Felon Friendly Jobs in Vermont
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Vermont offers accessible employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals, particularly in healthcare, manufacturing, retail, hospitality, construction, and food service sectors. Vermont enacted comprehensive ban-the-box legislation in 2016 (effective July 1, 2017) prohibiting ALL employers—both public and private—from asking about criminal history on initial job applications, requiring employers to delay inquiries until after an interview or once the applicant is deemed qualified. This makes Vermont one of only eight states to extend this protection to private employers (Vermont Statutes Title 21, § 495j). Vermont's expungement and sealing laws (Title 13, Chapter 230) underwent major revisions effective July 1, 2025, with petition-based sealing available after 3 years for misdemeanors and 7 years for felonies, or 5 years for expungement of qualifying crimes. Major employers including The University of Vermont Medical Center (6,000+ employees—Vermont's largest employer), National Life Group (750 employees), GlobalFoundries semiconductor manufacturing, Ben & Jerry's, Killington Resort, Stowe Mountain Resort, and numerous other ski resorts actively hire across Burlington (225,000+ metro), Rutland (59,000), Montpelier (7,700), and Brattleboro (12,000). Vermont's minimum wage is $14.01/hour effective January 1, 2025, indexed annually to Consumer Price Index, with competitive market forces driving most entry-level positions to $16-22/hour due to Vermont's tight labor market (2.6% unemployment rate) and high cost of living.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Vermont
Economic Overview
Vermont's economy is anchored by healthcare and social assistance (The University of Vermont Medical Center employing 6,000+ people—the state's largest employer), education (University of Vermont, Middlebury College with 1,217 employees, Norwich University), advanced manufacturing (GlobalFoundries semiconductor fabrication in Essex Junction, Ben & Jerry's ice cream production in Waterbury), tourism and hospitality (ski resorts including Killington with 800 employees, Stowe, Sugarbush, Stratton), retail, construction, and professional services. With major population centers including Burlington metro (225,000+), Rutland (59,000), Barre (8,500), Montpelier (7,700—smallest state capital in U.S.), Brattleboro (12,000), and Bennington (15,000), the state provides accessible employment pathways from healthcare support and manufacturing to hospitality, retail, and construction. Vermont's tight labor market (2.6% unemployment rate as of 2024) creates strong demand that works in favor of second-chance job seekers. The state's minimum wage ($14.01/hour for 2025) is indexed annually to Consumer Price Index, but competitive forces drive most entry-level positions to $16-22/hour.
Record Clearing System
Vermont's expungement and sealing laws (Vermont Statutes Title 13, Chapter 230) underwent major revisions effective July 1, 2025 (Act 60, 2025). The new law provides two pathways: sealing (records hidden but preserved) and expungement (complete record destruction).
Petition-Based Sealing: After waiting periods from completion of sentence: 3 years for misdemeanors, 7 years for felonies, 10 years for DUI offenses. Must pay all fines/fees/restitution, complete probation/parole, maintain clean record during waiting period. File petition with court, prosecutor review, hearing, judge decision. Cost: typically $105 court filing fee. Timeline: 3-6 months. Sealed records hidden from public but accessible to law enforcement and certain government agencies.
Expungement (Record Destruction): Complete record destruction available after 5 years for qualifying crimes. Automatic expungement for offenses that are no longer crimes (such as certain marijuana convictions). Expunged records permanently destroyed and legally treated as though conviction never occurred.
Cannot Be Sealed/Expunged: Sex offenses, serious violent crimes, crimes against children. Restrictions vary by offense type.
Ban-the-Box and Background Check Laws
Vermont enacted comprehensive ban-the-box law (Vermont Statutes Title 21, § 495j, effective July 1, 2017) covering ALL employers with one or more employees—both public and private. Employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications and must delay inquiries until after initial interview or once applicant is deemed qualified. This makes Vermont one of only eight states extending this protection to private employers. Employers must conduct individualized assessments considering nature of offense, time passed, and relationship to job duties.
Vermont follows federal FCRA rules for background checks. The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides Vermont employers up to $2,400 per qualified hire with felony convictions.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Vermont
Vermont minimum wage: $14.01/hour for 2025, but competitive market forces drive most entry-level positions to $16-22/hour in key sectors.
