Felon Friendly Jobs in Maryland
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Maryland offers exceptional second-chance employment opportunities through its robust economy, progressive ban-the-box laws, and accessible expungement processes. The state's $15.00 minimum wage (2025) is among the nation's highest, with major employers in Baltimore-Washington corridor paying $17-24/hour for entry-level positions. Maryland's statewide ban-the-box law prohibits public employers and contractors from inquiring about criminal history until initial screening (Baltimore City, Montgomery County, PG County ordinances extend to private employers). The state's expungement and record shielding laws allow sealing of many convictions after 3-10 years, with automatic shielding for eligible misdemeanors and non-violent felonies. Major employers including Amazon (BWI fulfillment centers), Johns Hopkins Health System, Under Armour, McCormick & Company, and federal contractors actively hire justice-impacted individuals. Entry-level positions start at $15-20/hour, with skilled trades reaching $60,000-90,000+ annually and cybersecurity roles exceeding $80,000-120,000. Maryland's strong worker protections, high wages, and emphasis on workforce development make it exceptionally favorable for rebuilding careers.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Maryland
Maryland 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 thriving economy centered on the Baltimore-Washington corridor. The state's $15.00 minimum wage (2025) ranks among the highest nationally, ensuring that even entry-level work provides livable income. Maryland's economy spans federal contracting, healthcare, biotechnology, cybersecurity, logistics, higher education, and tourism—creating opportunities across all skill levels and backgrounds.
Maryland's statewide ban-the-box law (effective 2013) prohibits public employers and state contractors from inquiring about criminal history until after initial screening. Baltimore City's Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance (2014) extends these protections to private employers with 10 or more employees, prohibiting criminal history questions until the first interview. Montgomery County's ban-the-box ordinance (2015) covers private employers with 25+ employees. Prince George's County implemented similar protections in 2014. These comprehensive laws ensure justice-impacted individuals can compete for jobs based on qualifications rather than being automatically disqualified.
Maryland's expungement and record shielding laws are among the nation's most accessible. Expungement completely removes records from public view (available for acquittals, dismissals, certain nolle prosequi, some misdemeanors after 3 years, and pardoned offenses). Record shielding (effective October 2021) provides similar benefits for broader categories: certain non-violent misdemeanors after 3 years, eligible felonies after 7-10 years, and nuisance crimes after 3 years. Most significantly, Maryland implemented automatic shielding for eligible misdemeanors and non-violent felonies—the state automatically identifies and shields qualifying records without requiring petitions. This free, automatic process removes barriers that previously made record clearing accessible only to those who could afford attorneys.
The Baltimore-Washington corridor offers exceptional employment density. Federal government and contractors employ hundreds of thousands, with many positions accessible to those with records (particularly non-sensitive roles). Healthcare systems including Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical System, and MedStar employ over 100,000 across clinical and support roles. Cybersecurity companies (over 1,000 firms in Maryland) create high-paying opportunities. Biotechnology (led by companies in Montgomery County and Baltimore) offers laboratory and manufacturing positions. Logistics, anchored by the Port of Baltimore and BWI Airport, provides warehouse, distribution, and transportation jobs. Tourism, particularly around Baltimore's Inner Harbor, Ocean City, and Annapolis, employs thousands seasonally.
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides Maryland 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 Maryland's high wages, diverse economy, and strong emphasis on workforce development, individuals with criminal records find genuine pathways to stable, well-paying careers.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Maryland
Maryland's $15.00 minimum wage (2025) ensures entry-level positions provide competitive income. Market competition in Baltimore-Washington region drives many employers to pay $17-24/hour even for entry-level roles.
Warehouse & Distribution
Amazon Fulfillment Centers - Major facilities at BWI Airport (Baltimore) and throughout Maryland. Fulfillment associates: $18-21/hour. Day-one healthcare benefits, 401(k) matching, education benefits up to $5,250 annually through Career Choice program. Multiple shift options with overnight differential (+$1-2/hour). High-volume hiring year-round with particularly heavy recruitment September-November for holiday season.
