Felon Friendly Jobs in New Mexico
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
New Mexico offers strong second-chance employment opportunities with progressive laws supporting justice-impacted individuals. The state's minimum wage of $12.00/hour (2025) ranks among higher nationally, with some municipalities exceeding this—Santa Fe County at $15.00/hour and Las Cruces at approximately $13.20/hour. New Mexico's Criminal Record Expungement Act (N.M. Stat. § 29-3A-1 through 29-3A-7, effective January 1, 2020) allows expungement of non-conviction records after 1 year and conviction records after 2-10 years depending on severity, with automatic expungement for marijuana offenses. The Criminal Offender Employment Act (Senate Bill 96, effective June 14, 2019) prohibits private employers with 4+ employees from asking about criminal history on initial applications, while public employers face similar restrictions under N.M.S.A. § 28-2-3. New Mexico's seven-year lookback period (N.M. Stat. § 56-3-6) is more protective than federal FCRA rules, applying regardless of salary. Major employers including Presbyterian Healthcare Services, University of New Mexico Hospital, Walmart, Intel, and Target provide opportunities across Albuquerque (pop. 560,000), Las Cruces (pop. 117,000), Rio Rancho (pop. 113,000), Santa Fe (pop. 91,000), and Roswell (pop. 47,000). Entry-level positions start at $12-16/hour, while CDL drivers, skilled trades, and technical roles reach $38,000-70,000+ annually. Progressive expungement laws and comprehensive ban-the-box protections make New Mexico among the most favorable states for rebuilding careers.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in New Mexico
Economic Overview
New Mexico's economy offers strong opportunities for justice-impacted individuals across healthcare, hospitality, tourism, manufacturing, retail, construction, and energy sectors. With major population centers including Albuquerque (pop. 560,000), Las Cruces (pop. 117,000), Rio Rancho (pop. 113,000), Santa Fe (pop. 91,000), and Roswell (pop. 47,000), plus robust job markets throughout Bernalillo, Doña Ana, Sandoval, and Santa Fe counties, the state provides diverse employment pathways. Albuquerque serves as the state's economic hub with healthcare, logistics, and technology sectors, while Santa Fe's tourism-driven economy and Rio Rancho's Intel semiconductor facility offer specialized opportunities. Las Cruces benefits from proximity to El Paso, Texas, expanding job market options.
Record Clearing System
New Mexico's Criminal Record Expungement Act (N.M. Stat. § 29-3A-1 through 29-3A-7), effective January 1, 2020, ranks among the nation's most progressive expungement laws. The law allows individuals to petition for expungement of most non-conviction records (dismissals, acquittals, nolle prosequi, conditional discharge, pre-prosecution diversion) after a 1-year waiting period from the date of final disposition, provided no charges are pending.
For conviction records, waiting periods vary by severity:
Municipal ordinance or misdemeanor convictions: 2 years after completion of sentence
Misdemeanor aggravated battery or 4th-degree felony convictions: 4 years after completion of sentence
3rd-degree felony convictions: 8 years after completion of sentence
2nd-degree felony convictions: 10 years after completion of sentence
Offenses that CANNOT be expunged:
DWI/DUI convictions
Sex crimes
Crimes against children
Violent offenses resulting in great bodily harm or death
Embezzlement
Important: New Mexico offers true expungement (complete erasure from public view), not just sealing. Once expunged, records are removed from public access and you can legally state "no such record exists" to most employers. Records are only accessible to law enforcement for limited purposes. New Mexico also provides automatic expungement for marijuana-related offenses that are no longer crimes, occurring two years after conviction or arrest.
The expungement process requires filing a petition with the district court, paying filing fees (typically $100-150), and attending a hearing where a judge determines if "justice will be served" by expungement.
Ban-the-Box and Background Check Laws
New Mexico has comprehensive ban-the-box protections for both public and private employers. For public employers, N.M.S.A. § 28-2-3 prohibits inquiring about criminal history during initial application stages. For private employers, the Criminal Offender Employment Act (Senate Bill 96, effective June 14, 2019) applies to employers with 4 or more employees and prohibits asking about criminal history on written or electronic job applications. The law also prohibits inquiring about records that have been sealed or expunged.
Employers may consider conviction information after reviewing the application and upon discussing employment with the applicant—essentially after the initial application review stage. The law does not explicitly state when criminal history discussions may occur, but employers typically wait until after an interview. Violations are handled under New Mexico's Human Rights Act. Exceptions exist for positions requiring background checks by law or where criminal convictions legally prohibit employment.