Healthcare Support (Non-Clinical)
The University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington - 6,000+ employees) - Vermont's largest employer, academic medical center affiliated with University of Vermont.
Environmental services (housekeeping), food service, facilities maintenance, patient transport.
Pay: $15-19/hour. Case-by-case hiring for support roles. Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance.
Central Vermont Medical Center (Barre - 1,200 employees) - Community hospital, nursing home, physician practices, Dartmouth-Hitchcock affiliate.
Environmental services, food service, facilities, patient transport.
Pay: $15-19/hour. Case-by-case hiring for non-clinical positions. Benefits, advancement opportunities.
Rutland Regional Medical Center (Rutland - 1,300 employees) - Healthcare system established 1896 serving Rutland County.
Housekeeping, dietary, facilities, patient support roles.
Pay: $15-19/hour. Individualized assessment for support positions. Comprehensive benefits.
Northwestern Medical Center (St. Albans) - Community hospital serving Franklin County.
Environmental services, food service, facilities, patient support.
Pay: $14-18/hour. Individualized assessment for non-clinical positions. Benefits included.
Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (Bennington) - Southwestern Vermont Health Care system, community hospital.
Housekeeping, dietary, facilities roles.
Pay: $14-18/hour. Case-by-case hiring for support staff. Comprehensive benefits.
Manufacturing & Food Production
GlobalFoundries (Essex Junction) - Semiconductor manufacturing, major advanced manufacturing facility formerly IBM microelectronics.
Clean room production, technical positions, facilities, material handlers.
Pay: $18-26/hour. High-tech employer with comprehensive benefits. Background checks required but individualized assessment provided.
Ben & Jerry's (Waterbury) - Ice cream manufacturing, iconic Vermont company founded 1978.
Manufacturing, packaging, quality control, facilities, retail store positions.
Pay: $16-22/hour. Socially conscious employer known for progressive practices. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k), product discounts.
Cabot Creamery (Vermont facilities) - Vermont dairy cooperative producing cheese since 1919.
Manufacturing, packaging, quality positions.
Pay: $15-20/hour. Benefits, stable cooperative employer. Community-focused Vermont company.
Vermont Teddy Bear Company (Shelburne) - Vermont-based stuffed animal manufacturer with factory tours and retail store.
Manufacturing, assembly, retail, customer service positions.
Pay: $15-19/hour. Vermont company with community focus.
Tourism & Hospitality (Ski Resorts)
Killington Resort (Killington - 800 employees) - Largest ski resort in Eastern U.S., year-round operations.
Lift operators, food service, guest services, facilities, snow-making, mountain operations.
Pay: $15-22/hour. Employee ski passes. Seasonal hiring peaks November-April. Fair chance employer.
Stowe Mountain Resort (Stowe) - Vail Resorts property, major Vermont tourism employer.
Lift operations, food service, guest services, facilities.
Pay: $16-24/hour. Employee ski passes. Known for quality service standards. Fair chance consideration.
Sugarbush Resort (Warren/Waitsfield) - Independent Vermont ski resort, year-round operations.
Lift operations, food service, facilities, guest services, snow-making.
Pay: $15-21/hour. Employee ski privileges. Vermont-based ownership.
Stratton Mountain Resort (Stratton) - Southern Vermont ski resort, year-round operations.
Lift operators, food service, guest services, facilities, snow-making.
Pay: $15-20/hour. Employee ski benefits.
Retail & Grocery
Walmart (Multiple Vermont locations) - Stores in Berlin, Williston, Bennington, Rutland, St. Johnsbury.
Stockers, cashiers, overnight crew, online order fulfillment, maintenance.
Pay: $15-18/hour. Fair chance hiring policies. Health coverage, 401(k), free college through Live Better U.
Target (South Burlington and other Vermont locations) - Retail chain.
Store team members, fulfillment, overnight stocking.
Pay: $16-19/hour. Fair chance employer with individualized assessment. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k), 10% discount, tuition assistance.
Shaw's Supermarkets (Multiple Vermont stores) - Regional supermarket chain established 1915, Albertsons subsidiary.
Cashiers, stockers, department clerks, bakery, deli.
Pay: $14-18/hour. Union representation (UFCW) at many locations. Benefits, advancement opportunities.
Hannaford Supermarkets (Multiple Vermont locations) - Regional grocery chain with strong Vermont presence, Ahold Delhaize subsidiary.
