Is there a list somewhere of companies that hire convicted felons? This is a question that has been asked countless times by ex-felons looking for jobs. There are probably thousands of companies that hire convicted felons but you won’t have much luck looking for a complete list on the internet. Why? The companies that hire convicted felons don’t really want to advertise the fact since their clients or customers might take it the wrong way.

How to Find Felon Friendly Jobs:

So if you are an ex-felon looking for a job, how can you find companies that hire felons? Although there is no comprehensive listing of all such companies, you can call or visit the following to ask them about jobs for felons.

• Nowadays many prisons have programs that help ex-felons reenter the workforce.

• Your parole officer may be able to help you.

• The labor department or state employment office should be able to lend you a hand, too.

• There are many non-profit organizations also help ex-felons find employment.

• Temp agencies will know of some companies that hire convicted felons.

• Church-based organizations may also be able to assist ex-offenders with finding jobs.

Obviously, not every business that hires ex-felons will be on a list somewhere. Try applying for jobs in the smaller or family-run businesses. Even the big companies may hire ex-felons, partly because companies that hire convicted felons are given an incentive in the form of a tax credit (Work Opportunity Tax Credit).

What are the kinds of jobs for felons available? Any type of company can hire felons except certain very specific jobs that require the use of firearms or explosives and most likely those involving minors and the elderly.

Examples of organizations and employment for felons are those that are in the following businesses: trucking, delivery, movers, restaurants, bakeries, hotels, gyms, construction, etc. Non-profit organizations are often quite willing to give an ex-felon a chance, depending on the type of felony conviction.

Did you know that even the US Military has many different jobs for ex-felons? The criminal history waiver program allows a military recruitment officer to enlist an ex-felon.

In recent years, the US Army has stated that around one in eight recruits needed a waiver to enlist in the Army. Of course, the military won’t accept just anybody. They do pick and choose people whom they think will be an asset to the service.

If you have learned a trade or profession then you won’t even need to look for companies that hire convicted felons. You can also work for various companies as an independent contractor or freelancer.

For example, many smaller companies don’t have a computer technician on their payroll. When they need someone to repair or upgrade computers then they will have to call a freelance computer technician to do the work. They won’t bother to do background checks on someone who will just be there for a day or two.

Strictly speaking then, you don’t need to limit yourself to employment for felons because you can simply work freelance as a masseuse, photographer, programmer, graphic artist, personal chef, trainer, journalist, etc.

There are many companies that hire convicted felons. You can find more information about them by asking your parole officer or state employment office. In addition, some non-profit and church-based organizations may be able to help you find companies that hire convicted felons. You may also be able to earn a good living simply by working freelance or as an independent contractor for many companies that hire convicted felons.