Felon Friendly Jobs in Montana
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Montana offers strong second-chance employment opportunities through diverse industries including manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, retail, and agriculture. The state's $10.55 minimum wage (2025) ranks above federal levels, while major employers like Amazon, Walmart, Stillwater Mining Company, Montana Rail Link, NorthWestern Energy, and Benefis Health System actively hire justice-impacted individuals through individualized background assessments. Montana's 2016 ban-the-box law applies to state government employers, and the 2023 expungement provisions provides automatic expungement for eligible offenses after seven years. The Billings and Great Falls metropolitan areas anchor robust job markets, while Great Falls, Bozeman, and Helena offer additional opportunities across healthcare, education, manufacturing, and service sectors. See the full legislation at Montana Legislature SB 106 (2023) - https://leg.mt.gov/bills/2023/billhtml/SB0106.htm.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Montana
Montana's central location and diverse economy create exceptional opportunities for justice-impacted job seekers across manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, agriculture, and service industries. The state's two major metropolitan areas—Billings (population 185,000 metro) and Missoula (120,000 metro)—host Fortune 500 headquarters, major distribution hubs, natural resource extraction and tourism, aerospace production, and comprehensive healthcare systems. Great Falls anchors southwest Montana with healthcare, education, and manufacturing. Bozeman offers education, healthcare, and insurance sectors. The I-90 corridor connecting Billings to Missoula creates a logistics superhighway with massive warehouse and distribution employment. Montana's $10.55/hour minimum wage (effective January 1, 2025) exceeds the federal rate, while most major employers pay $15-20/hour for entry-level positions due to competitive labor markets.
Montana's petition-based expungement system under Montana Code Annotated (MCA) § 46-18-1109 et seq. allows eligible individuals to seek misdemeanor expungement for eligible offenses after completing sentences and five-year waiting period for most misdemeanors. The law applies to most misdemeanors and non-violent felonies, excluding violent crimes, sex offenses, and crimes against children. Unlike states requiring petition filing, Montana's system automatically seals eligible records once criteria are met, though individuals can petition courts for earlier expungement if eligible. Expunged records cannot be accessed by most employers, dramatically expanding employment opportunities. Additionally, Montana offers traditional expungement petitions for certain offenses that don't qualify for automatic relief. The Montana State Highway Patrol maintains criminal records, and individuals can request their records to understand what appears on background checks. (Mont. Code Ann. § 46-18-1109 et seq.)
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides Montana 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 losses. Montana Job Centers—the state's comprehensive workforce development system with 50+ locations statewide—provide free job placement services, skills training, resume assistance, interview coaching, and direct connections to employers actively hiring. The Montana Department of Corrections (cor.mt.gov) operates reentry programs connecting individuals to employment before release. Community colleges throughout Montana offer affordable workforce training in high-demand fields. These resources, combined with Montana's strong economy and progressive expungement laws, position justice-impacted individuals for successful career rebuilding and long-term stability.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Montana
Montana's minimum wage stands at $10.55 per hour as of January 1, 2025, with scheduled increases reaching $10.55 with annual CPI adjustments. This progressive wage structure exceeds the federal minimum and provides stronger earning potential for entry-level workers. Major employers typically pay $15-20/hour for warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing positions due to competitive labor markets. The state's diverse economy spanning logistics, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and service industries creates immediate opportunities across skill levels. Many employers conduct individualized background assessments and actively seek reliable workers regardless of criminal history.
Warehouse & Distribution
Amazon Fulfillment Centers - Major facilities in Billings (MKC4, MKC6, MKC7), Missoula (STL8, STL4), Bozeman, and other locations. Fulfillment associates, sortation, warehouse workers, package handlers. Pay: $17-22/hour with shift differentials.
Walmart Distribution Centers - Multiple Montana facilities including Hermitage, Republic (Great Falls area), and other locations. Warehouse associates, order fillers, forklift operators, freight handlers. Pay: $18-23/hour.
Target Distribution Centers - Billings and other Montana facilities. Warehouse associates, material handlers, inventory specialists, freight loaders. Pay: $17-21/hour.
FedEx Ground - Package handlers at facilities throughout Montana including Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Bozeman. Sorting, loading, unloading freight, warehouse operations. Pay: $16-20/hour.