Background Check Lookback Period:Unlike federal FCRA rules which allow convictions to be reported indefinitely, New Mexico imposes a seven-year lookback period for criminal convictions through N.M. Stat. § 56-3-6. Credit bureaus may only report criminal convictions for seven years from the date of conviction or release from parole. Arrests and pending cases can only be reported while pending—if they don't result in conviction, they cannot be reported. Unlike the FCRA's salary exception (which allows unlimited lookback for positions over $75,000), New Mexico's seven-year rule applies regardless of salary, making it one of the nation's most protective states for individuals with older convictions.
Convictions that have been expunged, sealed, dismissed, or pardoned cannot be reported. Employment and education verification have no time limits.
Occupational Licensing Relief:New Mexico enacted the Uniform Collateral Consequences of Conviction Act in 2021, which restricts how licensing boards can consider criminal records. Under N.M.S.A. § 28-2-4, employers and licensing boards cannot disqualify individuals based on convictions unless the conviction is "recent enough and sufficiently job-related to be predictive of performance in the position sought." The law prohibits consideration of non-conviction records, sealed/expunged records, juvenile adjudications, and pardoned convictions. Licensing boards must provide written notice of disqualification reasons and allow applicants to demonstrate rehabilitation.
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides New Mexico employers up to $2,400 per qualified hire with felony convictions.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in New Mexico
New Mexico's minimum wage structure (2025):
Statewide: $12.00/hour (indexed annually to Consumer Price Index)
Santa Fe County: $15.00/hour
Las Cruces: $13.20/hour (approximate)
Albuquerque: $12.00/hour (follows state minimum)
Tipped food service workers: $3.00/hour cash wage (employers must ensure total with tips reaches $12.00/hour)
Healthcare Support
Presbyterian Healthcare Services - New Mexico's largest private employer and healthcare system.
Housekeeping, food service, patient transport, laundry, facilities maintenance.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
University of New Mexico Hospital (UNMH) - Major academic medical center and Level I trauma center.
Environmental services, dietary aides, patient care assistants, facilities.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Lovelace Health System - Multi-hospital healthcare network in Albuquerque metro.
Support services, housekeeping, food service, patient transport.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Memorial Medical Center (Las Cruces) - Southern New Mexico's largest hospital.
Housekeeping, dietary, facilities, patient support roles.
Pay: $12-15/hour.
Christus St. Vincent Regional Medical Center (Santa Fe) - Northern New Mexico healthcare.
Environmental services, food service, patient transport.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
San Juan Regional Medical Center (Farmington) - Four Corners region hospital.
Support services, housekeeping, dietary, facilities.
Pay: $12-15/hour.
Nursing Homes/Assisted Living - Numerous facilities statewide.
CNAs (certification required), dietary aides, housekeeping, maintenance, laundry.
Pay: $12-18/hour (CNA certification significantly increases pay).
Home Healthcare Agencies - Growing sector serving aging population.
Home health aides, personal care assistants, companions.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Hospitality & Tourism
Sandia Resort & Casino (Albuquerque) - Large resort casino.
Housekeeping, food & beverage, facilities, guest services, valet. Background checks vary by position.
Pay: $12-16/hour plus tips for tipped positions.
Santa Fe Hotels & Resorts - Multiple properties including Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, Inn of the Governors, Eldorado Hotel.
Housekeeping, front desk, food service, maintenance.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Ski Santa Fe - Ski resort operations (seasonal peak winter).
Lift operators, food service, equipment rental, maintenance, parking.
Pay: $12-15/hour (seasonal).
Inn of the Mountain Gods (Ruidoso) - Resort, casino, and ski area.
Housekeeping, food & beverage, facilities, guest services.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Restaurants - Extensive dining scene especially in Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
Dishwashers, prep cooks, line cooks, servers, bussers, hosts.
Pay: $12-15/hour plus tips for tipped positions.
Fast Food Chains - McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Taco Bell, Sonic, Whataburger, Blake's Lotaburger (NM chain).
Crew members, cooks, cashiers.
Pay: $12-14/hour.
Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town - Large conference hotel.
Housekeeping, banquet services, food & beverage, maintenance.
Pay: $12-15/hour.
Retail & Grocery
Walmart - Numerous NM locations plus distribution centers.
Stockers, cashiers, overnight crew, online order fulfillment, garden center.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Smith's Food & Drug (Kroger) - Major grocery chain throughout NM.
Stockers, cashiers, deli, bakery, produce, meat department.
Pay: $12-15/hour.
Target - Multiple NM stores.
Store associates, warehouse, fulfillment, overnight stocking, backroom.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Albertsons - Grocery stores throughout NM.
Stockers, cashiers, deli, bakery, produce.
Pay: $12-15/hour.
Home Depot - Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Santa Fe, Rio Rancho locations.
Lot associates, freight team, garden, receiving, customer service.
Pay: $12-16/hour.
Lowe's - Home improvement stores.
Sales associates, loaders, stock handlers, garden center.