Associates.
Pay: $14-18/hour. Union representation at some stores. Benefits for full-time employees, advancement opportunities.
Price Chopper/Market 32 (Vermont locations) - Regional supermarket chain with Vermont presence.
Team members.
Pay: $14-17/hour. Benefits for full-time employees, advancement to department leads and management.
Education & Institutional Support
University of Vermont (Burlington) - Land-grant university established 1791, major Vermont employer with thousands of employees.
Facilities, dining services, custodial, grounds, administrative support, parking, transportation.
Pay: $15-22/hour depending on position. Comprehensive benefits, tuition assistance, stable employment. Public employer subject to Vermont ban-the-box.
Middlebury College (Middlebury - 1,217 employees) - Private liberal arts college established 1800.
Facilities, dining, custodial, grounds, administrative support.
Pay: $15-22/hour. Comprehensive benefits, tuition assistance. Stable academic employer.
Other Major Employers
National Life Group (Montpelier - 750 employees) - Insurance and financial services, life insurance and annuities company established 1848.
Administrative, customer service, facilities, technology positions.
Pay: $16-25/hour depending on role. Comprehensive benefits, stable Vermont employer, career advancement.
GE Healthcare (Williston area - 800 employees) - Medical technology, medical information systems and support.
Technical, manufacturing, administrative, facilities positions.
Pay: $16-24/hour depending on role. Comprehensive benefits, career advancement.
McDonald's (50+ Vermont locations) - Quick-service restaurants.
Crew members, shift managers.
Pay: $13-16/hour. Flexible scheduling, advancement to shift manager ($17-21/hour) and general manager ($45,000-58,000). Franchisee hiring varies.
Top 20 Vermont Employers Hiring Felons
These Vermont companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through documented hiring practices or favorable policies.
The University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington - 6,000+ employees) - Vermont's largest employer, academic medical center.
Environmental Services: $15-19/hour Food Service: $15-18/hour Facilities Maintenance: $16-20/hour Case-by-case for support roles, tuition assistance. Learn More
National Life Group (Montpelier - 750 employees) - Insurance and financial services established 1848.
Administrative: $16-25/hour Customer Service: $16-22/hour Facilities: $15-20/hour Individualized hiring assessment, stable employer. Learn More
GlobalFoundries (Essex Junction) - Semiconductor manufacturing, advanced technology facility.
Production Workers: $18-26/hour Technicians: $22-32/hour Facilities: $16-22/hour Individualized assessment, comprehensive benefits. Learn More
Ben & Jerry's (Waterbury) - Ice cream manufacturing, iconic Vermont company.
Production Workers: $16-22/hour Quality Control: $17-23/hour Retail Associates: $15-19/hour Socially conscious employer, progressive values. Learn More
Killington Resort (Killington - 800 employees) - Largest ski resort in Eastern U.S.
Lift Operators: $15-20/hour Food Service: $15-22/hour Guest Services: $15-21/hour Employee ski passes, fair chance employer. Learn More
University of Vermont (Burlington) - Land-grant university established 1791.
Facilities: $15-22/hour Dining Services: $15-20/hour Custodial: $15-19/hour Public employer, ban-the-box applies, tuition assistance. Learn More
Central Vermont Medical Center (Barre - 1,200 employees) - Community hospital, Dartmouth-Hitchcock affiliate.
Environmental Services: $15-19/hour Food Service: $15-18/hour Patient Transport: $15-18/hour Case-by-case for non-clinical positions. Learn More
Rutland Regional Medical Center (Rutland - 1,300 employees) - Healthcare system serving Rutland County.
Housekeeping: $15-19/hour Dietary: $15-18/hour Facilities: $16-20/hour Individualized assessment for support. Learn More
Walmart (Multiple Vermont locations) - Retail stores statewide.
Store Associates: $15-18/hour Department Managers: $38,000-55,000 Assistant Managers: $45,000-65,000 Fair chance hiring, free college program. Learn More
Target (South Burlington and other locations) - Retail chain.
Store Team Members: $16-19/hour Team Leaders: $40,000-58,000 Department Managers: $45,000-65,000 Fair chance employer, tuition assistance. Learn More
Stowe Mountain Resort (Stowe) - Vail Resorts property, major tourism employer.
