Felon Friendly Jobs in Mississippi
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Mississippi offers accessible second-chance employment opportunities through manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, and service industries concentrated along the I-55 and I-20 corridors. While the state minimum wage follows federal ($7.25/hour), major employers like Nissan, Toyota, Amazon, Walmart, and Tyson Foods pay $13-20/hour for entry-level positions and conduct individualized background reviews. Mississippi has no statewide ban-the-box law, but many large employers voluntarily adopt fair-chance practices. The state's growing automotive and aerospace manufacturing sectors, combined with expanding distribution networks in Jackson, Tupelo, Hattiesburg, and the Gulf Coast, create steady opportunities for justice-impacted individuals willing to demonstrate reliability and work ethic. Mississippi's automotive manufacturing corridor (Nissan in Canton, Toyota in Blue Springs) anchors a network of suppliers requiring thousands of workers. Distribution centers from Amazon, Walmart, and other national retailers offer immediate hiring with competitive wages. Entry-level positions start at $12-18/hour, while CDL drivers and skilled trades reach $50,000-75,000 annually.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Mississippi
Mississippi's economy centers around manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, healthcare, and service industries, creating diverse employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals across all skill levels. The state's automotive manufacturing corridor (Nissan in Canton, Toyota in Blue Springs) anchors a network of suppliers and logistics operations requiring thousands of workers. Distribution centers from Amazon, Walmart, and other national retailers concentrate near major highways, offering immediate hiring with competitive wages. The Gulf Coast's casinos, tourism, and shipbuilding; Jackson's healthcare and government sectors; Tupelo's furniture and automotive manufacturing; and agricultural operations statewide provide geographic diversity for job seekers.
While Mississippi's $7.25/hour minimum wage matches federal levels, most major employers pay $12-18/hour for entry-level positions due to competitive labor markets and workforce needs. The state's automotive manufacturing concentration, expanding logistics networks, casino gaming industry, and healthcare systems create steady hiring volume for reliable workers.
Mississippi offers limited expungement options compared to many states. The state allows expungement only for certain specific circumstances: first-time drug offenses after completing diversion programs, arrests that didn't result in convictions, some misdemeanors after five years, and cases involving identity theft or prosecutorial misconduct. Most felony convictions cannot be expunged under current Mississippi law, though pardons remain possible through the governor's office after completing sentences and demonstrating rehabilitation. However, Mississippi follows the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act seven-year rule for background checks conducted by third-party screening companies, meaning many older convictions won't appear on standard employment background checks.
Mississippi has no statewide ban-the-box law restricting when employers can ask about criminal history on job applications. Private employers can inquire about convictions on initial applications, conduct background checks at any point, and make hiring decisions based on criminal history with few restrictions. However, many large national employers operating in Mississippi (Amazon, Walmart, Target, major manufacturers) voluntarily adopt fair-chance hiring practices including individualized assessments and delayed background checks until after preliminary interviews. Federal contractors must follow federal ban-the-box regulations.
Mississippi's geography creates distinct employment regions. The Jackson metropolitan area serves as the state capital and largest city, offering government jobs, healthcare systems, distribution centers, and manufacturing. The Golden Triangle (Columbus, Starkville, West Point) hosts steel mills, automotive suppliers, and Mississippi State University. Tupelo anchors northeast Mississippi's furniture manufacturing and automotive supply chain. The Gulf Coast (Biloxi, Gulfport, Pascagoula) provides casino gaming, tourism, hospitality, and shipbuilding.
Hattiesburg offers healthcare, education, and light manufacturing. Each region's distinct economy creates different opportunities and hiring patterns for justice-impacted workers.
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides Mississippi employers up to $2,400 per qualified ex-felon hired, creating financial incentives for second-chance employment. The Federal Bonding Program offers free fidelity bonds protecting employers against theft or dishonesty losses, reducing perceived risk when hiring justice-impacted individuals. Mississippi's WIN Job Centers—the state's workforce development system with locations in every county—provide free job placement services, skills training, resume assistance, interview coaching, and direct employer connections.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Mississippi
Mississippi's minimum wage is $7.25 per hour (federal minimum), though competitive labor markets mean most major employers pay $12-18/hour for entry-level positions. Manufacturing, distribution, food processing, retail, and hospitality sectors offer immediate opportunities requiring minimal prior experience.