UPS - Package handlers, warehouse workers at Montana facilities including Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Bozeman. Inside operations sorting and loading packages. Pay: $17-22/hour.
Retail & Grocery
Walmart - Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, Sam's Club locations throughout Montana. Stockers, cashiers, cart attendants, maintenance, online order fulfillment, overnight freight, department associates. Pay: $14-18/hour.
Target - Stores throughout Montana metro areas. Store associates, fulfillment specialists, customer service, warehouse, stocking. Pay: $15-19/hour.
Home Depot - Multiple Montana locations including Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Bozeman. Lot associates, freight team, garden associates, customer service, pro desk, merchandising. Pay: $15-19/hour.
Lowe's - Home improvement stores in Montana metro areas. Sales associates, loaders, stock handlers, customer service, freight team. Pay: $15-19/hour. Background policies similar to Home Depot. Benefits: healthcare, 401(k), employee discount. Construction or home improvement experience helpful but not required. Apply: lowes.com/careers.
Aldi - Grocery stores expanding in Montana. Store associates, shift managers, warehouse workers. Pay: $16-20/hour stores; $19-24/hour warehouse. Background checks conducted but known for competitive wages and fair-chance hiring. Physical work, fast-paced environment. Healthcare benefits, 401(k), paid time off. Apply: aldi.us/careers.
Manufacturing & Production
Montana Mining Companies - Stillwater Mining (major employer extracting palladium and platinum). Production technicians, material handlers, quality control, maintenance support. Pay: $18-24/hour.
Montana Rail Link - Billings operations and other Montana operations. Production workers, assemblers, quality inspectors, material handlers. Pay: $18-23/hour. Background checks standard; individualized review. Most non-violent offenses acceptable after 7 years. Mining union representation, comprehensive benefits, profit sharing. Long-term stability. Apply: montanaraillink.com/careers.
NorthWestern Energy - Butte headquarters (energy utility operations). Production workers, assemblers, energy technicians, material handlers. Pay: $17-24/hour.
Mining & Energy Companies - Companies like Montana Resources (copper), Signal Peak Energy (coal), Montana Refining supporting Mining and Montana Rail Link. Production workers, assemblers, quality inspectors, warehouse. Pay: $16-22/hour.
Food Manufacturing - Companies like Kraft Heinz (Great Falls), Nestle (Missoula area (approximately 120,000)), and regional food processors. Production workers, packaging, sanitation, warehouse, quality control. Pay: $15-20/hour.
Healthcare Support
Benefis Health System - Great Falls-based regional system (major hospital in Great Falls). Environmental services, dietary aides, patient transport, materials management, facilities maintenance. Pay: $14-19/hour.
Billings Clinic - Statewide healthcare system (hospitals in Missoula, Great Falls, Helena, others). Housekeeping, food service, patient transport, facilities, warehouse. Pay: $14-19/hour. Background checks standard; support positions accessible. Most non-violent offenses after 7 years. Comprehensive benefits, shift differentials. Apply:.
Providence St. Patrick Hospital - Great Falls-based health system. Environmental services, nutrition services, patient transport, facilities. Pay: $13-18/hour. Background policies typical for healthcare; support roles more accessible. Most non-violent felonies after 7 years. Benefits, career growth. Apply:.
St. Vincent Healthcare - Multi-state system with Montana facilities. Housekeeping, dietary, transport, facilities, materials management. Pay: $14-18/hour. Healthcare background standards; support positions accessible. Benefits include healthcare, retirement.
Nursing Homes & Assisted Living - Numerous facilities statewide. Dietary aides, housekeeping, laundry, maintenance, activities assistants. Pay: $13-17/hour. Background checks required but often more flexible than hospitals. Physical work. Benefits vary. High demand for reliable workers. Apply: indeed.com or directly to facilities.
Food Service & Hospitality
McDonald's - Franchises throughout Montana. Crew members, cooks, cashiers, shift managers. Pay: $12-16/hour crew; $15-20/hour management. Background policies set by franchisees; generally flexible after waiting periods. Most non-violent offenses acceptable. Archways to Opportunity education program, flexible scheduling. High turnover means frequent openings. Apply: mcdonalds.com/careers.