Pay: $12-15/hour.
Dollar General/Dollar Tree - Expanding throughout NM.
Store associates, stockers, cashiers.
Pay: $12-14/hour.
CVS/Walgreens - Pharmacy chains.
Store associates, photo, stocking, cashiers.
Pay: $12-15/hour.
Warehouse & Distribution
Amazon - Fulfillment center planned for Albuquerque area.
Warehouse associates, sorters, packers, material handlers.
Pay: $15-18/hour plus benefits.
FedEx Ground - Distribution hubs in Albuquerque.
Package handlers, sorters, loaders, material handlers.
Pay: $14-17/hour.
UPS - Albuquerque facilities.
Package handlers, warehouse workers, loaders.
Pay: $15-18/hour with excellent benefits.
Walmart Distribution Center - Warehouse operations if present in NM.
Warehouse selectors, order pickers, shipping/receiving.
Pay: $16-20/hour.
Food Distribution Companies - Sysco, US Foods, and others.
Warehouse workers, order selectors, loaders.
Pay: $15-19/hour.
Manufacturing & Production
Intel Corporation (Rio Rancho) - Semiconductor manufacturing facility.
Production technicians, cleanroom operators, facilities, warehouse. Background checks required.
Pay: $17-25/hour with excellent benefits.
Frito-Lay (Roswell) - Snack food production.
Production workers, packaging, warehouse, sanitation, quality control.
Pay: $14-18/hour.
Jaynes Corporation (Albuquerque) - Printing and mailing services.
Production workers, bindery, warehouse.
Pay: $13-17/hour.
New Mexico Beef (Tucumcari) - Beef processing plant.
Production workers, packaging, sanitation.
Pay: $14-18/hour.
Small Manufacturers - Food processing, plastics, metal fabrication throughout NM.
Production workers, machine operators, assemblers.
Pay: $12-17/hour.
Construction & Trades
General Construction Laborers - Residential and commercial construction boom in Albuquerque and Santa Fe areas.
Site cleanup, material handling, demolition, basic tasks.
Pay: $15-20/hour.
Landscaping Companies - Year-round work in NM climate.
Lawn care, irrigation, hardscaping, tree work, xeriscaping.
Pay: $13-18/hour.
Roofing Companies - Residential and commercial.
Laborers, tear-off crews, material handlers.
Pay: $15-22/hour.
Painting Contractors - Interior/exterior residential and commercial.
Prep work, basic painting, cleanup.
Pay: $14-19/hour.
Demolition Companies - Commercial and residential.
Site demolition, debris removal, cleanup.
Pay: $15-20/hour.
Transportation & Delivery
Local Delivery Drivers - Various companies.
Box truck, courier, medical supplies, parts delivery.
Pay: $14-19/hour.
DoorDash/Uber Eats/Grubhub - Gig economy food delivery in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Cruces.
Independent contractor work.
Pay: Varies, $15-25/hour potential.
Instacart/Shipt - Grocery delivery services.
Shop and deliver groceries.
Pay: Varies, $13-20/hour.
Moving Companies - Residential and commercial moves.
Movers, truck helpers, drivers.
Pay: $13-19/hour.
Top 20 New Mexico Employers Hiring Felons
These New Mexico companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through documented hiring practices or explicit policies.
Presbyterian Healthcare Services (Statewide) - New Mexico's largest private employer with multiple hospitals.
Environmental Services: $12-16/hour Food Service: $12-15/hour Patient Transport: $13-16/hour
Individual assessment for support roles.
Learn More
University of New Mexico Hospital (Albuquerque) - Major academic medical center and Level I trauma center.
Environmental Services: $12-16/hour Dietary Aides: $12-15/hour Patient Care Assistants: $13-16/hour
Case-by-case evaluation for non-clinical support.
Learn More
Walmart (Statewide) - Retail stores and distribution centers.
Store Associates: $12-16/hour Distribution Workers: $16-20/hour Department Managers: $35,000-50,000
Fair-chance hiring, individual assessment.
Learn More
Target (Statewide) - Retail stores and logistics.
Store Team Members: $12-16/hour Warehouse Workers: $15-18/hour Team Leaders: $38,000-52,000
Fair-chance employer.
Learn More
Intel Corporation (Rio Rancho) - Semiconductor manufacturing facility.
Production Technicians: $17-25/hour Cleanroom Operators: $18-26/hour Operations Support: $40,000-60,000
Background checks required, case-by-case evaluation.
Learn More
UPS (Albuquerque) - Logistics and delivery.
Package Handlers: $15-18/hour Drivers: $45,000-65,000 Supervisors: $50,000-70,000
Promotes from within, excellent benefits.
Learn More
Smith's Food & Drug/Kroger (Statewide) - Major grocery chain.
