Felon Friendly Jobs in Washington
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Washington State offers exceptional employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals, supported by the nation's strongest ban-the-box protections (RCW 49.94.010, effective June 2018, strengthened July 2026 requiring background checks AFTER conditional offers for employers with 15+ employees), highest minimum wage ($16.66/hour statewide for 2025, increasing to $17.13 in 2026; Seattle $20.76/hour for 2025, $21.30 in 2026), and robust economy driven by technology, aerospace, healthcare, and international trade. Major employers including Amazon (80,000+ Washington employees), Boeing (60,000 Washington employees), Microsoft (50,000+ Washington employees), Costco (headquarters Issaquah), Starbucks (400+ Washington stores), Providence Health, MultiCare Health System, Swedish Medical Center, and hundreds of other major employers actively hire across Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue (pop. 4 million metro), Spokane (pop. 580,000 metro), Vancouver (pop. 500,000), and Bellingham (pop. 230,000 metro). Washington has no state income tax, allowing workers to keep more earnings. Conviction vacation statutes (RCW 9.96.060 for misdemeanors, RCW 9.94A.640 for felonies) allow legal dismissal of certain records after 3-10 years. Entry-level positions typically start at $18-24/hour in Seattle-Tacoma with comprehensive benefits and clear advancement paths to $60,000-110,000+ careers.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Washington
Economic Overview
Washington State's economy is anchored by technology giants (Amazon with 80,000+ state employees headquartered in Seattle, Microsoft with 50,000+ state employees headquartered in Redmond), aerospace manufacturing (Boeing with 60,000 Washington employees in Everett and Renton), international trade through major Pacific Rim ports (Seattle and Tacoma), retail headquarters (Costco in Issaquah, Starbucks in Seattle with 400+ Washington stores), healthcare systems (Providence Health with 45,000+ Washington employees, MultiCare Health System with 16,000 employees, Swedish Medical Center, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, PeaceHealth), agriculture throughout eastern Washington, and tourism. With major population centers including Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro (4 million), Spokane metro (580,000), Vancouver metro (500,000), and Bellingham metro (230,000), the state provides abundant accessible employment pathways from warehouse and healthcare support to retail, hospitality, construction, and manufacturing.
Record Clearing System
Washington's conviction vacation statutes allow legal dismissal of certain criminal records after waiting periods. For misdemeanors (RCW 9.96.060): generally 3 years after completing all sentence requirements including probation, paying fines/fees/restitution, and maintaining clean record. For felonies (RCW 9.94A.640): Class B felonies after 10 years, Class C felonies after 5 years from completion of sentence. Must pay all legal financial obligations, complete probation/parole, and maintain clean record during waiting period. Certain offenses cannot be vacated including violent crimes, sex offenses, DUI, crimes against persons.
Process involves filing petition with court that entered conviction, prosecutor review, hearing (optional), judge decision. Cost varies by county (typically $200-500 in court fees). Timeline: 3-6 months typically. Once vacated, conviction is legally dismissed and individual can state they were not convicted. Vacated records should not appear on standard background checks. Northwest Justice Project and Columbia Legal Services provide FREE assistance with conviction vacation for low-income individuals.
Ban-the-Box and Background Check Laws
Washington enacted comprehensive Fair Chance Act (RCW 49.94.010, effective June 7, 2018) covering ALL employers regardless of size (public and private). Current law prohibits asking about criminal history until after determining applicant is "otherwise qualified" for position. MAJOR AMENDMENT effective July 1, 2026: Employers with 15+ employees cannot conduct background checks until AFTER making conditional job offer. This makes Washington's protections among the strongest nationwide.
Washington law limits reporting of conviction records older than seven years for positions paying less than $20,000/year, though most jobs exceed this threshold (RCW 19.182.040). Spokane has additional local ban-the-box ordinance with extra protections. The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides Washington employers up to $2,400 per qualified hire with felony convictions.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Washington
Washington minimum wage: $16.66/hour statewide for 2025 ($17.13 in 2026), Seattle $20.76/hour for 2025 ($21.30 in 2026), Bellingham $17.66-18.66/hour (2025). This is the highest state minimum wage in the United States.
Warehouse & Logistics
Amazon (Statewide - 80,000+ Washington employees) - Extensive fulfillment centers in Kent, DuPont, Sumner, Spokane, and expanding statewide.
Fulfillment associates, sorters, packers, material handlers.
