Felon Friendly Jobs in Wisconsin
2026 Updated List
Last Updated: January 2026
Wisconsin offers substantial employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals, particularly in manufacturing, healthcare support, retail, food processing, and logistics sectors. Wisconsin has LIMITED ban-the-box protections applying ONLY to public sector (state government) employers under 2015 Wisconsin Act 373—private employers may ask about criminal history on initial applications. However, Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 111.335) prohibits employment discrimination based on criminal history unless the conviction is "substantially related" to the job, requiring employers to conduct individualized assessments. The state's expungement laws allow record sealing ONLY for youthful offenders (under age 25 at time of offense) convicted of misdemeanors or certain nonviolent felonies with maximum sentences of 6 years or less, AND ONLY if expungement was ordered at time of sentencing (Wis. Stat. § 973.015)—this extremely limited expungement availability means most Wisconsin justice-impacted individuals cannot clear their records. Major employers including Menards (300+ stores, Wisconsin headquarters), Kwik Trip (800+ locations, La Crosse headquarters, 30,000 employees), Walmart (80+ Wisconsin stores), Festival Foods (30+ stores, employee-owned), manufacturers including Kohler Company, Johnson Controls, Harley-Davidson, Mercury Marine, and healthcare systems including Froedtert Health, Advocate Aurora Health, and Ascension Wisconsin actively hire across Milwaukee (1.5 million metro), Madison (670,000 metro), Green Bay (320,000 metro), Racine, Kenosha, Appleton, and throughout the state. Wisconsin's minimum wage is $7.25/hour (matching federal minimum wage), unchanged since 2009 with no scheduled increases, though competitive market forces drive most entry-level positions to $14-19/hour with benefits.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Second-Chance Employment in Wisconsin
Economic Overview
Wisconsin's economy is anchored by manufacturing (historically the state's industrial strength—machinery, food processing, paper products, metal fabrication, automotive components), agriculture (dairy, cranberries, ginseng), healthcare, and tourism (Wisconsin Dells, Door County, Milwaukee attractions), creating diverse employment opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. With major population centers including Milwaukee metro (1.5 million), Madison metro (670,000—state capital and university city), Green Bay metro (320,000), Racine (78,000), Kenosha (100,000), Appleton (75,000), and Eau Claire (69,000), the state provides accessible employment pathways from manufacturing and healthcare support to retail, food processing, logistics, and construction. Wisconsin's manufacturing sector remains robust with major employers including Kohler Company, Johnson Controls, Harley-Davidson, Mercury Marine, Oshkosh Corporation, Generac Power Systems, Ashley Furniture, and hundreds of smaller manufacturers. Food processing companies including Oscar Mayer, Johnsonville Sausage, Sargento Foods employ thousands. Regional employers Menards (Eau Claire headquarters) and Kwik Trip (La Crosse headquarters) provide extensive retail opportunities with strong second-chance reputations.
Record Clearing System
Wisconsin's expungement laws are EXTREMELY LIMITED. Record sealing available ONLY for youthful offenders (under age 25 at time of offense) convicted of misdemeanors or certain nonviolent felonies with maximum sentences of 6 years or less, AND ONLY if expungement was ordered at time of sentencing (Wis. Stat. § 973.015).
CRITICAL LIMITATIONS: Expungement must be ordered at sentencing—cannot petition later. Judge has discretion whether to order expungement. Only eligible if under age 25 at offense. Only misdemeanors and felonies with 6 years or less maximum sentence eligible. Violent felonies, sex offenses, crimes against children NOT eligible.
This means most Wisconsin justice-impacted individuals cannot clear their records. No general expungement available for adult offenders. No automatic sealing. No petition-based expungement for those over 25 at offense or those not granted expungement at sentencing.
Pardons: Governor can grant pardons providing record relief, but process highly selective and time-consuming. Wisconsin Pardon Advisory Board reviews applications. Very limited relief granted annually.
Ban-the-Box and Background Check Laws
LIMITED Ban-the-Box: Wisconsin Act 373 (2015) prohibits ONLY public sector (state government) employers from asking about criminal history on initial applications. Private employers NOT covered—they may ask on applications.
"Substantially Related" Protection (Wis. Stat. § 111.335): Wisconsin law prohibits employment discrimination based on criminal history UNLESS conviction is "substantially related" to job. Employers must conduct individualized assessments considering: (1) nature and gravity of offense, (2) time passed since conviction, (3) nature of job sought. This provides some protection but requires advocacy when denials occur.
Background Check Rules: Wisconsin follows federal FCRA rules: non-conviction records can be reported for 7 years, convictions can be reported indefinitely.
The federal Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) provides Wisconsin employers up to $2,400 per qualified hire with felony convictions.