Walmart Distribution Centers - Facilities in Hagerstown and other Maryland locations. Warehouse workers: $18-23/hour. Comprehensive benefits including healthcare, 401(k) match, Live Better U tuition program (covers tuition, books, fees for degrees). Strong internal promotion culture.
FedEx Ground - Package handlers at Baltimore, Columbia, Gaithersburg facilities. Starting: $17-20/hour. Tuition reimbursement program, healthcare benefits after 90 days. Physical work with consistent schedules.
UPS - Package handlers at Maryland facilities. Starting $19-23/hour with annual raises. Teamsters union benefits including healthcare, pension, $25,000 tuition assistance. Major hubs in Baltimore, Columbia, Gaithersburg.
Retail & Grocery
Giant Food - Major Maryland grocery chain with 150+ locations. Clerks, stockers, deli workers: $15-19/hour. Union positions (UFCW) offer strong benefits and job security. Locations throughout Baltimore, Montgomery County, Prince George's County.
Safeway - Another major Maryland grocer. Associates: $15-18/hour. Union positions with benefits. 50+ Maryland locations.
Walmart - Multiple Maryland locations. Associates: $15-18/hour. Comprehensive benefits, tuition assistance through Live Better U. Corporate fair-chance policies.
Target - Stores throughout Maryland. Team members: $15-19/hour. Education assistance, 401(k) match, comprehensive benefits.
Costco Wholesale - Maryland locations in Owings Mills, Columbia, Gaithersburg, Beltsville. Entry-level: $18-20/hour with quick progression to $26-30/hour. Exceptional benefits, promotes from within.
Healthcare Support
Johns Hopkins Health System - Largest Maryland employer. Housekeeping, food service, patient transport, facilities: $16-21/hour. Strong benefits. Some clinical positions (CNA, phlebotomy, medical assistant) available with training and background clearance. Background checks required but individualized assessment for support roles.
University of Maryland Medical System - Major healthcare system. Similar positions and pay to Johns Hopkins. Facilities throughout Baltimore and surrounding counties.
MedStar Health - Statewide system with major presence in Baltimore and surrounding areas. Support roles: $16-20/hour.
Food Service & Hospitality
Restaurant Chains - McDonald's, Wendy's, Burger King, Chipotle, Panera Bread throughout Maryland. Crew members: $15-18/hour. Management tracks available within 1-2 years earning $40,000-55,000.
Baltimore Restaurants - Inner Harbor, Fells Point, and throughout city. Line cooks: $17-24/hour, servers: $15/hour plus substantial tips (often $30-50/hour total), dishwashers: $15-18/hour. High turnover means frequent openings.
Hotel Chains - Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt properties throughout Maryland hire housekeepers ($16-21/hour), front desk ($15-19/hour), and food service ($15-18/hour plus tips). Baltimore, Ocean City, Annapolis, and I-95 corridor offer most opportunities.
Manufacturing & Production
Under Armour Distribution - Baltimore headquarters and distribution centers. Warehouse associates: $17-21/hour. Strong benefits, employee discount. Fair-chance employer.
McCormick & Company - Spice manufacturer headquartered in Hunt Valley. Production associates: $18-23/hour. Excellent benefits, employee stock purchase. Long-standing Maryland employer.
Biotechnology Companies - Montgomery County biotech corridor. Laboratory support, manufacturing associates: $17-25/hour. Companies like AstraZeneca, Emergent BioSolutions, others. Background checks vary by position.
Top 20 Maryland Employers Hiring Felons
These Maryland companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through explicit policies or documented hiring practices.
