Career Management Skills / Career Advice

Top Highest-Paying Jobs for Felons




Finding a well-paying job after a felony conviction is challenging but possible. Below is a list of high-paying jobs, their duties, and tips for rejoining the workforce.

Jobs Paying $60,000+ Per Year

  1. Digital Marketer
  2. Salary: $60,000–$80,000/year
  3. Duties: Create social media content, digital ads, and manage online campaigns.

  4. Path: Earn a degree or certifications in marketing.

  5. Freelance Copywriter?

  6. Salary: $72,657/year
  7. Duties: Write sales copy, technical documents, and PR materials.

  8. Path: Build a portfolio; post on freelance job boards.

  9. Freelance Designer

  10. Salary: $54,263/year
  11. Duties: Create visuals for websites, brochures, and ads.

  12. Path: Online courses and a strong portfolio.

  13. Painter?

  14. Salary: $48,051/year
  15. Duties: Paint and wallpaper interiors/exteriors.

  16. Path: On-the-job training, EPA safety certifications.

  17. Maintenance Worker

  18. Salary: $45,584/year
  19. Duties: Handle basic repairs and installations.

  20. Path: Research state-specific handyman certifications.

  21. CNC Machinist?

  22. Salary: $60,000/year
  23. Duties: Operate precision manufacturing tools.

  24. Path: Certifications in computer technology or engineering.

  25. Car Sales Executive

  26. Salary: $74,658/year
  27. Duties: Assist customers in choosing vehicles and handle financing.

  28. Path: On-the-job training or experience in customer service.

  29. Entrepreneur

  30. Salary: $78,056/year
  31. Duties: Launch and manage a business.

  32. Path: Use creativity and financial acumen to identify market opportunities.

  33. Web Developer

  34. Salary: $77,791/year
  35. Duties: Design and maintain websites using coding languages.

  36. Path: Learn through coding boot camps or online courses.

  37. Truck Driver

    • Salary: $74,931/year
    • Duties: Transport goods and meet deadlines.
    • Path: Obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).

  38. Barber???

    • Salary: $51,919/year
    • Duties: Provide hair and grooming services.
    • Path: Complete a state-approved barber program or apprenticeship.

  39. Videographer

    • Salary: $49,922/year
    • Duties: Film events and edit footage for media.
    • Path: Build a portfolio and gain skills through tutorials.

Tips for Felons Seeking Employment

  1. Understand Your Background Check?

  2. Know what employers will see and prepare to discuss it confidently.

  3. Address the Felony During Interviews?

  4. Be honest but concise; emphasize how you've changed or grown.

  5. Partner with Supportive Organizations

  6. Seek out groups that help individuals with criminal records secure jobs.

  7. Know Industry Restrictions

  8. Avoid roles in sensitive areas like healthcare or childcare, where regulations may limit opportunities.

  9. Build a Strong Network

  10. Use local support networks, job boards, and LinkedIn to find opportunities.

Summing it up

  • Many industries value skills and experience over backgrounds.
  • Online learning and certifications can open doors.
  • Be transparent but strategic about your past, and focus on your professional growth.

A brighter future is possible—start exploring these opportunities today!

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