Pay: $19-21/hour with overnight differential +$1.50-2.50/hour. Day-one benefits including healthcare, 401(k), education benefits up to $5,250 annually through Career Choice. Fair chance hiring with individualized assessment.
Costco Wholesale (Headquarters Issaquah, multiple warehouses) - Warehouse stores throughout Washington.
Warehouse workers, cashiers, merchandise assistants, food service.
Pay: $18-24/hour starting with industry-leading benefits including health insurance, 401(k) with match, employee stock purchase. Known for promoting from within.
UPS (Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Bellingham, statewide) - Major package handling and sorting facilities.
Package handlers, warehouse workers, loaders.
Pay: $18-23/hour. Union representation (Teamsters), excellent benefits, pension, tuition reimbursement up to $5,250/year. Clear pathway to driver positions earning $85,000-105,000+ annually.
FedEx Ground (Statewide operations) - Package handling and delivery facilities.
Package handlers, sorters, loaders, warehouse workers.
Pay: $18-21/hour. Tuition reimbursement available. Advancement to driver positions earning $55,000-75,000.
Target Distribution Centers (Washington operations) - Supporting 30+ Washington Target stores.
Warehouse workers, order pickers, material handlers.
Pay: $19-23/hour. Benefits, tuition assistance up to $5,000, 10% employee discount.
Healthcare Support (Non-Clinical)
Providence Health & Services (Statewide - 45,000+ Washington employees) - Major healthcare system with hospitals and clinics across Washington.
Environmental services (housekeeping), food service, facilities maintenance, patient transport, laundry.
Pay: $18-22/hour in Seattle area, $16-20/hour elsewhere. Case-by-case hiring for support positions. Comprehensive benefits, tuition assistance, career advancement.
MultiCare Health System (Pierce and King Counties - 16,000 employees) - Tacoma Medical Center, Good Samaritan Hospital, Auburn Medical Center, and other facilities.
Environmental services, food service, facilities, patient transport.
Pay: $18-22/hour Tacoma/Seattle area, $16-20/hour elsewhere. Individualized assessment for non-clinical support.
Swedish Medical Center (Seattle area) - Part of Providence system with multiple Seattle-area hospitals.
Support services: environmental services, food service, facilities, patient transport.
Pay: $18-22/hour. Benefits, tuition assistance.
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (Seattle, Tacoma areas) - Merged system with multiple hospitals.
Environmental services, food service, facilities, patient transport.
Pay: $18-22/hour Seattle area, $16-20/hour Tacoma area. Case-by-case for support positions.
PeaceHealth (Bellingham, Vancouver, Longview - 7,000+ Washington employees) - Healthcare system serving multiple Washington communities.
Support services: environmental services, food service, facilities.
Pay: $16-20/hour. Benefits, tuition assistance. Case-by-case hiring.
Retail & Grocery
Walmart (60+ Washington stores) - Extensive statewide presence.
Stockers, cashiers, overnight crew, online order fulfillment, maintenance.
Pay: $17-21/hour ($20-23/hour Seattle). Fair chance hiring. Health coverage, 401(k), free college through Live Better U.
Target (30+ Washington stores) - Retail stores across Washington.
Store team members, fulfillment, overnight stocking, backroom.
Pay: $18-20/hour ($20-22/hour Seattle). Fair chance employer. 10% discount, tuition assistance up to $5,000.
QFC and Fred Meyer (Kroger) - (100+ combined Washington locations) - Grocery retail throughout state.
Cashiers, stockers, deli, bakery, produce.
Pay: $17-20/hour ($20-23/hour Seattle). Union representation (UFCW) at most locations. Benefits, advancement opportunities.
Safeway and Albertsons (100+ combined Washington stores) - Grocery retail statewide.
Cashiers, stockers, deli, bakery, produce.
Pay: $16-20/hour ($20-23/hour Seattle). Union representation (UFCW) at most locations. Benefits, advancement.
Home Depot (30 Washington stores) - Home improvement retail.
Sales associates, lot attendants, freight team, pro desk.
Pay: $17-21/hour ($19-23/hour Seattle). Benefits for full-time, employee discount, advancement.
Lowe's (25 Washington stores) - Home improvement retail.
Sales associates, stockers, customer service.
Pay: $17-21/hour ($19-23/hour Seattle). Benefits, employee discount, internal promotion.