Lift Operations: $16-24/hour Food Service: $16-22/hour Guest Services: $16-23/hour Employee ski passes, fair chance consideration. Learn More
Shaw's Supermarkets (Multiple Vermont stores) - Regional grocery chain, Albertsons subsidiary.
Cashiers/Stockers: $14-18/hour Department Clerks: $15-19/hour Department Managers: $38,000-52,000 Union representation (UFCW), benefits. Learn More
Cabot Creamery (Vermont facilities) - Vermont dairy cooperative since 1919.
Production Workers: $15-20/hour Packaging: $15-19/hour Quality Control: $16-21/hour Stable cooperative employer, community-focused. Learn More
Sugarbush Resort (Warren/Waitsfield) - Independent Vermont ski resort.
Lift Operations: $15-21/hour Food Service: $15-20/hour Facilities: $16-22/hour Employee ski privileges, Vermont-based ownership. Learn More
Middlebury College (Middlebury - 1,217 employees) - Private liberal arts college established 1800.
Facilities: $15-22/hour Dining: $15-20/hour Custodial: $15-19/hour Comprehensive benefits, tuition assistance. Learn More
GE Healthcare (Williston area - 800 employees) - Medical technology, information systems.
Technical: $18-28/hour Manufacturing: $16-24/hour Administrative: $16-22/hour Career advancement, comprehensive benefits. Learn More
Hannaford Supermarkets (Multiple Vermont locations) - Regional grocery chain, Ahold Delhaize subsidiary.
Associates: $14-18/hour Department Leads: $36,000-50,000 Store Managers: $55,000-75,000 Union representation at some stores. Learn More
Northwestern Medical Center (St. Albans) - Community hospital serving Franklin County.
Environmental Services: $14-18/hour Food Service: $14-17/hour Facilities: $15-19/hour Individualized assessment for non-clinical. Learn More
Stratton Mountain Resort (Stratton) - Southern Vermont ski resort.
Lift Operators: $15-20/hour Food Service: $15-19/hour Guest Services: $15-20/hour Employee ski benefits. Learn More
McDonald's (50+ Vermont locations) - Quick-service restaurants.
Crew Members: $13-16/hour Shift Managers: $17-21/hour General Managers: $45,000-58,000 Franchisee hiring varies, many second-chance. Learn More
Felon-Friendly Jobs by Vermont City
Burlington (Pop. 225,000+ metro - Chittenden County)
Vermont's largest city and economic center. Healthcare, education, technology, manufacturing, retail, hospitality. Highest wages but highest costs.
UVM Medical Center (6,000 employees) - $15-19/hour
University of Vermont - $15-22/hour
GlobalFoundries (Essex Junction) - $18-26/hour
Retail chains - $16-19/hour
Hospitality - $15-22/hour
Rutland (Pop. 59,000)
Vermont's second-largest metro. Healthcare, retail, manufacturing, tourism. Lower cost than Burlington.
Rutland Regional Medical Center (1,300) - $15-19/hour
Retail chains - $14-18/hour
Killington Resort (nearby) - $15-22/hour
Manufacturing - $15-20/hour
Healthcare facilities - $14-18/hour
Barre (Pop. 8,500)
Central Vermont city. Granite industry heritage, healthcare, retail. Affordable cost of living.
Central Vermont Medical Center (1,200) - $15-19/hour
Retail/grocery - $14-17/hour
Manufacturing - $15-19/hour
Healthcare facilities - $14-18/hour
Construction - $16-22/hour
Montpelier (Pop. 7,700 - Smallest U.S. state capital)
State capital, government jobs, insurance. Compact city with good opportunities.
National Life Group (750) - $16-25/hour
State government - $15-22/hour
Retail/hospitality - $14-18/hour
Healthcare facilities - $14-18/hour
Professional services - varies
Brattleboro (Pop. 12,000)
Southern Vermont hub. Healthcare, retail, manufacturing, tourism. Access to Massachusetts jobs.
Healthcare facilities - $14-18/hour
Retail chains - $14-17/hour
Manufacturing - $15-20/hour
Hospitality - $14-19/hour
Construction - $16-22/hour
Bennington (Pop. 15,000)
Southern Vermont, near New York border. Healthcare, retail, manufacturing, tourism.
