Felon Friendly Jobs in Illinois
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Illinois is one of the most felon-friendly states in America. With Ban the Box protections, progressive expungement laws under 20 ILCS 2630, and a $15/hour minimum wage ($16.20 in Chicago), Illinois offers real second chances. Major employers like Amazon (40+ warehouses), McDonald's (global HQ in Chicago), Walmart, UPS, and thousands of manufacturers actively hire people with criminal records. Chicago leads the nation in fair-chance hiring with protections for employers with 5+ employees.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Illinois
Illinois stands as one of America's most progressive states for justice-impacted individuals seeking employment, with comprehensive protections and thriving job markets across Chicago, suburbs, and downstate communities.
With strong industries in logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, and food service, opportunities span Amazon's massive warehouse network (40+ fulfillment centers), McDonald's global headquarters in Chicago, and major operations from Caterpillar, Deere & Company, Abbott Laboratories, and Walgreens.
Illinois's expungement processes offer real opportunities for record relief, with many Class 3 and Class 4 felonies eligible 4-5 years after sentence completion under 20 ILCS 2630. The state's $15 minimum wage ($16.20 in Chicago as of 2025) ensures entry-level positions provide livable income while building essential work history.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Illinois
Illinois's $15 minimum wage ensures entry-level positions provide livable income while building essential work history for career advancement.
Warehouse & Fulfillment
Amazon Fulfillment Centers - 40+ facilities across Illinois including Joliet, Aurora, Romeoville, Edwardsville. Warehouse associates: $17-22/hour. Same-day background checks for many roles. Benefits from day one including health insurance, 401(k), Career Choice tuition assistance.
Walmart Distribution Centers - 6 Illinois distribution centers. Warehouse workers: $19-24/hour. Live Better U program offers tuition-free college degrees. Night/weekend differentials available.
Target Distribution Centers - Warehouses in DeKalb and other locations. Starting $16-20/hour. Benefits for part-time workers including 401(k) with company match.
UPS - Major Chicago hub plus statewide locations. Part-time package handlers $21/hour. Full-time drivers $25+/hour with annual raises. Teamsters union benefits, tuition assistance after 30 days.
FedEx Ground - Package handlers statewide. Starting $18-22/hour. Flexible part-time schedules, tuition reimbursement, advancement opportunities to driver roles.
Food Service
McDonald's - Global headquarters in Chicago, 500+ franchises statewide. Crew members: $13-16/hour. Archways to Opportunity program offers free college tuition, GED assistance, English classes. Quick advancement to management.
Chipotle - Crew members: $14-17/hour. Debt-free college degrees through Guild Education (up to $5,250/year). Quarterly bonuses, meal benefits. Rapid promotion culture.
Starbucks - Baristas: $14-17/hour. Benefits at 20+ hours including health insurance, stock options, free ASU online degree. Partner discounts and free drinks.
Panera Bread - Associates: $13-16/hour. Employee meal discounts, flexible scheduling, education assistance. Clean work environment.
Buffalo Wild Wings - Servers and kitchen staff: $12-15/hour plus tips. Meal discounts, flexible schedules, fun team environment.
Retail
Walgreens - Illinois headquarters, 800+ stores statewide. Customer service associates: $14-18/hour. Pharmacy technician training programs, education benefits, 401(k) matching.
Home Depot - Associates: $16-20/hour. Benefits after 90 days including health insurance. Tuition reimbursement up to $5,000/year. Veteran hiring initiative includes second chances.
Lowe's - Similar to Home Depot. Starting $15-19/hour. Benefits package after 90 days, employee discounts, advancement opportunities.
Menards - Midwest chain with 40+ Illinois stores. Team members: $15-18/hour. Employee stock ownership plan, excellent benefits, family-owned culture.
Dollar General - Sales associates: $12-15/hour. Rapid advancement to management, flexible schedules, employee discounts.
Delivery & Driving
DoorDash - Felons eligible after 7 years for non-violent offenses. App-based flexibility. Earnings vary $15-25/hour depending on market and time.
Amazon Flex - Flexible delivery blocks. $18-25/hour. Choose your own schedule using Amazon app. Background check required but case-by-case review.
Instacart - Grocery delivery shoppers. Felony-friendly background screening. Flexible hours, instant payment options.
Local Couriers - Companies like Chicago Messenger, Priority Couriers hire drivers for same-day delivery services.
