Felon Friendly Jobs in New York
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
New York leads the nation in second-chance employment with the most progressive laws supporting justice-impacted individuals. The state's minimum wage of $16.50/hour in NYC, Long Island, and Westchester ($15.50 rest of state) ranks among the highest nationally. New York's Clean Slate Act (CPL § 160.57, effective November 16, 2024) automatically seals most misdemeanor convictions after 3 years and felony convictions after 8 years. NYC's Fair Chance Act prohibits criminal history inquiries until after conditional job offers for employers with 4+ employees. Major employers like NYC Health + Hospitals, Northwell Health, Amazon, Wegmans, and UPS provide abundant opportunities across New York City (pop. 8.8 million), Buffalo (pop. 278,000), Rochester (pop. 211,000), Yonkers (pop. 211,000), Syracuse (pop. 148,000), and Albany (pop. 101,000). Entry-level positions start at $16.50-20/hour in NYC, while CDL drivers, skilled trades, and technology roles reach $60,000-100,000+ annually. Comprehensive ban-the-box protections and automatic record sealing make New York the most favorable state for rebuilding careers.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in New York
Economic Overview
New York's economy offers extraordinary opportunities for justice-impacted individuals across healthcare, technology, finance, hospitality, retail, logistics, manufacturing, education, and construction sectors. With major population centers including New York City (pop. 8.8 million), Buffalo (pop. 278,000), Rochester (pop. 211,000), Yonkers (pop. 211,000), Syracuse (pop. 148,000), and Albany (pop. 101,000), plus robust job markets throughout Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, Erie, Monroe, and Onondaga counties, the state provides the most diverse employment pathways in the nation. New York City alone contains more jobs than many entire states, while upstate cities offer lower living costs with strong healthcare, manufacturing, and education sectors.
Record Clearing System
New York's Clean Slate Act (CPL § 160.57), effective November 16, 2024, ranks among the nation's most progressive record sealing laws. The law provides automatic sealing of most misdemeanor and felony conviction records after specific waiting periods. For misdemeanor convictions, records are automatically sealed 3 years after sentencing or release from incarceration, provided no new convictions occur during this period. For felony convictions (except Class A non-drug felonies like murder and sex offenses requiring registration), records are automatically sealed 8 years after sentencing or release from prison, again provided there are no new convictions. To qualify, individuals must not be on probation, post-release supervision, or parole, and must have no pending criminal cases.
Important: New York does NOT offer true expungement (complete erasure) for most convictions. Sealing means records remain accessible to law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, certain licensing bodies, and employers conducting fingerprint-based background checks (for positions with children, elderly, vulnerable populations, law enforcement, gun licenses), but sealed records do NOT appear on standard background checks accessed by most employers and landlords. For marijuana-related convictions covered by the 2021 repeal of Article 221 of the Penal Code, automatic expungement (complete erasure) is available. Petition-based sealing under CPL § 160.59 allows individuals with up to two convictions (two misdemeanors or one felony and one misdemeanor) to petition the court for sealing after 10 years.
Ban-the-Box and Background Check Laws
New York has comprehensive ban-the-box protections at both state and city levels. For public employers, New York State law (enacted 2015) prohibits inquiring about criminal history during the initial application stages. For private employers in New York City, the Fair Chance Act (Local Law No. 63, effective October 27, 2015, with amendments effective July 29, 2021) applies to employers with 4 or more employees (including independent contractors) and prohibits criminal history inquiries on job applications and during interviews until after a conditional offer of employment is extended.
Employers cannot ask about criminal history verbally, in writing, or use publicly available sources to conduct background checks before the conditional offer. After extending a conditional offer, employers may inquire about and conduct criminal background checks, but must follow strict procedures if considering adverse action. Employers must provide: (1) a copy of the background check, (2) a written "Fair Chance Analysis" explaining how the conviction relates to the job, and (3) a minimum of 3 business days to respond before taking adverse action.
Article 23-A of the New York Correction Law requires ALL New York employers (not just NYC) to conduct individualized assessments considering: (1) the nature and seriousness of the offense, (2) the time that has elapsed since the offense, (3) the age of the person at the time of the offense, (4) evidence of rehabilitation, (5) the relationship between the offense and the specific job sought, and (6) the legitimate interest of the employer in protecting property and safety.