Entry-Level Jobs for Felons in Wisconsin
Wisconsin minimum wage: $7.25/hour (federal minimum), unchanged since 2009. Competitive market forces drive most entry-level positions to $14-19/hour.
Manufacturing & Production
Kohler Company (Kohler and multiple Wisconsin facilities) - Plumbing fixtures, engines, generators, hospitality. Family-owned company founded 1873.
Production workers, assemblers, material handlers.
Pay: $16-24/hour. Comprehensive benefits, profit sharing, advancement opportunities. Individualized hiring for production positions.
Johnson Controls (Milwaukee area headquarters, facilities statewide) - HVAC, building technology, automotive components.
Production workers, assemblers, equipment operators.
Pay: $17-25/hour. Global company with deep Wisconsin roots, comprehensive benefits. Case-by-case hiring for production roles.
Harley-Davidson (Milwaukee area facilities) - Motorcycle manufacturing. Iconic Wisconsin company founded 1903.
Production workers, assembly, material handling.
Pay: $18-26/hour. Union representation (UAW/IAM at some facilities), comprehensive benefits. Individualized hiring assessment.
Mercury Marine (Fond du Lac) - Marine engine manufacturing, Brunswick Corporation subsidiary.
Production workers, assemblers.
Pay: $16-24/hour. Comprehensive benefits, advancement opportunities. Case-by-case hiring.
Generac Power Systems (Waukesha area) - Generator and power equipment manufacturing. Wisconsin-based company.
Production workers.
Pay: $16-23/hour. Comprehensive benefits, growing employer. Individualized hiring for production roles.
Ashley Furniture (Arcadia and facilities statewide) - Furniture manufacturing. World's largest furniture manufacturer.
Production workers, assemblers.
Pay: $14-21/hour. Benefits, advancement opportunities. Case-by-case hiring.
Oshkosh Corporation (Oshkosh) - Specialty vehicle manufacturing (fire trucks, defense vehicles, concrete mixers). Fortune 500 company.
Production workers, welders, assemblers.
Pay: $17-25/hour. Comprehensive benefits, union representation at some facilities. Individualized hiring.
Food Processing
Oscar Mayer/Kraft Heinz (Madison facility) - Food processing. Iconic Wisconsin brand.
Production workers, packaging, sanitation.
Pay: $15-21/hour. Union representation (UFCW), comprehensive benefits. Fair chance hiring with individualized assessment.
Johnsonville Sausage (Sheboygan Falls and facilities statewide) - Sausage manufacturing. Wisconsin-based family company.
Production workers, packaging.
Pay: $14-20/hour. Benefits, advancement opportunities. Individualized hiring.
Sargento Foods (Plymouth) - Cheese processing and packaging. Family-owned company.
Production workers, packaging, quality control.
Pay: $15-21/hour. Comprehensive benefits. Case-by-case hiring.
Healthcare Support (Non-Clinical)
Froedtert Health (Milwaukee area) - Flagship Froedtert Hospital plus community hospitals and clinics throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
Environmental services (housekeeping), food service, facilities maintenance, patient transport, laundry.
Pay: $13-18/hour. Case-by-case hiring for support roles. Comprehensive benefits including tuition assistance.
Advocate Aurora Health (Statewide network) - One of largest health systems in Midwest, created by merger of Aurora Health Care (Wisconsin) and Advocate Health Care (Illinois).
Environmental services, dietary, facilities, laundry positions.
Pay: $13-18/hour. Individualized assessment for non-clinical roles. Benefits, tuition assistance.
Ascension Wisconsin (Multiple hospitals statewide) - Columbia St. Mary's (Milwaukee), Ascension All Saints (Racine), and facilities in Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Appleton, others.
Housekeeping, food service, facilities maintenance, patient transport.
Pay: $13-18/hour. Case-by-case hiring for support services. Benefits included.
Marshfield Clinic Health System (Marshfield, northern/central Wisconsin) - Healthcare network.
Environmental services, food service, facilities positions.
Pay: $13-18/hour. Case-by-case hiring for non-clinical roles.
Gundersen Health System (La Crosse, southwestern Wisconsin) - Healthcare network.
Housekeeping, dietary, facilities, patient transport.
Pay: $13-18/hour. Individualized assessment for non-clinical roles.
Bellin Health (Green Bay area) - Healthcare system.
Environmental services, food service, facilities maintenance.
Pay: $13-18/hour. Case-by-case hiring for support positions.
Retail & Grocery
Menards (300+ stores across Midwest, Eau Claire headquarters) - Home improvement retail chain. Several thousand Wisconsin employees.
Store team members, cashiers, stockers, lumber yard, garden center.
Pay: $13-18/hour. Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), health insurance, retirement. Advancement to department lead ($18-24/hour) and management ($45,000-70,000+). Family-owned business with reputation for second-chance employment.