Top 20 Illinois Employers Hiring Felons
These companies have documented second-chance hiring programs, fair-chance policies, or demonstrated openness to hiring individuals with criminal records:
Amazon - 40+ fulfillment centers across Illinois, 30,000+ employees.
Warehouse associates: $17-22/hour.
Same-day background checks for many roles.
Benefits from day 1: health insurance, 401(k) matching, Career Choice tuition program covers degrees and certificates.
Chicago-area hubs in Joliet, Aurora, Romeoville, Edwardsville.
McDonald's Corporation - Global headquarters in Chicago, 500+ franchise locations statewide.
Crew members: $13-16/hour.
Archways to Opportunity education program offers free college tuition, GED assistance, English classes.
Fast advancement to management ($35K-$50K). Corporate careers available for experienced workers.
Walmart - 190+ stores, 6 distribution centers. Distribution/logistics: $19-24/hour. Retail associates: $14-17/hour. Live Better U program offers tuition-free college degrees from partner universities. Healthcare from day 1, 401(k) match, advancement paths to management.
Walgreens - Illinois headquarters in Deerfield, 800+ stores statewide.
Customer service: $14-18/hour.
Pharmacy technician training programs lead to $18-22/hour positions.
Education benefits, 401(k) matching, employee stock purchase, comprehensive insurance.
UPS - Major Chicago hub, facilities statewide.
Part-time package handlers: $21/hour.
Full-time drivers: $25-40/hour with union raises.
Teamsters union benefits include excellent healthcare, pension.
Tuition assistance after 30 days ($5,250/year). Stable career path.
Target - 100+ Illinois stores, distribution centers in DeKalb.
Team members: $16-20/hour.
Benefits for part-time workers (20+ hours): health insurance, 401(k) with company match, education assistance.
Weekend/evening differentials available.
Caterpillar - Illinois headquarters in Peoria area.
Manufacturing jobs: $20-35/hour depending on role and seniority.
Union positions through UAW offer excellent benefits, pension, healthcare.
Major production facilities in Decatur, Aurora, Joliet. Stable manufacturing careers.
Deere & Company - Major operations in Moline (Quad Cities).
Equipment manufacturing: $22-38/hour.
United Auto Workers union benefits, comprehensive healthcare, retirement. Apprenticeship programs for skilled trades.
Large workforce with advancement opportunities.
LEARN MORE
Abbott Laboratories - Illinois headquarters, medical device and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Production associates: $18-28/hour depending on shift and experience.
Clean room manufacturing, quality control roles. Education benefits, comprehensive insurance, stable healthcare industry careers.
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Home Depot
Associates: $16-20/hour.
Tuition reimbursement up to $5,000/year through partnerships with colleges.
Benefits after 90 days including health insurance, 401(k) match. Veteran hiring initiative includes second-chance commitment. Advancement to management available.
Lowe's - Similar to Home Depot with customer service focus.
Starting $15-19/hour.
Benefits package after 90 days, employee discounts, career advancement to specialist and management roles. Multiple Illinois locations hiring regularly.
Menards - Midwest home improvement chain, 40+ Illinois stores.
Team members: $15-18/hour.
Employee stock ownership plan means workers share in company success. Family-owned with strong benefits, stable employment. Known for treating employees well.
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Sysco - Food distribution, major Illinois presence.
CDL truck drivers: $60K-80K annually.
Warehouse workers: $18-24/hour.
Stable food service industry, consistent hours. Will sponsor CDL training for qualified candidates.
US Foods - Similar to Sysco, food distribution throughout Illinois.
Driver and warehouse positions.
Chicago hub serves restaurants and institutions.
Competitive pay, benefits, union representation in some locations.
FedEx Ground
Package handlers: $18-22/hour.
Driver opportunities: $50K+annually.
Part-time flexibility with benefits.
Tuition reimbursement programs. Advancement paths from part-time to full-time driving roles.
PeopleReady (Labor Ready) - Staffing agency with 50+ Illinois locations.
Same-day placement possible, daily pay via mobile app.
Construction, warehouse, manufacturing focus.
No resume required—bring 2 IDs and work clothes. Immediate income while searching for permanent roles.
ManpowerGroup - Global headquarters in Chicago.
Temp-to-hire placements statewide. Office, industrial, professional staffing. Skills training programs, resume assistance. Large network of employer relationships for placement.
Kelly Services - Light industrial, IT, office administration positions.