New York follows a seven-year lookback period for criminal convictions, though it's more complex than other states. Conviction information from more than seven years ago generally should not be reported, EXCEPT when the expected annual salary is $25,000 or more, in which case convictions can be reported indefinitely. The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides New York employers up to $2,400 per qualified hire with felony convictions.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in New York
New York's minimum wage structure (2025):
NYC, Long Island (Nassau/Suffolk), and Westchester County: $16.50/hour
Rest of New York State: $15.50/hour
Tipped food service workers (NYC/Long Island/Westchester): $11.00/hour cash wage + $5.50 tip credit
Tipped food service workers (rest of state): $10.35/hour cash wage + $5.15 tip credit
Healthcare Support
NYC Health + Hospitals (HHC) - Largest municipal hospital system in the US with 11 hospitals.
Housekeeping, food service, patient transport, facilities maintenance, dietary aides, environmental services.
Pay: $16.50-20/hour.
Northwell Health - New York State's largest healthcare provider with 23 hospitals.
Environmental services, dietary aides, patient transport, facilities, housekeeping, laundry.
Pay: $16.50-19/hour.
Mount Sinai Health System - Eight hospital locations across NYC.
Housekeeping, food service, facilities, patient transport, environmental services.
Pay: $16.50-19/hour.
Montefiore Health System (Bronx) - Major academic medical center.
Support services, housekeeping, dietary, facilities, patient transport.
Pay: $16.50-19/hour.
NYU Langone Health - Premier academic medical system.
Environmental services, food service, patient transport, facilities maintenance.
Pay: $16.50-20/hour.
SUNY Upstate Medical University (Syracuse) - Central New York's academic medical center.
Support services, housekeeping, dietary, facilities.
Pay: $15.50-18/hour.
Rochester Regional Health - Major hospital system in Western New York.
Environmental services, food service, facilities, patient transport.
Pay: $15.50-18/hour.
Warehouse & Logistics
Amazon - Multiple fulfillment centers (Staten Island, Rochester, Buffalo, Albany areas).
Warehouse associates, sorters, packers, material handlers.
Pay: $17-20/hour plus benefits.
FedEx Ground - Distribution hubs across NY.
Package handlers, sorters, loaders, material handlers.
Pay: $17-20/hour.
UPS - Major facilities in NYC, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany.
Package handlers, warehouse workers, loaders.
Pay: $18-22/hour with excellent benefits and union representation.
XPO Logistics - Freight and logistics operations.
Warehouse workers, freight handlers, loaders.
Pay: $17-21/hour.
DHL - Distribution and logistics facilities.
Package handlers, warehouse associates, sorters.
Pay: $17-20/hour.
Food Distribution Companies - Sysco, US Foods, Performance Food Group.
Warehouse workers, order selectors, loaders.
Pay: $18-23/hour.
Retail & Grocery
Walmart - Numerous NY locations plus distribution centers.
Stockers, cashiers, overnight crew, online order fulfillment, garden center.
Pay: $16.50-20/hour.
Target - Multiple locations across NY.
Store associates, warehouse, fulfillment, overnight stocking, backroom.
Pay: $16.50-20/hour.
Wegmans - Iconic upstate NY grocery chain with passionate following.
Stockers, cashiers, deli, bakery, produce, seafood.
Pay: $15.50-19/hour with strong employee benefits.
Tops Friendly Markets - Buffalo and upstate grocery chain.
Stockers, cashiers, deli, bakery, produce, meat department.
Pay: $15.50-18/hour.
ShopRite - Grocery stores throughout downstate NY.
Stockers, cashiers, deli, bakery, produce.
Pay: $16.50-19/hour.
Home Depot - Multiple NY locations.
Lot associates, freight team, garden, receiving, customer service.
Pay: $16.50-20/hour.
Costco - Warehouse club locations across NY.
Cart crew, stockers, food court, receiving, membership.
Pay: $17-21/hour with excellent benefits.
Hospitality & Food Service
New York City Hotels - Hundreds of properties (Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, InterContinental, boutique hotels).
Housekeeping, front desk, food service, maintenance, valet, bell services.
Pay: $16.50-22/hour.
Resorts World New York City (Queens) - Major casino and entertainment complex.
Housekeeping, food & beverage, facilities, guest services, valet.
Pay: $16.50-20/hour plus tips.