Manufacturing & Aerospace
Boeing (Everett, Renton - 60,000 Washington employees) - Commercial aircraft production.
Production workers, assemblers, material handlers, painters.
Pay: $20-28/hour starting. Union representation (IAM), excellent benefits, overtime. Case-by-case hiring, background checks required.
Trident Seafoods (Seattle and Alaska operations) - Seafood processing, Seattle headquarters.
Production workers, processing, packaging.
Pay: $17-22/hour. Seasonal work, overtime opportunities. Benefits for full-time.
Darigold (Seattle and statewide facilities) - Dairy products manufacturing.
Production workers, packaging, warehouse.
Pay: $17-22/hour. Farmer-owned cooperative. Benefits, shift work.
Hospitality & Food Service
Starbucks (400+ Washington stores, Seattle headquarters) - Coffee chain with extensive Washington presence.
Baristas, shift supervisors.
Pay: $17-21/hour ($20-24/hour Seattle). Benefits for part-time (20+ hours), stock options, tuition coverage through ASU program.
McDonald's (200+ Washington locations) - Fast food franchises statewide.
Crew members, shift managers.
Pay: $16.66+ state minimum ($20.76+ Seattle minimum). Franchisee hiring varies. Archways to Opportunity tuition assistance.
Restaurants (Statewide) - Various chains and independents.
Cooks, dishwashers, servers, hosts.
Pay: $16.66+ minimum ($20.76+ Seattle) plus tips for servers (total $30-45/hour in Seattle). Flexible scheduling.
Construction & Trades
Local Construction Contractors (Statewide) - Small to medium contractors.
General laborers, demolition, site cleanup, equipment operators.
Pay: $22-28/hour in Seattle area, $18-24/hour elsewhere. Prevailing wage on public projects higher.
Top 20 Washington Employers Hiring Felons
These Washington companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through documented hiring practices or favorable policies.
Amazon (Statewide - 80,000+ Washington employees) - Technology and logistics giant headquartered in Seattle.
Fulfillment Associates: $19-21/hour Shift Managers: $55,000-75,000 Operations Managers: $75,000-105,000 Day-one benefits, fair chance hiring, education benefits. Learn More
Boeing (Everett, Renton - 60,000 Washington employees) - Commercial aircraft manufacturing.
Production Workers: $20-28/hour Assemblers: $20-26/hour Material Handlers: $18-24/hour Union shop (IAM), case-by-case hiring, excellent benefits. Learn More
Costco Wholesale (Headquarters Issaquah, multiple warehouses) - Warehouse retail.
Warehouse Workers: $18-24/hour starting Department Managers: $50,000-70,000 Supervisors: $60,000-80,000 Industry-leading benefits, promote from within. Learn More
Providence Health & Services (Statewide - 45,000+ Washington employees) - Major healthcare system.
Environmental Services: $18-22/hour (Seattle), $16-20/hour (elsewhere) Food Service: $17-21/hour Facilities Maintenance: $19-24/hour Case-by-case for support positions, tuition assistance. Learn More
MultiCare Health System (Pierce/King Counties - 16,000 employees) - Healthcare system with Tacoma Medical Center and other facilities.
Environmental Services: $18-22/hour Food Service: $17-21/hour Patient Transport: $17-21/hour Individualized assessment for non-clinical support. Learn More
UPS (Statewide operations) - Union logistics with Teamsters.
Package Handlers: $18-23/hour Drivers: $85,000-105,000+ Supervisors: $60,000-80,000 Pension, tuition aid, path to high-paying driver positions. Learn More
Starbucks (400+ Washington stores, Seattle headquarters) - Coffee chain.
Baristas: $17-21/hour ($20-24/hour Seattle) Shift Supervisors: $19-24/hour Store Managers: $55,000-75,000 Benefits for part-time, stock options, tuition coverage. Learn More
Walmart (60+ Washington stores) - Retail and distribution.
Store Associates: $17-21/hour ($20-23/hour Seattle) Distribution Workers: $19-24/hour Department Managers: $40,000-60,000 Fair chance hiring, free college, comprehensive benefits. Learn More
Target (30+ Washington stores) - Retail chain.
Store Team Members: $18-20/hour ($20-22/hour Seattle) Distribution Workers: $19-23/hour Team Leaders: $45,000-65,000 Fair chance employer, tuition assistance. Learn More
Swedish Medical Center (Seattle area) - Part of Providence system.
