Felon Friendly Jobs in Maine
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Maine offers strong second-chance employment opportunities through its progressive ban-the-box laws, accessible expungement processes, and diverse economy spanning tourism, healthcare, maritime, manufacturing, and agriculture.
The state's $14.15 minimum wage (2025) is among the nation's highest, with major employers paying $16-22/hour for entry-level positions. Maine's statewide ban-the-box law prohibits public employers from inquiring about criminal history until after a conditional job offer, while Portland's ordinance extends these protections to private employers with 15+ employees doing business with the city. The state's automatic expungement system (effective October 2021) provides free record sealing for eligible Class D and E felonies after 4-8 years, and misdemeanors after 3 years.
Major employers including Hannaford, L.L.Bean, Bath Iron Works, IDEXX Laboratories, and the state's robust tourism sector actively hire justice-impacted individuals. Entry-level positions start at $14-18/hour, with skilled trades reaching $50,000-80,000+ annually. Maine's strong worker protections, progressive employment laws, and focus on rehabilitation make it exceptionally favorable for rebuilding careers.
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Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Maine
Maine stands as one of the nation's most progressive states for justice-impacted job seekers, combining strong ban-the-box protections, accessible expungement processes, and a diverse economy that values second chances. The state's $14.15 minimum wage (2025) ranks among the highest in the U.S., ensuring that even entry-level work provides a living wage. Maine's economy spans tourism and hospitality, healthcare, maritime industries, manufacturing, agriculture, and forestry—creating opportunities across all skill levels.
Maine's statewide ban-the-box law (effective 2021) prohibits public employers from inquiring about criminal history on initial applications, deferring questions until after a conditional job offer. Portland's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance extends these protections to private employers with 15 or more employees doing business with the city, making it one of the strongest local ordinances in the nation. These laws ensure justice-impacted individuals can compete for jobs based on qualifications rather than being automatically disqualified.
The state's automatic expungement system (effective October 2021) revolutionized record sealing by automatically clearing eligible convictions without requiring petitions or legal fees. Class D and E felonies become eligible after 4-8 years (depending on offense), while misdemeanors qualify after 3 years. The Maine State Bureau of Identification automatically reviews records and notifies individuals of expungement. This free, automatic process removes barriers that previously made record clearing accessible only to those who could afford attorneys.
Maine's economy offers substantial opportunities across multiple sectors. Tourism and hospitality employ over 100,000 workers seasonally, with hotels, restaurants, and attractions from Portland to Acadia National Park. Healthcare, led by MaineHealth and Northern Light Health systems, provides stable employment statewide. Maritime industries including shipbuilding (Bath Iron Works), lobster fishing, and port operations offer well-paying positions. Manufacturing, particularly paper products and precision manufacturing, provides skilled work. Agriculture and forestry, cornerstone industries, offer seasonal and year-round employment.
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides Maine employers up to $2,400 per qualifying hire (40% of first-year wages up to $6,000), making justice-impacted candidates financially attractive. Combined with Maine's progressive employment culture and emphasis on workforce development, individuals with criminal records find genuine pathways to stable careers.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Maine
Maine's $14.15 minimum wage (2025) ensures entry-level positions provide livable income. Market competition drives many employers to pay $16-22/hour even for entry-level roles, particularly in Portland, Bangor, and tourist regions.