Temp and temp-to-hire opportunities. Multiple Illinois offices. Good stepping stone to permanent employment while building recent work history.
Chipotle - Fast-casual dining, Illinois locations.
Crew members: $14-17/hour.
Debt-free college degrees through Guild Education partnership ($5,250/year tuition assistance).
Quarterly bonuses, meal benefits. Promotion culture—crew to management in months.
Starbucks
Baristas: $14-17/hour.
Partner benefits at 20+ hours: health insurance, stock options, free Arizona State University online degree.
Bean stock (stock grants), 401(k) match, free drinks and food. Inclusive culture values second chances.
Felon-Friendly Jobs by Illinois City
Chicago
Chicago has the strongest fair-chance protections in Illinois. The Fair Chance Ordinance prohibits employers with 5+ employees from inquiring about criminal history until after making a conditional job offer.
Amazon - Multiple fulfillment centers in suburbs (Joliet, Aurora, Romeoville)
McDonald's - Corporate headquarters plus 200+ franchise locations
United Airlines - O'Hare hub—ground operations, cargo handling, customer service
Advocate Health Care - Hospital support staff, food service, environmental services, patient transport
Jewel-Osco - 180+ Chicagoland stores, union positions with benefits
Aurora
Caterpillar - Large manufacturing operations, union jobs $20-35/hour
Hollywood Casino Aurora - Gaming, hospitality, food service positions
Amazon - Major fulfillment center with warehouse associates
Lyon Workspace Products - Office furniture manufacturing
Rush-Copley Medical Center - Healthcare support, food service, facilities
Rockford
FCA (Fiat Chrysler) - Auto assembly plant, UAW union jobs
Woodward - Aerospace and industrial components manufacturing
UTC Aerospace Systems - Aviation manufacturing and engineering
Amazon - Distribution center hiring warehouse workers
OSF Healthcare - Hospital and clinic support positions
Joliet
Harrah's Joliet Casino - Gaming, hospitality, food and beverage service
CenterPoint Properties - Massive logistics park—multiple tenant companies hiring
Amazon - Multiple warehouse facilities in Joliet area
ExxonMobil - Refinery and petroleum distribution operations
IKEA Distribution - Warehouse operations for furniture retail chain
Springfield
State of Illinois - Government jobs with ban-the-box protections
Memorial Health System - Healthcare support, food service, facilities
Horace Mann - Insurance company headquarters—customer service, claims
Amazon - Distribution center south of Springfield
Pillsbury/General Mills - Food manufacturing plant
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Illinois
CDL Truck Driving
Illinois' central location makes it a premier trucking hub. Many companies pay for CDL training—you can go from no license to $60K+ annually in 3-4 months.
Schneider National - Regional and OTR routes. $55K-75K annually. Paid CDL training, home weekly for regional. Modern equipment, stability.
Swift Transportation - One of largest carriers. $50K-70K annually. Company-sponsored CDL school. Home weekly options available.
C.R. England - Team drivers earn $120K+ annually. Solo $60K-80K. Paid training, newer trucks. National and regional routes.
Prime Inc - $60K-85K annually. Company provides CDL training. Lightweight trucks for better fuel economy. Refer division pays premium.
Werner Enterprises - $55K-75K annually. Home weekly options, benefits from day 1. Pet-friendly trucks available.
Skilled Trades
Union apprenticeships offer best path to high wages without college degree. Earn while you learn—apprentices start at $18-25/hour and reach $35-55/hour as journeymen.
Union Electrician - IBEW Local 134 (Chicago) apprenticeship. Journeyman: $35-55/hour ($70K-110K/year). 5-year paid apprenticeship. Excellent benefits, pension.
Union Plumber - Plumbers Local 130 (Chicago area). Journeyman: $32-52/hour ($65K-105K/year). 5-year apprenticeship. Healthcare, pension, job security.
HVAC Technician - $25-40/hour ($50K-80K/year). High demand, year-round work. Technical training available through community colleges—often free via WIOA funding.
Welder - $22-38/hour ($45K-75K/year). Manufacturing, construction, maintenance. Certificate programs at Illinois community colleges. Immediate job placement common.
Heavy Equipment Operator - Operating Engineers Local 150. $28-45/hour ($55K-90K/year). Operates cranes, bulldozers, excavators. Union apprenticeship, excellent benefits.
Manufacturing
Caterpillar Production - Union manufacturing jobs $22-38/hour ($45K-75K/year). UAW benefits, pension, healthcare. Stable careers at Peoria-area facilities.