Restaurants - Extensive dining scene especially in NYC, Buffalo, Rochester.
Dishwashers, prep cooks, line cooks, servers, bussers, hosts.
Pay: $16.50-20/hour plus tips (NYC).
Fast Food Chains - McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Chipotle, Shake Shack, Five Guys, Chick-fil-A.
Crew members, cooks, cashiers.
Pay: $16.50/hour (NYC), $15.50/hour (upstate).
Manufacturing & Production
GlobalFoundries (Malta, near Albany) - Semiconductor manufacturing.
Production technicians, cleanroom operators, facilities, warehouse.
Pay: $20-30/hour with excellent benefits. Background checks required.
Anheuser-Busch (Baldwinsville) - Beverage production facility.
Production workers, packaging, warehouse, quality control, sanitation.
Pay: $18-24/hour.
General Electric - Manufacturing operations in upstate NY.
Production workers, assemblers, material handlers.
Pay: $18-25/hour.
PepsiCo/Frito-Lay - Food and beverage production.
Production workers, packaging, warehouse, quality control.
Pay: $17-22/hour.
Top 20 New York Employers Hiring Felons
These New York companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through explicit policies or documented hiring practices.
NYC Health + Hospitals (New York City) - Largest municipal hospital system with 11 hospitals.
Environmental Services: $16.50-20/hour Food Service: $16.50-19/hour Patient Transport: $17-20/hour Union positions (1199SEIU), individual assessment for support roles.
Learn More
Northwell Health (Statewide) - New York's largest healthcare provider with 23 hospitals.
Environmental Services: $16.50-19/hour Dietary Aides: $16.50-18/hour Patient Transport: $17-19/hour Case-by-case evaluation for non-clinical support.
Learn More
Amazon (Staten Island, Rochester, Buffalo, Albany) - Multiple fulfillment centers.
Warehouse Associates: $17-20/hour Shift Managers: $55,000-75,000 Operations Managers: $75,000-110,000 Day-one benefits, fair-chance evaluation.
Learn More
Walmart (Statewide) - Retail stores and distribution centers.
Store Associates: $16.50-20/hour Distribution Workers: $18-23/hour Department Managers: $40,000-60,000 Fair-chance hiring, individual assessment.
Learn More
Target (Statewide) - Retail stores and logistics centers.
Store Team Members: $16.50-20/hour Warehouse Workers: $18-22/hour Team Leaders: $45,000-65,000 Fair-chance employer.
Learn More
UPS (NYC, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany) - Logistics and delivery.
Package Handlers: $18-22/hour Drivers: $80,000-100,000 Supervisors: $60,000-80,000 Teamsters union, promotes from within.
Learn More
Wegmans (Upstate NY) - Beloved grocery chain with passionate employee culture.
Store Associates: $15.50-19/hour Department Specialists: $17-22/hour Department Managers: $45,000-65,000 Excellent benefits, fair-chance evaluation.
Learn More
Mount Sinai Health System (NYC) - Eight hospital locations.
Housekeeping: $16.50-19/hour Food Service: $16.50-18/hour Facilities: $17-20/hour Individual assessment for support positions.
Learn More
FedEx Ground (Statewide) - Package handling and delivery.
Package Handlers: $17-20/hour Drivers: $50,000-75,000 Operations Managers: $60,000-85,000 Case-by-case evaluation.
Learn More
Home Depot (Statewide) - Home improvement retail.
Lot Associates: $16.50-20/hour Freight Team: $17-21/hour Department Supervisors: $40,000-60,000 Fair-chance hiring.
Learn More
Costco (Statewide) - Warehouse club retail.
Entry-level: $17-21/hour Top-scale: $26-30/hour Managers: $90,000-130,000 Excellent benefits, individual assessment.
Learn More
NYU Langone Health (NYC) - Premier academic medical system.
Environmental Services: $16.50-20/hour Food Service: $16.50-19/hour Patient Care Assistants: $18-22/hour Case-by-case for support roles.
Learn More
Montefiore Health System (Bronx) - Major academic medical center.
Support Services: $16.50-19/hour Housekeeping: $16.50-18/hour Dietary: $16.50-18/hour Individual assessment for support positions.
Learn More
ShopRite (Downstate NY) - Grocery stores.
Stockers: $16.50-19/hour Cashiers: $16.50-18/hour Department Leads: $35,000-50,000 Fair-chance evaluation.