Amazon (BWI and Maryland Fulfillment Centers)
Associates: $18-21/hour
Managers: $55,000-110,000
Day-one benefits. Fair-chance policies. Learn More
Johns Hopkins Health System (Statewide)
Support roles: $16-21/hour
Clinical support: $40,000-55,000
Individualized assessment. Learn More
University of Maryland Medical System (Statewide)
Hospital support: $16-20/hour
Clinical roles: $40,000-60,000
Fair-chance for support positions.
Learn More
Giant Food (150+ Maryland Stores)
Clerks/Stockers: $15-19/hour
Store managers: $55,000-80,000
Union positions (UFCW).
Learn More
Walmart (Distribution and Retail)
Associates: $15-23/hour
Managers: $55,000-90,000
Corporate fair-chance policies.
Target Corporation (Maryland Stores/DCs)
Team members: $15-19/hour
Directors: $75,000-125,000
Fair-chance hiring.
Costco Wholesale (Maryland Locations)
Entry: $18-20/hour
Top-scale: $26-30/hour
Managers: $80,000-140,000
Promotes from within.
Under Armour (Baltimore HQ/Distribution)
Warehouse: $17-21/hour
Corporate: $45,000-85,000
Fair-chance employer.
Learn More
McCormick & Company (Hunt Valley)
Production: $18-23/hour
Quality control: $45,000-65,000
Long-standing fair employer.
Learn More
MedStar Health (Statewide)
Support roles: $16-20/hour
Clinical support: $40,000-55,000
Case-by-case evaluation.
Learn More
FedEx Ground (Maryland Facilities)
Package handlers: $17-20/hour
Drivers: $55,000-75,000
Tuition benefits.
UPS (Maryland Hubs)
Package handlers: $19-23/hour
Drivers: $80,000-100,000
Teamsters union.
Safeway (50+ Maryland Stores)
Clerks: $15-18/hour
Store managers: $60,000-85,000
Union positions.
Learn More
Baltimore Restaurants (Various)
Line cooks: $17-24/hour
Servers: $15/hour + tips
Managers: $40,000-65,000
High turnover, frequent openings.
Learn More
Marriott Hotels (Maryland Properties)
Housekeeping: $16-21/hour
Front desk: $15-19/hour
Managers: $45,000-70,000
Fair-chance hiring.
McDonald's (Maryland Franchises)
Crew: $15-18/hour
Managers: $40,000-55,000
Flexible hiring. Individual franchise websites
Waste Management (Maryland Routes)
Drivers: $55,000-75,000
Helpers: $17-22/hour
Mechanics: $60,000-85,000
Case-by-case evaluation.
84 Lumber (Maryland Locations)
Yard workers: $16-20/hour
Drivers: $45,000-65,000
Sales: $40,000-70,000
Fair hiring practices.
Learn More
Staffing Agencies (PeopleReady, Manpower, Adecco)
Various positions: $15-22/hour
Temp-to-hire common
Light industrial, warehouse, general labor
Learn More
Construction Companies (Various Maryland Firms)
Laborers: $17-25/hour
Skilled trades: $50,000-85,000
Supervisors: $60,000-95,000
Many hire with records.
Learn More
Felon-Friendly Jobs by Maryland City
These metro areas offer the most opportunities for justice-impacted individuals in Maryland.
Baltimore (Population: 585,000)
Maryland's largest city offers the most diverse opportunities. Strong ban-the-box protections for private employers (10+ employees). Healthcare (Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland), port logistics, tourism (Inner Harbor), restaurants, retail. Living costs moderate compared to D.C. suburbs.
Amazon BWI Fulfillment - $18-21/hour
Johns Hopkins Health System - $16-21/hour
Port of Baltimore Logistics - $18-24/hour
Inner Harbor Restaurants/Hotels - $15-24/hour
Giant Food Baltimore Stores - $15-19/hour
Columbia (Population: 105,000)
Planned community between Baltimore and D.C. Major employers: Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab (security clearances required for many roles), retail (Columbia Mall), distribution centers (Amazon, others). Higher wages reflect proximity to federal employment. Mid-range housing costs.