Warehouse & Distribution
Amazon Fulfillment Centers - Facilities in Horn Lake (MEM1, MEM2, MEM5) near Memphis and other Mississippi locations. Fulfillment associates, sortation, package handlers, warehouse workers. Pay: $15.50-19/hour with shift differentials. Same-day job offers common. Background checks conducted but individualized review process. Many offenses acceptable after 3-5 year waiting periods. Healthcare from day one, Career Choice education program ($5,250/year), 401(k), advancement opportunities. High-volume hiring.
Walmart Distribution Centers - Major facilities in Brookhaven, Grenada, and other Mississippi locations. Warehouse associates, order fillers, forklift operators, loaders. Pay: $16-21/hour. Background checks standard (7 years) but case-by-case evaluation. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 5-7 years. Comprehensive benefits including healthcare, 401(k), associate discount, education assistance through Live Better U. Advancement to supervisory roles common.
FedEx Ground - Package handlers at facilities in Olive Branch, Jackson, and throughout Mississippi. Sorting, loading, unloading freight, package processing. Pay: $14-18/hour. Part-time and full-time positions available. Background checks conducted; most non-violent offenses acceptable after 3-5 years. Tuition assistance for qualifying employees. Physical work, early morning/late night shifts common.
Target Distribution Centers - Mississippi facilities supporting regional stores. Warehouse associates, material handlers, inventory specialists. Pay: $15-19/hour. Background checks with individualized assessment. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 5 years. Benefits include healthcare, 401(k) match, 10% employee discount, education assistance. Career advancement opportunities.
Regional Distribution Companies - Companies like C&S Wholesale Grocers, McLane Company, Sysco Foods operating Mississippi warehouses. Warehouse workers, order selectors, loaders, forklift operators. Pay: $14-19/hour. Background policies vary by company but generally evaluate individually. Many accept non-violent offenses after waiting periods. Physical work, various shifts.
Retail & Grocery
Walmart - Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam's Club locations throughout Mississippi. Stockers, cashiers, cart attendants, maintenance, online order fulfillment, overnight freight, department associates. Pay: $12-16/hour. Background checks 7 years; individualized evaluation. Most non-violent offenses acceptable after reasonable waiting periods. Healthcare benefits, 401(k), associate discount, Live Better U education program. Constant hiring due to high turnover.
Dollar General - Extensive presence throughout Mississippi including rural areas. Sales associates, stockers, cashiers, key holders, assistant managers. Pay: $9-13/hour. Background checks conducted but many stores flexible, especially in rural locations. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 3-5 years. Benefits vary by position. Advancement to store management ($35,000-$45,000/year).
Dollar Tree/Family Dollar - Numerous Mississippi locations. Store associates, stockers, cashiers, freight handlers. Pay: $9-12/hour. Background policies generally flexible especially outside metro areas. Entry-level positions accessible. Management advancement opportunities. Benefits for full-time.
Kroger - Multiple Mississippi locations. Courtesy clerks, cashiers, stock clerks, deli/bakery workers, grocery associates. Pay: $10-14/hour. Background checks standard but individualized review. Most property and non-violent crimes acceptable after 5 years. Union representation at many stores. Healthcare, pension, employee discount.
Home Depot - Locations in Jackson, Gulfport, Tupelo, and other Mississippi cities. Lot associates, freight team, garden associates, customer service, pro desk. Pay: $12-16/hour. Background checks conducted; case-by-case review. Most property and non-violent offenses acceptable after 5-7 years. Success Sharing bonuses, healthcare, 401(k), employee discount.
Manufacturing & Production
Nissan North America - Canton Assembly Plant (major employer). Production technicians, material handlers, quality control, maintenance support. Pay: $16-23/hour. Background checks thorough but company hires individuals with records after waiting periods. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 7 years. Excellent benefits: healthcare, retirement, profit sharing, education assistance. Automotive experience not required; training provided.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi - Blue Springs facility. Production team members, quality control, material handlers, maintenance support. Pay: $17-24/hour. Background checks standard; Toyota conducts individualized assessments. Most non-violent offenses acceptable after 7 years. World-class benefits including healthcare, retirement, profit sharing. Comprehensive training programs.
Steel Dynamics - Columbus steel mill (major Golden Triangle employer). Production workers, material handlers, crane operators, maintenance helpers. Pay: $18-25/hour. Background evaluations case-by-case. Manufacturing and especially steel mills generally more flexible with backgrounds. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 5-7 years. Strong benefits, profit sharing. Physical work, hot environment. Union representation.