Kwik Trip/Kwik Star (800+ locations, La Crosse headquarters, 30,000 employees) - Convenience store and gas station chain primarily Wisconsin/Minnesota/Iowa.
Store associates, cashiers, food service, stockers.
Pay: $13-17/hour. Exceptional benefits including profit sharing, health insurance after 30 days, 401(k) with match, paid time off, tuition reimbursement. Advancement to shift leader ($16-21/hour) and management ($40,000-60,000). Family-owned company with strong second-chance reputation.
Festival Foods (30+ Wisconsin stores) - Wisconsin-based supermarket chain. Employee-owned company (ESOP).
Cashiers, stockers, deli, bakery, produce clerks.
Pay: $12-17/hour. Employee ownership stake through ESOP. Benefits for full-time. Advancement to department leads and store management. Individualized hiring.
Walmart (80+ Wisconsin stores) - Retail and distribution statewide.
Stockers, cashiers, overnight crew, online order fulfillment, maintenance.
Pay: $13-16/hour retail, $16-20/hour distribution. Health coverage, 401(k), stock purchase plan, Live Better U free college. Fair chance hiring with individualized assessment.
Target (50 Wisconsin stores) - Retail chain.
Store team members, fulfillment, overnight stocking.
Pay: $15-17/hour. Fair chance employer. 10% discount, tuition assistance up to $5,000, comprehensive benefits.
Woodman's Food Market (19 stores, Janesville headquarters) - Employee-owned Wisconsin supermarket chain.
Cashiers, stockers, department workers.
Pay: $12-17/hour. Ownership benefits through ESOP. Known for competitive wages.
Pick 'n Save/Metro Market (100 Wisconsin stores, Kroger subsidiary) - Grocery retail.
Cashiers, stockers.
Pay: $12-16/hour. Many locations offer union representation (UFCW). Advancement to department leads.
Warehouse & Logistics
Amazon (Kenosha and other Wisconsin facilities) - E-commerce fulfillment.
Fulfillment associates, sorters, packers, material handlers.
Pay: $17-19/hour. Day-one healthcare, 401(k), education funding up to $5,250/year through Career Choice. Fair chance hiring with individualized assessment.
Schneider National (Green Bay headquarters) - Trucking and logistics, one of North America's largest truckload carriers.
Warehouse/dock workers, package handling, freight operations.
Pay: $15-19/hour. Advancement to driver positions ($60,000-90,000+ with CDL). Fair chance hiring policies.
Walmart Distribution Centers (Wisconsin locations) - Supporting retail stores.
Distribution workers, order fillers, loaders, forklift operators.
Pay: $16-20/hour. Health coverage, 401(k), stock purchase, Live Better U program. Overtime available.
Menards Distribution Centers (Supporting retail stores) - Warehouse operations.
Warehouse workers, material handlers.
Pay: $15-20/hour. Employee stock ownership benefits. Individualized hiring.
Food Service & Hospitality
Restaurants (Statewide) - McDonald's, Culver's (Wisconsin-based chain), Burger King, Taco Bell, Applebee's, Olive Garden, others.
Cooks, dishwashers, servers, crew members.
Pay: $11-17/hour plus tips for servers. Flexible scheduling, advancement opportunities.
Hotels & Resorts (Wisconsin Dells, Door County, Milwaukee) - Tourism industry employers.
Housekeeping, front desk, maintenance, laundry.
Pay: $12-18/hour depending on position. Seasonal peaks summer and winter.
Construction & Trades
Local Construction Contractors (Statewide) - Small to medium contractors.
General laborers, demolition, site cleanup, equipment operators.
Pay: $16-22/hour depending on experience. Higher demand April-November construction season.
Top 20 Wisconsin Employers Hiring Felons
These Wisconsin companies demonstrate commitment to second-chance employment through documented hiring practices or favorable policies.
Menards (300+ stores, Eau Claire headquarters) - Home improvement retail chain with extensive Wisconsin presence.
Team Members: $13-18/hour Department Leads: $18-24/hour Management: $45,000-70,000+ Employee stock ownership (ESOP), individualized hiring, second-chance reputation. Learn More
Kwik Trip/Kwik Star (800+ locations, La Crosse headquarters, 30,000 employees) - Convenience store and gas station chain.
Associates: $13-17/hour Shift Leaders: $16-21/hour Management: $40,000-60,000 Profit sharing, health insurance after 30 days, tuition reimbursement, strong second-chance reputation. Learn More
Froedtert Health (Milwaukee area) - Healthcare system with flagship hospital and network.
Environmental Services: $13-18/hour Food Service: $13-17/hour Facilities Maintenance: $15-20/hour Case-by-case for support, tuition assistance. Learn More
Advocate Aurora Health (Statewide network) - One of largest Midwest health systems.