Amazon Columbia Fulfillment - $18-21/hour
Target Columbia Distribution - $18-20/hour
UPS Columbia Hub - $19-23/hour
Columbia Mall Retail - $15-19/hour
Healthcare Facilities - $16-20/hour
Silver Spring (Population: 81,000)
Montgomery County seat. Federal contractors, healthcare, retail, restaurants. Ban-the-box protections for private employers (25+ employees). High wages but expensive housing.
Federal Contractors - $17-25/hour entry
Silver Spring Restaurants - $15-24/hour
Retail (Downtown Silver Spring) - $15-20/hour
Healthcare Support - $16-21/hour
Hotel/Hospitality - $16-20/hour
Germantown/Gaithersburg (Combined: 120,000)
Montgomery County biotechnology corridor. Laboratory support, manufacturing, logistics, retail. High wages, high costs. Companies like AstraZeneca, Emergent BioSolutions, many federal contractors.
Biotechnology Companies - $17-25/hour
FedEx Gaithersburg - $17-20/hour
UPS Gaithersburg - $19-23/hour
Costco Gaithersburg - $18-20/hour
Retail/Restaurants - $15-20/hour
Rockville (Population: 68,000)
Montgomery County. Federal contractors, biotechnology, healthcare. Ban-the-box for county contractors. High wages and costs.
Federal Contractors - $17-25/hour
Biotechnology Support - $17-24/hour
Healthcare Facilities - $16-20/hour
Retail/Grocery - $15-19/hour
Restaurant/Hospitality - $15-22/hour
Frederick (Population: 72,000)
Growing city west of Baltimore-Washington corridor. Fort Detrick (federal installation), healthcare, manufacturing, retail. Lower costs than Montgomery County. Good balance of opportunity and affordability.
Fort Detrick Contractors - $17-23/hour
Healthcare Facilities - $16-20/hour
Manufacturing - $17-22/hour
Retail/Grocery - $15-18/hour
Restaurant/Hospitality - $15-20/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Maryland
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in Maryland.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL Class A)
Maryland's logistics industry and Port of Baltimore create exceptional CDL opportunities. Companies provide free training with work commitments.
Port Drayage Drivers - Container hauling Baltimore/Port: $60,000-90,000. High demand, challenging work. Some companies hire owner-operators, others hire drivers. Clean Truck Programs improving wages and conditions.
Local Delivery Drivers - Sysco, US Foods, beverage distributors: $55,000-75,000. Home daily, consistent routes. Union and non-union positions. CDL training provided by many companies.
UPS Package Delivery - Start as package handler ($19-23/hour), progress to driver. Top-rate drivers: $80,000-100,000 annually. Full Teamsters benefits including pension. Guaranteed 40 hours weekly.
Waste Management/Republic - Refuse truck drivers: $55,000-75,000. CDL training provided. Union positions with strong benefits. Physical work but excellent job security.
Cybersecurity & IT
Maryland's concentration of over 1,000 cybersecurity companies creates opportunities, particularly in non-classified positions.
Cybersecurity Analyst - Entry with Security+ or CEH certification: $50,000-80,000. Experienced: $80,000-120,000+. Community colleges offer training programs. Some positions don't require security clearances.
IT Support Specialist - CompTIA A+ certification: $45,000-60,000. Network technicians with Network+ or CCNA: $55,000-75,000. 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 Baltimore, Columbia, Germantown.
Skilled Trades
Union Electrician - IBEW apprenticeships throughout Maryland. Apprentices start $50,000-60,000. Journeyman electricians: $70,000-90,000 (higher in Montgomery County). Four-year paid apprenticeship.
Plumber/Pipefitter - UA union apprenticeships. Apprentices: $45,000-55,000. Journeymen: $60,000-85,000. Commercial/industrial pays more than residential. Strong demand statewide.