Learn More
Tops Friendly Markets (Upstate) - Buffalo and upstate grocery chain.
Stockers: $15.50-18/hour Cashiers: $15.50-17/hour Department Managers: $35,000-50,000 Case-by-case hiring.
Learn More
Rochester Regional Health (Western NY) - Major hospital system.
Environmental Services: $15.50-18/hour Food Service: $15.50-17/hour Patient Transport: $16-18/hour Individual assessment for support roles.
Learn More
XPO Logistics (Statewide) - Freight and logistics operations.
Warehouse Workers: $17-21/hour Freight Handlers: $18-22/hour Supervisors: $50,000-70,000 Fair-chance hiring.
Learn More
Sysco (Statewide) - Food distribution company.
Warehouse Workers: $18-23/hour Order Selectors: $20-25/hour Delivery Drivers: $60,000-80,000 Case-by-case evaluation.
Learn More
Goodwill Industries (Statewide) - Mission-driven organization.
Retail: $16-19/hour Production: $16-20/hour Managers: $40,000-60,000 Explicit second-chance employer with support services.
Learn More
Restaurant Chains (Statewide) - Multiple brands including Chipotle, Shake Shack, McDonald's, Panera.
Crew Members: $16.50/hour (NYC), $15.50/hour (upstate) Shift Leaders: $18-22/hour Managers: $45,000-65,000 Most chains practice fair-chance hiring. Apply directly at locations.
Learn More
Felon-Friendly Jobs by New York City
New York City (Pop. 8.8 million)
Nation's largest city with highest wages. Diverse opportunities across all sectors, strongest ban-the-box protections.
NYC Health + Hospitals - $16.50-20/hour
Amazon Staten Island - $17-20/hour
Mount Sinai Health System - $16.50-19/hour
NYC Hotels (Marriott, Hilton) - $16.50-22/hour
Construction/Trades - $18-28/hour
Buffalo (Pop. 278,000)
Western New York hub. Healthcare, manufacturing, logistics sectors. Lower cost of living than NYC.
Roswell Park Cancer Institute - $15.50-18/hour
Amazon Buffalo - $17-20/hour
Tops Friendly Markets - $15.50-18/hour
Manufacturing Plants - $17-24/hour
UPS Buffalo Hub - $18-22/hour
Rochester (Pop. 211,000)
Technology and healthcare center. Home to University of Rochester Medical Center and manufacturing.
Rochester Regional Health - $15.50-18/hour
Amazon Rochester - $17-20/hour
Wegmans Distribution - $17-21/hour
Manufacturing Companies - $18-25/hour
Construction - $18-26/hour
Syracuse (Pop. 148,000)
Central New York hub. SUNY Upstate Medical, manufacturing, logistics.
SUNY Upstate Medical - $15.50-18/hour
Amazon Syracuse Area - $17-20/hour
Anheuser-Busch Baldwinsville - $18-24/hour
Wegmans - $15.50-19/hour
UPS Syracuse - $18-22/hour
Albany (Pop. 101,000)
State capital. Government, healthcare, education, advanced manufacturing.
Albany Medical Center - $15.50-18/hour
GlobalFoundries Malta - $20-30/hour
State Government Support - $16-22/hour (varies)
UPS Albany - $18-22/hour
Retail & Hospitality - $15.50-19/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in New York
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in New York.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL Class A)
New York's position as Northeast logistics hub creates exceptional CDL opportunities with some of nation's highest wages.
UPS Package Delivery - Start as package handler ($18-22/hour), progress to driver. Top-rate drivers: $90,000-105,000 annually. Full Teamsters benefits including pension. Guaranteed 40 hours weekly.
Food Distribution - Sysco, US Foods drivers: $60,000-80,000. Consistent routes, home daily. Physical work but stable employment. NYC-area routes pay premium.
LTL Freight - XPO, Old Dominion, YRC: $60,000-85,000. Local/regional routes. Good benefits, consistent work. High demand in NYC metro.
Waste Management/Republic - Refuse truck drivers: $55,000-75,000. CDL training provided. Union positions with strong benefits. NYC sanitation pays premium.
Port Drayage (NYC/Long Island) - Container hauling: $65,000-95,000. High demand, challenging work. Clean Truck Programs improving wages.