Automotive Suppliers - Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers throughout Mississippi supporting Nissan and Toyota. Companies like Yorozu, Calsonic Kansei, Gestamp, SL Mississippi. Production workers, assemblers, material handlers, quality inspectors. Pay: $14-20/hour. Background policies vary but suppliers generally follow automotive industry standards. Most non-violent offenses acceptable after 5-7 years.
Furniture Manufacturing - Tupelo area companies including Ashley Furniture, BenchCraft, and others. Production workers, upholstery, assembly, finishing, warehouse. Pay: $12-17/hour. Background checks vary by company; smaller manufacturers often more flexible. Physical work. Furniture industry historically provided second-chance opportunities.
Food Processing & Agriculture
Tyson Foods - Poultry processing plants in Forest, Carthage, New Albany, and other Mississippi locations. Production workers, sanitation, maintenance, quality control. Pay: $13-17/hour. Background checks conducted but Tyson is a known second-chance employer. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 3-5 years. Comprehensive benefits including healthcare, retirement, bonuses. Cold/wet environment, physical work.
Sanderson Farms - Poultry processing throughout Mississippi. Production line workers, sanitation, maintenance, warehouse. Pay: $12-16/hour. Background policies generally flexible; food processing industry provides accessible opportunities. Most offenses acceptable after waiting periods. Benefits include healthcare, 401(k). Physical work.
Peco Foods - Poultry processing in Bay Springs and other locations. Production workers, processing, sanitation. Pay: $12-15/hour. Similar to other poultry processors; generally flexible with backgrounds. Physical, fast-paced work. Benefits for full-time.
Catfish/Seafood Processing - Delta region catfish farms and Gulf Coast seafood processors. Processing workers, packaging, warehouse. Pay: $10-14/hour. Smaller operations often very flexible with backgrounds. Seasonal variations in Gulf Coast seafood. Physical work.
Agricultural Operations - Farm labor, equipment operators, grain elevator workers throughout Mississippi. Physical farm work, equipment operation, warehouse. Pay: $10-15/hour. Agricultural employers generally very flexible with backgrounds, especially in rural areas. Seasonal work common.
Food Service & Hospitality
Casino Resorts (Gulf Coast) - Beau Rivage, Hard Rock, Golden Nugget, IP Casino, Palace Casino, Scarlet Pearl, others. Housekeeping, food service, stewarding, facilities maintenance, valet, security (non-gaming). Pay: $10-15/hour plus tips. Background checks required for all positions; gaming licenses have restrictions. Housekeeping, food service, and back-of-house positions most accessible. Some violent and theft offenses permanently barred from casinos.
McDonald's - Franchises throughout Mississippi. Crew members, cooks, cashiers, shift managers. Pay: $9-13/hour crew; $12-17/hour management. Background policies set by franchisees; generally flexible after waiting periods. Most non-violent offenses acceptable. Archways to Opportunity education program, flexible scheduling, meal discounts.
Cracker Barrel - Locations throughout Mississippi. Servers, cooks, dishwashers, hosts, retail associates. Pay: $8-12/hour plus tips for servers; $10-14/hour kitchen. Background checks conducted; company known for second-chance hiring. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 3-5 years. Healthcare benefits, 401(k), employee discount.
Waffle House - Extensive Mississippi presence. Grill operators, servers, dishwashers, shift coordinators. Pay: $9-13/hour plus tips. Background checks vary by location; generally flexible. Fast-paced environment. Flexible hours. Advancement to unit manager ($40,000-$50,000).
Hotels - Marriott, Hilton, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn, and independent hotels statewide. Housekeeping, laundry, breakfast attendants, maintenance, front desk. Pay: $9-14/hour. Background checks standard but housekeeping most accessible. Physical work. Gulf Coast and Jackson offer most opportunities.
Healthcare Support
Hospital Systems - University of Mississippi Medical Center (Jackson), North Mississippi Medical Center (Tupelo), Memorial Hospital (Gulfport), Singing River Health System (Pascagoula), and others. Environmental services (housekeeping), dietary aides, patient transport, materials management, facilities maintenance. Pay: $11-16/hour. Background checks thorough but support roles accessible. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 7 years. Healthcare benefits, retirement, shift differentials.
Nursing Homes & Assisted Living - Numerous facilities statewide. Dietary aides, housekeeping, laundry, maintenance, activities assistants. Pay: $10-14/hour. Background checks required but facilities often more flexible than hospitals, especially in rural areas. Physical work. Meaningful work helping elderly.