HVAC Technician - Installation and repair. Experienced techs: $50,000-80,000. Commercial HVAC pays premium. Trade schools offer training. High demand in residential and commercial sectors.
Welding - Industrial welders: $45,000-70,000. Specialized (underwater, shipyard): $60,000-90,000+. Certifications through community colleges. Port of Baltimore creates demand.
Port Equipment Operators - Container cranes, forklifts, heavy equipment at Port of Baltimore. Union positions (ILA): $55,000-85,000. Requires training and certification. Physical work, excellent benefits.
Healthcare & Biotechnology
Biotechnology Laboratory Technicians - After training and experience: $45,000-70,000. Montgomery County biotech corridor offers opportunities. Background checks required but non-violent offenses may be acceptable. Montgomery College offers biotech programs.
Medical Assistant - After certification: $35,000-50,000. Clinical support in physician offices, hospitals. Background checks less stringent than nursing. Community college programs available.
Phlebotomy Technician - After certification: $32,000-45,000. Blood collection in labs, hospitals. Quick training (weeks to months). Background check required but often accessible with older records.
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Maryland Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Maryland offers comprehensive support for justice-impacted job seekers through progressive laws and accessible expungement.
Expungement and Record Shielding in Maryland
Maryland provides both expungement (complete removal) and record shielding (similar effect, but record remains for certain government purposes).
Expungement - Completely removes records from public view.
Eligibility:
Acquittals and dismissals (immediate)
Certain nolle prosequi dispositions
Some misdemeanors after 3 years (alcohol offenses, disorderly conduct, others)
Pardoned offenses
Nuisance crimes after 3 years
Record Shielding - Effective October 2021. Provides similar benefits to expungement for broader categories.
Eligibility:
Certain non-violent misdemeanors after 3 years
Eligible felonies after 7-10 years (varies by offense)
Nuisance crimes after 3 years
Automatic Shielding - Maryland automatically identifies and shields eligible records without requiring petitions. This free, automatic process removes barriers that previously made record clearing accessible only to those who could afford attorneys. Check your eligibility and status at mdcourts.gov/expungement.
Effect: Shielded/expunged records cannot be used to deny most private employment. Not visible to private employers on background checks. Still visible to law enforcement and certain licensing boards.
Ban-the-Box Laws (Fair Chance Hiring)
Maryland has multiple levels of ban-the-box protection:
Statewide (2013) - Prohibits public employers and state contractors from asking about criminal history until after initial screening.
Baltimore City (2014) - Fair Criminal Record Screening Standards Ordinance covers private employers with 10+ employees. Cannot ask about criminal history until first interview. Must conduct individualized assessment if considering denial.
Montgomery County (2015) - Covers private employers with 25+ employees. Similar protections to Baltimore.
Prince George's County (2014) - Similar protections for covered employers.
Key Protections:
Cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications (covered employers)
Must conduct individualized assessment considering nature of offense, time passed, job requirements
Must provide written notice and opportunity to respond before denial
Cannot ask about or consider arrests without conviction, expunged/shielded records
7-Year Lookback Rule
Maryland does not have a statewide 7-year lookback limitation like some states. However, the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) limits reporting of:
Arrests without conviction older than 7 years
Civil suits, judgments, tax liens older than 7 years (with income exceptions)
Convictions can be reported indefinitely under federal law, but Maryland's shielding laws provide similar protection by sealing eligible records after specified periods.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides Maryland employers up to $2,400 tax credit per qualified hire with felony convictions (40% of first $6,000 wages). Inform potential employers of eligibility to increase hiring chances and demonstrate financial benefits of hiring you.
