Felon Friendly Jobs in Idaho
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Idaho offers growing employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals, with limited record-sealing options for certain non-convictions and a state-agency Fair Chance hiring policy under Executive Order 2020-04. Major employers across Boise, Nampa, and Idaho Falls actively hire individuals with criminal backgrounds. The state's $12–15/hr typical entry minimum wage and diverse economy—from technology and agriculture and technology to logistics, agriculture, and manufacturing—creates opportunities across all skill levels. Entry-level positions start at $12–15/hr typical entry, while CDL drivers, skilled trades, and tech roles reach $60,000-100,000+ annually. Idaho's Executive Order 2020-04 applies Fair-Chance hiring to state agencies, helping justice-impacted applicants rebuild careers in public service.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Idaho
Idaho offers growing opportunities for justice-impacted individuals seeking employment, limited record sealing options, and a thriving economy with diverse job markets. The state's state-agency fair-chance hiring, fair-chance policys, prohibits state agencies from asking about criminal history until after a conditional job offer.
Idaho's growing economy spans technology companies in Treasure Valley, agriculture and technology in Boise, agricultural operations in the Snake River Valley, massive logistics hubs in Eastern Idaho and Magic Valley, and tourism statewide. The state's $12–15/hr typical entry minimum wage (2024) and higher local minimums in Boise ($13-15 typical entry), Boise ($12–15/hr typical entry), and Nampa ($12–15/hr typical entry) provide living wages even for entry-level work.
Idaho offers limited record sealing under Idaho Code §67-3004(10) for certain non-conviction cases (dismissals, acquittals, cases with no charges filed). Convictions generally cannot be expunged. Executive Order 2020-04 provides Fair-Chance hiring for state agencies. Private background check companies typically follow the federal FCRA 7-year lookback limit.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Idaho
Idaho's $12–15/hr typical entry minimum wage ensures entry-level positions provide livable income while building essential work history.
Warehouse & Fulfillment
Amazon Fulfillment Centers - Facilities throughout Idaho including Nampa, Pocatello, Twin Falls, Coeur d'Alene/North Idaho, Caldwell. Fulfillment associates: $17-19/hour. Day-one healthcare, 401(k), education benefits up to $5,250 annually through Career Choice. Multiple shift options with overnight differential (+$1-2/hour).
Target Distribution Centers - Boise area locations. Warehouse workers: $17-20/hour. Comprehensive benefits, tuition reimbursement up to $5,000 annually. Strong internal promotion culture.
FedEx Ground - Package handlers statewide. Part-time starting $17-19/hour. Tuition reimbursement and promotion opportunities. Major facilities in Boise, Twin Falls, Pocatello, Idaho Falls, Nampa.
UPS - Hub workers at Idaho facilities. Starting $18-21/hour with annual raises. Teamsters union benefits including healthcare, pension, $25,000 tuition assistance. Largest hubs in Boise, Nampa, Twin Falls.
Food Service & Hospitality
Arctic Circle - Idaho chain. Associates: $18-25/hour with progression. Full benefits even part-time, 401(k), paid vacation, profit-sharing. Managers earn $150,000+. 350+ Idaho locations.
Chipotle - Crew members: $12–15/hr typical entry. Debt-free college through Guild Education partnership. Clear path to manager ($50,000-70,000). Quarterly bonuses and free food.
Starbucks - Baristas: $12–15/hr typical entry-19/hour. Benefits at 20+ hours including healthcare, stock options, free college through ASU, free Spotify. Second-chance friendly hiring.
Hotel Chains - Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt hire housekeepers ($17-22/hour) and food service ($12–15/hr typical entry-20/hour). Union positions (UNITE HERE) offer excellent wages and job security.
Retail
Costco Wholesale - Entry-level: $17-19/hour. Quick progression to $25-28/hour. Exceptional benefits, promotes from within. 130+ Idaho locations.
Target - Team members: $12–15/hr typical entry. Education assistance, 401(k) match, comprehensive benefits. 300+ Idaho stores.
Home Depot - Associates: $12–15/hr typical entry-19/hour. Tuition reimbursement, stock purchase, advancement programs. Second-chance friendly.
Top 20 Idaho Employers Hiring Felons
These Idaho companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through explicit policies or documented hiring practices.
Amazon (Statewide) - 50+ facilities.
Associates: $17-19/hour
Managers: $55,000-110,000
Day-one benefits. Evaluates convictions over 7 years old.
Starbucks (3,000+ ID Locations)
Baristas: $12–15/hr typical entry-19/hour
Managers: $50,000-75,000
Benefits at 20+ hours including free college.