Southwestern VT Medical Center - $14-18/hour
Walmart - $15-18/hour
Retail chains - $14-17/hour
Manufacturing - $15-19/hour
Hospitality - $14-19/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Vermont
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in Vermont.
Healthcare Career Advancement
Start: Environmental Services/Food Service - $15-19/hour at UVM Medical Center, Rutland Regional, Central Vermont Medical Center. Use tuition assistance programs to earn certifications.
Surgical Technologist - With training/certification: $45,000-60,000. Two-year programs at Community College of Vermont. Many hospitals hire from internal support staff.
Respiratory Therapist - With degree: $55,000-70,000. Career advancement from healthcare support using tuition programs.
Medical Imaging Technician - With training: $50,000-65,000. Technical programs available.
Skilled Trades
Electrician - Commercial/industrial electricians: $50,000-75,000. Apprenticeship programs available through Vermont Department of Labor. Union representation in some areas.
Plumber/Pipefitter - Commercial and industrial: $48,000-70,000. Strong demand in Vermont's construction sector.
HVAC Technician - Vermont's extreme climate creates year-round demand. Entry: $16-22/hour. Experienced: $45,000-65,000. EPA certification required.
Carpenter - Construction and finish carpentry: $45,000-65,000. Strong Vermont tradition in quality construction. Apprenticeships available.
Heavy Equipment Operator - Construction equipment operation: $45,000-65,000. Vermont's infrastructure needs create consistent demand.
Manufacturing & Technology
GlobalFoundries Skilled Positions - Start production $18-26/hour. Advance to senior technician/skilled operator: $50,000-75,000. High-tech semiconductor manufacturing with internal training.
Ben & Jerry's Production Supervisor - Start production $16-22/hour. Advance to supervisor/lead: $45,000-60,000. Progressive employer with advancement culture.
CNC Machinist - Precision manufacturing: $45,000-65,000. Vermont has strong precision manufacturing sector. Training at technical centers.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL-A)
Long-Haul / Regional Carriers - Interstate and regional routes: $55,000-75,000 annually. Vermont location requires winter driving skills. Many carriers hire after 5-7 years for non-violent offenses.
Local Delivery - Home daily positions: $45,000-60,000. Less time away from home.
Specialized Hauling - Tanker, flatbed: $60,000-80,000. Premium pay for specialized skills and winter capability.
Ski Resort Management Track
Start: Lift Operator/Food Service - $15-24/hour seasonal at Killington, Stowe, Sugarbush, Stratton. Work multiple seasons, demonstrate reliability.
Advance to Supervisor - Department supervisors: $40,000-55,000. Year-round positions available at larger resorts.
Resort Operations Management - With experience: $55,000-75,000. Career path at major Vermont resorts.
Construction & Trades Supervision
Construction Foreman/Supervisor - Start laborer $16-22/hour. Advance to supervision: $55,000-75,000. Vermont's construction demand creates opportunities.
Project Manager - With experience and training: $65,000-90,000. Advance through trades experience.
Vermont Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Vermont offers comprehensive record sealing/expungement options and strong employment support for justice-impacted individuals.
Record Sealing and Expungement
Vermont's expungement and sealing laws (Vermont Statutes Title 13, Chapter 230) underwent major revisions effective July 1, 2025 (Act 60, 2025).
Petition-Based Sealing:
Misdemeanors: after 3 years from sentence completion
Felonies: after 7 years from sentence completion
DUI offenses: after 10 years from sentence completion
Must pay all fines/fees/restitution
Complete probation/parole
Maintain clean record during waiting period
Expungement (Complete Record Destruction):
Available after 5 years for qualifying crimes
Automatic for offenses that are no longer crimes
Permanently destroys records
Cannot Be Sealed/Expunged: Sex offenses, serious violent crimes, crimes against children. Restrictions vary by offense type.
Process: File petition with court, prosecutor review, hearing, judge decision. Cost: typically $105 court filing fee. Timeline: 3-6 months.
Effect: Sealed records hidden from public but accessible to law enforcement. Expunged records permanently destroyed—legally treated as though conviction never occurred.
FREE Assistance: Vermont Legal Aid (1-800-889-2047 or vtlegalaid.org) provides FREE sealing/expungement assistance for low-income Vermonters.
Ban-the-Box Protections
Coverage (Vermont Statutes Title 21, § 495j): ALL employers with one or more employees—both public and private.