Environmental Services: $18-22/hour Food Service: $17-21/hour Facilities: $19-24/hour Benefits, tuition assistance. Learn More
FedEx Ground (Statewide operations) - Package handling and delivery.
Package Handlers: $18-21/hour Drivers: $55,000-75,000 Operations Managers: $60,000-80,000 Tuition reimbursement, advancement opportunities. Learn More
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (Seattle, Tacoma) - Healthcare system.
Environmental Services: $18-22/hour (Seattle), $16-20/hour (Tacoma) Food Service: $17-21/hour Patient Transport: $17-21/hour Case-by-case for support positions. Learn More
QFC and Fred Meyer/Kroger (100+ combined locations) - Grocery retail.
Cashiers/Stockers: $17-20/hour ($20-23/hour Seattle) Department Leads: $40,000-55,000 Store Managers: $60,000-85,000 Union representation (UFCW), benefits, advancement. Learn More
Home Depot (30 Washington stores) - Home improvement retail.
Sales Associates: $17-21/hour ($19-23/hour Seattle) Freight Team: $18-22/hour Department Supervisors: $40,000-60,000 Benefits, employee discount, advancement. Learn More
PeaceHealth (Bellingham, Vancouver, Longview - 7,000+ Washington employees) - Healthcare system.
Environmental Services: $16-20/hour Food Service: $16-20/hour Facilities: $18-23/hour Benefits, tuition assistance, case-by-case hiring. Learn More
Lowe's (25 Washington stores) - Home improvement retail.
Sales Associates: $17-21/hour ($19-23/hour Seattle) Warehouse Workers: $18-22/hour Department Managers: $40,000-60,000 Benefits, internal promotion. Learn More
Safeway and Albertsons (100+ combined Washington stores) - Grocery retail.
Cashiers/Stockers: $16-20/hour ($20-23/hour Seattle) Department Leads: $38,000-52,000 Store Managers: $55,000-75,000 Union representation (UFCW), benefits. Learn More
Trident Seafoods (Seattle headquarters) - Seafood processing.
Production Workers: $17-22/hour Supervisors: $45,000-65,000 Managers: $60,000-85,000 Overtime opportunities, benefits. Learn More
Darigold (Seattle and statewide) - Dairy products manufacturing.
Production Workers: $17-22/hour Supervisors: $45,000-65,000 Managers: $60,000-85,000 Farmer-owned cooperative, benefits. Learn More
McDonald's (200+ Washington locations) - Fast food franchises.
Crew Members: $16.66-20.76/hour (depending on location)
Shift Managers: $18-23/hour
General Managers: $45,000-65,000
Franchisee hiring varies, tuition assistance.
Learn More
Felon-Friendly Jobs by Washington City
Seattle (Pop. 750,000, metro 4 million)
Highest minimum wage in nation ($20.76/hour 2025, $21.30 in 2026). Technology, aerospace, healthcare, retail headquarters.
Amazon headquarters - $19-21/hour
Boeing Renton - $20-28/hour
Providence/Swedish hospitals - $18-22/hour
Starbucks HQ - $20-24/hour
Retail chains - $20-23/hour
Tacoma (Pop. 220,000)
Port city with logistics, healthcare, manufacturing. More affordable than Seattle.
MultiCare Health System - $18-22/hour
Port of Tacoma - $19-25/hour
Warehouse/Logistics - $18-24/hour
Retail chains - $17-21/hour
Manufacturing - $18-24/hour
Bellevue (Pop. 150,000)
Eastside tech hub. Microsoft headquarters nearby.
Microsoft (Redmond nearby) - varies by position
Tech companies - $20-30/hour entry
Retail chains - $17-21/hour
Healthcare facilities - $18-22/hour
Warehouse/Logistics - $18-24/hour
Spokane (Pop. 230,000, metro 580,000)
Eastern Washington's largest city. Own ban-the-box ordinance. Lower cost of living.
Providence Sacred Heart - $16-20/hour
Amazon fulfillment - $18-20/hour
MultiCare Deaconess - $16-20/hour
Retail chains - $16-19/hour
Manufacturing - $17-22/hour
Vancouver (Pop. 190,000, metro 500,000)
Across from Portland, OR. Washington residency avoids Oregon state income tax.