Home Health Agencies - Providing in-home care services. Home health aides, personal care assistants (after certification). Pay: $10-13/hour. Background checks required; some offenses disqualifying (abuse, neglect, violent crimes). Non-violent offenses after 7+ years may be acceptable. Flexible schedules. Requires reliable transportation.
Dialysis Centers - Fresenius, DaVita, and independent centers. Patient care technicians (after training), facilities support, administrative. Pay: $13-18/hour for techs. Background checks standard. Most non-violent offenses acceptable after 7 years. Training programs available. Benefits include healthcare, 401(k).
Top 20 Mississippi Employers Hiring Felons
These Mississippi companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through explicit policies or documented hiring practices.
Amazon (Horn Lake Fulfillment Centers)
Facilities: MEM1, MEM2, MEM5
Associates: $15.50-19/hour
Managers: $55,000-110,000
Individualized assessment. Healthcare from day one
Walmart (Distribution and Retail Statewide)
Warehouse: $16-21/hour
Retail: $12-16/hour
Managers: $55,000-90,000
7-year background checks, case-by-case.
Nissan North America (Canton Assembly Plant)
Production: $16-23/hour
Skilled trades: $60,000-90,000
Individualized assessment. Most non-violent felonies after 7 years
Learn More
Toyota Motor Manufacturing (Blue Springs)
Production: $17-24/hour
Skilled positions: $70,000-100,000
Individualized assessment. World-class benefits.
Learn More
Tyson Foods (Multiple Locations)
Production: $13-17/hour
Supervisors: $45,000-65,000
Known second-chance employer. Most non-violent after 3-5 years.
Steel Dynamics (Columbus)
Production: $18-25/hour
Skilled trades: $60,000-85,000
Manufacturing sector flexibility. Union benefits.
Learn More
FedEx Ground (Statewide Facilities)
Package handlers: $14-18/hour
Drivers: $50,000-70,000
Most non-violent offenses after 3-5 years.
University of Mississippi Medical Center (Jackson)
Support roles: $11-16/hour
Clinical support: $40,000-55,000
Healthcare standard background. Support roles accessible.
Learn More
North Mississippi Medical Center (Tupelo)
Support positions: $11-16/hour
Clinical roles: $40,000-60,000
Most non-violent offenses after 7 years.
Learn More
Sanderson Farms (Statewide)
Production: $12-16/hour
Supervisors: $40,000-55,000
Food processing flexibility. Regular hiring.
Learn More
Beau Rivage Resort & Casino (Biloxi)
Housekeeping/Food service: $10-15/hour plus tips
Supervisors: $35,000-50,000
Back-of-house accessible. Gaming restrictions apply.
Learn More
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (Biloxi)
Non-gaming support: $10-15/hour plus tips
Managers: $40,000-65,000
Housekeeping and food service accessible.
Learn More
Dollar General (Statewide)
Associates: $9-13/hour
Store managers: $35,000-45,000
Flexible, especially rural stores.
Target (Distribution Centers)
Warehouse: $15-19/hour
Supervisors: $55,000-80,000
Individualized assessment. 7 years.
Home Depot (Multiple Locations)
Associates: $12-16/hour
Department managers: $45,000-65,000
Case-by-case review. Most non-violent after 5-7 years.
Kroger (Multiple Locations)
Clerks: $10-14/hour
Store managers: $55,000-80,000
Union positions. Individualized review.
Cracker Barrel (Statewide)
Servers/Kitchen: $8-14/hour plus tips
Managers: $40,000-60,000
Known second-chance employer.
Learn More
Ashley Furniture (Tupelo Area)
Production: $12-17/hour
Supervisors: $45,000-65,000
Manufacturing flexibility.
Learn More
Singing River Health System (Gulf Coast)
Support roles: $11-16/hour
Clinical support: $40,000-55,000
Healthcare backgrounds. Support accessible.
Learn More
Peco Foods (Bay Springs, Other Locations)
Production: $12-15/hour
Supervisors: $40,000-55,000
Generally flexible backgrounds.
Learn More
Felon-Friendly Jobs by Mississippi City
These metro areas offer the most opportunities for justice-impacted individuals in Mississippi.
Jackson (Metro Area)
Mississippi's largest city and state capital. Diverse opportunities across healthcare, government, distribution, retail.
Amazon Horn Lake - $15.50-19/hour
University of Mississippi Medical Center - $11-16/hour
Walmart Distribution/Retail - $12-21/hour
FedEx Ground Jackson - $14-18/hour
Retail & Fast Food Chains - $9-16/hour
Tupelo
Northeast Mississippi's economic hub. Furniture manufacturing, automotive suppliers, healthcare.