Deere & Company - Equipment manufacturing $24-40/hour ($50K-80K/year). Union jobs through UAW. Excellent benefits, Moline operations.
Abbott Laboratories - Medical device manufacturing $18-32/hour depending on role and shift. Healthcare industry stability, benefits, advancement.
Food Processing - Plants statewide. $16-26/hour ($35K-55K/year). Overtime common increases earnings. Stable demand, union at many facilities.
Automotive Parts Suppliers - Throughout Illinois. $18-30/hour ($40K-65K/year). Feeding auto plants in IL and neighboring states. Overtime common.
Illinois Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Expungement & Record Sealing
Illinois offers some of the nation's most accessible expungement opportunities under 20 ILCS 2630 (Criminal Identification Act). Expunged records are destroyed—you can legally deny their existence on most applications.
Eligible Records:
Arrests without conviction - Can be expunged immediately or after short waiting period
Minor drug offenses - Many eligible after completion of sentence
Class 4 felonies - Eligible 4 years after completion of sentence
Class 3 felonies - Eligible 5 years after completion of sentence
Misdemeanors - Most eligible 3 years after completion
Juvenile records - Many eligible for automatic or petitioned expungement
Expunged records are destroyed (not just sealed)—you can legally state on applications that the arrest/conviction never occurred. Exceptions: law enforcement jobs, certain licensed professions.
How to Apply for Expungement:
Order your background check from Illinois State Police (isp.state.il.us) to see exactly what's on your record (~$16)
Determine eligibility at illinoislegalaid.org (free online tool) or consult with attorney
File petition in county circuit court where case occurred
Filing fees approximately $124-$500 depending on county (fee waivers available for low income)
State's Attorney receives copy and has 60 days to respond
Court hearing typically scheduled within 60-90 days
If granted, expungement order sent to all relevant agencies
FREE LEGAL HELP: Cabrini Green Legal Aid (Chicago), Illinois Legal Aid Online (statewide), Chicago Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights, Legal Council for Health Justice, local law school clinics.
Ban the Box & Fair Chance Laws
Illinois has comprehensive fair-chance hiring protections:
State law (820 ILCS 75 - Job Opportunities for Qualified Applicants Act): Employers with 15+ employees cannot ask about criminal history on applications or before first interview
Chicago Fair Chance Ordinance: Employers with 5+ employees cannot inquire about criminal history until after making conditional job offer—strongest protection in Illinois
Individualized assessment required: If employer considers criminal record, they must evaluate nature of offense, time elapsed, and relevance to specific job
Notice requirement: If denied due to background check, employer must provide written notice with copy of background report and opportunity to respond
FCRA 7-year lookback: Most convictions cannot be reported on background checks after 7 years (does not apply to jobs paying $75,000+)
Exceptions: Certain positions (law enforcement, working with children/vulnerable adults, healthcare, financial services) may require disclosure earlier
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Illinois employers can claim federal tax credit up to $9,600 per qualified hire. Tell employers about this credit—it makes you more attractive as candidate!
You may qualify if you:
Ex-felons hired within 1 year of release from prison or conviction date
TANF recipients
SNAP (food stamp) recipients
Vocational rehabilitation referrals
Veterans
Job Training & Placement Programs
Illinois offers exceptional FREE state-funded employment resources:
Illinois workNet Centers - 50+ locations statewide offering: resume writing assistance, interview preparation and coaching, computer skills training, job search assistance and referrals, certification programs (forklift, OSHA, etc.), connections to WIOA funding for career training. Find nearest center: illinoisworknet.com
Safer Foundation - Chicago-based reentry organization, largest in Midwest. Annual budget $15M+, serves 12,000+ clients. Services: job placement assistance, life skills training, housing help, legal aid connections, mentoring. Track record of success. saferfoundation.org
Westside Health Authority - West Chicago employment services specifically for justice-involved individuals
St. Leonard's Ministries - Comprehensive reentry services including employment, housing, substance abuse treatment
Cabrini Green Legal Aid - Chicago—combines legal services with employment support
Chicago Urban League - Workforce development programs including job training and placement
Goodwill Industries - Job training and placement services in multiple Illinois locations
Free College & Career Training
Illinois offers exceptional education opportunities:
City Colleges of Chicago - FREE tuition for Chicago residents earning less than $45,000/year. Includes associate degrees, certificates, workforce training. 7 campuses citywide.