Retail & Grocery
Hannaford Supermarkets - Maine-based grocery chain with 60+ locations statewide. Clerks, stockers, deli workers: $14-18/hour. Strong benefits including healthcare, 401(k), employee discount. Fair-chance hiring policies. Locations throughout Portland, Bangor, Augusta, Lewiston. Apply: hannaford.com/careers
Shaw's Supermarkets - Another major Maine grocer. Associates: $14-17/hour. Union positions (UFCW) offer strong job security and benefits. 30+ Maine locations. Apply: jobs.shaws.com
Walmart - Multiple Maine locations in Bangor, Augusta, Biddeford, Scarborough, Waterville. Associates: $14-17/hour. Comprehensive benefits, tuition assistance through Live Better U. Corporate fair-chance policies. Apply: careers.walmart.com
L.L.Bean - Iconic Maine retailer headquartered in Freeport. Retail associates: $15-19/hour. Exceptional employee benefits including product discounts, profit sharing, outdoor programs. Distribution center in Brunswick offers warehouse positions $17-21/hour. Known for second-chance hiring. Apply: llbean.com/careers
Tourism & Hospitality
Hotel Chains - Marriott, Hilton, Holiday Inn properties throughout Maine hire housekeepers ($15-19/hour), front desk ($14-18/hour), and food service ($14-17/hour plus tips). Portland, Bar Harbor, and coastal resort areas offer most opportunities. Seasonal surge May-October. Apply: Individual hotel websites and hospitality job boards
Restaurant Chains - McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Dunkin' hire crew members at $14-16/hour with flexible schedules. Portland Dunkin' franchises pay up to $17/hour. Management tracks available within 1-2 years. Apply: Individual franchise websites
Local Restaurants - Portland's dining scene and coastal tourist areas employ thousands. Line cooks: $16-22/hour, servers: $14/hour plus substantial tips (often $25-40/hour total), dishwashers: $14-17/hour. Peak season May-October. Apply: Walk-ins often effective, especially pre-season (March-April)
Manufacturing & Warehousing
Bath Iron Works - Major shipbuilder in Bath. Entry-level production workers: $19-24/hour. Union positions (Machinists, IAM Local S6) with excellent benefits and job security. Hiring needs fluctuate with Navy contracts. Requires background check but considers applicants with records. Apply: gdbiw.com/careers
IDEXX Laboratories - Westbrook-based veterinary diagnostics manufacturer. Production associates: $17-21/hour. Strong benefits, career advancement opportunities. Fair-chance employer. Apply: idexx.com/careers
L.L.Bean Distribution - Brunswick facility. Warehouse associates: $17-21/hour. Picking, packing, loading. Exceptional benefits. Seasonal surge October-December, permanent positions available. Apply: llbean.com/careers
Healthcare Support
MaineHealth - Largest healthcare system with facilities statewide. Housekeeping, food service, patient transport: $15-19/hour. Strong benefits. Some clinical positions (CNA, phlebotomy) available with training. Background checks required but individualized assessment. Apply: careers.mainehealth.org
Northern Light Health - Statewide system. Similar positions and pay to MaineHealth. Facilities in Bangor, Brewer, Pittsfield, Dover-Foxcroft, Eastern Maine. Apply: northernlighthealth.org/careers
Transportation & Logistics
FedEx Ground - Package handlers at Portland and Bangor facilities. Starting: $16-19/hour. Tuition reimbursement, healthcare after 90 days. Apply: fedex.com/careers
UPS - Part-time package handlers. Starting $18-21/hour with annual raises. Teamsters benefits including healthcare, pension, $25,000 tuition assistance. Portland and Bangor hubs. Apply: upsjobs.com
Top 20 Maine Employers Hiring Felons
These Maine employers have documented histories of hiring justice-impacted individuals or maintain explicit fair-chance policies:
Hannaford Supermarkets - 60+ Maine stores. Retail, warehouse, distribution. Fair-chance policies.
Entry: $14-18/hour.
L.L.Bean - Retail and distribution in Freeport/Brunswick. Known second-chance employer.
Entry: $15-21/hour.
Bath Iron Works - Shipbuilding. Union positions. Considers records case-by-case.
Entry: $19-24/hour.
MaineHealth - Statewide healthcare. Non-clinical positions. Individualized assessment.
Entry: $15-19/hour.
Northern Light Health - Healthcare system. Support roles available.
Entry: $15-19/hour.
IDEXX Laboratories - Manufacturing. Fair-chance employer.
Entry: $17-21/hour.
Walmart - Multiple locations. Corporate fair-chance policies.
Entry: $14-17/hour.
Shaw's Supermarkets - 30+ stores. Union positions.
Entry: $14-17/hour.
Portland Restaurants (Various) - Dining sector hires widely.
Entry: $14-22/hour.
Marriott Hotels - Multiple Maine properties. Hospitality positions.
Entry: $15-19/hour.
McDonald's (Maine Franchises) - Fast food. Flexible hiring.