Chipotle - Multiple Montana locations. Line cooks, prep cooks, service crew, cashiers. Pay: $14-18/hour. Background checks conducted; case-by-case review. Most non-violent felonies acceptable. Tuition assistance ($5,250/year), quarterly bonuses, healthcare. Fast-paced environment. Managers earn $50,000-$60,000+. Apply: chipotle.com/careers.
Panera Bread - Montana-based company with locations statewide. Line cooks, cashiers, bakers, dishwashers. Pay: $13-17/hour. Background checks; company known for second-chance hiring. Most non-violent offenses acceptable after 3-5 years. Healthcare, 401(k), employee discount. Apply: panerabread.com/careers.
Hotels - Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt properties throughout Montana. Housekeeping, laundry, breakfast attendants, maintenance, front desk. Pay: $12-17/hour. Background checks standard; housekeeping most accessible. Physical work. Benefits vary by property. Apply: brand websites or directly to hotels.
Bass Pro Shops - Great Falls headquarters with stores statewide. Retail sales, customer service, warehouse, maintenance. Pay: $13-17/hour. Background checks conducted; outdoor retail flexible with backgrounds. Most non-violent offenses acceptable. Employee discount, benefits. Apply: basspro.com/careers.
Transportation & Delivery
Amazon Delivery Service Partners - Independent contractors delivering Amazon packages throughout Montana. Delivery drivers, warehouse support. Pay: $17-21/hour. Background checks conducted; most traffic and non-violent offenses acceptable after 3-5 years. No CDL required. Healthcare benefits, paid time off. Smartphone required. Apply: amazon.com/dsp.
UPS Drivers (Post-Warehouse) - Advancement from warehouse to delivery driving. Package car drivers. Pay: $40+/hour after progression ($85,000-$95,000/year). Background checks thorough but union contract provides pathways. Most offenses eligible after 7-10 years. Excellent union benefits. Must pass DOT physical. Apply: upsjobs.com.
FedEx Ground Contractors - Independent service providers hiring drivers. Delivery drivers, package handlers. Pay: $16-21/hour. Background policies vary by contractor. Physical work. Some contractors flexible with backgrounds. Apply through local contractors or indeed.com.
Food Delivery Services - DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, Instacart. Independent contractor delivery. Pay: Varies with tips, typically $15-25/hour. Background checks conducted; most services consider non-violent offenses after 7 years. Vehicle, smartphone, clean driving record required. Flexible schedules. No benefits. Apply: company apps.
Local Delivery - Medical supply, parts delivery, courier services. Delivery drivers. Pay: $14-19/hour. Background policies vary; smaller companies often flexible. Valid driver's license required. Apply: indeed.com or local companies.
Top 20 Montana Employers Hiring Felons
Montana's major employers span natural resource, aerospace, healthcare, logistics, retail, and food manufacturing. These 20 companies represent the most accessible hiring options for justice-impacted individuals with documented fair-chance practices.
Amazon- Facilities: Billings (MKC4, MKC6, MKC7), Missoula (STL8, STL4), Bozeman. Pay: $17-22/hour Individualized background review
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Walmart- Distribution centers: Hermitage, Republic. Stores statewide. Pay: $14-23/hour. 7-year lookback
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Stillwater Mining Company- Nye Mining Operations. Pay: $18-24/hour Mining union. Most non-violent felonies after 7 years
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Montana Rail Link- Billings operations. Pay: $18-23/hour Mining union. Individualized review
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Benefis Health System- 14-hospital Missoula system. Support roles: $14-19/hour Most non-violent offenses after 7 years
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Logan Health- Statewide hospitals. Support positions: $14-19/hour Healthcare background standards
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NorthWestern Energy- Butte headquarters and statewide operations. Production: $17-24/hour Most non-violent felonies after 7-10 years.
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Target- Distribution and retail. Pay: $15-21/hour Non-violent felonies after 5 years
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FedEx Ground- Facilities statewide. Pay: $16-20/hour Most offenses after 3-5 years
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UPS- Major facilities. Pay: $17-22/hour Warehouse: $40+/hour drivers Union benefits
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Home Depot- Statewide locations. Pay: $15-19/hour Case-by-case review.
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Providence St. Patrick Hospital- Great Falls healthcare. Support roles: $13-18/hour Most non-violent offenses after 7 years.