Additional Maryland Resources
State Employment Services
Maryland Workforce Exchange (MWE) - Statewide network providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview preparation, skills assessments, and training referrals. American Job Centers located throughout Maryland including Baltimore, Silver Spring, Rockville, Columbia, Salisbury. mwejobs.maryland.gov
Reentry Programs
Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services - Reentry Services Division provides employment assistance, housing support, benefits access, and case management for individuals transitioning from incarceration. dpscs.maryland.gov
Bon Secours Community Works (Baltimore) - Comprehensive reentry support including job readiness, placement assistance, and wraparound services. Strong connections with Baltimore employers. bonsecourscommunityworks.org
Helping Up Mission (Baltimore) - Provides employment services, job training, and spiritual recovery. Operates transitional employment businesses. helpingupmission.org
Legal Services & Expungement
Maryland Courts - Expungement and shielding information, forms, and eligibility checkers. Many records shield automatically; check status online. mdcourts.gov/expungement
Maryland Legal Aid - Free legal services for low-income Marylanders including expungement help, employment discrimination, and housing issues. Offices in Baltimore and throughout state. mdlab.org
Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland - Coordinates volunteer lawyers for expungement clinics and other legal services. probonomd.org
Training & Education
Maryland Community Colleges - Sixteen campuses offering workforce training, technical programs, and degrees. Financial aid available. Programs in healthcare, trades, IT, cybersecurity, biotechnology. Major campuses: Baltimore City Community College, Anne Arundel CC, Montgomery College, Prince George's CC, Howard CC. mdacc.org
Per Scholas (Baltimore) - Free technology training in IT support, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Partners with employers for direct hiring. perscholas.org
Staffing Agencies in Maryland That Work With Felons
Maryland staffing agencies specialize in placing justice-impacted individuals, particularly in warehouse, manufacturing, and light industrial sectors.
PeopleReady - Multiple Maryland locations (Baltimore, Columbia, Silver Spring, Rockville, Gaithersburg). Industrial, warehousing, construction, hospitality. Same-day pay available.
Manpower - Maryland offices throughout Baltimore, Montgomery County, Prince George's County. Variety of industries. Temp-to-hire common.
Adecco - Maryland presence. General staffing. Manufacturing, logistics, administrative, light industrial.
Express Employment Professionals - Multiple Maryland branches. Warehouse, manufacturing, administrative.
Labor Finders - Maryland locations. Construction, warehousing, light industrial.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far back do background checks go in Maryland?
Maryland does not have a statewide lookback limitation for convictions. Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) limits reporting arrests without conviction to 7 years. However, Maryland's automatic record shielding provides similar protection by sealing eligible records after 3-10 years depending on offense type.
Q2: Does Maryland have a ban-the-box law?
Yes. Maryland has statewide ban-the-box for public employers and contractors (effective 2013). Baltimore City (10+ employees), Montgomery County (25+ employees), and Prince George's County have ordinances extending protections to private employers. These laws prohibit criminal history questions until specified points in hiring process.
Q3: Can I get my felony expunged in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland offers both expungement (complete removal) and record shielding (similar effect). Automatic shielding for eligible misdemeanors and non-violent felonies started in 2021. Expungement available for acquittals, dismissals, some misdemeanors after 3 years, pardoned offenses. Shielding available for eligible felonies after 7-10 years. Check eligibility at mdcourts.gov/expungement.
Q4: What companies in Maryland hire felons?
Major Maryland employers include Amazon, Johns Hopkins Health System, University of Maryland Medical System, Giant Food, Walmart, Target, Costco, Under Armour, McCormick & Company, UPS, FedEx, MedStar Health, and thousands more. Maryland's ban-the-box laws require many employers to evaluate candidates before considering criminal history.
Q5: Can Amazon hire me with a felony in Maryland?
Yes. Amazon has major facilities at BWI Airport and throughout Maryland. Warehouse positions are most accessible. Entry-level: $18-21/hour. Apply at amazon.jobs.
Q6: What is Maryland's minimum wage?
$15.00/hour (2025), one of the highest in the nation. Many employers in Baltimore-Washington corridor pay $17-24/hour for entry-level work due to labor market competition and high cost of living.