What It Means: Employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. Must delay inquiries until after initial interview or once applicant is deemed qualified. Employers must conduct individualized assessments considering nature of offense, time passed, and relationship to job duties.
Vermont is one of only eight states extending ban-the-box protection to private employers. This is among the strongest employment protections in the nation.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides Vermont employers up to $2,400 tax credit per qualified hire with felony convictions. Mention this to potential employers.
State Workforce Development
Vermont Department of Labor - Workforce Development - Statewide network of employment centers providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview prep, training referrals, and employer connections.
Contact: 1-877-214-3330 | labor.vermont.gov
Locations: Burlington, Rutland, Barre-Montpelier, Brattleboro, Bennington, Newport, Middlebury, Morrisville, Springfield, St. Albans, St. Johnsbury, White River Junction.
Reentry Organizations
Vermont Department of Corrections - Reentry Programs - Pre-release and post-release employment assistance, case management.
Contact: (802) 241-2442 | doc.vermont.gov
Community High School of Vermont - GED preparation, education, employment services.
Pathways Vermont - Housing and employment support for justice-impacted individuals.
Contact: pathwaysvt.org
Additional Vermont Resources
Training & Education
Community College of Vermont - 12 locations statewide offering workforce training, skilled trades, healthcare programs with financial aid.
Vermont Technical College - Engineering technology, construction, manufacturing, nursing programs.
Vermont Adult Learning - Adult basic education, GED preparation, workforce readiness training.
Housing Assistance
Vermont State Housing Authority - Rental assistance programs.
Contact: (802) 828-3295 | vsha.org
Committee on Temporary Shelter (COTS) - Emergency and transitional housing in Burlington area.
Pathways Vermont - Housing First model for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Legal Aid
Vermont Legal Aid - FREE civil legal services including sealing/expungement assistance for low-income Vermonters.
Contact: 1-800-889-2047 | vtlegalaid.org
Offices: Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland, Springfield, St. Johnsbury.
Transportation Support
Green Mountain Transit - Public transit in Burlington area. Reduced fare programs available.
Contact: ridegmt.com
Statewide Public Transit - Rural transit systems throughout Vermont. Contact Vermont Public Transportation Association (802-223-9508) for local services.
Staffing Agencies in Vermont That Work With Felons
Vermont staffing agencies provide immediate employment and temp-to-perm opportunities especially in manufacturing, warehouse, and administrative sectors.
Adecco - Burlington, Rutland areas. Manufacturing, warehouse, administrative positions. Pay: $15-22/hour. Fair-chance hiring, temp-to-perm opportunities.
ManpowerGroup - Burlington, Rutland areas. Manufacturing, logistics, administrative. Pay: $15-21/hour. Benefits for temps, conversion to permanent common.
Express Employment Professionals - Vermont locations. Manufacturing, warehouse, skilled trades. Pay: $15-22/hour. Second-chance focus, quick placement.
Kelly Services - Burlington area. Manufacturing, warehouse, administrative. Pay: $15-20/hour. Temp-to-perm opportunities.
Labor Ready/TrueBlue - Vermont locations. Daily pay available. General labor, warehouse, construction. Pay: $15-22/hour. Second-chance friendly, immediate placement possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does Vermont have a ban-the-box law?
Yes! Vermont has one of the STRONGEST ban-the-box laws in the United States. Vermont Statutes Title 21, § 495j (effective July 1, 2017) covers ALL employers with one or more employees—both public and private. Employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications and must delay inquiries until after initial interview or once applicant is deemed qualified. Vermont is one of only eight states extending this protection to private employers. Employers must conduct individualized assessments.
Q2: Can I get my record sealed or expunged in Vermont?
Yes! Vermont's laws (Title 13, Chapter 230) underwent major revisions effective July 1, 2025. Petition-based sealing available after 3 years for misdemeanors, 7 years for felonies, 10 years for DUI from sentence completion. Expungement (complete record destruction) available after 5 years for qualifying crimes, and automatic for offenses no longer crimes. Cannot seal/expunge sex offenses, serious violent crimes, crimes against children. Contact Vermont Legal Aid (FREE: 1-800-889-2047) for assistance.
Q3: What is Vermont's minimum wage?
