After any length of time in incarceration, it’s often a challenge for former inmates to reenter the real world. Life is different, family has changed, and to top it all, there are not as many job opportunities for someone coming out of prison. The stigma of a criminal record can make the process of finding a job daunting.
Thankfully, several industries and positions are more open to hiring individuals with a past conviction than others. Here are 14 job opportunities for someone coming out of prison, offering them a second chance to rebuild their lives.
1. Construction Worker
Construction companies need skilled laborers who are strong enough to handle the workload. As such, they may be more lenient regarding criminal records, particularly for non-violent offenses.
This industry values hard work and skill over background. Former inmates will also have access to on-the-job training. Construction work is tasking, but for those in good enough shape, it can provide a stable income and opportunities for advancement.
2. Landscaping or Floral Services
Some of the best job opportunities for someone coming out of prison are outdoors. Landscaping, for instance, does not typically require extensive background checks. Tasks involve lawn care, planting, and maintenance services.
Individuals with a criminal background can also look into working for a local flower shop. As long as they have a clean driving record, they could use the company van to make deliveries to residences or offices, bringing joy to someone’s day with a lovely bouquet.
3. Food Service Employee
While it may not seem glamorous, there are many career opportunities in the restaurant industry. Former prisoners can look into restaurants, cafeterias, and catering services.
There are job opportunities in all areas, whether it’s working as a cook, taking orders as a server, or working behind the scenes as a dishwasher. These jobs provide valuable experience in customer service and the potential for managerial positions in the future.
4. Janitorial Staff
Maintenance and cleaning positions are available at schools, hospitals, and office buildings. These roles may involve evening or night shifts, which gives former inmates flexibility they may not get from other positions.
When it comes to job opportunities for someone coming out of prison, flexibility is key. They need to be able to adjust so they can still attend parole meetings or counseling sessions.
5. Delivery Driver
Companies sometimes hire drivers with past convictions, especially if they have a clean record and no significant accidents. This role requires reliability and punctuality, and with the rise of e-commerce, delivery services are in high demand.
The opportunities in this field are endless. Whether they drive semi-trucks long distance or keep it local with Uber or DoorDash, former inmates can earn a decent income in this line of work.
6. Warehouse Worker
Warehouses and distribution centers offer various positions, not limited to inventory stocking, order fulfillment, and packaging. As a result, there are many job opportunities for someone coming out of prison.
Employers often prioritize the ability to perform the job over one’s background. The work could be taxing, but it could also be the push a former inmate needs to get back on their feet.
7. Barber/Hair Stylist
If licensed before or during incarceration, individuals can pursue careers in barbering or hairstyling. They can also seek out the certification after their release, sometimes even online.
Hair stylists and barbers have the freedom for creative expression and interpersonal interaction. In many cases, barbershops and salons value skill over background.
8. Freelance Writer
According to the National Council on Aging, a majority of previously incarcerated people, or “returning citizens,” are unemployed. Often, the difficulties come from trying to seek out full-time positions.
Fortunately, there are many opportunities as a freelancer. For those with a knack for writing, freelance content creation is a good place to start. This role offers flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere.
9. Animal Caretaker
Working with animals at kennels, shelters, or grooming businesses can be therapeutic and rewarding work for former convicts. These positions might require minimal background checks, but some are open to any employee who’s willing to lend a hand.
Animal care is a program offered by some prisons, so the former inmate may have experience. Either way, this line of work is well-suited to anyone who has a lot of compassion and a big heart.
10. Musician
Maybe the former prisoner isn’t looking for a typical, 9-to-5 position. There are opportunities to be self-made as long as they’re willing to work.
Musicians, for instance, aren’t limited by their backgrounds. As long as they have talent, and the ability to book gigs, they could earn an income pursuing one of their passions.
11. Fitness Trainer
For years now, the Federal Bureau of Prisons has offered workout equipment and exercise programs to inmates. As a result, many convicts come out of prison in great shape.
If physically fit, they could consider becoming a fitness trainer when they return to civilian life. Certifications can be pursued after release, and gyms often seek individuals who can inspire others to achieve their goals.
12. Painter
House painting or commercial painting jobs are often available for individuals willing to learn the trade. These positions are often project-based, giving employees flexibility with the hours.
Former prisoners often need this flexibility so they can keep up with their parole officers or mandatory classes or therapy. It’s also nice to be able to spend additional time with family, some of whom they may have not seen in years.
13. Recovery Agent
Surprisingly, many former inmates are hired to work as recovery agents, which are more commonly referred to as repo men. This work requires a thick skin since agents are often yelled at by people who are possessive of their cars.
To become a recovery agent, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. However, some states require particular regulations, licenses, or certifications. Former inmates can do their research if this career seems interesting to them.
14. Peer Counselor
The Bureau of Justice Statistics reports that over 2,000 juvenile delinquents end up in prison. More often than not, these young kids need a role model to turn to for guidance.
People who’ve been in prison are more relatable than some fancy bigwig with a college degree. This career option is available to former inmates who’ve made significant progress in personal rehabilitation.
Seeking Opportunities
Unfortunately, many industries and employers make unsound judgments about candidates based solely on their criminal history. However, it’s not all doom and gloom. With the right research, and a desire to learn and grow, there are lucrative job opportunities for someone coming out of prison. Each of these career paths represents a chance to rebuild a stable, fulfilling life.
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.