Illinois Community Colleges - Tuition approximately $150-200 per credit hour. Full-time students often qualify for federal Pell Grants covering entire cost. Certificate programs in welding, HVAC, CDL, manufacturing, healthcare.
WIOA Funding - Through workNet Centers for approved training programs. Can cover tuition, books, supplies, transportation for career training.
Union Apprenticeships - IBEW (electricians), Operating Engineers Local 150, Plumbers Local 130 offer PAID apprenticeships—earn $18-25/hour while learning, reach $35-55/hour as journeyman.
Staffing Agencies in Illinois That Work With Felons
Staffing agencies offer fastest path to employment—many provide same-day placement. Bring 2 forms of ID, Social Security card, and dress ready to work.
PeopleReady (formerly Labor Ready) - Nationwide leader with 50+ Illinois locations including Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, Peoria, Springfield. Daily pay available via mobile app (JobStack). Construction, warehouse, manufacturing, landscaping focus. No resume required—just 2 IDs and willingness to work. Same-day assignments common. peopleready.com
Spherion - Office, industrial, and professional staffing throughout Illinois. Temp-to-hire placements common. Skills assessment and training available. Multiple offices statewide.
Manpower - Global headquarters in Chicago. Temp-to-hire placements, direct hire. Office, industrial, professional roles. Resume assistance, skills training offered.
Kelly Services - Light industrial, IT, office administration positions throughout Illinois. Temp and temp-to-hire. Good reputation for working with second-chance candidates.
Express Employment Professionals - Locally-owned franchise offices in multiple Illinois cities. Light industrial, skilled trades, office positions. Personalized service.
Aerotek - Technical and industrial staffing. Engineering, manufacturing, logistics roles. Higher-skilled positions but will work with felons.
Randstad - Office and light industrial placements. Multiple Illinois offices. Temp-to-hire common pathway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What jobs can I NOT get with a felony in Illinois?
Certain licensed professions have restrictions: law enforcement and corrections officers, teachers and school positions working directly with children, some healthcare roles depending on offense (nursing, pharmacy), financial services positions for fraud/theft convictions, security guard positions. However, many professions have waiver processes allowing case-by-case review. Contact Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (idfpr.illinois.gov) for specific occupational licensing questions.
Q2: How long do background checks go back in Illinois?
Under Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), most employers can only see convictions from past 7 years on consumer background reports (does NOT apply to jobs paying $75,000+). Illinois uses both Illinois State Police criminal history records and county court records. Some counties have older records available online. Ban the Box laws delay when background check can occur but don't limit lookback period once check is lawful.
Q3: Will Amazon hire me with a felony in Illinois?
Yes! Amazon is one of Illinois' most felon-friendly employers with 40+ facilities statewide. They conduct background checks but evaluate on case-by-case basis considering: nature of offense, time elapsed, job relevance. Same-day job offers common for warehouse roles. Disqualifying offenses typically include: recent violent crimes, sex offenses, theft convictions for certain positions. Drug offenses usually acceptable after time passes. Starting pay $17-22/hour with benefits from day 1.
Q4: Does Chicago really have Ban the Box?
Yes! Chicago's Fair Chance Ordinance (2016) is one of nation's strongest. Applies to employers with 5+ employees within city limits. Cannot ask about criminal history until AFTER making conditional job offer. Includes contractors. Violations subject to fines $500-$1,000 per violation. File complaints with Chicago Commission on Human Relations. Rest of Illinois has state Ban the Box for 15+ employee companies (can ask during interview but not on application).
Q5: How much do warehouse jobs pay in Illinois?
Illinois warehouse pay is competitive: Entry-level general warehouse: $16-19/hour; Amazon, Target: $17-22/hour; Walmart distribution: $19-24/hour; UPS part-time: $21/hour, full-time drivers $25-40/hour; FedEx Ground: $18-22/hour; Night shift differential typically adds $1-3/hour. With $15 state minimum wage ($16.20 Chicago), even entry-level provides livable income.
Q6: Can I get my felony expunged in Illinois?
It depends on offense and time elapsed. Illinois has progressive expungement laws: Class 4 felonies eligible 4 years after sentence completion, Class 3 felonies eligible 5 years after completion, many drug offenses eligible after completion. Generally NOT eligible: violent crimes, sex offenses, DUIs, domestic battery. Expunged records are destroyed—you can legally deny conviction occurred. Check free eligibility: illinoislegalaid.org. Consider consulting attorney for best results—many offer free consultations.