Vermont minimum wage is $14.01/hour effective January 1, 2025. Vermont indexes minimum wage annually to Consumer Price Index, so it increases automatically each year. However, competitive market forces drive most entry-level positions to $16-22/hour in key sectors, especially in Burlington metro area.
Q4: How far back do background checks go in Vermont?
Vermont follows federal FCRA rules: non-conviction records can be reported for 7 years, convictions can be reported indefinitely. However, Vermont's ban-the-box law delays when employers can ask, and sealed records (after 3-7 years depending on offense) will be hidden from public background checks. Expunged records are permanently destroyed.
Q5: What companies in Vermont hire felons?
Major employers include UVM Medical Center (6,000 employees—Vermont's largest employer), National Life Group (750), GlobalFoundries semiconductor, Ben & Jerry's, Killington Resort (800), Stowe, University of Vermont, Central Vermont Medical Center (1,200), Rutland Regional (1,300), Middlebury College (1,217), Walmart, Target, and many others. See Top 20 list. Vermont's comprehensive ban-the-box law means ALL employers must follow fair-chance practices.
Q6: Can I work at GlobalFoundries with a felony in Vermont?
Yes. GlobalFoundries conducts background checks but provides individualized assessment. Starting pay: $18-26/hour for production positions. High-tech semiconductor manufacturing facility in Essex Junction (near Burlington). Comprehensive benefits, advancement to skilled technician positions earning $50,000-75,000. Apply at globalfoundries.com/careers.
Q7: Can I become a truck driver with a felony in Vermont?
Generally yes. Many Vermont trucking companies hire CDL drivers with felonies, especially non-violent offenses over 5-7 years old. Clean driving record required (no DUI within 5-7 years typically). Earnings: $55,000-80,000. Winter driving skills command premium in Vermont. Vermont technical centers offer CDL training programs.
Q8: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in Vermont?
Healthcare advancement (surgical tech $45,000-60,000, respiratory therapy $55,000-70,000), electricians ($50,000-75,000), plumbers ($48,000-70,000), GlobalFoundries skilled technicians ($50,000-75,000), CDL truck drivers ($55,000-80,000), HVAC techs ($45,000-65,000), carpenters ($45,000-65,000), ski resort operations managers ($55,000-75,000), construction supervisors ($55,000-75,000).
Q9: Should I disclose my felony on Vermont job applications?
Vermont's comprehensive ban-the-box law (Title 21, § 495j) prohibits ALL employers from asking about criminal history on initial applications. Create resume highlighting skills and work history without mentioning criminal record. Employers can only ask after initial interview or once deemed qualified. At that point, if asked, answer truthfully and emphasize rehabilitation, time passed, clean record. If eligible for sealing (3 years for misdemeanors, 7 years for felonies), sealed records won't appear on most checks.
Q10: Are there free job training programs in Vermont for people with felonies?
Yes. Vermont Department of Labor Workforce Development (1-877-214-3330) offers free training referrals. Community College of Vermont and Vermont Technical College provide workforce programs with financial aid. Some employers (UVM Medical Center, GlobalFoundries, Ben & Jerry's) provide tuition assistance. Vermont Adult Learning offers GED and workforce readiness. Vermont Department of Labor apprenticeship programs available in construction and manufacturing trades.
Next Steps: Your Vermont Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for Vermont justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Check Record Sealing/Expungement Eligibility and Start Process
Vermont's revised laws (effective July 2025) provide petition-based sealing after 3 years for misdemeanors, 7 years for felonies, 10 years for DUI from sentence completion, or expungement (complete destruction) after 5 years for qualifying crimes. Cannot seal sex offenses, serious violent crimes, crimes against children. Contact Vermont Legal Aid (FREE: 1-800-889-2047) immediately to determine eligibility and start petition process. Cost: typically $105 court filing fee. Timeline: 3-6 months. Getting record sealed/expunged FIRST dramatically increases opportunities and wages. Sealed records won't appear on public background checks. Expunged records permanently destroyed—legally treated as though conviction never occurred. Don't wait—start process today if eligible.