PeaceHealth Southwest - $16-20/hour
Amazon fulfillment - $18-20/hour
Retail chains - $16-19/hour
Warehouse/Logistics - $17-21/hour
Healthcare facilities - $16-20/hour
Bellingham (Pop. 92,000, metro 230,000)
Higher local minimum wage ($17.66-18.66/hour 2025, $19.13 in 2026). Scenic location.
PeaceHealth St. Joseph - $18-22/hour
Western Washington University - varies
BP Cherry Point Refinery - $22-30/hour
Retail chains - $18-21/hour
Food processing - $18-24/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Washington
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in Washington.
UPS Driver Positions
Package Delivery Drivers - Start as package handler ($18-23/hour), progress to driver through union seniority. Top-rate drivers: $85,000-105,000+ annually with overtime. Full Teamsters benefits including pension, healthcare, tuition aid up to $5,250/year. This is Washington's most accessible path to six-figure income for justice-impacted individuals.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL-A)
Long-Haul Carriers - Interstate and regional routes: $65,000-95,000 annually. Washington's Pacific Rim port access creates strong demand. Federal regulations (49 CFR § 383.51) permanently disqualify: DUI in commercial vehicle, using commercial vehicle for felony, leaving accident scene. Companies hiring after 5-7 years (non-violent offenses) include Crete Carrier, Melton Truck Lines, Werner Enterprises, Schneider National.
Specialized Hauling - Tanker, hazmat, flatbed, oversized loads: $75,000-110,000. Premium pay for specialized skills.
Port Drayage - Container hauling from Seattle/Tacoma ports: $70,000-100,000. Shorter routes, home daily, strong demand.
Skilled Trades
Electrician - IBEW union electricians in Seattle area: $65,000-95,000. Apprenticeships available through union. Journeymen earn premium wages. Commercial/industrial work.
Plumber/Pipefitter - UA union plumbers: $60,000-90,000. Seattle-Tacoma construction boom creates strong demand. Apprenticeship programs available.
HVAC Technician - Commercial HVAC: $55,000-80,000. Washington's mild climate reduces seasonality. EPA certification required.
Heavy Equipment Operator - Operating Engineers union: $60,000-85,000. Construction equipment operation. Apprenticeship programs available.
Welder - Industrial, shipyard, aerospace welders: $55,000-85,000. Boeing and shipyards employ welders. Certification programs at community colleges.
Boeing Career Advancement
Start: Production Worker - $20-28/hour ($42,000-58,000 annually). Union shop (IAM) with excellent benefits, overtime.
Advance to Skilled Positions - Aircraft mechanics, inspectors, skilled trades: $65,000-95,000. Internal training programs, tuition assistance.
Supervisory/Management - Production supervisors, managers: $75,000-110,000. Promote from production floor.
Healthcare Career Advancement
Start: Environmental Services/Food Service - $18-22/hour at Providence Health or MultiCare. Use tuition assistance to earn certifications.
Surgical Technologist - With training/certification: $50,000-70,000. Two-year programs at community colleges. Hospitals hire from internal support staff.
Respiratory Therapist - With degree: $65,000-85,000. Career advancement from healthcare support using tuition programs.
Medical Imaging Technician - With training: $60,000-80,000. Technical colleges offer programs.
Port/Maritime Jobs
Longshoreman (ILWU) - Seattle/Tacoma port workers through union: $75,000-120,000+ with overtime. Physically demanding. Union lottery for positions. Background check required but case-by-case.
Port Equipment Operator - Crane operators, container handlers: $70,000-100,000. Specialized training required.
Washington Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Washington offers conviction vacation procedures and strong employment support for justice-impacted individuals.
Conviction Vacation (Record Clearing)
Washington allows legal dismissal of certain criminal records through conviction vacation statutes.
Misdemeanor Vacation (RCW 9.96.060):
Generally 3 years after completing all sentence requirements
Must pay all fines, fees, restitution
Complete probation
Maintain clean record during waiting period
Cannot vacate: DUI, violent crimes, sex offenses, crimes against persons
Felony Vacation (RCW 9.94A.640):
Class B felonies: 10 years after sentence completion
Class C felonies: 5 years after sentence completion
Must pay all legal financial obligations
Complete probation/parole
Maintain clean record
Cannot vacate: violent crimes, sex offenses, DUI, crimes against persons
Process: File petition with court that entered conviction, prosecutor review, hearing (optional), judge decision. Cost varies by county (typically $200-500 in court fees). Timeline: 3-6 months typically.