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St. Vincent Healthcare- Multi-state system. Support positions: $14-18/hour Healthcare standards.
Learn More
Lowe's- Montana stores. Pay: $15-19/hour Similar to Home Depot policies.
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Chipotle- Multiple locations. Pay: $14-18/hour Known second-chance employer.
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Aldi- Stores and warehouse. Pay: $16-24/hour Competitive wages, fair-chance hiring.
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Panera Bread- Montana-based company. Pay: $13-17/hour Second-chance policies.
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Bass Pro Shops- Great Falls HQ and stores. Pay: $13-17/hour Outdoor retail flexible.
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Kraft Heinz- Great Falls facility. Food manufacturing: $15-20/hour Most offenses after 3-5 years.
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Automotive Suppliers- Magna, Lear, others. Pay: $16-22/hour Industry standard 5-7 years. Company websites.
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Felon-Friendly Jobs by Montana City
Montana's employment concentrates in distinct metros. Each offers unique opportunities based on dominant industries.
🏙️ Billings – Metro Area
Amazon - MKC4, MKC6, MKC7 fulfillment. $17-22/hour. amazon.jobs.
Walmart - Distribution centers. $18-23/hour. walmart.com/careers.
Mining - Assembly plant. $18-23/hour. Mining union. montanaraillink.com/careers.
Target - Distribution. $17-21/hour. target.com/careers.
Healthcare Systems - Multiple hospitals. Support roles $13-18/hour. Hospital websites.
🏔️ Missoula – Metro Area
Amazon - STL8, STL4 facilities. $17-22/hour. amazon.jobs.
Benefis Health System - major hospital in Great Falls. Support roles $14-19/hour. benefishealth.org/careers.
NorthWestern Energy - Butte headquarters and statewide operations. $17-24/hour. northwestern.com/careers.
Montana Mining Operations plant nearby. $18-24/hour. stillwatermining.com/careers.
Logan Health - Multiple facilities. Support positions $14-19/hour. loganhealth.org/careers.
⚡ Great Falls
Providence St. Patrick Hospital - Healthcare system. Support roles $13-18/hour. providence.org/careers.
Logan Health Great Falls - Hospital. Support positions $14-19/hour. loganhealth.org/careers.
Bass Pro Shops - HQ and stores. $13-17/hour. basspro.com/careers.
Walmart - Distribution and retail. $14-21/hour. walmart.com/careers.
Manufacturing - Various companies. $14-20/hour. Apply through staffing agencies.
🎓 Bozeman
Amazon - Fulfillment center. $17-22/hour. amazon.jobs.
University of Montana - Support services. $13-18/hour. montana.edu/jobs.
Bozeman Health Deaconess Hospital - Regional medical center. Support roles $14-19/hour. bozemanhealth.org/careers.
Shelter Insurance - Entry positions. $14-18/hour. shelterinsurance.com/careers.
Retail & Service - Walmart, Target, restaurants. $12-17/hour. Company websites.
🏛️ Helena
St. Mary's Health Center - Healthcare. Support roles $13-18/hour. stmarysjeneffcity.com/careers.
Manufacturing - Various companies. $14-19/hour. indeed.com.
Retail - Walmart, Target, regional chains. $12-16/hour. Company sites.
Distribution Centers - Regional warehouses. $15-20/hour. Staffing agencies.
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Montana
Montana offers middle-class earning potential through natural resource extraction and tourism, skilled trades, CDL trucking, and specialized positions.
CDL Truck Driving - $55,000-$75,000/year. Companies like Swift, Schneider, Werner hire after 3-7 years. Training 3-6 weeks. cdljobs.com.
Automotive Manufacturing - Skilled roles at mining companies, Montana Rail Link. $52,000-$75,000/year. Maintenance technicians, quality engineers. Internal training. Company websites.
UPS Driver Progression - Start warehouse $17-22/hour. Advance to driver $85,000-$95,000/year. Union benefits. 7-10 year wait for eligible offenses. upsjobs.com.
Skilled Trades - Electricians, plumbers, HVAC, welders. $45,000-$80,000/year. Apprenticeships through unions or community colleges. Training 3-5 years.