Environmental Services: $13-18/hour Dietary: $13-17/hour Facilities: $15-20/hour Individualized assessment for non-clinical. Learn More
Kohler Company (Kohler and multiple facilities) - Manufacturing and hospitality, family-owned since 1873.
Production Workers: $16-24/hour Skilled Trades: $50,000-75,000 Supervisors: $55,000-80,000 Profit sharing, comprehensive benefits, individualized hiring. Learn More
Johnson Controls (Milwaukee area headquarters, statewide) - HVAC, building technology, automotive components.
Production Workers: $17-25/hour Skilled Operators: $50,000-70,000 Supervisors: $60,000-85,000 Global company with Wisconsin roots, case-by-case hiring. Learn More
Walmart (80+ Wisconsin stores) - Retail and distribution statewide.
Store Associates: $13-16/hour Distribution Workers: $16-20/hour Department Managers: $40,000-65,000 Fair chance hiring, free college program. Learn More
Harley-Davidson (Milwaukee area) - Motorcycle manufacturing, iconic Wisconsin company.
Production Workers: $18-26/hour Skilled Trades: $55,000-85,000 Supervisors: $65,000-95,000 Union representation, individualized assessment. Learn More
Amazon (Kenosha and other Wisconsin facilities) - E-commerce fulfillment.
Fulfillment Associates: $17-19/hour Shift Managers: $50,000-70,000 Operations Managers: $70,000-100,000 Day-one benefits, fair chance hiring, education funding. Learn More
Festival Foods (30+ Wisconsin stores) - Wisconsin-based supermarket chain, employee-owned (ESOP).
Cashiers/Stockers: $12-17/hour Department Leads: $35,000-50,000 Store Managers: $55,000-75,000 Employee ownership, individualized hiring. Learn More
Ascension Wisconsin (Multiple hospitals statewide) - Healthcare system.
Housekeeping: $13-18/hour Food Service: $13-17/hour Facilities: $15-20/hour Case-by-case for support services. Learn More
Target (50 Wisconsin stores) - Retail chain.
Store Team Members: $15-17/hour Team Leaders: $40,000-60,000 Department Managers: $45,000-65,000 Fair chance employer, tuition assistance. Learn More
Mercury Marine (Fond du Lac) - Marine engine manufacturing, Brunswick subsidiary.
Production Workers: $16-24/hour Skilled Trades: $48,000-70,000 Supervisors: $55,000-75,000 Comprehensive benefits, case-by-case hiring. Learn More
Generac Power Systems (Waukesha area) - Generator manufacturing, Wisconsin-based.
Production Workers: $16-23/hour Technicians: $45,000-65,000 Supervisors: $55,000-75,000 Growing employer, individualized hiring. Learn More
Oscar Mayer/Kraft Heinz (Madison facility) - Food processing, iconic Wisconsin brand.
Production Workers: $15-21/hour Maintenance: $50,000-70,000 Supervisors: $55,000-75,000 Union representation (UFCW), fair chance hiring. Learn More
Schneider National (Green Bay headquarters) - Trucking and logistics, major carrier.
Warehouse/Dock Workers: $15-19/hour Drivers: $60,000-90,000+ Operations: $50,000-75,000 Fair chance hiring, path to driver positions. Learn More
Ashley Furniture (Arcadia and statewide) - Furniture manufacturing, world's largest.
Production Workers: $14-21/hour Skilled Trades: $45,000-65,000 Supervisors: $50,000-70,000 Benefits, case-by-case hiring. Learn More
Oshkosh Corporation (Oshkosh) - Specialty vehicle manufacturing, Fortune 500.
Production Workers: $17-25/hour Welders: $50,000-75,000 Supervisors: $60,000-85,000 Union representation, individualized hiring. Learn More
Johnsonville Sausage (Sheboygan Falls and statewide) - Sausage manufacturing, Wisconsin family company.
Production Workers: $14-20/hour Maintenance: $45,000-65,000 Supervisors: $50,000-70,000 Benefits, individualized hiring. Learn More
Sargento Foods (Plymouth) - Cheese processing, family-owned.
Production Workers: $15-21/hour Quality Control: $40,000-60,000 Supervisors: $50,000-70,000 Comprehensive benefits, case-by-case hiring. Learn More
Felon-Friendly Jobs by Wisconsin City
Milwaukee (Pop. 1.5 million metro)
Wisconsin's largest city. Manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, tourism. Public transit via MCTS buses.
Froedtert Health - $13-18/hour
Harley-Davidson - $18-26/hour
Johnson Controls - $17-25/hour
Menards/Walmart/Target - $13-18/hour
Manufacturing - $16-24/hour
Madison (Pop. 670,000 metro)
State capital, university city. Government, healthcare, tech, food processing. Metro bus service.