North Mississippi Medical Center - $11-16/hour
Ashley Furniture - $12-17/hour
Automotive Suppliers - $14-20/hour
Retail Chains (Walmart, Target, Home Depot) - $9-16/hour
Fast Food & Restaurants - $9-13/hour
Biloxi/Gulfport (Gulf Coast)
Casino gaming, tourism, hospitality, shipbuilding hub.
Casino Resorts (Beau Rivage, Hard Rock, IP Casino) - $10-15/hour plus tips
Singing River Health System - $11-16/hour
Memorial Hospital Gulfport - $11-16/hour
Hotels & Tourism - $9-14/hour
Retail & Distribution - $10-16/hour
Columbus/Golden Triangle
Steel manufacturing, automotive suppliers, Mississippi State University area.
Steel Dynamics Columbus - $18-25/hour
Automotive Suppliers (Yokohama, others) - $14-20/hour
Walmart Distribution - $12-21/hour
Baptist Memorial Hospital - $11-16/hour
Retail & Food Service - $9-13/hour
Canton
Nissan automotive manufacturing corridor.
Nissan North America Assembly - $16-23/hour
Nissan Tier 1 Suppliers (Yorozu, Calsonic) - $14-20/hour
Amazon Horn Lake (accessible) - $15.50-19/hour
Walmart Canton - $12-18/hour • Fast Food & Services - $9-12/hour
Hattiesburg
Healthcare, education, University of Southern Mississippi area.
Forrest General Hospital - $11-16/hour
Manufacturing Facilities - $12-18/hour
Retail Chains - $9-15/hour
Restaurant/Hospitality - $9-13/hour
Distribution Centers - $13-18/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Mississippi
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in Mississippi.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL Class A)
Mississippi's location on major freight routes creates exceptional CDL opportunities. Companies provide free training with work commitments.
Interstate and Regional Trucking - Companies like Swift, Schneider, Werner, C.R. England hire felons after 3-7 years. Average pay: $50,000-$70,000/year. Over-the-road positions pay most but require weeks away. Regional routes pay $45,000-$60,000 with better home time. Local delivery (beverage, propane, construction materials) offers $40,000-$55,000 with daily home time. CDL training takes 3-6 weeks. Many carriers offer tuition reimbursement or company-paid training.
Port Drayage - Container hauling pays well but requires experience. Earnings: $50,000-75,000. High demand in Gulf Coast region.
Automotive Manufacturing - Skilled Positions
Nissan Canton and Toyota Blue Springs - Career advancement from entry production ($16-23/hour) to skilled maintenance technicians, quality engineers, and production coordinators ($25-35/hour, $52,000-$73,000/year). Companies provide internal training and tuition reimbursement. Maintenance technician roles especially in demand. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 7 years. Predictable hours, excellent benefits including profit sharing.
Steel Manufacturing
Steel Dynamics Columbus - Production and skilled positions ($18-30/hour, $37,000-$62,000/year). Entry production starts $18-22/hour; crane operators, furnace operators, and maintenance technicians earn $24-30/hour. The steel industry generally more flexible with backgrounds. Most non-violent felonies acceptable after 5-7 years. Union representation, strong benefits, profit sharing. Physical work in hot environments but high wages for the region.
Skilled Trades
Union Electrician - Apprenticeships throughout Mississippi. Apprentices start $14-20/hour. Journeyman electricians: $20-38/hour ($42,000-$79,000/year). Four-year paid apprenticeship. Most trades accept individuals with records after 5-7 years.
Plumber/Pipefitter - Apprentices: $14-18/hour. Journeymen: $22-35/hour ($46,000-$73,000/year). Commercial/industrial pays more than residential. Strong demand statewide.
HVAC Technician - Experienced techs: $18-26/hour ($37,000-$54,000/year). Trade schools offer training. High demand in residential and commercial sectors.
Welding - Industrial welders: $18-28/hour ($37,000-$58,000/year). Specialized welding pays premium. Certification takes 6-12 months through community colleges. Steel mills, construction companies, manufacturing facilities need certified welders.
Casino Supervisory Positions
For individuals who start in back-of-house and remain offense-free, advancement to supervisory roles in housekeeping, food service, or facilities management offers $35,000-$50,000/year. Housekeeping supervisors earn $15-20/hour, food service supervisors $16-22/hour. Requires starting entry-level, proving reliability over 1-2 years. Gulf Coast's year-round tourism provides stability.