Store Associates: $12-15/hour Department Specialists: $14-17/hour Department Managers: $35,000-50,000
Fair-chance evaluation.
Learn More
Lovelace Health System (Albuquerque) - Multi-hospital network.
Housekeeping: $12-16/hour Food Service: $12-15/hour Facilities: $13-16/hour
Individual assessment for support positions.
Learn More
Home Depot (Statewide) - Home improvement retail.
Lot Associates: $12-16/hour Freight Team: $13-17/hour Department Supervisors: $35,000-50,000
Fair-chance hiring.
Learn More
FedEx Ground (Albuquerque) - Package handling and delivery.
Package Handlers: $14-17/hour Drivers: $40,000-60,000 Operations Managers: $50,000-70,000
Case-by-case evaluation.
Learn More
Sandia Resort & Casino (Albuquerque) - Resort casino and entertainment.
Housekeeping: $12-16/hour Food & Beverage: $12-15/hour plus tips Facilities: $14-18/hour
Background checks vary by position.
Learn More
Memorial Medical Center (Las Cruces) - Southern New Mexico's largest hospital.
Environmental Services: $12-15/hour Food Service: $12-14/hour Patient Transport: $13-15/hour
Individual assessment for support roles.
Learn More
Lowe's (Statewide) - Home improvement retail.
Sales Associates: $12-15/hour Loaders: $13-16/hour Department Supervisors: $35,000-50,000
Fair-chance evaluation.
Learn More
Albertsons (Statewide) - Grocery stores.
Stockers: $12-15/hour Cashiers: $12-14/hour Department Leads: $32,000-45,000
Case-by-case hiring.
Learn More
Frito-Lay (Roswell) - Snack food manufacturing.
Production Workers: $14-18/hour Packaging: $14-17/hour Warehouse: $15-19/hour
Individual assessment.
Learn More
Christus St. Vincent (Santa Fe) - Northern New Mexico healthcare.
Environmental Services: $12-16/hour Food Service: $12-15/hour Patient Transport: $13-16/hour
Case-by-case for support positions.
Learn More
CVS Health (Statewide) - Pharmacy retail.
Store Associates: $12-15/hour Shift Supervisors: $15-18/hour Store Managers: $45,000-65,000
Fair-chance hiring.
Learn More
Sysco/US Foods (Statewide) - Food distribution companies.
Warehouse Workers: $15-19/hour Order Selectors: $17-22/hour Delivery Drivers: $45,000-65,000
Case-by-case evaluation.
Learn More
Goodwill Industries of New Mexico (Statewide) - Mission-driven organization.
Retail: $12-15/hour Production: $12-16/hour Managers: $35,000-50,000
Explicit second-chance employer with support services.
Learn More
Restaurant Chains (Statewide) - Multiple brands including McDonald's, Taco Bell, Sonic, Blake's Lotaburger.
Crew Members: $12-14/hour Shift Leaders: $14-17/hour Managers: $35,000-50,000
Most chains practice fair-chance hiring. Apply directly at locations.
Learn More
Felon-Friendly Jobs by New Mexico City
Albuquerque (Pop. 560,000)
Largest city with diverse economy. Healthcare, logistics, manufacturing, hospitality sectors. Strongest job market statewide.
Presbyterian Healthcare Services - $12-16/hour
University of New Mexico Hospital - $12-16/hour
FedEx/UPS - $14-18/hour
Sandia Resort & Casino - $12-16/hour plus tips
Construction/Trades - $15-20/hour
Las Cruces (Pop. 117,000)
Southern New Mexico hub. Healthcare, education support, agriculture, retail. Proximity to El Paso expands opportunities.
Memorial Medical Center - $12-15/hour
New Mexico State University - $12-16/hour
Walmart/Target - $12-16/hour
Agriculture/Processing - $13-17/hour
Retail/Hospitality - $12-15/hour
Rio Rancho (Pop. 113,000)
Fast-growing suburb. Technology, healthcare, retail. Intel semiconductor facility major employer.
Intel Corporation - $17-25/hour
UNM Sandoval Regional Medical Center - $12-16/hour
Walmart/Target - $12-16/hour
Construction - $15-20/hour
Retail - $12-15/hour
Santa Fe (Pop. 91,000)
State capital. Tourism-driven economy with highest minimum wage in state ($15/hour county-wide). Arts, hospitality, government.
Christus St. Vincent Medical Center - $12-16/hour
Hotels/Resorts - $15-18/hour (county minimum)
Restaurants - $15/hour plus tips
State Government Support - $14-20/hour
Construction/Adobe Restoration - $16-22/hour
Roswell (Pop. 47,000)
Southeastern New Mexico. Manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare. Lower cost of living.