Effect: Once vacated, conviction is legally dismissed. Individual can state they were not convicted. Vacated records should not appear on standard background checks.
FREE Assistance: Northwest Justice Project (1-888-201-1014 or nwjustice.org) and Columbia Legal Services (1-888-201-1014) provide FREE conviction vacation assistance for low-income individuals.
Ban-the-Box Protections
Coverage (RCW 49.94.010): ALL employers (public and private) regardless of size.
Current Law (until July 1, 2026): Cannot ask about criminal history until after determining applicant is "otherwise qualified" for position.
MAJOR CHANGE July 1, 2026: Employers with 15+ employees cannot conduct background checks until AFTER making conditional job offer. This makes Washington's protections among strongest nationwide.
Spokane Additional Protections: Spokane has own ban-the-box ordinance with additional restrictions.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides Washington employers up to $2,400 tax credit per qualified hire with felony convictions. Mention this to potential employers.
State Workforce Development
WorkSource Washington - Statewide network of employment centers providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview prep, training referrals, and employer connections.
Contact: 1-877-872-5627 | worksourcewa.com
Locations: Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver, Bellingham, and throughout state.
Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County - Specialized services in Seattle area.
Contact: (206) 448-0474 | seakingwdc.org
Reentry Organizations
Pioneer Human Services (Seattle) - Major reentry employer offering direct jobs plus comprehensive services including employment assistance, housing, case management.
Contact: (206) 768-7600 | pioneerhumanservices.org
Community Passageways (Seattle) - Reentry services, employment assistance, case management.
Contact: (206) 662-5030 | communitypassageways.org
Goodwill Industries (Multiple locations) - Employment services, job training, placement assistance.
Contact: goodwillwa.org
Additional Washington Resources
Training & Education
Seattle Central College - Workforce training, skilled trades, CDL, welding, HVAC programs with financial aid.
Tacoma Community College - Technical training, welding, electrical, construction, CDL programs.
Spokane Community College - Skilled trades, welding, HVAC, electrical, CDL programs.
Bellingham Technical College - Manufacturing, construction, healthcare training.
Housing Assistance
Washington State Department of Commerce - Housing Assistance - Rental assistance programs.
Contact: (800) 562-6000 | commerce.wa.gov
Pioneer Human Services - Transitional housing in Seattle area.
Community Passageways - Housing assistance and case management.
Legal Aid
Northwest Justice Project - FREE civil legal services including conviction vacation assistance for low-income Washington residents.
Contact: 1-888-201-1014 | nwjustice.org
Columbia Legal Services - FREE legal services including conviction vacation.
Contact: 1-888-201-1014 | columbialegal.org
Transportation Support
Sound Transit - Light rail, commuter rail, express buses serving Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue. ORCA LIFT reduced fare program for low-income riders.
Contact: soundtransit.org
King County Metro, Pierce Transit, Community Transit - Public transit with reduced fare programs.
Spokane Transit Authority - Public transit with affordable options.
Staffing Agencies in Washington That Work With Felons
Washington staffing agencies provide immediate employment and temp-to-perm opportunities especially in warehouse, manufacturing, and construction sectors.
Express Employment Professionals - Multiple Washington locations (Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver, Bellingham). Warehouse, manufacturing, construction, skilled trades. Pay: $18-28/hour. Fair-chance hiring.
Manpower - Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver. Manufacturing, logistics, industrial positions. Pay: $18-25/hour. Temp-to-perm common.
Kelly Services - Washington metro areas. Manufacturing, warehouse, administrative. Pay: $17-24/hour. Benefits for temps.
Adecco - Seattle-Tacoma, Spokane areas. Manufacturing, logistics, office. Pay: $18-26/hour. Fair-chance evaluation.
Labor Ready/TrueBlue - Multiple Washington locations. Daily pay available. General labor, warehouse, construction. Pay: $17-24/hour. Second-chance focus.
Aerotek - Seattle-Tacoma, Spokane. Skilled trades, manufacturing, industrial. Pay: $19-30/hour. Focuses on manufacturing and technical placements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does Washington have a ban-the-box law?
Yes! Washington has the STRONGEST ban-the-box protections in the nation. Fair Chance Act (RCW 49.94.010, effective June 2018) covers ALL employers (public and private) regardless of size. Currently prohibits asking about criminal history until after determining applicant is "otherwise qualified." MAJOR AMENDMENT effective July 1, 2026: Employers with 15+ employees cannot conduct background checks until AFTER making conditional job offer. Spokane has additional local ban-the-box ordinance.