Skilled Trades
Union Electrician - IBEW Local 3 (NYC) apprenticeships. Apprentices start $55,000-65,000. Journeyman electricians: $90,000-120,000+ in NYC. Five-year paid apprenticeship.
Plumber/Pipefitter - UA union apprenticeships. Apprentices: $50,000-60,000. Journeymen: $80,000-110,000 in NYC. Commercial/industrial pays more than residential.
HVAC Technician - Year-round work in NY climate. Experienced techs: $55,000-75,000 upstate, $65,000-85,000 in NYC. EPA certification required. Community college training available.
Welding - Industrial welders: $50,000-70,000 upstate, $60,000-85,000 in NYC. Specialized (underwater, nuclear): $80,000-120,000+. Strong demand in manufacturing and construction.
Elevator Mechanic - IUEC apprenticeship. Among highest-paid trades. Journeymen: $90,000-130,000+ in NYC. Long apprenticeship but exceptional career.
Technology & IT
Help Desk Technician - Entry IT support: $45,000-60,000 upstate, $55,000-75,000 in NYC. CompTIA A+ certification key. Remote positions increasingly common.
Network Technician - Installing/maintaining networks: $55,000-75,000 upstate, $65,000-90,000 in NYC. CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA certification. Growing demand with datacenter expansion.
Data Center Technician - Server maintenance: $50,000-70,000 upstate, $60,000-85,000 in NYC. On-the-job training common. 24/7 operations mean shift work. Major datacenters in Albany, Syracuse, NYC.
Coding Bootcamp Graduate - Junior developers: $60,000-85,000 upstate, $75,000-100,000 in NYC. Bootcamps like Flatiron School, Fullstack Academy have income-share agreements. Fair-chance friendly tech sector.
Healthcare Technical
Surgical Technologist - Community college program (18-24 months). Starting: $45,000-55,000 upstate, $55,000-70,000 in NYC. Experienced: $60,000-80,000 in NYC.
Radiology Technician - Associates degree required. Starting: $50,000-60,000 upstate, $60,000-75,000 in NYC. Experienced: $65,000-85,000 in NYC.
Respiratory Therapist - Associates degree required. Starting: $55,000-65,000 upstate, $65,000-80,000 in NYC. Critical shortage statewide.
New York Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
New York offers the nation's most comprehensive support for justice-impacted job seekers through progressive laws and accessible services.
Record Sealing Under Clean Slate Act
New York's Clean Slate Act (CPL § 160.57, effective November 16, 2024) provides automatic sealing of eligible conviction records.
Eligibility:
Misdemeanors: Automatically sealed 3 years after sentencing or release from incarceration (no new convictions during period).
Felonies: Automatically sealed 8 years after sentencing or release from prison (no new convictions during period). Excludes Class A non-drug felonies and sex offenses requiring registration.
Requirements: No probation, post-release supervision, or parole. No pending criminal cases.
Effect: Sealed records do NOT appear on standard background checks. You can legally deny the conviction for most employment purposes. Records remain accessible to law enforcement, prosecutors, courts, certain licensing bodies, and fingerprint-based background checks.
Petition-Based Sealing (CPL § 160.59): Allows sealing of up to two convictions (two misdemeanors or one felony and one misdemeanor) after 10 years. Requires court petition.
Marijuana Expungement: Convictions under repealed Article 221 automatically expunged (complete erasure), not just sealed.
NYC Fair Chance Act
Applies to: Private employers with 4+ employees in NYC.
Protections:
Cannot ask about criminal history on applications or during interviews
Cannot inquire until after conditional job offer extended
Must provide Fair Chance Analysis if considering denial based on criminal history
Must give 3 business days to respond before final decision
Statewide Article 23-A: ALL New York employers must conduct individualized assessments considering nature of offense, time elapsed, age at offense, evidence of rehabilitation, and relationship to job.
Lookback Rules
Convictions: Seven-year lookback generally applies, EXCEPT for positions paying $25,000+ annually (convictions reported indefinitely).
Non-convictions: Seven-year rule regardless of salary.
Sealed records: Cannot be reported for civil employment purposes.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides New York employers up to $2,400 tax credit per qualified hire of returning citizens. Contact NY State Department of Labor.
State Workforce Development
New York State Career Centers - Statewide network of career centers providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview prep, training referrals, and employer connections.