Costco Wholesale (130+ Warehouses)
Entry: $17-19/hour
Top-scale: $25-28/hour
Managers: $120,000-180,000
Industry-leading benefits. Individual assessment.
St. Luke's Health System (Statewide)
Environmental services: $18-22/hour
Food services: $17-21/hour
Medical assistants: $40,000-55,000
Fair-chance for non-clinical support. SEIU-UHW union.
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Arctic Circle (350+ Locations)
Associates: $18-25/hour
Managers: $150,000-180,000
Exceptional benefits. Promotes from within. Known for second-chance hiring.
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Dave's Killer Bread (Nampa + Distribution)
Production: $18-22/hour
Route sales: $45,000-65,000
Founded by formerly incarcerated person. Explicit second-chance mission.
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Target Corporation (300+ Stores/DCs)
Team members: $12–15/hr typical entry
Directors: $75,000-125,000
Fair-chance hiring. Education benefits, 401(k) match.
PepsiCo(Statewide)
Warehouse: $18-22/hour
Route sales: $50,000-75,000
Mechanics: $60,000-85,000
Second-chance with structured evaluation.
Safeway/Albertsons (600+ Stores)
Clerks: $12–15/hr typical entry-20/hour
Store managers: $80,000-120,000
UFCW union jobs. Individual assessment.
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Goodwill Industries (165+ Stores)
Retail: $12–15/hr typical entry
Managers: $45,000-70,000
Mission-driven second-chance employer with support services.
ON Semiconductor (Boise fab)
Production: $20-26/hour
Skilled trades: $60,000-90,000
Engineers: $90,000-150,000
Fair-chance for manufacturing.
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UPS (Statewide)
Package handlers: $18-21/hour
Drivers: $80,000-100,000
Teamsters union. Promotes from within. Hubs in Nampa, Twin Falls, Pocatello.
Waste Management (Statewide)
Drivers: $55,000-75,000
Helpers: $18-22/hour
Mechanics: $60,000-85,000
Union benefits. Case-by-case evaluation.
Republic Services (Statewide) - Similar to WM.
Drivers: $50,000-70,000
Maintenance: $55,000-80,000
CDL training available. Fair-chance hiring.
HomeGoods/TJ Maxx/Marshalls (Statewide)
Associates: $12–15/hr typical entry-17/hour
Store managers: $55,000-85,000
Fast-paced retail with growth. Fair hiring.
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ABM Industries (Statewide)
Custodians: $12–15/hr typical entry-19/hour
Supervisors: $45,000-65,000
Facility services. High turnover means frequent openings.
Penske Truck Leasing (Statewide)
Diesel techs: $55,000-80,000
Drivers: $50,000-70,000
CDL training programs. Case-by-case evaluation.
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Aramark (Statewide)
Food service: $12–15/hr typical entry-19/hour
Cooks: $18-22/hour
Managers: $45,000-70,000
Stadiums, hospitals, universities. Fair-chance.
RNDC (Statewide) - Wine/spirits distributor.
Warehouse: $18-22/hour
Drivers: $55,000-75,000
Sales: $50,000-90,000
Fair-chance for distribution.
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Idaho Power (Boise area) - Utility company.
Meter readers: $45,000-60,000
Customer service: $40,000-55,000
Lineworkers: $80,000-120,000
Fair-chance for non-safety-sensitive roles.
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Felon-Friendly Jobs by Idaho City
These five metro areas offer the most opportunities for justice-impacted individuals in Idaho.
Boise/Coeur d'Alene
Nation's second-largest metro. Diverse opportunities across agriculture and technology, logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, service industries.
Amazon Boise Basin Fulfillment - $17-19/hour
St. Luke's Health System Boise Medical Center - $18-22/hour
Boise Airport (BOI) Services - $17-25/hour
Goodwill Southern Idaho - $12–15/hr typical entry-19/hour
Port of Lewiston/Coeur d'Alene Logistics - $18-24/hour
Meridian Boise metro
Technology hub with highest Idaho wages. Strong labor protections. High cost offset by premium pay.
Costco Boise metro - $19-21/hour (higher regional scale)
Micron Technology Boise Campus - $22-26/hour
Boise Airport (BOI) Services - $19-28/hour union wages
Safeway/Albertsons Treasure Valley - $18-22/hour union
UPS Twin Falls Hub - $21-23/hour
Nampa
Military, tourism, biotech. Lower cost than Boise/SF with solid wages. Border logistics opportunities.