Frito-Lay - $14-18/hour
Eastern New Mexico Medical Center - $12-15/hour
Walmart - $12-16/hour
Agriculture/Dairy - $13-17/hour
Tourism/Hospitality - $12-15/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in New Mexico
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in New Mexico.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL Class A)
New Mexico's position as a Southwest logistics hub creates strong CDL opportunities with regional and national routes.
Local/Regional Drivers - Frito-Lay, Sysco, US Foods drivers. Pay: $45,000-65,000 annually. Consistent routes, home daily. Physical work but stable employment.
Walmart Distribution Drivers - If present in NM. Pay: $50,000-70,000. Benefits and stable employment.
OTR Routes - National carriers. Pay: $50,000-75,000. More time away from home but higher earnings potential.
Local Delivery - Various companies. Pay: $40,000-55,000. Box truck, courier, medical supplies. Home daily.
Path to Entry: Commercial driver training programs, 3-4 weeks. Some companies sponsor training (Frito-Lay, Sysco). Private schools cost $3,000-5,000.
Skilled Trades
Union Electrician - IBEW union apprenticeships available. Apprentices start $35,000-45,000. Journeymen: $45,000-65,000. Five-year paid apprenticeship. Apply directly to union training centers.
Plumber/Pipefitter - UA union apprenticeships. Apprentices: $32,000-42,000. Journeymen: $45,000-65,000. Commercial work pays more than residential. 4-5 year apprenticeship.
HVAC Technician - Year-round work critical in NM climate. Experienced techs: $38,000-58,000. EPA certification required. Training through trade schools, community colleges, or apprenticeships. 6-24 months training plus experience.
Welder - Manufacturing, construction, oil & gas. Pay: $35,000-52,000. Specialized welding can reach $60,000+. Welding certification programs at Central New Mexico Community College and other trade schools. 8-16 weeks training, then experience building.
General Contractor/Skilled Carpenter - After experience. Pay: $40,000-60,000. Path: Start as laborer, learn on job, eventually licensed contractor.
Technology & Manufacturing
Intel Production Technicians (Rio Rancho) - Semiconductor manufacturing. Entry-level: $40,000-50,000. Experienced: $50,000-70,000. Excellent benefits including bonuses, stock options, 401k. Background checks and drug screening required. Internal training provided. 24/7 operations mean shift work available.
Wind Turbine Technicians - Growing renewable energy sector in eastern NM. Technical training required. Pay: $38,000-55,000. Path: Technical colleges, manufacturer training programs, 6-12 months. Physically demanding, heights involved.
Oil & Gas Field Workers - Permian Basin operations in southeast NM (Carlsbad, Hobbs area). Roustabouts, production workers. Pay: $40,000-70,000 with overtime. Physically demanding. Entry-level positions with on-the-job training.
Healthcare Technical
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) - Healthcare support with advancement potential. Pay: $30,000-42,000. Path: CNA training (4-12 weeks), state certification exam. High demand statewide. Can advance to LPN with additional education.
Surgical Technologist - Community college program (18-24 months). Pay: $35,000-48,000. Assists in operating rooms. Strong demand in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Santa Fe.
Medical Assistant - Certificate or associates degree. Pay: $32,000-44,000. Clinical and administrative duties. Training available at community colleges.
Other High-Paying Opportunities
Auto Mechanics - Service and repair shops. Pay: $32,000-48,000. ASE certifications increase pay significantly. Path: Start as lube tech, pursue ASE certifications. Trade schools optional.
Forklift Operators - Warehouses, distribution centers, manufacturing. Pay: $30,000-42,000. Path: Forklift certification (1-2 weeks, approximately $200-400), warehouse experience.
New Mexico Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
New Mexico offers comprehensive support for justice-impacted job seekers through progressive laws and accessible services.
Record Expungement Under Criminal Record Expungement Act
New Mexico's Criminal Record Expungement Act (N.M. Stat. § 29-3A-1 through 29-3A-7, effective January 1, 2020) provides petition-based expungement of eligible conviction records.
Eligibility:
Non-convictions (dismissals, acquittals, conditional discharge, pre-prosecution diversion): 1 year after final disposition
Municipal ordinance or misdemeanor convictions: 2 years after completion of sentence
Misdemeanor aggravated battery or 4th-degree felony: 4 years after completion of sentence
3rd-degree felony: 8 years after completion of sentence
2nd-degree felony: 10 years after completion of sentence
Requirements: Complete sentence including probation/parole, pay all fines and restitution, no pending charges, no new convictions during waiting period.
Effect: Expunged records are removed from public access. You can legally state "no such record exists" to most employers. Records only accessible to law enforcement for limited purposes.
Process: File petition with district court, pay filing fees (typically $100-150), attend hearing. Judge determines if "justice will be served" by expungement. Processing time: 3-6 months.