Contact: 1-888-469-7365 | labor.ny.gov/careercenters
Reentry Organizations
The Fortune Society (NYC) - Comprehensive reentry services including employment, housing, education, counseling. Explicit second-chance mission.
Contact: (212) 691-7554 | fortunesociety.org
Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) - Statewide - Immediate paid transitional employment, job training, full-time placement.
Contact: (212) 422-4430 | ceoworks.org
STRIVE International (NYC) - Job training, placement services, professional development.
Contact: (212) 360-1100 | striveinternational.org
Exodus Transitional Community (NYC) - Reentry services, employment assistance, housing support.
Contact: (212) 254-5700 | etcny.org
HIRE - Helping Individuals Re-enter through Employment (Rochester) - Employment services for justice-impacted individuals.
Contact: (585) 454-3730 | hireability.org
Additional New York Resources
Training & Education
CUNY and SUNY Colleges - Extensive community college system offering workforce training, skilled trades programs, healthcare programs with financial aid. CUNY in NYC area, SUNY statewide.
Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) - Training women for skilled trades, especially construction. NYC-based.
Contact: (212) 627-6252 | new-nyc.org
Building Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Programs - Multiple organizations prepare justice-impacted individuals for union apprenticeships.
Housing Assistance
The Fortune Society - Transitional and permanent supportive housing in NYC.
Project Renewal (NYC) - Housing and services for justice-impacted individuals.
Contact: (212) 620-0340 | projectrenewal.org
Exodus House (Albany) - Residential reentry program with housing and support services.
Contact: (518) 434-1763 | exodushouse.org
Transportation Support
NYC MetroCard Reduced Fare - Half-price MetroCards for eligible low-income residents.
Upstate Transit Systems - Reduced fare programs in Buffalo (NFTA), Rochester (RTS), Syracuse (Centro), Albany (CDTA).
Legal Aid
The Legal Aid Society (NYC) - Free legal services including record sealing assistance, employment discrimination.
Contact: (212) 577-3300 | legalaidnyc.org
Legal Services NYC - Civil legal services for low-income NYC residents.
Contact: 1-917-661-4500 | legalservicesnyc.org
Empire Justice Center - Statewide legal advocacy and assistance.
Contact: 1-585-295-5000 | empirejustice.org
Certificates of Relief
Certificate of Relief from Disabilities - Available for single felony or multiple misdemeanor convictions in NY. Removes or mitigates legal bars to employment and licensure.
Certificate of Good Conduct - Available for multiple felony convictions or out-of-state convictions. Similar benefits to Certificate of Relief.
How to Apply: Through Department of Corrections while incarcerated, or through court after release. Creates presumption of rehabilitation.
Staffing Agencies in New York That Work With Felons
Staffing agencies provide immediate employment and temp-to-perm opportunities throughout New York's diverse economy.
Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) - Specialized in justice-impacted individuals. Immediate paid transitional work, job training, permanent placement. Multiple NY offices.
Contact: (212) 422-4430 | ceoworks.org
Labor Ready/TrueBlue - Locations throughout NY including NYC, Buffalo, Rochester. Daily pay available. General labor, warehouse, manufacturing.
PeopleReady - Statewide presence. Light industrial, warehousing, construction. Same-day pay options. Second-chance focus.
Adecco - Major presence in NYC, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Albany. Manufacturing, warehouse, office positions. Fair-chance evaluation.
Remedy Intelligent Staffing - NY locations in major cities. Manufacturing, warehouse, administrative. Temp-to-hire common.
Manpower - Extensive statewide presence. Manufacturing, logistics, office. Benefits available for temps.
Express Employment Professionals - Multiple NY offices. Light industrial, skilled trades, administrative. Fair-chance hiring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does New York have a ban-the-box law?
Yes. New York State prohibits public employers from asking about criminal history during initial application stages. NYC's Fair Chance Act prohibits private employers with 4+ employees from asking about criminal history until after conditional job offer. This is one of the nation's strongest protections. Article 23-A requires all NY employers to conduct individualized assessments before denial based on criminal history.
Q2: Can I get my record sealed in New York?
Yes. New York's Clean Slate Act (CPL § 160.57, effective November 16, 2024) automatically seals misdemeanor convictions after 3 years and felony convictions after 8 years if you remain crime-free and are not on probation/parole. Petition-based sealing (CPL § 160.59) available after 10 years. Marijuana convictions receive automatic expungement (erasure). Important: Sealing is not expungement—records remain accessible to law enforcement and certain employers but don't appear on standard background checks.