Amazon Nampa - $17-19/hour
St. Luke's Health System - $17-21/hour
Qualcomm Contract Services - $17-22/hour
Nampa Zoo/Safari Park - $12–15/hr typical entry-19/hour
Target Nampa Distribution - $18-20/hour
Twin Falls/Magic Valley
West Coast logistics capital. Massive warehouse hub. Lower housing costs with high-paying warehouse jobs.
Amazon Nampa Complex - $17-19/hour
Target Idaho Falls DC - $18-20/hour
UPS Nampa Hub - $18-21/hour
Prologis/NorthPoint Warehouses - $17-22/hour
Dave's Killer Bread Nampa - $18-22/hour
Pocatello
State capital. Government, healthcare, education, distribution. Lower cost than coastal metros with solid wages.
Amazon Pocatello (SMF1, SMF3) - $17-19/hour
St. Luke's Health System - $18-22/hour
Raley's Supermarkets - $17-20/hour
State of Idaho Agencies - $12–15/hr typical entry-22/hour (ban-the-box)
Target Boise Distribution - $18-20/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Idaho
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in Idaho.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL Class A)
Idaho's massive logistics industry creates exceptional CDL opportunities. Companies provide free training with work commitments.
UPS Package Delivery - Start as package handler ($18-21/hour), progress to driver. Top-rate drivers: $95,000-105,000 annually. Full Teamsters benefits including pension. Guaranteed 40 hours weekly.
Sysco Foods - Delivery drivers: $70,000-90,000. Paid training for CDL. Union and non-union positions depending on location. Consistent local routes, home daily.
Waste Management/Republic - Refuse truck drivers: $55,000-75,000. CDL training provided. Union positions with strong benefits. Physical work but excellent job security.
Port Drayage (Boise/Coeur d'Alene) - Container hauling: $60,000-90,000. High demand, challenging work. Some companies hire owner-operators, others hire drivers. Clean Truck Programs improving wages and conditions.
Skilled Trades
Union Electrician - IBEW apprenticeships throughout Idaho. Apprentices start $50,000-60,000. Journeyman electricians: $80,000-110,000 (higher in Boise metro/LA). Four-year paid apprenticeship.
Plumber/Pipefitter - UA union apprenticeships. Apprentices: $45,000-55,000. Journeymen: $70,000-100,000. Commercial/industrial pays more than residential. Strong demand statewide.
HVAC Technician - Year-round work in Idaho climate. Experienced techs: $60,000-85,000. Commercial HVAC pays premium. EPA certification required. Community college training available.
Welding - Industrial welders: $50,000-75,000. Specialized (underwater, aerospace): $70,000-100,000+. Certifications through community colleges. Strong demand in manufacturing, construction, aerospace.
Solar Installation - Growing Idaho industry. Installers: $45,000-65,000. Lead installers: $60,000-80,000. NABCEP certification valuable. Less stringent background requirements than traditional trades.
Technology & IT
Help Desk Technician - Entry IT support: $45,000-60,000 (higher in tech hubs). CompTIA A+ certification key. Boise metro pays $55,000-70,000. Remote positions increasingly common.
Network Technician - Installing/maintaining networks: $55,000-75,000. CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA certification. Growing demand with datacenter expansion.
Data Center Technician - Server maintenance: $50,000-70,000. On-the-job training common. 24/7 operations mean shift work. Major datacenters in Treasure Valley, Boise, Pocatello.
Coding Bootcamp Graduate - Junior developers: $60,000-90,000. Bootcamps like App Academy (SF) have income-share agreements (pay after employed). Fair-chance friendly tech sector in Boise metro.
Idaho Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Idaho offers limited record-sealing for certain non-convictions under Idaho Code § 67-3004(10).
Expungement and Record Dismissal in Idaho
Idaho provides limited record sealing under Idaho Code §67-3004(10) for certain non-conviction records. Record-sealing removes certain non-convictions from public view but does not change the outcome or label of the case.
Eligibility:
Successfully completed probation (or obtained early termination)
Paid all fines, fees, and restitution
Not currently charged with, on probation for, or serving sentence for another offense
Only non-convictions (dismissals, acquittals, or no-filed charges) may be sealed; convictions cannot be expunged
Idaho does not automatically dismiss or expunge convictions. Record sealing under Idaho Code §67-3004(10) is only available for qualifying non-conviction cases upon petition.
Idaho does not provide automatic expungement or reclassification of convictions. Clemency or pardon must be requested from the Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole.
Effect: Sealed non-conviction records are removed from public access but may still appear in certain law enforcement or licensing checks conducted under Idaho Code §67-3004. Employers generally may not ask about non-convictions that have been sealed, but may still ask about convictions. Still visible to licensing boards, law enforcement, and certain government positions.