Marijuana Automatic Expungement: Marijuana-related offenses that are no longer crimes receive automatic expungement two years after conviction or arrest.
Criminal Offender Employment Act (Ban-the-Box)
Applies to: Public employers (N.M.S.A. § 28-2-3) and private employers with 4+ employees (Senate Bill 96).
Protections:
Cannot ask about criminal history on written or electronic job applications
Cannot inquire about sealed or expunged records
May consider conviction information after reviewing application and upon discussing employment
Violations handled under New Mexico's Human Rights Act
Uniform Collateral Consequences Act: N.M.S.A. § 28-2-4 requires licensing boards to conduct individualized assessments. Cannot disqualify based on convictions unless "recent enough and sufficiently job-related to be predictive of performance."
Lookback Rules
Convictions: Seven-year lookback period applies regardless of salary (N.M. Stat. § 56-3-6). More protective than federal FCRA.
Arrests: Can only be reported while pending. Cannot be reported if no conviction results.
Expunged records: Cannot be reported for civil employment purposes.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides New Mexico employers up to $2,400 tax credit per qualified hire of returning citizens. Contact NM Department of Workforce Solutions.
State Workforce Development
New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
Statewide network providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview prep, training referrals, and employer connections.
Contact: (505) 841-8405 | dws.state.nm.us
One-Stop Career Centers
Albuquerque Workforce Connection Center
501 Mountain Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87102
Phone: (505) 843-1900
Services: Resume assistance, job search, skills training, workshops, employer connections
Las Cruces Workforce Connection Center
226 S. Alameda Blvd, Las Cruces, NM 88005
Phone: (575) 524-6250
Services: Career counseling, job placement, training referrals
Santa Fe Workforce Connection Center
1596 Pacheco Street, Suite 103, Santa Fe, NM 87505
Phone: (505) 827-7400
Services: Employment services, training programs, job fairs
Additional Centers: Workforce Connection Centers in Farmington, Roswell, Clovis, Gallup, Hobbs, Carlsbad. Visit dws.state.nm.us for complete list.
Reentry Organizations
Second Chance Center (Albuquerque)
3200 Candelaria Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone: (505) 345-4080
Services: Employment assistance, housing help, case management, life skills training
Goodwill Industries of New Mexico
Multiple locations
Website: goodwillnm.org
Services: Job training, career services, retail employment opportunities
New Mexico Reentry Coalition
Website: newmexicoreentry.org
Services: Statewide coordination, resource directory, advocacy
New Mexico 2-1-1 (United Way)
Phone: 2-1-1 or (877) 462-1551
Website: nm211.org
Services: 24/7 referral hotline for housing, employment, food, healthcare, emergency assistance
Additional New Mexico Resources
Legal Assistance for Expungement
New Mexico Legal Aid
Phone: (866) 416-1934 (statewide intake)
Website: nmlegalaid.org
Services: Free civil legal help for low-income NM residents, including expungement assistance
State Bar of New Mexico - Lawyer Referral Service
Phone: (505) 797-6000
Website: nmbar.org
Services: Referrals to private attorneys, initial consultation often discounted
DNA-People's Legal ServicesPhone: (505) 543-9545
Website: dnalegalservices.org
Services: Legal aid for Native Americans in NM
Cost Note: Typical expungement costs in NM include court filing fees (~$100-150 per petition), potential attorney fees ($1,000-2,500). Pro bono and legal aid organizations may assist eligible individuals at no cost.
Training & Education Resources
Community Colleges (statewide campuses offering affordable training):
Central New Mexico Community College (Albuquerque) - Trades, healthcare, automotive, IT
Doña Ana Community College (Las Cruces) - Trades, healthcare, manufacturing
San Juan College (Farmington) - Trades, energy sector training, welding
Northern New Mexico College (Española) - Trades, healthcare, business
Santa Fe Community College - Creative industries, trades, business
Tuition: Typically $1,500-2,500/year for in-district residents. Financial aid available.
CDL Training Schools
Albuquerque Truck Driving Academy
Company-sponsored programs (Frito-Lay, Sysco, others)
Cost: $3,000-5,000 for private schools, $0 for company-sponsored (with commitment). Programs typically 3-4 weeks.
Adult Education Programs
Offered by local school districts and community colleges throughout NM
Services: GED preparation, basic education, English language learning (ESL), workforce readiness, computer skills. Typically free or low-cost.
State Agencies
New Mexico Corrections Department - Reentry Services
Phone: (505) 827-8709
Website: cd.nm.gov
Services: Pre-release planning, transitional housing referrals, healthcare enrollment assistance
New Mexico Department of Public Safety - Criminal Records
Phone: (505) 841-8500
Website: dps.nm.gov
Services: Criminal history records, expungement information, fingerprinting services
Staffing Agencies in New Mexico That Work With Felons
Staffing agencies provide immediate employment and temp-to-perm opportunities throughout New Mexico's diverse economy.