Q3: What is New York's minimum wage?
$16.50/hour in NYC, Long Island (Nassau/Suffolk), and Westchester County. $15.50/hour in rest of New York State (2025). Among the nation's highest. Scheduled to increase $0.50 annually. Tipped workers receive $11.00/hour (NYC area) or $10.35/hour (upstate) cash wage plus tips.
Q4: How far back do background checks go in New York?
Seven-year lookback for convictions generally applies, EXCEPT for positions paying $25,000+ annually where convictions can be reported indefinitely. Non-convictions subject to seven-year rule regardless of salary. Sealed records under Clean Slate Act cannot be reported for most employment purposes.
Q5: What companies in New York hire felons?
Major employers include NYC Health + Hospitals, Northwell Health, Amazon, Walmart, Target, UPS, Wegmans, Mount Sinai, Home Depot, Costco, FedEx, and many others. NYC's Fair Chance Act means most private employers with 4+ employees can't ask about criminal history until conditional offer. See Top 20 list for complete details.
Q6: Can Amazon hire me with a felony in New York?
Yes. Amazon has fulfillment centers in Staten Island, Rochester, Buffalo, and Albany areas. They evaluate convictions case-by-case and hire many justice-impacted individuals. Warehouse positions start $17-20/hour with day-one benefits. Apply at amazon.jobs.
Q7: Can I become a truck driver with a felony in New York?
Yes. Many NY companies hire CDL drivers with felonies, especially non-violent offenses over 5-7 years old. UPS, Sysco, waste management companies, and freight companies actively hire. Earnings: $55,000-105,000. UPS promotes from within—start as package handler ($18-22/hour) and advance to driver.
Q8: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in New York?
Union electricians ($90,000-120,000+ in NYC), UPS drivers ($90,000-105,000), plumbers ($80,000-110,000), HVAC techs ($55,000-85,000), truck drivers ($55,000-95,000), welders ($60,000-85,000), surgical techs ($55,000-80,000), network technicians ($65,000-90,000 in NYC). Article 23-A protections ensure licensing boards can't automatically deny based on convictions.
Q9: Should I disclose my felony on New York job applications?
In NYC and for NY state government positions, employers generally cannot ask until conditional offer is extended due to Fair Chance Act and state ban-the-box. If asked before offer, consult with legal aid—this may violate Fair Chance Act. Once lawfully asked, answer truthfully. Outside NYC at private employers, policies vary. Always answer honestly if asked—lying can result in termination. Emphasize time passed and rehabilitation.
Q10: Are there free job training programs in New York for people with felonies?
Yes. NY State Career Centers offer free training referrals. CUNY and SUNY community colleges provide workforce programs with financial aid. Union apprenticeships (IBEW, UA, other trades) offer paid training. Center for Employment Opportunities provides immediate paid work and job training. Fortune Society offers employment training. Nontraditional Employment for Women (NEW) trains women for construction. Multiple reentry organizations offer job readiness programs statewide.
Next Steps: Your New York Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for New York justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Understand Your Rights Under Clean Slate Act and Fair Chance Act
Determine your Clean Slate Act eligibility—misdemeanor convictions automatically sealed after 3 years, felonies after 8 years if you've remained crime-free and completed probation/parole. Records sealed by November 16, 2027 for past convictions. Check your current status with NY Office of Court Administration. In NYC, know that Fair Chance Act prohibits most employers with 4+ employees from asking about criminal history until after conditional job offer—this is one of nation's strongest protections. Statewide, Article 23-A requires ALL employers to conduct individualized assessments before denial. Consider obtaining Certificate of Relief from Disabilities or Certificate of Good Conduct to demonstrate rehabilitation—apply through court or DOCCS. Obtain your official criminal record to see exactly what employers will see. Contact Legal Aid Society (212-577-3300) or Empire Justice Center for free legal assistance with sealing, certificates, or employment discrimination.