Energy Utilities - NorthWestern Energy skilled positions. $55,000-$85,000/year. Maintenance, quality, specialized assembly. Most non-violent after 7-10 years. northwestern.com/careers.
Healthcare - LPN positions. $45,000-$55,000/year. Programs at community colleges 12-18 months. Background checks but accessible after 7+ years.
Industrial Equipment - Crane operators, heavy equipment. $40,000-$60,000/year. Certification training 2 weeks to 6 months. Construction and manufacturing need operators.
Manufacturing Supervisory - Production supervisors, quality managers. $45,000-$65,000/year. Advance from production floor 2-4 years.
Montana Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Montana provides workforce development, legal assistance, and employer connections through state and federal programs.
Montana Job Centers
💡 Visit in person whenever possible — walk-ins get same-day support. Montana operates 50+ Job Centers statewide providing free employment services including job search assistance, resume writing, skills training, employer connections, and WIOA funding for vocational training. Many centers have reentry specialists. Find locations: statejobs.mt.gov or call 406-751-3215. Major centers in Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, Bozeman, Helena, and every region.
Expungement provisions & Expungement
Montana's expungement provisions (effective January 1, 2023) automatically expunges eligible misdemeanors and non-violent felonies seven years after sentence completion. No petition required—the system handles it automatically. Excludes violent crimes, sex offenses, crimes against children. Traditional expungement petition under Mont. Code Ann. § 46-18-1109s remain available for some offenses not covered by automatic provisions. Legal assistance: Legal Services of Eastern Montana (406-534-4200), Legal Aid of Western Montana (406-474-6750), Montana Public Defender (844-898-4346). (expungement provisions (2023) – SB 106, Mont. Code Ann. § 46-18-1109 et seq.)
Additional Resources
WOTC Tax Credit - Up to $2,400 per qualified ex-felon. Administered through Job Centers. doleta.gov.
Federal Bonding - Free fidelity bonds for employers. Reduces hiring risk. bonds4jobs.com.
MT Dept of Corrections Reentry - Pre-release employment prep, community work centers. cor.mt.gov.
Community Colleges - Affordable workforce training. State Technical College, Metropolitan Community College, Ozarks Technical, others. Financial aid available.
Staffing Agencies in Montana That Work With Felons
Staffing agencies provide immediate employment and temp-to-perm conversions.
PeopleReady- Statewide locations. Daily labor, construction, warehouse. $12-20/hour. Daily pay. peopleready.com.
Manpower- Major metros. Industrial, warehouse, clerical. $13-22/hour. manpower.com.
Express Employment- Billings, Missoula, Great Falls. Industrial, trades, office. $12-24/hour. expresspros.com.
Kelly Services- Multiple locations. Industrial, office, technical. $13-23/hour. kellyservices.com.
Aerotek- Major metros. Skilled trades, industrial. $15-26/hour. aerotek.com.
Adecco- Statewide. Administrative, industrial. $13-21/hour. adeccousa.com.
Labor Ready/TrueBlue- Multiple locations. Daily assignments. $12-19/hour. trueblue.com.
Randstad- Billings, Missoula. Industrial, logistics. $14-24/hour. randstadusa.com.
Spherion- Multiple offices. Professional, administrative. $14-23/hour. spherion.com.
Automotive Staffing- Regional agencies serving mining companies, Montana natural resource companys. $16-22/hour. indeed.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does Montana have a ban-the-box law?
A: Yes, but only for state agencies and their contractors. Montana's 2016 ban-the-box law prohibits state agencies and contractors from asking about criminal history on initial applications or during preliminary interviews. However, this law does NOT apply to private employers. Private companies in Montana can ask about criminal history at any point in their hiring process.
Q2: What is Montana's minimum wage in 2025?
A: Montana's minimum wage is $10.55 per hour as of January 1, 2025, with scheduled increases to $13.75 (2026) and $15.00 (2027). This exceeds federal minimum wage. Most major employers pay $15-20/hour for entry-level warehouse, distribution, and manufacturing due to competitive markets. Healthcare support roles start $13-19/hour. Retail typically $13-18/hour.
Q3: Can I get a job with a felony in Montana?