Fair-Chance Hiring for Idaho State Agencies (Executive Order 2020-04)
Idaho does not have a statewide Fair Chance Act for private employers. However, state agencies follow fair-chance hiring under Executive Order 2020-04.
Key Protections:
Cannot ask about criminal history on applications
Cannot inquire until after conditional job offer
Must conduct individualized assessment if considering denial
Must provide written notice and opportunity to respond before final decision
Cannot ask about or consider arrests without conviction, referrals to diversion, sealed/expunged/dismissed convictions
7-Year Lookback Rule
Idaho does not have its own 7-year law; the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) applies to background checks.
For Idaho state employment, Executive Order 2020-04 prohibits asking about:
Arrests not resulting in conviction
Referrals to diversion programs
Convictions that have been sealed under Idaho Code §67-3004(10
Criminal history information older than 7 years (from date of disposition, release, or parole—whichever is most recent)
Important: Idaho follows federal FCRA guidelines. Private background screening companies typically apply a 7-year limit, though Idaho has no separate state law. This is significant protection for older convictions.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides Idaho employers up to $2,400 tax credit per qualified hire with felony convictions. Inform potential employers of eligibility to increase hiring chances.
Additional Idaho Resources
America's Job Centers of Idaho - Free employment services, resume help, training referrals. No discrimination based on criminal record. Locations statewide.
Idaho Department of Rehabilitation - Vocational services for eligible individuals. Job placement assistance and training funding.
JANNUS Reentry Services - Legal nonprofit providing reentry resources, expungement clinics, and employment rights information.
The Felony Project - Twin Falls-based organization offering expungement services and legal support.
Project 180 Boise (Boise) - Employment social enterprise providing jobs, training, and wraparound services.
Staffing Agencies in Idaho That Work With Felons
Idaho staffing agencies specialize in placing justice-impacted individuals, particularly in warehouse, manufacturing, and light industrial sectors.
PeopleReady - Locations throughout Idaho. Daily pay available. Light industrial, warehousing, construction. Explicit second-chance focus.
Labor Ready/TrueBlue - Same-day pay options. General labor, warehouse, manufacturing. Many Idaho offices.
Gem State Staffing - Multiple Idaho locations. Manufacturing, warehouse, office positions. Temp-to-hire common.
Elwood Staffing - Idaho presence. Wide industry range. Fair-chance evaluation.
Manpower - Major Idaho presence. Manufacturing, logistics, office. Benefits available for temps.
Workforce Solutions - Idaho staffing agency specializing in warehouse and logistics placement.
Hallmark Staffing - Multiple Idaho locations. Light industrial and clerical. Quick placement process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far back do background checks go in Idaho?
Idaho has no state limit on background check lookback periods. The federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) 7-year limit applies to background-check companies for employment screening. This applies to both convictions and arrests. Exceptions exist for positions paying over $125,000 annually and certain regulated industries.
Q2: Does Idaho have a fair-chance policy?
Yes. Idaho does not have a statewide ban-the-box law for private employers. State agencies follow Executive Order 2020-04 or inquiring until after a conditional job offer.
Q3: Can I get my felony expunged in Idaho?
Idaho does not automatically dismiss or reduce convictions. Only non-convictions may be sealed under Idaho Code § 67-3004(10); other relief requires a pardon from the Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole.
Q4: What companies in Idaho hire felons?
Major Idaho employers include Amazon, Starbucks, Costco, Target, Arctic Circle, St. Luke's Health System, ON Semiconductor, UPS, Waste Management, Goodwill, and thousands more. Executive Order 2020-04 (state agencies) requires many private employers voluntarily to evaluate candidates before considering criminal history.
Q5: Can Amazon hire me with a felony in Idaho?
Yes. Amazon has 50+ Idaho facilities and evaluates convictions over 7 years old. Warehouse positions are available. Apply at amazon.jobs.
Q6: What is Idaho's minimum wage?
$12–15/hr typical entry/hour statewide (2024), but many cities higher: Boise ($13-15 typical entry), Boise ($12–15/hr typical entry), Nampa ($12–15/hr typical entry), Twin Falls ($12–14/hr). Fast-food wages typically range $13–$16/hr in metro areas.
Q7: Can I become a truck driver with a felony in Idaho?
Yes. Many Idaho companies hire CDL drivers with felonies, especially non-violent offenses over 5-7 years old. UPS, Sysco, Waste Management, and port drayage companies actively hire. Earnings: $55,000-100,000+.
