average salary $45,000–$65,000 per year.
-HVAC Technician: Average salary $40,000–$55,000 per year.

Companies Hiring Felons:

-Local contracting firms
-Construction companies like Bechtel and Turner Construction

How to Get Started:

Consider joining an apprenticeship program or obtaining a certification from a local trade school. The New York Department of Education offers resources for vocational training.

3. Hospitality and Tourism

Why It’s a Good Fit:

New York’s tourism industry is bustling, providing opportunities in hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Many entry-level roles in this sector don’t require extensive background checks.

Job Options:

-Hotel Housekeeper: Average salary $25,000–$35,000 per year.
-Restaurant Server: Average salary $20,000–$40,000 per year (including tips).
-Line Cook: Average salary $25,000–$35,000 per year.

Companies Hiring Felons:

-Broadway and Off Broadway theaters
-Cruise Boats
-Major hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton

How to Get Started:

Apply for entry-level roles and focus on demonstrating a strong work ethic. Some positions, like in housekeeping or kitchen work, may provide on-the-job training.

4. Retail and Warehousing

Why It’s a Good Fit:

New York’s retail and e-commerce sectors are thriving, leading to a growing demand for warehouse workers, stockers, and delivery drivers. These roles often prioritize reliability over background checks.

Job Options

Warehouse Associate: Average salary $30,000–$40,000 per year.
Stocker: Average salary $25,000–$30,000 per year.
Forklift Operator: Average salary $35,000–$45,000 per year.
Delivery Driver: Average salary $35,000–$50,000 per year.

Companies Hiring Felons:

–Amazon
–Walmart
–UPS and FedEx
-Target

How to Get Started:

Apply directly to company websites or attend local job fairs. Forklift certification can improve your chances for higher-paying roles.

5. Landscaping

Why It’s a Good Fit:

New York’s extensive parks as well as residential homes provide plenty of opportunities for work in landscaping, and groundskeeping.

Job Options:

-Landscaper: Average salary $25,000–$35,000 per year.
-Groundskeeper: Average salary $30,000–$40,000 per year.

Companies Hiring Felons:

-Local landscaping firms
-Golf courses and parks

How to Get Started:

No formal education is required, but some positions may require basic training in equipment handling. Contact local landscaping companies for openings.

6. Food and Beverage Industry

Why It’s a Good Fit:

New York is considered the culinary capital of the world. This means there is no shortage of entry-level and career advancement opportunities for felons in small and large restaurants, chains, buffets, etc.

Job Options:

-Dishwasher: Average salary $22,000–$27,000 per year.
-Prep Cook: Average salary $24,000–$30,000 per year.
-Restaurant Manager: Average salary $40,000–$60,000 per year.

Companies Hiring Felons:

-Chain restaurants like Denny’s, Chili’s, and Olive Garden
-Local diners and cafes
-Catering companies

How to Get Started:

Most positions offer on-the-job training. Start with entry-level roles to build experience and credibility.

7. Customer Service and Call Centers

Why It’s a Good Fit:

New York’s large service industry includes customer service roles that can be performed in-office or remotely. Many companies are willing to hire felons who demonstrate strong communication skills.

Job Options:

-Call Center Representative: Average salary $30,000–$40,000 per year.
-Customer Support Specialist: Average salary $35,000–$50,000 per year.
-Sales Associate: Average salary $30,000–$45,000 per year (including commissions).

Companies Hiring Felons:

-Teleperformance
-Sykes
-Local call centers and tech support companies

How to Get Started:

Strong interpersonal skills and basic computer proficiency are essential. Highlight any past customer service experience during interviews.

8. Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship

For felons struggling to find traditional employment, starting a small business or freelancing can be an excellent option. Florida’s business-friendly climate makes this especially appealing.

Opportunities:

Handyman services: Average earnings $40,000–$60,000 per year.
Cleaning services: Average earnings $30,000–$50,000 per year.
Food truck owner: Average earnings $50,000–$100,000 per year.

How to Get Started:

Identify your skills and market demand in your area. Take advantage of resources like the New York Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for guidance on starting a business.

Tips for Felons Seeking Jobs in New York

Focus on Industries Open to Hiring Felons: Research companies that are “felon-friendly” or have signed the Ban the Box pledge, which delays background checks until later in the hiring process.

Obtain Certifications or Training: Enrolling in trade schools, CDL programs, or online certifications can make you a more attractive candidate.

Be Honest About Your Background: Transparency builds trust. Highlight steps you’ve taken toward rehabilitation and personal growth.

Use Job Placement Services: Organizations like CareerSource Florida specialize in helping individuals with barriers to employment, including felony convictions.

Leverage Second-Chance Programs: Florida has several re-entry programs, such as Operation New Hope and FLHIRE, which help felons transition back into the workforce.

Is New York A Good Place For Felons To Find Work?

New York offers numerous opportunities for felons to rebuild their lives through meaningful employment.

From high-demand industries like trucking and construction to hospitality and entrepreneurship, there are roles suited for a wide range of skills and interests.

By focusing on industries open to second chances, obtaining relevant certifications, and leveraging re-entry resources, you can overcome barriers and find a path to financial stability and personal growth.