Step 2: Register with NY Career Centers and Specialized Reentry Services
Register with New York State Career Centers (1-888-469-7365) for free resume help, interview prep, job referrals, and training programs. Multiple centers in every major city. Critical for NYC residents: Register with Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) at (212) 422-4430—they provide immediate paid transitional work (start earning within days) while helping you find permanent employment. Also connect with Fortune Society (212-691-7554), STRIVE International (212-360-1100), or Exodus (212-254-5700) for comprehensive reentry support. Buffalo: Community Missions. Rochester: HIRE (585-454-3730). Syracuse: Salvation Army. Albany: Exodus House (518-434-1763). Sign up with 2-3 staffing agencies: PeopleReady (daily pay), Adecco (manufacturing/warehouse), Manpower (logistics). These agencies place justice-impacted individuals immediately in positions paying $17-22/hour with temp-to-perm potential.
Step 3: Target New York's High-Demand Fair-Chance Employers
Apply to healthcare systems with strong fair-chance practices: NYC Health + Hospitals, Northwell Health, Mount Sinai, NYU Langone, Montefiore ($16.50-20/hour for environmental services, food service, facilities). Warehouse and logistics offer immediate opportunities: Amazon ($17-20/hour, multiple NY locations), UPS ($18-22/hour with path to $90,000-105,000 driver positions), FedEx Ground ($17-20/hour), XPO Logistics ($17-21/hour). Retail provides accessible entry points: Walmart, Target ($16.50-20/hour), Wegmans (upstate, $15.50-19/hour with excellent culture), Costco ($17-21/hour). Manufacturing in upstate NY: GlobalFoundries ($20-30/hour), Anheuser-Busch ($18-24/hour), General Electric ($18-25/hour). Focus applications on NYC for highest wages and strongest protections, or upstate for lower cost of living with solid wages. Apply to 10-15 positions weekly across multiple companies and sectors. Remember: Fair Chance Act means NYC employers can't ask about criminal history until conditional offer.
Step 4: Prepare for Fair Chance Act Process
Create resume highlighting skills, accomplishments, and work history. Address gaps honestly without overexplaining. Include certifications, training, or education completed during incarceration. Since NYC employers can't ask about criminal history until conditional offer, focus resume and interview on qualifications, skills, and value you bring. Prepare brief (30-60 second) explanation of criminal record for when it's lawfully raised—focus on rehabilitation, lessons learned, time passed, and commitment to stability. Practice until comfortable and confident. Develop 3-5 professional references who can speak to character and reliability. Understand that if NYC employer considers denying employment based on criminal history AFTER conditional offer, they must provide you with: (1) copy of background check, (2) written Fair Chance Analysis, and (3) minimum 3 business days to respond. Use this time to explain context, provide rehabilitation evidence, and advocate for yourself. Mention Certificate of Relief from Disabilities if you have one—this creates legal presumption of rehabilitation.
Step 5: Apply Strategically and Leverage New York's Protections
Apply directly through company websites when possible—NYC Health + Hospitals (nychealthandhospitals.org/careers), Amazon (amazon.jobs), Walmart (careers.walmart.com), Target (target.com/careers). Visit employers in person for warehouse, retail, construction, food service roles—face-to-face contact demonstrates initiative. CEO provides immediate paid work for NYC residents—call (212) 422-4430 right away if recently released. When criminal history is eventually discussed (after conditional offer in NYC), provide honest context, demonstrate rehabilitation through completed programs/education, emphasize clean record since release and stability. Have documentation ready: certificates from programs, letters of recommendation, Certificate of Relief if obtained. Mention WOTC tax credit eligibility to employers ($2,400 federal tax credit). If denied based on criminal history in NYC, file complaint with NYC Commission on Human Rights if employer violated Fair Chance Act. Persist through rejections—employment typically requires dozens of applications. Follow up on applications after 3-5 days. Stay positive and professional—your attitude and reliability matter as much as your background. New York offers nation's best protections and opportunities—use them.
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 sealing procedures should be confirmed with legal professionals. Information about New York's Clean Slate Act (CPL § 160.57), NYC Fair Chance Act (Local Law No. 63), and Article 23-A of the Correction Law is general in nature. Sealing eligibility and processes can be complex—consult with New York employment attorney or legal aid (Legal Aid Society: 212-577-3300, Empire Justice Center: 585-295-5000) for specific legal advice about your situation. Certificates of Relief from Disabilities and Certificates of Good Conduct have specific eligibility requirements and application processes that should be discussed with legal counsel or probation/parole officers.
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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.