Oscar Mayer/Kraft Heinz - $15-21/hour
UW Health - $13-18/hour
State agencies - varies
Retail chains - $12-17/hour
Restaurants/hospitality - $11-16/hour
Green Bay (Pop. 320,000 metro)
Northeast Wisconsin hub. Healthcare, logistics, food processing, manufacturing.
Bellin Health - $13-18/hour
Schneider National (HQ) - $15-19/hour
Food processors - $14-20/hour
Retail chains - $12-17/hour
Manufacturing - $15-22/hour
Racine (Pop. 78,000)
Lake Michigan city between Milwaukee and Chicago. Manufacturing, healthcare.
SC Johnson - varies
InSinkErator - $16-24/hour
Ascension All Saints - $13-18/hour
Retail chains - $12-16/hour
Manufacturing - $15-22/hour
Kenosha (Pop. 100,000)
Southeast Wisconsin, Milwaukee-Chicago corridor. Manufacturing, logistics, healthcare.
Amazon fulfillment - $17-19/hour
Snap-on Tools - $17-25/hour
Froedtert South - $13-18/hour
Retail chains - $13-17/hour
Manufacturing - $16-24/hour
Appleton (Pop. 75,000)
Fox Valley region. Paper manufacturing, healthcare, retail.
ThedaCare - $13-18/hour
Appleton Coated - $16-23/hour
Retail chains - $12-17/hour
Manufacturing - $15-22/hour
Food service - $11-16/hour
Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons in Wisconsin
While entry-level provides immediate income, these careers offer pathways to financial stability and long-term growth in Wisconsin.
Manufacturing Skilled Trades
Start: Production Worker - $16-25/hour at Kohler, Johnson Controls, Harley-Davidson, Mercury Marine, Oshkosh, Generac, Ashley. Use employer-provided training or apprenticeships.
Advance to Skilled Trades - CNC machinists, tool and die makers, maintenance technicians: $48,000-75,000. Internal training programs or Wisconsin technical colleges.
Manufacturing Supervisors - Production supervisors, quality managers: $55,000-85,000. Promote from production floor.
Commercial Truck Driving (CDL-A)
Schneider National Drivers - Green Bay-headquartered major carrier. Start warehouse $15-19/hour, obtain CDL through company training or technical colleges, advance to driver: $60,000-90,000+ annually. One of most accessible paths to $60,000+ for justice-impacted individuals.
Other Wisconsin Carriers - Numerous trucking companies headquartered or operating in Wisconsin. Long-haul: $55,000-80,000. Regional/dedicated: $50,000-75,000. Many carriers hire after 5-7 years for non-violent offenses.
Skilled Construction Trades
Electrician - Union apprenticeships through IBEW lead to journeyman: $55,000-80,000. Wisconsin has strong union presence. Apprenticeship programs available.
Plumber/Pipefitter - UA union apprenticeships: $52,000-75,000. Strong demand in commercial/industrial sectors.
HVAC Technician - Wisconsin's extreme climate (very cold winters, warm summers) creates year-round demand. Entry: $16-22/hour. Experienced: $48,000-70,000. EPA certification required.
Carpenter - Commercial and residential: $45,000-70,000. Apprenticeship programs available through unions.
Ironworker/Steelworker - Commercial construction, bridge work: $50,000-80,000. Physically demanding but well-compensated.
Healthcare Career Advancement
Start: Environmental Services/Food Service - $13-18/hour at Froedtert, Advocate Aurora, Ascension, Marshfield Clinic, Gundersen, Bellin. Use tuition assistance programs.
Surgical Technologist - With training/certification: $45,000-60,000. Two-year programs at Wisconsin technical colleges.
Respiratory Therapist - With degree: $55,000-75,000. Career advancement using employer tuition assistance.
Radiology Technician - With training: $50,000-68,000. Technical college programs available.
Food Processing Advancement
Start: Production Worker - $14-21/hour at Oscar Mayer, Johnsonville, Sargento, other food processors. Union representation at many facilities (UFCW).
Advance to Skilled Positions - Quality control, maintenance technician, production supervisor: $45,000-70,000. Internal training and advancement.
Wisconsin Resources for Felons Seeking Employment
Wisconsin offers extremely limited expungement but provides employment discrimination protection and workforce services.
Expungement (Extremely Limited)
Wisconsin's expungement laws are among most restrictive in nation. Record sealing available ONLY for youthful offenders (under age 25 at time of offense) convicted of misdemeanors or certain nonviolent felonies with maximum sentences of 6 years or less, AND ONLY if expungement was ordered at time of sentencing (Wis. Stat. § 973.015).