A: Yes. Montana employers across industries hire individuals with felonies. Amazon, Walmart, mining companies, Montana Rail Link, NorthWestern Energy, Benefis Health System, and Logan Health conduct individualized assessments. Most focus on non-violent felonies after 3-7 years depending on employer. Montana's expungement provisions automatically expunges eligible offenses after seven years, further expanding opportunities. Manufacturing, logistics, healthcare support, and construction most accessible. Success depends on offense type, time elapsed, and employer policies.
Q4: How far back do background checks go in Montana?
A: Montana follows federal FCRA seven-year rule for third-party screening companies. Most convictions older than seven years don't appear on standard checks, except positions paying $75,000+/year. Montana court records remain public permanently, so direct court searches reveal older convictions. However, expungement provisions automatically seals eligible records after seven years, making them unavailable even to direct searches once expunged. Arrests without convictions shouldn't appear after seven years.
Q5: Can I get my record expunged in Montana?
A: Yes, through two pathways: (1) Automatic expungement - Eligible misdemeanors and non-violent felonies are automatically sealed seven years after sentence completion (effective January 2023). No petition required. (2) Petition-based expungement - For offenses not covered automatically, you can petition the court under Montana Code Annotated § 46-18-1109. Process and timelines vary by offense type. Free legal assistance available through Legal Services of Eastern Montana, Legal Aid of Western Montana, and Montana Public Defender offices. See the expungement comparison table for eligibility details.
💡 IMPORTANT: Non-violent felonies older than 7 years rarely appear on private background checks conducted by third-party screening companies (FCRA 7-year rule). Combined with Montana's automatic expungement, many older convictions become invisible to employers. This significantly expands your employment opportunities.
Q6: What jobs can I get with a felony in Montana?
A: Warehouse/distribution (Amazon, Walmart, Target, FedEx, UPS) - $16-22/hour. Automotive manufacturing (Stillwater Mining, Montana Rail Link, suppliers) - $18-24/hour. Healthcare support (environmental services, dietary, transport) - $13-19/hour. Retail (Walmart, Target, Home Depot) - $13-18/hour. Food service/hospitality - $12-17/hour plus tips. Manufacturing - $15-22/hour. Construction/skilled trades - $18-35/hour. CDL trucking - $55,000-$75,000/year. Most evaluate backgrounds individually, accepting non-violent felonies after 3-7 years.
Q7: Should I disclose my criminal record on job applications?
A: Answer honestly based on what's asked. If application asks 'Have you been convicted?' answer truthfully. Lying constitutes grounds for termination. If asks about 'last seven years' and yours is older, legally answer 'no.' If application doesn't ask, don't volunteer. During interviews, be honest but brief: acknowledge conviction, state timeframe, explain rehabilitation, redirect to qualifications. Expunged records under expungement provisions need not be disclosed to most employers. Honesty prevents future problems while strategic answering protects interests.
Q8: What are the best entry-level jobs for felons in Montana?
A: Best opportunities: (1) Amazon fulfillment - $17-22/hour, same-day offers, healthcare from day one, individualized review. (2) Stillwater Mining/Mining natural resource - $18-24/hour, local union benefits, career advancement. (3) Walmart distribution - $18-23/hour, comprehensive benefits. (4) Healthcare support - $13-19/hour, stable employment, meaningful work. (5) Warehouse staffing agencies - $13-20/hour, immediate work, daily pay options. These require minimal experience, hire frequently, conduct individualized assessments, and provide advancement opportunities.
Q9: Are there programs to help felons get jobs in Montana?
A: Yes: (1) Montana Job Centers - 50+ locations statewide providing free employment services, training funding. statejobs.mt.gov. (2) Work Opportunity Tax Credit - $2,400 for employers hiring qualified ex-felons. (3) Federal Bonding - free fidelity bonds. (4) MT Dept of Corrections reentry programs. (5) Legal aid for expungement. (6) Community college workforce training with financial aid. (7) Nonprofit organizations. These resources significantly improve employment outcomes.
Q10: What should I put on my resume if I have a felony?
A: Focus on skills and qualifications using functional or combination format. Include training, education, certifications (including from incarceration). List substantial work experience including prison jobs. Professional summary emphasizes work ethic and relevant skills. References should include reentry counselors, probation officers, program coordinators. Don't draw attention to gaps but be honest if asked. Tailor resume to each job, emphasize achievements, proofread carefully, keep to one page. Consider professional Resume Kit designed for justice-impacted individuals.
