List of Jobs That Hire Felons in Texas

Are there jobs that hire felons? If this is a question you want to know, you are not alone!

Let’s not sugarcoat it—getting a job with a felony on your record? It’s rough. Most places don’t exactly roll out the red carpet once they see your background.

That said, not every employer slams the door. In fact, quite a few in Texas are open to giving people a shot, no matter what’s in their past.

So yeah, it might not be easy, but it’s definitely not impossible. This list? It’s more than names and industries. It’s about second chances.

And in Texas, there are a bunch of companies—big and small—that are hiring folks with records. Whether you’re fresh out or just trying again after years, there’s something here for you.

Hi. In today’s blog, I will tell you all the things about getting yourself a job after getting convicted of felony charges. So, if that’s what you want (read: need) to know, then you have come to the right place.

Therefore, keep on reading till the end and thank me later…

Understanding Employment Rights for Felons

Alright, before we jump into who’s hiring, let’s talk about something that gets overlooked way too often—your rights. If you’ve got a record, you need to know what’s fair, what’s legal, and what’s total BS during the hiring process.

Legal Considerations and Protections

In Texas, there are rules in place that protect people like us from being tossed aside just because of our past.

The Texas Workforce Commission has guidelines to keep hiring fair, and under the FCRA (that’s the Fair Credit Reporting Act), employers have to let you know if they’re doing a background check.

Now, some jobs are off the table—stuff like working in schools or hospitals might be harder, depending on your charge.

But there’s still a ton of work out there that doesn’t care about your past. If you’re not sure where you stand, talk to a lawyer. Seriously. Just a short consultation with someone who knows Texas law, like an attorney for criminal offenses, can help you avoid wasting time.

Breaking Down Employment Barriers

Here’s the reality: the minute you check that little box asking about felonies, things shift. Employers get nervous, even if you’ve changed. But there are ways around that.

Some companies have ditched the “have you been convicted” question altogether. That’s part of the “ban the box” movement, and yeah—it’s not everywhere, but it’s spreading.

Another solid option? Job programs that are built for people with records. They’ll train you, hook you up with interviews, and even help you explain your story the right way. It’s not a magic fix, but it helps. A lot.

Industries and Jobs Welcoming Felons

Not every field cares about a spotless background. Some just want someone who shows up, puts in the work, and doesn’t cause drama. And hey, that’s fair.

Construction and Manual Labor

Construction? It’s hands-down one of the best options out there. Most companies don’t ask too many questions if you can show up on time and swing a hammer.

Jobs you might find:

• General laborer
• Apprentice electrician
• Drywall helper
• Plumbing assistant

A lot of companies offer on-the-job training, and once you get in, you can move up. Doesn’t take a degree—just a solid work ethic and a willingness to learn. Not gonna lie, it’s tough work. But it pays. And they need people badly.

Transport and Warehousing

This one’s low-key a hidden gem. Warehouses are always hiring. And trucking? If you get your CDL, the opportunities open up fast—even with a record.

Common roles include:

• Delivery driver
• Forklift operator
• Warehouse packer

Bonus: Most warehouse jobs don’t dig too deep into your background, especially if it’s an entry-level gig. And if you’re willing to travel or do overnight routes, trucking companies are even more flexible.

Hospitality and Service Industry

Restaurants. Hotels. Cafes. These places move fast and need reliable people—felony or not.

Jobs to look for:

• Housekeeping
• Line cook or kitchen staff
• Front desk assistant
• Dishwasher

These roles usually don’t need a fancy resume. What matters most? Attitude. Show up, be respectful, work hard. That’s the stuff managers care about.

Support and Resources for Job-Seeking Felons

Doing this alone is hard. Like… really hard. The good news? There are groups out there specifically set up to help folks who’ve been in your shoes.

Workforce Training Programs

These programs aren’t just fluff. They’re made for people starting over. You’ll learn actual skills—like working with tools, cooking, or fixing machines.

Here’s what’s cool: some even help with resume writing, mock interviews, and job placement. And the best part? Some are free or paid while you train.

Worth checking out:

• Texas Workforce Commission – Offers job training, especially for people who’ve had trouble finding work.
• SkillSource – They do everything from tech to trades, and focus on folks rebuilding their lives.

Non-Profit Organizations and Advocacy

These groups are on your side. They won’t judge, and they’ve helped people with way worse records find jobs, housing, and even go back to school.

Try these:

• Goodwill Industries – Not just thrift stores. They’ve got training, placement help, and coaching.
• The Reentry Coalition of Texas – These folks work specifically with people coming out of jail or prison.

A lot of them offer free counseling, mentorship, and sometimes even clothes for interviews. It’s worth reaching out, even if it feels awkward at first.

Navigating the Texan Job Market

Let’s be real: it’s not always about “who’s hiring”—it’s about who you know and who’s willing to listen. If you lean into community stuff, show your face, talk to people—you’ll start to find opportunities.

Networking and Community Engagement

Look, job boards are fine. But talking to people? That’s where things really happen.

Try:

• Going to local events
• Volunteering at food banks or shelters
• Joining a church group

Also check out groups like the Texas Offenders Reentry Initiative. They help people with records get set up with jobs, mentors, and support. Showing up counts—it shows you’re serious, and people remember that.

Job Fairs and Hiring Events

This is one of those “just go” situations. Even if you don’t land a job that day, you’ll get practice, contacts, and maybe even a callback.

Texas has job fairs that specifically welcome felons. These events usually include:

• Employers who know what you’re dealing with
• Resume help
• Workshops for interviews

Show up early, bring a few copies of your resume, and don’t stress if you’re nervous. Just being there says a lot.

Legal Assistance and Advocacy

Sometimes the biggest thing holding you back… is your record. But there are legal tools that can help you move forward. Especially in Texas.

Seeking Legal Counsel

Individuals with felony records can benefit significantly from seeking legal counsel. An attorney for criminal offenses can provide guidance on legal rights related to employment. They can also help in understanding specific barriers that may exist due to a criminal history.

A Conroe criminal defense attorney can assist in evaluating the circumstances of the conviction, providing vital insights into how the record may affect job prospects. Attorneys can also advise on strategies for job applications, including how to address criminal history during interviews.

Legal counsel can also support individuals in developing a comprehensive plan for employment while ensuring they understand their rights under Texas law.

Criminal Record Expungement

Here’s a game-changer: expungement. If you’re eligible, clearing your record can make job hunting so much easier.

But the rules are tricky, and the process? Kinda confusing. A lawyer can help figure out if you qualify and file everything correctly. They’ll also explain what it does (and doesn’t) remove from your record.

If you can get something expunged, it opens doors—jobs, housing, even loans. It’s not fast, but it’s worth it.

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