Q7: Can I become a truck driver with a felony in Maryland?
Yes. Many Maryland companies hire CDL drivers with felonies, especially non-violent offenses over 5-7 years old. Port drayage, UPS, Sysco, Waste Management, and local delivery companies actively hire. Earnings: $55,000-100,000+.
Q8: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in Maryland?
Cybersecurity specialists ($50,000-120,000+), CDL drivers ($55,000-85,000), union electricians ($70,000-90,000), plumbers ($60,000-85,000), HVAC techs ($50,000-80,000), IT professionals ($45,000-75,000), biotechnology lab technicians ($45,000-70,000), port equipment operators ($55,000-85,000).
Q9: Should I disclose my felony on Maryland job applications?
Under Maryland's ban-the-box laws, many employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. Baltimore City employers (10+ employees) cannot ask until first interview. Montgomery County (25+ employees) has similar protections. When lawfully asked, answer truthfully—lying can result in termination.
Q10: Are there free job training programs in Maryland for people with felonies?
Yes. Maryland Workforce Exchange offers free training referrals. Maryland community colleges provide workforce programs with financial aid. Union apprenticeships (IBEW, UA) offer paid training. Per Scholas provides free technology training. Maryland DPSCS offers reentry services including job training.
Next Steps: Your Maryland Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for Maryland justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Understand Your Rights and Expungement Eligibility
Maryland's ban-the-box laws protect public sector applicants and many private sector applicants depending on jurisdiction. Baltimore City ordinance covers private employers (10+ employees) who cannot ask until first interview. Montgomery County protects applicants to employers with 25+ employees. Obtain your criminal record through Maryland courts (mdcourts.gov/clerks) to see exactly what employers see. Determine expungement or shielding eligibility—many Maryland records shield automatically under laws effective October 2021. Check your status at mdcourts.gov/expungement. Understanding your record and rights prevents surprises and allows strategic job targeting.
Step 2: Target Fair-Chance Industries and Employers
Focus applications on industries with established second-chance hiring: warehousing/logistics (Amazon, UPS, FedEx, Walmart DCs), healthcare support (Johns Hopkins, University of Maryland Medical System, MedStar), retail/grocery (Giant Food, Safeway, Costco, Target), manufacturing (Under Armour, McCormick, biotechnology), hospitality (hotels, restaurants), waste management, construction. Create a list of 15-20 employers from this guide based on your location (Baltimore, Columbia, Montgomery County, Prince George's County). Prioritize large companies with structured HR processes that follow ban-the-box laws. 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 or probation. Prepare brief (30-60 second) explanation of criminal record focusing on rehabilitation, lessons learned, and commitment to stability—practice until comfortable. Develop 3-5 professional references who can speak to character and reliability. Under Maryland's ban-the-box protections, you won't discuss criminal history until later in hiring process for covered employers, so don't preemptively disclose on applications unless specifically asked.
Step 4: Leverage Maryland Resources and Apply Strategically
Register with Maryland Workforce Exchange (mwejobs.maryland.gov) for free resume help, interview prep, and employer connections. Sign up with 2-3 staffing agencies specializing in warehouse/industrial work (PeopleReady, Manpower, Adecco, Express Employment). Apply directly through company websites when possible. Visit employers in person for warehouse, manufacturing, food service roles—showing initiative matters. Target Baltimore employers to benefit from strongest Fair Chance Ordinance protections. Consider Bon Secours Community Works or Helping Up Mission in Baltimore for comprehensive reentry support. 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 before interviews. Practice answering questions about 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 Maryland's ban-the-box laws, criminal history discussion timing varies by jurisdiction and employer type. In Baltimore, private employers (10+ employees) cannot ask until first interview. 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 Maryland's ban-the-box laws and expungement/shielding system is general in nature. Consult with a Maryland employment attorney or legal aid 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.