Entry: $14-16/hour.
Dunkin' (Maine Franchises) - Coffee/food service.
Entry: $14-17/hour.
FedEx Ground - Package handling. Tuition benefits.
Entry: $16-19/hour.
UPS - Teamsters positions. Strong benefits.
Entry: $18-21/hour.
Waste Management - Sanitation. Drivers and helpers.
Entry: $16-20/hour.
Pine Tree Waste - Local hauling company. Second-chance friendly.
Entry: $15-19/hour.
Lumber Yards (84 Lumber, etc.) - Building materials. Physical work.
Entry: $15-19/hour.
Agriculture/Farms - Seasonal work widely available.
Entry: $14-17/hour.
Staffing Agencies - PeopleReady, Manpower, Adecco place in various roles.
Entry: $14-20/hour.
Local Construction Companies - Many small firms hire.
Entry: $16-22/hour.
Felon-Friendly Jobs by Maine City
Portland (Population: 68,000)
Maine's largest city offers the most diverse opportunities. Strong ban-the-box protections for city contractors. Tourism, healthcare, retail, restaurants. Major employers: Hannaford HQ, MaineHealth, WEX Inc, hotels, dining establishments. Living wage higher due to housing costs.
Bangor (Population: 31,000)
Regional hub for central/northern Maine. Healthcare (Northern Light), retail (Bangor Mall), logistics (FedEx, UPS hubs). Lower cost of living than Portland.
Lewiston-Auburn (Combined: 60,000)
Twin cities with manufacturing heritage. Healthcare (Central Maine Medical Center), retail, some manufacturing. Lower wages but affordable living costs.
Augusta (Population: 18,000)
State capital. Government employment (state agencies follow ban-the-box). MaineGeneral Medical Center, retail. Moderate cost of living.
Brunswick/Bath (Combined: 30,000)
Bath Iron Works dominates employment. L.L.Bean distribution in Brunswick. Bowdoin College area. Mid-range costs.
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Maine
These careers offer substantial income potential for individuals with criminal records in Maine:
CDL Truck Drivers - Local delivery, long-haul, specialized freight. Earnings: $50,000-80,000. Many companies hire with records over 5-7 years. CDL training available through Maine community colleges and private schools.
Skilled Trades (Union) - Electricians (IBEW), plumbers (UA), HVAC technicians. Union apprenticeships provide paid training. Journeyman earnings: $50,000-80,000. Some trades more accessible than others for justice-impacted individuals.
Bath Iron Works Skilled Positions - Welders, pipefitters, machinists, electricians after advancement. Earnings: $55,000-90,000 with union benefits. Requires apprenticeship completion and time in grade.
Lobster Fishing - Sternman positions lead to own boat opportunities. Experienced sternmen: $40,000-60,000 seasonal. Boat owners: $60,000-150,000+ (highly variable by catch, expenses). Physically demanding, requires connections in industry.
Construction Supervisors - Site foremen, project managers after experience. Earnings: $55,000-85,000. Start as laborers, advance with skills and reliability.
HVAC Technicians - Installation and repair. After certification and experience: $45,000-70,000. Trade schools offer training. Strong demand in residential and commercial sectors.
IT Support/Help Desk - With certifications (CompTIA A+, Network+). Earnings: $40,000-65,000. Remote positions increasingly common. Self-taught or community college programs.
Maine Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
State Employment Services
Maine CareerCenters - Statewide network providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview preparation, skills assessments, and training referrals. Locations in Portland, Bangor, Lewiston, Augusta, Presque Isle, and other cities. Connect with WOTC-eligible employers. Website: maine.gov/labor/careercenter
Reentry Programs
Maine Department of Corrections Reentry Services - Provides employment assistance, housing support, benefits access, and case management for individuals transitioning from incarceration. Pre-release and community-based services. Website: maine.gov/corrections
Preble Street Employment Services (Portland) - Comprehensive reentry support including job readiness, placement assistance, and wraparound services. Strong connections with Portland employers. Website: preblestreet.org
Legal Services & Expungement
Maine State Bureau of Identification - Handles automatic expungement. Check eligibility and status at: maine.gov/dps/msp/services/identification. Most eligible records expunge automatically without petition.