Express Employment Professionals
Albuquerque: (505) 242-0077
Las Cruces: (575) 523-1919
Industries: Manufacturing, warehouse, administrative, skilled trades, light industrial
Website: expresspros.com
Manpower
Albuquerque: (505) 345-2500
Las Cruces: (575) 522-7887
Industries: Light industrial, clerical, technical, manufacturing, warehouse
Website: manpower.com
Kelly Services
Albuquerque area: (505) 345-3434
Industries: Office, industrial, technical, call center, light assembly
Website: kellyservices.com
Adecco Staffing
Albuquerque: (505) 884-9555
Industries: Industrial, administrative, technical, logistics
Website: adeccousa.com
Randstad
Albuquerque area: (505) 822-9898
Industries: Manufacturing, logistics, office, engineering, warehouse
Website: randstadusa.com
PeopleReady (formerly Labor Ready)
Multiple NM locations
Phone: (888) 846-9473 (national)
Industries: Construction, warehouse, general labor, hospitality, events (daily pay available)
Website: peopleready.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I get my felony expunged in New Mexico, and how long do I have to wait?
Yes. New Mexico's Criminal Record Expungement Act (effective January 1, 2020) allows expungement of most non-conviction records after 1 year from final disposition, and conviction records after 2-10 years depending on offense severity. Municipal ordinance or misdemeanor convictions require 2 years. Misdemeanor aggravated battery or 4th-degree felony convictions require 4 years. 3rd-degree felony convictions require 8 years. 2nd-degree felony convictions require 10 years. Offenses that CANNOT be expunged include DWI/DUI, sex crimes, crimes against children, violent offenses resulting in great bodily harm or death, and embezzlement. Time starts AFTER completing your sentence including probation/parole and paying all fines and restitution. Once expunged, you can legally state "no such record exists" to most employers. Contact New Mexico Legal Aid (866-416-1934) or a private attorney for guidance.
Q2: Does New Mexico have ban-the-box?
Yes. New Mexico has ban-the-box laws for both public and private employers. For private employers with 4 or more employees, the Criminal Offender Employment Act prohibits asking about criminal history on initial job applications (effective June 14, 2019). The law also prohibits inquiring about sealed or expunged records. Employers may consider conviction information after reviewing the application and upon discussing employment with the applicant. For public employers, N.M.S.A. § 28-2-3 prohibits inquiring about criminal history during initial application stages. Violations are handled under New Mexico's Human Rights Act.
Q3: How far back do background checks go in New Mexico?
New Mexico imposes a seven-year lookback period for criminal convictions through N.M. Stat. § 56-3-6. Credit bureaus may only report criminal convictions for seven years from the date of conviction or release from parole. This is DIFFERENT from federal FCRA rules, which allow convictions to be reported indefinitely. New Mexico's seven-year rule applies regardless of salary, making it more protective than the FCRA. Arrests and pending cases can only be reported while pending—if they don't result in conviction, they cannot be reported. Expunged, sealed, dismissed, or pardoned convictions cannot be reported.
Q4: Do I have to tell employers about my felony?
It depends. If your record is expunged, you can legally state "no such record exists"—the law allows you to deny the arrest or conviction to most employers. If NOT expunged: Under ban-the-box (4+ employee companies), employers cannot ask on the initial application. Be honest if asked directly after the application review stage. Focus on rehabilitation, skills gained, and what you've learned. For companies with fewer than 4 employees (not covered by ban-the-box), be prepared to address it earlier. Never lie—honesty paired with demonstration of change is the best approach.
Q5: What jobs can I NOT get with a felony in New Mexico?
Generally restricted or case-by-case: Healthcare positions involving vulnerable populations (varies by conviction), childcare and early childhood education (especially with violent or sex offenses), positions requiring professional state licenses (determined by licensing boards under Uniform Collateral Consequences Act), law enforcement and corrections, jobs requiring security clearances, positions in judiciary or homeland security, financial positions (especially with fraud/theft convictions). However, many healthcare support roles (housekeeping, dietary, facilities, laundry) remain accessible. Each situation is individual—don't self-disqualify without applying.
Q6: What is New Mexico's minimum wage?
New Mexico's minimum wage is $12.00 per hour effective January 1, 2023, with annual increases indexed to the Consumer Price Index. Tipped employees receive $3.00/hour minimum cash wage (employers must ensure total with tips reaches $12.00). Some municipalities have higher minimum wages: Santa Fe County ($15.00/hour), Las Cruces (approximately $13.20/hour), Albuquerque (follows state minimum). New Mexico's minimum wage ranks among the higher in the nation.