CRITICAL LIMITATIONS:
Must be under age 25 at time of offense
Expungement must be ordered at sentencing—cannot petition later
Judge has discretion whether to order
Only misdemeanors and felonies with 6 years or less maximum sentence
Violent felonies, sex offenses, crimes against children NOT eligible
This means most Wisconsin justice-impacted individuals cannot clear their records. No general expungement for adult offenders. No automatic sealing. No petition-based expungement for those over 25 at offense or not granted expungement at sentencing.
Pardons: Governor can grant pardons providing record relief through Wisconsin Pardon Advisory Board. Process highly selective, time-consuming. Very limited relief granted annually. Applications available at doc.wi.gov.
FREE Legal Assistance: Legal Action of Wisconsin (1-855-947-2529 or legalaction.org) provides FREE civil legal services for low-income Wisconsin residents including record relief guidance.
Employment Discrimination Protection
Wis. Stat. § 111.335: Wisconsin law prohibits employment discrimination based on criminal history UNLESS conviction is "substantially related" to job. Employers must conduct individualized assessments considering: (1) nature and gravity of offense, (2) time passed since conviction, (3) nature of job sought.
What This Means: If denied employment due to criminal record, you can challenge denial if conviction not substantially related to job duties. File complaint with Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Equal Rights Division.
Coverage: Applies to all Wisconsin employers regardless of size.
Ban-the-Box (Limited to Public Sector)
Wisconsin Act 373 (2015): Prohibits ONLY public sector (state government) employers from asking about criminal history on initial applications. Private employers NOT covered.
Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)
Federal WOTC provides Wisconsin employers up to $2,400 tax credit per qualified hire with felony convictions. Mention this to potential employers.
State Workforce Development
Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development - Job Centers - Statewide network providing free job search assistance, resume help, interview prep, training referrals, and employer connections.
Contact: (888) 258-9966 | dwd.wisconsin.gov
Locations: Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Racine, Kenosha, Appleton, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Wausau, Oshkosh, and throughout state.
Reentry Organizations
Wisconsin Department of Corrections - Reentry Services - Pre-release and post-release employment assistance.
Contact: (608) 240-5000 | doc.wi.gov
Project RETURN (Milwaukee) - Reentry services, employment assistance, case management.
Contact: (414) 264-2371
Goodwill Industries (Multiple Wisconsin locations) - Employment services, job training, placement assistance.
Additional Wisconsin Resources
Training & Education
Wisconsin Technical College System - 16 technical colleges statewide offering workforce training, skilled trades, CDL, welding, HVAC, manufacturing programs with financial aid. Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC), Madison College, Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, and others.
Wisconsin Apprenticeship Program - Registered apprenticeships in construction trades, manufacturing through Department of Workforce Development.
Housing Assistance
Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) - Rental assistance programs.
Contact: (800) 334-6873 | wheda.com
Local Housing Authorities - Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Racine, Kenosha offer rental assistance and public housing.
Legal Aid
Legal Action of Wisconsin - FREE civil legal services including record relief guidance for low-income Wisconsin residents.
Contact: 1-855-947-2529 | legalaction.org
Offices: Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Eau Claire.
Transportation Support
Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) - Public transit in Milwaukee. Reduced fare programs available.
Madison Metro - Public transit in Madison area.
Green Bay Metro - Public transit with affordable options.
Limited Rural Transit - Many Wisconsin areas lack public transit. Personal vehicle often necessary outside major cities.
Staffing Agencies in Wisconsin That Work With Felons
Wisconsin staffing agencies provide immediate employment and temp-to-perm opportunities especially in manufacturing, warehouse, and food processing sectors.
Express Employment Professionals - Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Appleton, Eau Claire locations. Manufacturing, warehouse, skilled trades. Pay: $14-24/hour. Second-chance focus, quick placement.
PeopleReady - Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Racine, Kenosha. Daily pay available. General labor, warehouse, manufacturing, construction. Pay: $13-22/hour. Immediate placement possible, second-chance friendly.
Manpower - Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Appleton, Racine areas. Manufacturing, logistics, industrial. Pay: $13-21/hour. Temp-to-perm common.
Adecco - Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay. Manufacturing, warehouse, administrative. Pay: $13-20/hour. Benefits for temps.
Kelly Services - Wisconsin metro areas. Manufacturing, warehouse, administrative. Pay: $13-19/hour.
Randstad - Milwaukee, Madison areas. Manufacturing, logistics, skilled trades. Pay: $14-22/hour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Does Wisconsin have a ban-the-box law?
LIMITED. Wisconsin Act 373 (2015) prohibits ONLY public sector (state government) employers from asking about criminal history on initial applications. Private employers NOT covered—they may ask on applications. However, Wis. Stat. § 111.335 prohibits ALL Wisconsin employers from discriminating based on criminal history UNLESS conviction is "substantially related" to job—employers must conduct individualized assessments.