Industrial Equipment Operation
Crane Operators - Overhead crane certification adds $3-6/hour to base pay. Pay: $18-28/hour ($37,000-$58,000/year). Steel mills, construction, manufacturing facilities need certified operators.
Heavy Equipment Operators - Excavators, dozers, loaders. Pay: $20-28/hour ($42,000-$58,000/year). Training through community colleges. Construction and industrial demand.
Mississippi Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Mississippi provides workforce development services through WIN Job Centers, federal programs, nonprofit organizations, and limited state-level expungement assistance.
Expungement and Record Relief in Mississippi
Mississippi offers very limited expungement compared to most states.
Expungement Available For:
First-time drug offenses after completing diversion programs
Arrests that didn't result in convictions
Some misdemeanors after five years
Identity theft victims
Prosecutorial misconduct cases
Important: Most felony convictions cannot be expunged under current Mississippi law. However, gubernatorial pardons remain possible through the governor's office after completing sentences and demonstrating rehabilitation—pardons restore rights but don't seal records from public view.
Effect: Mississippi follows the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) seven-year rule for background checks conducted by third-party screening companies. Criminal convictions older than seven years generally don't appear on standard employment background checks (exceptions for positions paying $75,000+/year). Mississippi court records remain permanently public.
Resources:
Mississippi Center for Justice: 601-352-2269, mscenterforjustice.org
Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project: 1-800-682-6423
Southeast Mississippi Legal Services: 228-374-4160
7-Year Lookback Rule
Mississippi follows the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) seven-year rule for background checks conducted by third-party screening companies. Criminal convictions older than seven years generally don't appear on standard employment background checks, with exceptions for positions paying $75,000+/year. However, Mississippi court records remain permanently public, so employers conducting direct court searches can view older convictions.
No Statewide Ban-the-Box Law
Mississippi has no statewide ban-the-box law restricting when employers can ask about criminal history. Private employers can inquire about convictions on initial applications. However, many large national employers (Amazon, Walmart, Target, Nissan, Toyota) voluntarily adopt fair-chance hiring practices including individualized assessments. Federal contractors must follow federal ban-the-box regulations.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides Mississippi employers up to $2,400 per qualified ex-felon hired (40% of first $6,000 wages). Inform potential employers of eligibility to increase hiring chances.
Additional Mississippi Resources
State Employment Services
Mississippi WIN Job Centers - Statewide network providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview preparation, skills assessments, and training referrals. Locations in every county. Connect with WOTC-eligible employers. ms.gov/mdes or 601-321-6000
Reentry Programs
Mississippi Department of Corrections - Reentry Services Division provides employment assistance, housing support, benefits access, and case management. Pre-release and community-based services. mdoc.ms.gov, 662-745-6611
Operation Shoestring (Jackson) - Job training, placement, and support services. operationshoestring.org, 601-355-7323
Gulf Coast Community Action Agency - Workforce development, job training, support services. gccaa.org, 228-896-2010
Goodwill Industries of Mississippi - Job training, placement services, retail employment opportunities. goodwillmiss.org
Training & Education
Mississippi Community Colleges - Fifteen campuses offering workforce training, technical programs, and degrees. Financial aid available. Programs in welding, industrial maintenance, HVAC, truck driving, automotive technology. Major campuses: Hinds Community College, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Northeast Mississippi Community College, Meridian Community College. mississippi.edu/colleges
Federal Bonding Program
Free fidelity bonds protecting employers against employee theft for the first six months, covering up to $5,000. Issued at no cost to employer or employee for full-time positions (30+ hours/week). Removes employer concerns about hiring individuals with theft or fraud convictions. bonds4jobs.com
Staffing Agencies in Mississippi That Work With Felons
Mississippi staffing agencies specialize in placing justice-impacted individuals, particularly in warehouse, manufacturing, and light industrial sectors.
PeopleReady - Locations throughout Mississippi including Jackson, Tupelo, Gulfport, Meridian. Daily general labor, construction, warehousing. Daily pay available. Accepts most criminal histories.
Manpower - Mississippi locations including Jackson, Tupelo, Gulf Coast. Industrial, warehouse, manufacturing, clerical. Temp-to-perm opportunities.
Express Employment Professionals - Jackson, Tupelo, Hattiesburg, Gulf Coast offices. Industrial, skilled trades, office, professional. Locally owned franchises; generally flexible.