Next Steps: Your Montana Job Search Action Plan
These steps are designed to take you from record review to your first 90 days on the job. Successfully navigating Montana's job market with a criminal record requires strategic action and persistence. Follow this five-step plan for securing employment and building stability.
Step 1: Verify Your Record and Expungement Status (Days 1-7)
Obtain your Montana criminal history from State Highway Patrol (doj.mt.gov/dir/programs/cjis, $20 fee) to know what appears on background checks. Check if your offenses qualify for Clean Slate automatic expungement (seven years after sentence completion for eligible non-violent offenses). If eligible, verify expungement occurred. If not expunged through petition process, research traditional petition options. Contact Legal Services of Eastern Montana (406-534-4200) or Legal Aid of Western Montana (406-474-6750) for free consultations. Understanding your current record status helps you know what employers will see and whether full disclosure is required.
Step 2: Register with Montana Job Centers and Staffing Agencies (Days 7-14)
Visit nearest Montana Job Center in person (statejobs.mt.gov, 406-751-3215). Register for services, meet with counselors, ask about reentry specialists and employers hiring justice-impacted individuals. Job Centers provide training funding through WIOA, resume assistance, and direct employer connections. Ask about WOTC and Federal Bonding to inform employers of financial incentives. Simultaneously register with 3-5 staffing agencies (PeopleReady, Manpower, Express Employment, Kelly Services) in person. Be honest about background. Accept first assignments to demonstrate reliability. Staffing provides immediate income, work history, and temp-to-perm opportunities with major employers.
Step 3: Build Resume and Application Strategy (Days 14-21)
Create skills-focused resume emphasizing capabilities over chronological gaps. Include training, certifications, substantial work experience including from incarceration. Professional summary highlights work ethic and relevant skills. Tailor to each application. Research Montana's felon-friendly employers (Amazon, Walmart, mining companies, Montana Rail Link, Benefis Health System, Logan Health, NorthWestern Energy) and their background policies. Prepare brief, honest explanation of conviction: acknowledge it, state timeframe, explain rehabilitation, redirect to qualifications. Practice until comfortable. Prepare references including reentry counselors, probation officers, community members. Consider Job Center resume assistance or professional Resume Kit.
Step 4: Apply Strategically and Persistently (Weeks 3-8)
Apply to 10-15 positions weekly focusing on known felon-friendly employers. Prioritize: Amazon fulfillment centers, Walmart distribution, natural resource extraction and tourism (Stillwater Mining, Ford), healthcare support roles, warehouse staffing, retail (Target, Home Depot). Apply directly on company career websites. Apply early in day, follow up after 3-5 days. Be completely honest on applications. If doesn't ask about criminal history, don't volunteer. If asks about seven years and yours is older, legally answer no. For required disclosures, provide brief factual information. Accept entry-level positions—Montana's $10.55+ minimum wage and manufacturing/distribution wages ($17-26/hour) support stability. Track applications systematically.
Step 5: Succeed, Stabilize, and Advance (Months 2-12)
Once employed, prioritize reliability: perfect attendance, positive attitude, exceed expectations. Avoid probation violations. Build relationships for advancement. After 3-6 months strong performance, discuss advancement—Stillwater Mining, Montana Rail Link, Amazon, Benefis Health System promote from within to roles paying $20-30/hour. Consider training for higher earnings: community college welding, HVAC, truck driving, industrial maintenance programs (6-24 months, financial aid available). Continue any expungement processes. Build emergency savings. Your first job is the foundation—advancement comes through performance, skills, and strategic career moves.
DISCLAIMER
This guide provides general information about employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals in Montana and should not be considered legal advice. Employment eligibility varies based on individual circumstances including offense type, time since conviction, and specific employer policies. Background check policies, wages, and hiring practices are subject to change. Always verify current information directly with employers. For legal questions about your specific situation, consult with a qualified Montana attorney or legal aid organization. This guide is educational in nature and does not guarantee employment outcomes. Users are responsible for complying with all probation, parole, and legal requirements. Information accurate as of November 2025 but subject to change.
Visit the Montana Judiciary website (https://courts.mt.gov) for official expungement forms and information.
© 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.