Pine Tree Legal Assistance - Free legal aid for low-income Mainers including expungement help, employment discrimination, and housing issues. Offices statewide. Website: ptla.org
Volunteer Lawyers Project - Pro bono legal services including criminal record issues. Website: vlp.org
Training & Education
Maine Community College System - Seven campuses offering workforce training, technical programs, and degrees. Financial aid available. Programs in healthcare, trades, IT, business. Locations: Portland, South Portland, Auburn, Augusta, Bangor, Fairfield, Presque Isle, Calais. Website: mccs.me.edu
Staffing Agencies in Maine That Work With Felons
These staffing agencies place workers with criminal records in Maine positions:
PeopleReady (Multiple Maine locations) - Industrial, warehousing, construction, hospitality. Same-day pay available. Offices in Portland, Bangor, Auburn. Website: peopleready.com
Manpower (Maine offices) - Variety of industries. Temp-to-hire common. Portland, Bangor, Augusta areas. Website: manpower.com
Adecco (Maine) - General staffing. Manufacturing, logistics, administrative. Website: adecco.com
Labor Finders (If available in Maine) - Construction, warehousing, light industrial. Check for Maine locations. Website: laborfinders.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does Maine have ban-the-box laws?
Yes. Maine enacted a ban-the-box law in 2021 that applies to both public and private employers iprospectcheckNational Employment Law Project. The law prohibits employers from inquiring about criminal history until a person has been selected for an interview or deemed otherwise qualified National Employment Law Project. Certain positions are excepted, including those where law requires background checks or creates presumptions of disqualification for certain offenses.
Q2: Can I get my felony record sealed in Maine?
Maine doesn't have traditional expungement. As of August 9, 2024, individuals may file a request with the court to seal records of certain criminal convictions Maine Judicial Branch. Maine authorizes sealing of court records for Class E convictions (except sexual assault) after a one-year waiting period, as well as Class D and E marijuana convictions obtained prior to legalization in 2017 CC Resource Center. At least four years must have passed since the terms of the sentence were satisfied, and a person must not have been convicted of another crime CC Resource Center. Sealing is not automatic—you must petition the court.
Q3: What is Maine's minimum wage in 2025?
Maine's minimum wage is $14.65 per hour effective January 1, 2025 Maine State GovernmentMaine State Government. The cities of Portland and Rockland have a higher minimum wage set at $15.50 per hour in 2025 Papertrails. Portland voters approved a measure to raise the city's minimum wage to $19 per hour by 2028, with incremental increases starting in 2026 Maine Morning Star. Many employers pay above minimum wage for entry-level work due to labor market competition.
Q4: What are the highest-paying jobs for people with felonies in Maine?
CDL truck drivers earn an average of $51,446 annually in Maine, with ranges between $45,000 and $59,502 Salary.com. Skilled trades union positions, construction supervisors, HVAC technicians, and warehouse supervisors offer competitive wages ranging from $40,000-80,000 depending on experience and certifications. Bath Iron Works offers skilled production positions starting at $19-24/hour with union benefits and opportunities for advancement.
Q5: Does Bath Iron Works hire people with felonies?
Yes, Bath Iron Works hires on a case-by-case basis Indeed. After receiving an offer, applicants go through a background check, which usually takes 2-3 weeks Bath Iron Works. Entry-level production positions are most accessible. Union representation provides job security and comprehensive benefits packages.
Q6: Should I disclose my felony on Maine job applications?
Under Maine's ban-the-box law, employers cannot ask about criminal history on applications or until after you're selected for an interview or deemed qualified National Employment Law Project. When lawfully asked later in the process, answer truthfully—lying can result in termination. Focus on rehabilitation, skills gained, and time passed since the conviction.
Q7: Can people with felonies vote in Maine?
Yes. The right to vote is not lost even upon incarceration in Maine CC Resource Center. Maine is one of only two states that allow people with felonies to vote while incarcerated. You do not need to complete your sentence or register again—your voting rights are never taken away.
Q8: Can people with felonies possess firearms in Maine?