Q7: What's the minimum wage in Illinois in 2025?
Illinois minimum wages vary by location: Illinois statewide: $15.00/hour; Chicago: $16.20/hour; Cook County (outside Chicago): $14.05/hour; Tipped workers: $9.00/hour Illinois, $10.80/hour Chicago. Most entry-level jobs pay above minimum—warehouse and retail often start $16-20/hour.
Q8: Where can I get free job training in Illinois?
Multiple free training resources: Illinois workNet Centers (50+ locations): FREE resume help, interview prep, computer skills, job referrals, certification programs (forklift, OSHA); City Colleges of Chicago: FREE tuition for Chicago residents earning <$45K/year—associate degrees and certificates; Community colleges statewide: ~$150-200/credit (often covered by Pell Grants); WIOA funding: Through workNet Centers for approved career training; Union apprenticeships: PAID training—earn $18-25/hour while learning skilled trades (IBEW electricians, Operating Engineers, Plumbers Local 130).
Q9: Will McDonald's hire felons in Illinois?
Yes! McDonald's is highly felon-friendly, especially with global headquarters in Chicago. 500+ franchised locations throughout Illinois routinely hire people with records. Pay: $13-16/hour for crew, $35K-50K for management. Archways to Opportunity program offers: free college tuition, GED assistance, English language classes. Fast advancement common—crew to manager in 6-12 months possible. Each franchise makes own hiring decisions but company culture supports second chances.
Q10: What should I say about my felony in an Illinois job interview?
Timing depends on location: In Chicago (5+ employee companies): They cannot ask until AFTER conditional offer, then be honest but brief. Rest of Illinois (15+ employee companies): They can ask during interview. When asked: Be honest but brief—don't volunteer extra details; Focus on what you learned and personal growth; Emphasize your skills, reliability, and work ethic; Mention certificates, training, education completed; Have references ready who can vouch for your character; Know your rights—employer must do individualized assessment per Illinois law (job relevance, time elapsed, nature of offense). Practice your 30-second explanation with someone you trust.
Next Steps: Your Illinois Job Search Action Plan
Follow this proven 5-step sequence used by thousands of successful Illinois job seekers:
Step 1: Get Your Background Check: Order official Illinois criminal history from Illinois State Police (isp.state.il.us) to see exactly what employers will see. Cost: approximately $16. Know before you apply so you're not surprised. Check for errors and dispute through ISP if needed. This shows employers you're being proactive and transparent.
Step 2: Register with Free Resources: Sign up at illinoisworknet.com and locate your nearest workNet Center—they offer free resume help, interview coaching, job referrals, and training connections. If in Chicago area, contact Safer Foundation (saferfoundation.org)—proven track record placing 12,000+ clients annually. These free services dramatically increase your success rate.
Step 3: Apply Strategically to High-Success Employers: Target the 20 companies listed in this guide with documented second-chance programs. Apply first to: Amazon (40+ locations), Walmart (190+ stores), Target (100+ stores), McDonald's (500+ locations), UPS (major hubs). Use staffing agencies for fastest placement—PeopleReady offers same-day work. Apply to 5-10 positions daily for best results.
Step 4: Check Expungement Eligibility: Visit illinoislegalaid.org to see if you qualify for expungement under 20 ILCS 2630. Many Class 3 and Class 4 felonies and drug offenses are eligible 4-5 years after sentence completion. Expungement destroys records and opens significantly more doors with higher wages. Free legal aid available through Cabrini Green Legal Aid, Illinois Legal Aid Online.
Step 5: Leverage Free Training for Career Growth: Don't settle for minimum wage long-term. Illinois offers exceptional free training: City Colleges of Chicago (FREE for residents earning <$45K), community college certificates ($150-200/credit, usually Pell Grant covered), CDL training through trucking companies, union apprenticeships (IBEW, Operating Engineers, Plumbers—PAID while learning). Start working entry-level, begin training immediately for $20-40/hour careers.
You've paid your debt to society. Illinois' progressive laws, thriving economy, and comprehensive support systems provide real opportunities for rebuilding your life. Take the first step today.
DISCLAIMER
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Hiring policies vary by company, position, and individual 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 Illinois' Ban the Box law (820 ILCS 75) and expungement laws (20 ILCS 2630) is general in nature—consult with an Illinois employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation.
© 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.