Q2: Can I get my record vacated in Washington?
Yes. Washington allows conviction vacation (legal dismissal) for certain records. Misdemeanors (RCW 9.96.060) after 3 years from completing sentence. Felonies (RCW 9.94A.640) after 5 years (Class C) or 10 years (Class B) from sentence completion. Cannot vacate: violent crimes, sex offenses, DUI, crimes against persons. Once vacated, conviction is legally dismissed—you can state you were not convicted. Contact Northwest Justice Project or Columbia Legal Services (FREE: 1-888-201-1014) for assistance.
Q3: What is Washington's minimum wage?
Washington has HIGHEST state minimum wage in United States: $16.66/hour statewide for 2025 ($17.13 in 2026). Seattle: $20.76/hour for 2025 ($21.30 in 2026). Bellingham: $17.66-18.66/hour for 2025 ($19.13 in 2026). This is significantly higher than federal $7.25/hour.
Q4: How far back do background checks go in Washington?
Washington law (RCW 19.182.040) limits reporting of convictions older than seven years for positions paying less than $20,000/year, though most jobs exceed this threshold. Vacated convictions should not appear on standard background checks. Fair Chance Act protects when background checks can occur (after July 2026, only after conditional offer for employers with 15+ employees).
Q5: What companies in Washington hire felons?
Major employers include Amazon (80,000+ Washington employees), Boeing (60,000), Microsoft (50,000+), Costco (headquarters), Starbucks (400+ Washington stores), Providence Health (45,000+ Washington employees), MultiCare Health (16,000), UPS, Walmart, Target, and hundreds of others. See Top 20 list. Washington's comprehensive ban-the-box law means ALL employers must follow fair-chance practices.
Q6: Can Amazon hire me with a felony in Washington?
Yes. Amazon has extensive operations in Washington (80,000+ employees) with fulfillment centers in Kent, DuPont, Sumner, Spokane, and statewide. Fair-chance hiring with individualized assessment. Starting pay: $19-21/hour with day-one benefits including healthcare, 401(k), education funding up to $5,250 annually. Apply at amazon.jobs.
Q7: Can I become a truck driver with a felony in Washington?
Generally yes, though federal regulations (49 CFR § 383.51) permanently disqualify: DUI in commercial vehicle, using commercial vehicle for felony, leaving accident scene. Many carriers hire after 5-7 years for non-violent offenses. Earnings: $65,000-110,000 depending on specialization. Seattle Central College, Tacoma Community College, and Spokane Community College offer CDL training.
Q8: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in Washington?
UPS drivers ($85,000-105,000+), CDL truck drivers ($65,000-110,000), IBEW electricians ($65,000-95,000), Boeing skilled positions ($65,000-95,000), longshoremen/ILWU ($75,000-120,000+), plumbers ($60,000-90,000), HVAC techs ($55,000-80,000), healthcare advancement positions (surgical tech $50,000-70,000, respiratory therapy $65,000-85,000).
Q9: Should I disclose my felony on Washington job applications?
Washington's Fair Chance Act (RCW 49.94.010) prohibits ALL employers from asking about criminal history until after determining you're "otherwise qualified." Starting July 2026, employers with 15+ employees cannot run background checks until AFTER conditional offer. Get conviction vacated if eligible—then you can legally state you were not convicted. For unsealed convictions, answer honestly when lawfully asked (after being deemed otherwise qualified) and emphasize rehabilitation, time passed, clean record.
Q10: Are there free job training programs in Washington for people with felonies?
Yes. WorkSource Washington offers free training referrals. Community colleges (Seattle Central, Tacoma, Spokane) provide workforce programs with financial aid. Some employers (Boeing, UPS, Providence Health, Amazon) provide on-the-job training or tuition assistance. Union apprenticeships (IBEW electricians, UA plumbers, Operating Engineers) offer paid training while working. Pioneer Human Services provides direct employment plus training.
Next Steps: Your Washington Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for Washington justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Determine Conviction Vacation Eligibility and Start Process
Washington allows legal dismissal of certain convictions through vacation statutes—misdemeanors after 3 years (RCW 9.96.060), Class C felonies after 5 years, Class B felonies after 10 years (RCW 9.94A.640) from sentence completion. Cannot vacate violent crimes, sex offenses, DUI, crimes against persons. Once vacated, conviction is legally dismissed—you can state you were not convicted and it shouldn't appear on background checks. Contact Northwest Justice Project or Columbia Legal Services (FREE: 1-888-201-1014) to determine eligibility and file petition. Cost typically $200-500 in court fees, timeline 3-6 months. Getting conviction vacated FIRST dramatically increases opportunities and wages. Don't wait—start process immediately if eligible.