Q2: Can I get my record expunged in Wisconsin?
EXTREMELY LIMITED. Wisconsin allows expungement ONLY for youthful offenders (under age 25 at time of offense) convicted of misdemeanors or certain nonviolent felonies with maximum sentences of 6 years or less, AND ONLY if expungement was ordered at time of sentencing (Wis. Stat. § 973.015). Cannot petition later if not ordered at sentencing. Most Wisconsin justice-impacted individuals cannot clear records. Governor can grant pardons through Pardon Advisory Board but process highly selective. Contact Legal Action of Wisconsin (FREE: 1-855-947-2529) for guidance.
Q3: What is Wisconsin's minimum wage?
Wisconsin minimum wage is $7.25/hour (matching federal minimum wage), unchanged since 2009 with no scheduled increases. However, competitive market forces drive most entry-level positions to $14-19/hour in practice.
Q4: How far back do background checks go in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin follows federal FCRA rules: non-conviction records can be reported for 7 years, convictions can be reported indefinitely. Extremely limited expungement availability means most Wisconsin residents cannot seal records.
Q5: What companies in Wisconsin hire felons?
Major employers include Menards (Eau Claire HQ, 300+ stores), Kwik Trip (La Crosse HQ, 800+ locations, 30,000 employees), Walmart (80+ stores), Kohler Company, Johnson Controls, Harley-Davidson, Mercury Marine, Froedtert Health, Advocate Aurora Health, Ascension Wisconsin, Amazon, Festival Foods, Oscar Mayer, Johnsonville, Sargento, and many others. See Top 20 list. Wis. Stat. § 111.335 requires individualized assessments.
Q6: Can I work at Harley-Davidson with a felony in Wisconsin?
Yes, with individualized assessment. Harley-Davidson Milwaukee area facilities hire production workers at $18-26/hour with union representation (UAW/IAM at some facilities) and comprehensive benefits. Background checks required but case-by-case evaluation. Apply at harley-davidson.com/careers.
Q7: Can I become a truck driver with a felony in Wisconsin?
Generally yes. Many Wisconsin trucking companies hire CDL drivers with felonies, especially non-violent offenses over 5-7 years old. Schneider National (Green Bay headquarters) provides warehouse-to-driver path: start warehouse $15-19/hour, obtain CDL through company or technical college, advance to driver $60,000-90,000+. Clean driving record required (no DUI within 5-7 years typically). Wisconsin technical colleges offer CDL training programs.
Q8: What are highest-paying jobs for felons in Wisconsin?
Schneider National drivers ($60,000-90,000+), manufacturing skilled trades ($48,000-85,000), electricians ($55,000-80,000), plumbers ($52,000-75,000), HVAC techs ($48,000-70,000), healthcare advancement (surgical tech $45,000-60,000, respiratory therapy $55,000-75,000), manufacturing supervisors ($55,000-85,000), food processing skilled positions ($45,000-70,000), ironworkers ($50,000-80,000).
Q9: Should I disclose my felony on Wisconsin job applications?
Wisconsin has limited ban-the-box (public sector only)—most private employers can ask on applications. Answer truthfully if asked—lying discovered later results in termination. Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 111.335) protects you from discrimination UNLESS conviction "substantially related" to job. Emphasize rehabilitation, time passed, clean record. If denied, you can challenge if conviction not substantially related. Mention WOTC ($2,400 tax credit) to demonstrate financial benefit.
Q10: Are there free job training programs in Wisconsin for people with felonies?
Yes. Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Job Centers (888-258-9966) offer free training referrals. Wisconsin Technical College System (16 colleges statewide) provides workforce programs with financial aid. Some employers (Froedtert, Advocate Aurora, Kohler, Johnson Controls) provide tuition assistance. Wisconsin Apprenticeship Program offers paid training in construction and manufacturing trades. Project RETURN and Goodwill provide employment training.
Next Steps: Your Wisconsin Job Search Action Plan
Take immediate action with this 5-step plan designed specifically for Wisconsin justice-impacted job seekers.
Step 1: Understand Wisconsin's Limited Expungement and Strong Discrimination Protection
Wisconsin has EXTREMELY LIMITED expungement—only for those under age 25 at offense and ordered at sentencing (Wis. Stat. § 973.015). Most cannot clear records. However, Wisconsin law (Wis. Stat. § 111.335) provides STRONG protection: employers cannot discriminate based on criminal history UNLESS conviction "substantially related" to job. This is powerful tool. If denied employment due to record, assess whether conviction truly related to job duties—if not, file complaint with Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Equal Rights Division (608-266-6860). Contact Legal Action of Wisconsin (FREE: 1-855-947-2529) for guidance on record relief options (limited pardons available through Governor's Pardon Advisory Board) and discrimination complaints. Since most cannot expunge, focus on employers conducting individualized assessments and use discrimination protection when needed.