Q7: Is New Mexico's minimum wage enough to live on?
New Mexico's $12.00 minimum wage provides approximately $24,960 annually (full-time). According to MIT's Living Wage Calculator, a single adult in NM needs approximately $20-22/hour ($41,600-45,760/year) for basic expenses including housing, food, transportation, and healthcare. While NM's minimum wage is competitive regionally, the state's cost of living—particularly housing in Albuquerque and Santa Fe—remains a challenge. Target jobs paying $15+/hour to approach living wage, or consider shared housing to reduce costs.
Q8: Are there tax credits for employers who hire felons?
Yes. The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides up to $2,400 per qualified hire of ex-felons (those convicted of a felony and hired within one year of conviction or release from prison). Employers must submit IRS Form 8850 and ETA Form 9061 within 28 days of hire start date. Contact NM Department of Workforce Solutions or your local Workforce Connection Center for information.
Q9: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in New Mexico?
CDL truck drivers ($45,000-65,000), union electricians ($45,000-65,000 journeyman), Intel production technicians ($40,000-70,000), plumbers ($45,000-65,000), HVAC technicians ($38,000-58,000), oil & gas field workers ($40,000-70,000), welders ($35,000-52,000), wind turbine technicians ($38,000-55,000). New Mexico's Uniform Collateral Consequences Act (N.M.S.A. § 28-2-4) protects licensing applicants—boards can't automatically deny based on convictions.
Q10: Where can I get help with my job search?
Extensive free services available: Workforce Connection Centers throughout NM (dws.state.nm.us) offer resume help, job matching, skills training. Second Chance Center in Albuquerque (505-345-4080) provides employment assistance and case management. Call 2-1-1 (24/7) for resource referrals. Goodwill NM (goodwillnm.org) provides job training and career services. New Mexico Legal Aid (nmlegalaid.org) offers expungement assistance.
Next Steps: Your New Mexico Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for New Mexico justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Address Your Criminal Record
Obtain your criminal history from NM Department of Public Safety: dps.nm.gov or (505) 841-8500
Review for accuracy – errors are common and can be corrected
Determine expungement eligibility using waiting periods (see FAQ section)
If eligible, contact New Mexico Legal Aid (866-416-1934) for free help or hire private attorney
Typical costs: Court fees ($100-150), attorney fees ($1,000-2,500), processing time 3-6 months
If not eligible yet, prepare honest explanation focusing on rehabilitation and growth
Step 2: Connect with Support Services Immediately
Visit your nearest Workforce Connection Center for FREE resume help, job search support (dws.state.nm.us)
Call 2-1-1 (24/7 hotline) for immediate referrals to housing, food, employment, emergency services
Contact Second Chance Center (Albuquerque, 505-345-4080) for employment assistance and case management
Explore training programs at community colleges (affordable tuition, financial aid available)
Step 3: Target Felon-Friendly Industries & Companies
Healthcare Support: Presbyterian, UNMH, Lovelace, nursing homes (housekeeping, dietary, $12-16/hour)
Hospitality: Hotels, casinos, restaurants, ski resorts (high turnover, steady hiring, $12-16/hour+)
Retail: Walmart, Target, Smith's, Home Depot (constant hiring, $12-16/hour)
Warehouse: FedEx, UPS, distribution centers (hiring constantly, good wages $14-18/hour)
Construction: General labor, landscaping (less background emphasis, $15-20/hour)
Start with Top 20 Employers list in this guide – all have hired returning citizens
Step 4: Leverage Staffing Agencies
Register with 3-5 agencies simultaneously (Express, Manpower, Kelly, Adecco, PeopleReady)
Staffing agencies frequently place candidates with records – it's their business model
Accept ANY entry-level assignment to prove reliability and build references
Show up on time every single day – consistency leads to better assignments and direct hire
Many temp positions convert to permanent employment (temp-to-hire)
Step 5: Maximize Ban-the-Box Protections
Focus applications on companies with 4+ employees (covered by NM ban-the-box law)
Criminal history cannot be asked on initial application – use this to your advantage
Make excellent first impression in interview – show skills, reliability, enthusiasm
If asked about background after application review, be honest but brief: take responsibility, explain growth
Prepare 30-second explanation: what happened, what you learned, why you're reliable now
Never lie on applications – dishonesty is often worse than the conviction itself
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 New Mexico's Criminal Record Expungement Act (N.M. Stat. § 29-3A-1 through 29-3A-7), Criminal Offender Employment Act (Senate Bill 96), and Uniform Collateral Consequences of Conviction Act (N.M.S.A. § 28-2-4) is general in nature. Expungement eligibility and processes can be complex—consult with New Mexico employment attorney or legal aid (New Mexico Legal Aid: 866-416-1934, State Bar of New Mexico: 505-797-6000) 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.