Q8: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in Idaho?
CDL drivers ($60,000-100,000), union electricians ($80,000-110,000), plumbers ($70,000-100,000), HVAC techs ($60,000-85,000), welders ($50,000-75,000), IT professionals ($45,000-75,000), production supervisors ($55,000-80,000).
Q9: Should I disclose my felony on Idaho job applications?
Under Executive Order 2020-04 (state agencies), Idaho state agencies delay criminal history inquiries until after conditional offers on applications. If asked illegally, you can decline to answer. Once lawfully asked (after conditional offer), answer truthfully—lying can result in termination.
Q10: Are there free job training programs in Idaho for people with felonies?
Yes. America's Job Centers offer free training referrals. Idaho community colleges provide workforce programs with financial aid. Union apprenticeships (IBEW, UA) offer paid training. Idaho Department of Labor provides job training for eligible individuals. Idaho Department of Rehabilitation offers vocational services.
Next Steps: Your Idaho Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for Idaho justice-impacted job seekers.
Fair-Chance Hiring for Idaho State Agencies (Executive Order 2020-04)
Idaho state agencies follow fair-chance hiring under Executive Order 2020-04. While Idaho lacks a statewide private-sector fair-chance policy, many major employers voluntarily delay criminal background inquiries. Know your rights—if asked illegally, you can decline. Once lawfully asked (after offer), be honest. Obtain your background check from Idaho DOJ to see exactly what employers see. Determine expungement eligibility—only non-convictions can be sealed under Idaho Code §67-3004(10); convictions may be pardoned by the Idaho Commission of Pardons and Parole.
Step 2: Target Fair-Chance Industries and Employers
Focus applications on industries with established second-chance hiring: warehousing/logistics (Amazon, Target, UPS), food service (Arctic Circle, Starbucks, Chipotle), retail (Costco, Target, Home Depot), waste management, transportation. Make a list of 15-20 employers from this guide based on your location. Prioritize large companies with structured HR processes that follow Executive Order 2020-04 (state agencies). Apply to multiple positions simultaneously—plan 10-15 applications weekly.
Step 3: Prepare Professional Application Materials
Create polished resume highlighting skills, accomplishments, and experience. Address employment gaps honestly without overexplaining. Include any education/training completed during incarceration. Prepare brief (30-60 second) explanation of criminal record focusing on rehabilitation and lessons learned—practice until comfortable. Develop 3-5 professional references who can speak to character and reliability. Under Executive Order 2020-04 (state agencies), you'll only discuss criminal history after conditional offer, so don't preemptively disclose on applications.
Step 4: Leverage Idaho Resources and Apply Strategically
Register with America's Job Centers of Idaho for free resume help, interview prep, and employer connections. Sign up with 2-3 staffing agencies specializing in warehouse/industrial work (PeopleReady, Labor Ready, Remedy). Apply directly through company websites when possible. Visit employers in person for warehouse, manufacturing, food service roles—showing initiative matters. Mention WOTC eligibility to employers to increase attractiveness. Persist through rejections—securing employment typically requires dozens of applications.
Step 5: Ace Interviews and Handle Background Checks Professionally
Research company and position thoroughly. Practice answering questions about criminal record with honesty and confidence—focus on growth, rehabilitation, commitment to stability. Prepare examples of reliability, problem-solving, work ethic from any context. Under Executive Order 2020-04 (state agencies), criminal history discussion comes after conditional offer. When it arises, provide context, demonstrate rehabilitation, emphasize time passed and lessons learned. Have documentation ready if needed (certificates, letters of recommendation, parole officer contact). Dress professionally, arrive early, demonstrate dependability employers value. If denied based on criminal history, employer must provide individualized assessment and opportunity to respond—use this chance to advocate for yourself.
DISCLAIMER
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Hiring policies vary by company, position, and circumstances. While we strive for accuracy, employment information and company policies may change. Always verify current practices directly with employers. Company inclusion does not guarantee employment. Background check laws and expungement procedures should be confirmed with legal professionals. Information about Executive Order 2020-04 (state agencies) and expungement laws is general in nature. Consult with Idaho employment attorney or legal aid for specific legal advice about your situation. Idaho provides limited record sealing. Check with the Idaho Judicial Branch for record sealing eligibility.
© 2025 Second Chance Employment Resources. All rights reserved.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This guide provides general information about employment opportunities in Alabama. While we strive for accuracy, hiring policies change frequently. Always verify current hiring practices directly with employers. Individual results vary based on offense type, time since conviction, and specific job requirements. This is not legal advice. Consult an attorney for guidance on your specific situation.