Step 2: Register with Wisconsin Job Centers and Multiple Staffing Agencies
Register with Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Job Centers (888-258-9966) for free resume help, interview prep, job referrals, and training programs. Centers in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Racine, Kenosha, Appleton, Eau Claire, and statewide. Sign up with 2-3 staffing agencies simultaneously: Express Employment (strong manufacturing/warehouse connections), PeopleReady (daily pay, immediate placement), Manpower (temp-to-perm specialists), Adecco (manufacturing focus). These agencies place justice-impacted individuals in positions paying $13-24/hour with temp-to-perm potential at Kohler, Johnson Controls, Harley-Davidson, food processors, and major Wisconsin employers. Show up on time, work hard, stay professional—conversion rates to permanent are excellent in Wisconsin's manufacturing-strong economy.
Step 3: Target Wisconsin's Accessible Employers and Leverage Strong Manufacturing Base
Apply to major fair-chance employers: Menards (Eau Claire HQ, $13-18/hour with ESOP, strong second-chance reputation), Kwik Trip (La Crosse HQ, $13-17/hour with profit sharing after 30 days, exceptional benefits, known for second chances), Kohler Company ($16-24/hour production, family-owned since 1873, individualized hiring), Johnson Controls ($17-25/hour), Harley-Davidson ($18-26/hour with union representation), Froedtert Health and Advocate Aurora Health ($13-18/hour support with tuition assistance, case-by-case hiring), Amazon Kenosha ($17-19/hour, day-one benefits, fair-chance), Schneider National Green Bay ($15-19/hour warehouse with path to $60,000-90,000 driver), food processors (Oscar Mayer $15-21/hour with UFCW union, Johnsonville $14-20/hour, Sargento $15-21/hour), Festival Foods ($12-17/hour, employee-owned), Walmart (80+ stores, $13-16/hour, fair-chance). Wisconsin's manufacturing strength creates abundant opportunities. Apply to 10-15 positions weekly across multiple employers and sectors.
Step 4: Prepare Application Strategy Using Wisconsin's Discrimination Protection
Wisconsin has limited ban-the-box (public sector only)—most private employers can ask about criminal history on applications. Create resume highlighting skills and work history. If criminal history question appears, answer truthfully but briefly—lying discovered later results in termination. Prepare 30-60 second explanation—focus on rehabilitation, lessons learned, time passed, commitment to stability. Emphasize Wis. Stat. § 111.335 protection: employers must conduct individualized assessment and cannot discriminate unless conviction "substantially related" to job. Develop 3-5 professional references. Mention WOTC ($2,400 federal tax credit) to demonstrate financial benefit of hiring you. If denied employment, assess whether conviction truly related to job—if not, you have legal recourse through Equal Rights Division. Practice until comfortable explaining record and rights confidently.
Step 5: Pursue Training for High-Wage Careers in Wisconsin's Key Industries
Wisconsin offers pathways to $50,000-90,000+ careers. Schneider National warehouse ($15-19/hour) in Green Bay is proven path to driver earning $60,000-90,000+—most accessible high-income career. CDL training at Wisconsin technical colleges. Start manufacturing at Kohler ($16-24/hour), Johnson Controls ($17-25/hour), Harley-Davidson ($18-26/hour), or other manufacturers and advance to skilled trades ($48,000-85,000) through internal training or technical college programs. IBEW electrician apprenticeships lead to $55,000-80,000, UA plumbers to $52,000-75,000—Wisconsin has strong union presence. Start healthcare support at Froedtert or Advocate Aurora ($13-18/hour) and use tuition assistance for surgical tech ($45,000-60,000) or respiratory therapy ($55,000-75,000). HVAC certification programs lead to $48,000-70,000 (Wisconsin's extreme climate creates demand). Food processing union positions advance to skilled/supervisor roles earning $45,000-70,000. Mention WOTC eligibility. Persist through rejections—Wisconsin's Wis. Stat. § 111.335 discrimination protection creates real opportunities even without expungement.
DISCLAIMER
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Hiring policies vary by company, position, and circumstances. While we strive for accuracy, employment information and company policies may change. Always verify current practices directly with employers. Company inclusion does not guarantee employment. Background check laws and expungement procedures should be confirmed with legal professionals. Information about Wisconsin's extremely limited expungement laws (Wis. Stat. § 973.015), employment discrimination protection (Wis. Stat. § 111.335), and limited ban-the-box coverage (Wisconsin Act 373, public sector only) is general in nature. Legal rights and expungement eligibility can be complex—consult with Wisconsin employment attorney or Legal Action of Wisconsin (FREE: 1-855-947-2529) 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.