Finding a job with a felony record can be challenging, but many reputable companies actively hire felons and provide second-chance opportunities. This guide highlights top employers, why they hire felons, potential concerns, and what job seekers can expect.
For a broader list of companies and employee insights, check out WiseWorq, a directory of over 25,000 US-based employers with reviews and ratings.
Retail & Grocery Chains
Walmart
Walmart has a long-standing policy of offering second-chance employment to individuals with criminal records. Felons are considered for many entry-level positions, and the company values motivated employees committed to long-term growth. Some corporate or cash-handling roles may be restricted depending on the conviction. Background checks are standard, so candidates should be ready to provide documentation and demonstrate rehabilitation.
Target
Target participates in diversity and inclusion initiatives, actively recruiting people with criminal backgrounds for retail and warehouse roles. Felons can benefit from training programs and career development opportunities. Some positions, particularly in corporate or finance, may be off-limits, and background checks are required. Candidates who can show personal growth and skills gained after incarceration often have the best chance of success.
Kroger
Kroger focuses on community reintegration and supports employees with criminal records. Entry-level positions in retail, logistics, and supply chain are commonly available. While felons may face restrictions in pharmacy, finance, or alcohol-handling positions, the company provides a supportive environment with training and mentorship.
Home Depot
Home Depot hires felons for warehouse, sales, and stocking positions. The company emphasizes practical skills and reliability, making it a strong choice for individuals looking to rebuild their careers. Felons may face restrictions for certain positions, such as cash-handling roles, and background checks are standard.
Costco
Costco provides opportunities in retail and warehouse operations. Felons are considered based on skills, reliability, and prior work experience. The company is known for strong employee benefits and training programs, making it attractive for individuals seeking stability. Some managerial roles may require clean records, depending on state laws.
Food & Beverage
Starbucks
Starbucks actively promotes second-chance hiring and is known for inclusive employment practices. Felons are welcomed in barista and store management training programs, where they can gain skills and advancement opportunities. Corporate or finance roles may be restricted. Local background verification is common, and demonstrating rehabilitation, commitment, and reliability can increase hiring chances.
McDonald’s
McDonald’s considers felons for restaurant crew, shift management, and some corporate positions depending on the role. Felons may face limits on management or cash-handling roles initially, and background checks or probationary periods can be part of the hiring process.
Domino’s Pizza
Domino’s hires felons for delivery, kitchen, and store management roles. The company values reliability, punctuality, and customer service skills. Felons may face restrictions on corporate roles, and background checks are standard. Demonstrating a strong work ethic and clean driving record increases hiring potential.
Subway
Subway considers felons for sandwich artist and store management roles. While some positions involving cash-handling may be limited, felons are often welcomed to join as part of the restaurant team. Training programs and flexible schedules make Subway a practical choice for those reentering the workforce.
Logistics & Delivery
UPS
UPS hires felons to fill positions in warehouses, delivery, and logistics, valuing the dedication and work ethic of second-chance employees. Some restrictions apply for individuals with violent or theft-related convictions, especially for driver roles. UPS provides structured training programs and career growth opportunities.
FedEx
FedEx actively recruits individuals with criminal records for warehouse and delivery roles. Security-sensitive positions may be restricted depending on the conviction, and background checks are required. Felons with a clean driving record and strong references have a higher chance of securing driver or operations roles.
Amazon
Amazon hires felons for fulfillment center roles, delivery, and warehouse positions. The company emphasizes performance, reliability, and teamwork. While some positions may be restricted due to safety or regulatory concerns, Amazon offers comprehensive training and potential for career growth. Background checks are standard.
XPO Logistics
XPO Logistics considers felons for warehouse and transportation roles. The company values reliability, work ethic, and skills. Felons may face restrictions for security-sensitive or driving positions, and background checks are required.
Manufacturing & Warehousing
Grainger
Grainger provides employment opportunities in operations, logistics, and distribution for individuals with felony records. Felons may be restricted from finance or corporate-sensitive positions, and standard background checks are required. Candidates who demonstrate skill development and reliability are often successful in long-term roles.
Lowe’s
Lowe’s hires felons for retail, warehouse, and skilled labor positions, emphasizing workforce diversity and employee development. Background checks and standard HR compliance documentation are part of the process.
Cintas
Cintas hires felons for manufacturing, delivery, and customer service roles. The company values reliability and work ethic, with structured training programs available. Felons may be restricted from financial or security-sensitive roles, and background checks apply.
O’Reilly Auto Parts
O’Reilly Auto Parts welcomes felons for retail, warehouse, and logistics positions. Felons are considered based on experience and reliability. Certain managerial or finance roles may be restricted, and standard background checks are conducted.
Sherwin-Williams
Sherwin-Williams hires felons for production, logistics, and retail positions. The company values technical skill and commitment. While some corporate roles may be restricted, felons can access training programs and advancement opportunities.
Key Considerations for Felons
Job seekers should be aware of potential challenges. Some roles, especially in finance, security, or childcare, may be legally restricted depending on the offense. Background checks and additional paperwork are common. Discrimination, while illegal, can occur, so candidates are encouraged to highlight skills, rehabilitation, and work ethic during the hiring process.