Kelly Services - Mississippi offices. Diversified staffing: industrial, office, technical. Background checks client-dependent.
Labor Ready/TrueBlue - Mississippi locations. On-demand daily labor, construction, warehouse. Daily pay. Accepts most backgrounds.
Aerotek - Jackson area. Skilled trades, industrial, logistics. Good for experienced workers.
Adecco - Mississippi offices. Administrative, industrial, customer service. Many clients accept criminal records.
Spherion - Mississippi locations. Professional, administrative, some industrial. Case-by-case review.
Randstad - Jackson area. Industrial, logistics, manufacturing, office. Large employer network.
Regional Industrial Staffing - Local agencies serving automotive plants and manufacturers. Directly connected to Nissan, Toyota suppliers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How far back do background checks go in Mississippi?
Mississippi follows the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) seven-year rule for background checks conducted by third-party screening companies. Criminal convictions older than seven years generally don't appear on standard employment background checks, with exceptions for positions paying $75,000+/year. However, Mississippi court records remain permanently public, so employers conducting direct court searches can view older convictions.
Q2: Does Mississippi have a ban-the-box law?
No, Mississippi has no statewide ban-the-box law restricting when employers can ask about criminal history. Private employers can inquire about convictions on initial job applications and conduct background checks at any point. However, many large national employers (Amazon, Walmart, Target, Nissan, Toyota) voluntarily adopt fair-chance hiring practices including individualized assessments. Federal contractors must follow federal ban-the-box regulations.
Q3: Can I get my felony expunged in Mississippi?
Mississippi offers very limited expungement. Expungement available only for: first-time drug offenses after completing diversion programs, arrests without convictions, some misdemeanors after five years, identity theft victims, and prosecutorial misconduct cases. Most felony convictions cannot be expunged under current Mississippi law. However, gubernatorial pardons remain possible after completing sentences. Contact Mississippi Center for Justice (601-352-2269) or Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project (1-800-682-6423) for legal assistance.
Q4: What companies in Mississippi hire felons?
Major Mississippi employers include Amazon, Walmart, Nissan, Toyota, Tyson Foods, Steel Dynamics, Sanderson Farms, FedEx, Target, Dollar General, Home Depot, Kroger, casino resorts, hospital systems, and thousands more. Manufacturing, food processing, warehouse, construction, and hospitality sectors generally most accessible. Most employers evaluate backgrounds individually with non-violent felonies after 3-7 years widely acceptable.
Q5: Can Amazon hire me with a felony in Mississippi?
Yes. Amazon has major facilities in Horn Lake (MEM1, MEM2, MEM5) and conducts individualized background reviews. Many offenses acceptable after 3-5 years. Warehouse positions most accessible. Entry-level: $15.50-19/hour. Apply at amazon.jobs.
Q6: What is Mississippi's minimum wage?
$7.25/hour (federal minimum). Mississippi has no separate state minimum wage. However, most major employers pay $12-18/hour for entry-level positions due to competitive labor markets. Automotive manufacturing pays $16-24/hour, distribution centers $14-19/hour, retail $10-16/hour.
Q7: Can I become a truck driver with a felony in Mississippi?
Yes. Many trucking companies hire CDL drivers with felonies after 3-7 years depending on offense type. Companies like Swift, Schneider, Werner, and regional carriers actively hire. Earnings: $50,000-$70,000/year. CDL training takes 3-6 weeks. Many companies offer tuition reimbursement or company-paid training.
Q8: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in Mississippi?
CDL truck drivers ($50,000-$70,000), automotive manufacturing skilled positions ($52,000-$73,000), steel manufacturing ($37,000-$62,000), union electricians ($42,000-$79,000), plumbers ($46,000-$73,000), HVAC techs ($37,000-$54,000), welders ($37,000-$58,000), crane/heavy equipment operators ($37,000-$58,000).
Q9: Should I disclose my felony on Mississippi job applications?
Answer honestly based on what application asks. If it asks 'Have you ever been convicted?', answer truthfully. If it asks about convictions 'in the last seven years' and yours is older, you can legally answer 'no.' If application doesn't ask about criminal history, don't volunteer information. When asked directly in interviews, be honest but brief: acknowledge conviction, state timeframe, explain lessons learned, redirect to qualifications.
Q10: Are there free job training programs in Mississippi for people with felonies?
Yes. Mississippi WIN Job Centers provide free job search assistance and training referrals. Community colleges offer workforce programs with financial aid available through FAFSA. WIOA programs provide funding for vocational training. Mississippi Department of Corrections offers reentry services including job training. Goodwill Industries provides job training and placement services.