Step 2: Register with WorkSource Washington and Multiple Staffing Agencies
Register with WorkSource Washington (1-877-872-5627) for free resume help, interview prep, job referrals, and training programs. Centers in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Vancouver, Bellingham, and statewide. In Seattle area, also contact Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County (206-448-0474). Sign up with 2-3 staffing agencies simultaneously: Express Employment (strong manufacturing/warehouse connections), Labor Ready/TrueBlue (daily pay, immediate placement), Manpower (temp-to-perm focus), Aerotek (skilled trades specialists). These agencies place justice-impacted individuals in positions paying $18-28/hour with temp-to-perm potential at Amazon, Boeing, and major Washington employers. Show up on time and work hard—conversion rates to permanent are good in Washington's tight labor market.
Step 3: Target Washington's High-Demand Employers and Leverage High Minimum Wage
Apply to major fair-chance employers: Amazon (80,000+ Washington employees, $19-21/hour, day-one benefits, fair-chance hiring across fulfillment centers statewide), Boeing (60,000 Washington employees, $20-28/hour production, IAM union, case-by-case hiring), Providence Health and MultiCare (45,000+ and 16,000 employees, $18-22/hour Seattle area for support with tuition assistance), UPS ($18-23/hour with path to $85,000-105,000 driver positions), Costco (headquarters Issaquah, $18-24/hour starting, promote from within), Walmart and Target (fair-chance hiring, comprehensive benefits). Focus on Seattle for highest minimum wage ($20.76/hour 2025, $21.30 in 2026)—even entry-level server positions earn $30-45/hour with tips. Bellingham has second-highest minimum ($17.66-18.66/hour 2025). Apply to 10-15 positions weekly across multiple employers and sectors.
Step 4: Leverage Washington's Strongest-in-Nation Ban-the-Box Protections
Washington's Fair Chance Act (RCW 49.94.010) covers ALL employers regardless of size—create resume highlighting skills and work history without mentioning criminal record. Employers cannot ask until after determining you're "otherwise qualified," and starting July 2026, employers with 15+ employees cannot run background checks until AFTER conditional job offer. This is strongest protection nationwide. Focus on qualifications without mentioning record on applications. Prepare 30-60 second explanation of criminal record for when lawfully raised (after deemed otherwise qualified)—focus on rehabilitation, lessons learned, time passed, commitment to stability. Develop 3-5 professional references. Practice until comfortable. Emphasize conviction vacation status if applicable—"my conviction has been legally vacated under Washington law" or "I'm working with Northwest Justice Project to vacate my conviction."
Step 5: Pursue Training for High-Wage Careers in Washington's Strong Economy
Washington offers pathways to $65,000-120,000+ careers. UPS package handler ($18-23/hour) is proven path to driver earning $85,000-105,000+ with Teamsters—apply directly to UPS facilities in Seattle, Tacoma, Spokane, Bellingham. CDL training at community colleges (Seattle Central, Tacoma, Spokane) leads to $65,000-110,000 trucking careers. IBEW electrician apprenticeships lead to $65,000-95,000 journeyman wages. Start in Boeing production ($20-28/hour, IAM union) and advance to skilled positions earning $65,000-95,000 through internal training. Providence Health and MultiCare offer tuition assistance to advance from support ($18-22/hour) to surgical tech ($50,000-70,000) or respiratory therapy ($65,000-85,000). UA plumber and Operating Engineers union apprenticeships offer paid training. Mention WOTC eligibility ($2,400 federal tax credit). Persist through rejections—Washington's comprehensive ban-the-box law, highest minimum wage, and no state income tax create exceptional 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 conviction vacation procedures should be confirmed with legal professionals. Information about Washington's Fair Chance Act (RCW 49.94.010), conviction vacation statutes (RCW 9.96.060 and RCW 9.94A.640), and minimum wage laws is general in nature. Conviction vacation eligibility and processes can be complex—consult with Washington employment attorney or Northwest Justice Project/Columbia Legal Services (FREE: 1-888-201-1014) 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.