Step 2: Register with Vermont Department of Labor and Multiple Staffing Agencies
Register with Vermont Department of Labor Workforce Development (1-877-214-3330) for free resume help, interview prep, job referrals, and training programs. Offices in Burlington, Rutland, Barre-Montpelier, Brattleboro, Bennington, and statewide. Sign up with 2-3 staffing agencies simultaneously: Adecco (strong manufacturing/warehouse connections), Express Employment (second-chance focus, quick placement), ManpowerGroup (temp-to-perm specialists), Labor Ready (daily pay, immediate placement). These agencies place justice-impacted individuals in positions paying $15-22/hour with temp-to-perm potential at GlobalFoundries, Ben & Jerry's, and major Vermont employers. Show up on time, work hard, stay professional—conversion rates to permanent are excellent in Vermont's tight labor market (2.6% unemployment).
Step 3: Target Vermont's High-Demand Employers and Leverage Ban-the-Box Protections
Apply to major fair-chance employers: UVM Medical Center (6,000 employees, $15-19/hour support with tuition assistance—Vermont's largest employer), GlobalFoundries semiconductor ($18-26/hour with individualized assessment and advancement to $50,000-75,000), Ben & Jerry's ($16-22/hour, socially conscious progressive employer), Killington/Stowe/Sugarbush/Stratton ski resorts ($15-24/hour with employee ski passes, seasonal hiring October-November), National Life Group (Montpelier, $16-25/hour, stable employer), University of Vermont ($15-22/hour with tuition assistance, ban-the-box applies), Walmart/Target (fair-chance hiring, comprehensive benefits). Focus on Burlington metro for highest wages ($16-22/hour entry-level) but consider Rutland, Barre-Montpelier, Brattleboro for lower living costs with solid wages. Vermont's comprehensive ban-the-box law covers ALL employers—they cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. Apply to 10-15 positions weekly across multiple employers and sectors.
Step 4: Leverage Vermont's Strongest-in-Nation Ban-the-Box Law
Vermont Statutes Title 21, § 495j covers ALL employers including private businesses—one of only eight states with this protection. Create resume highlighting skills and work history without mentioning criminal record. Employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications and must delay until after initial interview or once deemed qualified. Focus on qualifications, not criminal record. Prepare 30-60 second explanation for when criminal history is lawfully raised (after interview/qualification determination)—focus on rehabilitation, lessons learned, time passed, commitment to stability. Develop 3-5 professional references. Practice until comfortable. Emphasize record sealing eligibility if applicable—"I'm working with Vermont Legal Aid to seal my record under Vermont's new laws" or "my record will be eligible for sealing in [timeframe]." Vermont's strong protections plus tight labor market (2.6% unemployment) create exceptional opportunities.
Step 5: Pursue Training for Long-Term Career Advancement in Vermont's Key Industries
Vermont offers pathways to $50,000-75,000+ careers. Start in healthcare support at UVM Medical Center or other hospitals ($15-19/hour) and use tuition assistance for surgical tech ($45,000-60,000) or respiratory therapy ($55,000-70,000)—Vermont healthcare employers invest in advancement. GlobalFoundries semiconductor production ($18-26/hour) advances to skilled technician earning $50,000-75,000 with internal training. CDL training at Vermont technical centers leads to $55,000-80,000 trucking careers—winter driving skills command premium. Electrician and plumber apprenticeships through Vermont Department of Labor lead to $48,000-75,000 careers. HVAC certification programs lead to $45,000-65,000 (Vermont's extreme climate creates year-round demand). Ski resort seasonal positions ($15-24/hour with employee passes) lead to supervisor ($40,000-55,000) and operations manager ($55,000-75,000) careers. Mention WOTC eligibility ($2,400 federal tax credit) to employers. Persist through rejections—Vermont's comprehensive ban-the-box law, tight labor market, and expanding record sealing create real opportunities.
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/expungement procedures should be confirmed with legal professionals. Information about Vermont's ban-the-box law (Vermont Statutes Title 21, § 495j) and sealing/expungement laws (Vermont Statutes Title 13, Chapter 230, as amended effective July 1, 2025) is general in nature. Sealing/expungement eligibility and processes can be complex—consult with Vermont employment attorney or Vermont Legal Aid (FREE: 1-800-889-2047) for specific legal advice about your situation.
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IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER
This guide provides general information about employment opportunities in Alabama. While we strive for accuracy, hiring policies change frequently. Always verify current hiring practices directly with employers. Individual results vary based on offense type, time since conviction, and specific job requirements. This is not legal advice. Consult an attorney for guidance on your specific situation.