Next Steps: Your Mississippi Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for Mississippi justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Understand Your Background and Limitations (Days 1-7)
Obtain a copy of your Mississippi criminal history from the Department of Public Safety ($15 fee, dps.ms.gov) to know exactly what employers will see. Compare this to what appears on standard seven-year background checks—many older convictions won't appear on third-party screenings. Research expungement eligibility, though Mississippi's options are limited. Contact Mississippi Center for Justice (601-352-2269) or Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project (1-800-682-6423) for free consultations on record relief options. Understanding whether your conviction is inside or outside the seven-year window helps you know when full disclosure is required versus when you can legally answer 'no' to '7-year lookback' questions. Research which types of positions face restrictions (gaming, some healthcare, childcare) versus which conduct individualized reviews. This knowledge foundation informs every subsequent decision.
Step 2: Register with WIN Job Centers and Staffing Agencies (Days 7-14)
Visit your nearest WIN Job Center (find locations: ms.gov/mdes, 601-321-6000) in person. Register for services, meet with employment counselors, explain your situation honestly, and ask about employers actively hiring individuals with records. WIN Centers connect you to jobs, provide training funding through WIOA, assist with resumes, and offer ongoing support. Ask about Work Opportunity Tax Credit and Federal Bonding Program to inform potential employers of available incentives. Simultaneously, register with 3-5 staffing agencies (PeopleReady, Manpower, Express Employment, Kelly Services) that work with justice-impacted individuals. Visit branches in person—personal connections matter. Be honest about background during registration. Accept first assignments even if not ideal to demonstrate reliability. Staffing provides immediate income, work experience for resume, and exposure to employers.
Step 3: Build Your Resume and Application Strategy (Days 14-21)
Create honest, skills-focused resume emphasizing capabilities over chronological gaps. Use functional or combination format. Include training, education, or certifications completed including during incarceration. List relevant work experience including substantial prison jobs. Professional summary emphasizes work ethic, reliability, and specific skills. Tailor resume to each application. Research Mississippi's major felon-friendly employers (Nissan, Toyota, Amazon, Walmart, Tyson, Steel Dynamics, casino resorts for back-of-house) and understand their background policies. Prepare brief, confident explanation of your conviction: acknowledge it, state timeframe, explain lessons learned and changes made, redirect to qualifications. Practice until comfortable. Develop 3-5 professional references including reentry counselors, probation officers, community members who vouch for character. Consider WIN Job Center resume assistance.
Step 4: Apply Strategically and Persistently (Weeks 3-8)
Apply to 10-15 positions weekly, focusing on entry-level roles with known felon-friendly employers. Prioritize: Nissan Canton or Toyota Blue Springs manufacturing, Amazon Horn Lake fulfillment, Tyson/Sanderson food processing, warehouse positions through staffing agencies, casino back-of-house (housekeeping, stewarding), retail (Walmart, Dollar General), and Steel Dynamics. Apply directly on company career websites. Apply early in the day when possible. Follow up after 3-5 days with phone calls or in-person visits showing initiative. Be completely honest on applications—never lie about convictions. If application doesn't ask about criminal history, don't volunteer. If asks about last seven years and yours is older, legally answer no. For required disclosures, provide brief factual information. Accept entry-level positions even if not ideal—Mississippi's manufacturing ($16-24/hour) and food processing ($12-17/hour) provide livable wages and advancement. Track applications systematically.
Step 5: Succeed, Stabilize, and Advance (Months 2-12)
Once employed, prioritize stability: perfect attendance, positive attitude, follow all rules, exceed expectations, build reputation as reliable worker. Avoid behaviors triggering probation violations—employment depends on legal compliance. Build relationships with supervisors and coworkers who become references for advancement. After 3-6 months of strong performance, discuss advancement with management. Nissan, Toyota, Steel Dynamics, and Amazon strongly promote from within—production workers can advance to quality control, maintenance, or supervisory roles ($20-30/hour). Consider training to increase earning potential: community college programs in welding, industrial maintenance, HVAC, or truck driving take 6-24 months and lead to $40,000-$75,000/year careers. WIN Centers can help fund training through WIOA. Build emergency savings even if small. Your first job is the foundation—advancement comes through consistent performance, skills development, and strategic career moves.
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 Mississippi's limited expungement options and employment laws is general in nature. Consult with a Mississippi 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.