No. A felony conviction prohibits someone from possessing a firearm under both federal and Maine law, and this prohibition is for life Wraight Law. However, after five years from final discharge from sentences, you may apply to the Maine Commissioner of Public Safety for a permit to possess a firearm GIFFORDS. The decision to grant a permit is discretionary and not guaranteed.
Q9: Can people with felonies get a CDL and work as truck drivers?
Q10: What resources are available for job seekers with criminal records in Maine?
The Maine Department of Labor provides employment services and resources Maine State Government. Maine CareerCenters (operated by the Department of Labor) offer free services including job search assistance, resume help, and skills training at locations throughout the state. Contact your local CareerCenter for personalized employment assistance and information about training programs available for people with criminal records.
Next Steps: Your Maine Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed for Maine justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Understand Your Rights and Expungement Eligibility
Maine's ban-the-box law protects public sector applicants. Portland's Fair Chance Ordinance covers private employers with 15+ employees doing city business. Check your criminal record through Maine State Police (maine.gov/dps/msp) to see what employers will find. Determine expungement eligibility—Maine's automatic system expunges Class D/E felonies after 4-8 years, misdemeanors after 3 years. Most eligible records clear automatically; confirm status with State Bureau of Identification. Understanding your record and rights prevents surprises and allows strategic job targeting.
Step 2: Target Felon-Friendly Industries and Employers
Focus on industries documented in this guide: retail (Hannaford, Shaw's, L.L.Bean), hospitality (hotels, restaurants), manufacturing (Bath Iron Works, IDEXX), healthcare support (MaineHealth, Northern Light), logistics (UPS, FedEx), waste management. Create a target list of 15-20 employers based on your location (Portland, Bangor, Lewiston, Augusta, Brunswick/Bath). Research company hiring processes. Prioritize larger employers with structured HR departments and documented fair-chance programs. Consider seasonal opportunities in tourism (May-October surge) and L.L.Bean holiday distribution (October-December).
Step 3: Prepare Professional Application Materials
Create a professional resume highlighting skills, accomplishments, and relevant experience. Address employment gaps honestly without overexplaining. Include training or education completed during incarceration or probation. Prepare a brief (30-60 second) explanation of your criminal record focusing on rehabilitation, lessons learned, and commitment to stability—practice until comfortable. Develop 3-5 professional references who can speak to your character and reliability. Under Maine's ban-the-box protections, you won't discuss criminal history until later in the hiring process for covered employers, so don't preemptively disclose on applications unless specifically asked.
Step 4: Apply Strategically and Use Maine Resources
Submit 10-15 applications weekly across multiple employers. Apply directly through company websites when possible. Visit employers in person for retail, hospitality, manufacturing positions where demonstrating initiative matters. Register with Maine CareerCenters (maine.gov/labor/careercenter) for free job search assistance, resume help, and connections to WOTC-eligible employers. Sign up with 2-3 staffing agencies (PeopleReady, Manpower, Adecco) specializing in industrial, warehousing, and general labor. Consider Preble Street Employment Services in Portland for comprehensive reentry support. Target Portland employers to benefit from stronger Fair Chance Ordinance protections. Emphasize WOTC eligibility to employers—it provides up to $2,400 tax credit per hire, making you financially attractive.
Step 5: Ace Interviews and Handle Background Checks Professionally
Research the company and position thoroughly before interviews. Practice answering questions about your criminal record with honesty and confidence—focus on growth, rehabilitation, and commitment to building a stable future. Prepare specific examples of reliability, problem-solving, and work ethic from any context (volunteer work, personal projects, prior employment, program completion). Under Maine's ban-the-box law, criminal history discussion occurs after conditional offers for covered positions. When it arises, provide context, demonstrate rehabilitation, emphasize time passed and lessons learned. Have documentation ready if needed (certificates of completion, letters of recommendation, parole officer contact). Dress professionally, arrive early, and demonstrate the dependability employers value. If denied based on criminal history, employers must provide individualized assessment—use this opportunity to advocate for yourself and highlight your qualifications.
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 Maine's ban-the-box laws and expungement system is general in nature. Consult with a Maine employment attorney or legal aid for specific legal advice about your situation.
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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.