Jobs You Can Get in New Jersey with a Criminal Record

Landing a Job in New Jersey with a Criminal Record: It’s Possible!

Having a criminal record can make finding a job tricky. Many employers shy away from hiring folks with records, worried it might impact their business or reputation. But don’t lose hope! There are plenty of jobs in New Jersey you can get, even with a record. The key is knowing where to look and how to put your best foot forward.

First, don’t let your record define you. Own up to your past, but focus on the skills and experience you can bring to a role. Be upfront in interviews about your record, framing it as a learning experience that made you grow. Stress how you’ve moved forward and are committed to being a productive member of society.

Here are some top jobs in NJ to pursue with a criminal record:

Construction

New Jersey’s construction industry is booming. With major projects underway statewide, there’s lots of opportunity. Look into laborer, carpenter, electrician and plumber roles. Experience helps but isn’t always required, as companies need workers. Be prepared for physical labor and long hours. But it’s rewarding work where your record often matters less.

Warehousing and Manufacturing

Warehouses and factories abound in NJ, with positions always needing to be filled. Look for picker/packer, forklift operator, production line worker and shipping/receiving clerk roles. These offer on-the-job training and advancement potential. Pay and benefits can be decent too. A record won’t be a dealbreaker, especially for entry-level spots.

Truck Driving

With its strategic location, New Jersey has no shortage of trucking companies. Many are willing to train drivers, even those with records. A commercial driver’s license (CDL) is required, along with meeting health standards. But it’s a path to a stable career. Long haul routes mean being away from home for stretches. But you can always start with local routes. Expect a background check, so be transparent about your record.

Food Service

From diners to restaurants to catering companies, New Jersey’s food service industry means lots of opportunities. Positions like line cook, prep cook, dishwasher and server are plentiful. The work is fast-paced and guests can be demanding. But it’s a way to gain experience and work your way up. Be honest about your record. Know that background checks are common. Focus on your work ethic and customer service skills.

Retail

Retail stores and chains need people to stock shelves, work registers and assist customers. It can be hectic, especially in big box stores. Pay tends to be minimum wage or slightly above. But managers are often willing to hire those with non-violent records. Be prepared to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects. Highlight your ability to follow instructions and provide great customer experiences.

Security Guard

In New Jersey, security guards need state-issued registration cards. To qualify, your convictions generally can’t be for offenses too serious. If eligible, seek openings with security companies and as in-house guards for hotels, malls, etc. There’s room to advance to supervisor roles. Stress your reliability, vigilance and calm under pressure. Get licensed in areas like emergency response and defensive tactics to broaden appeal.

Landscaping and Groundskeeping

Love working outdoors? Landscaping and groundskeeping crews maintain office parks, shopping centers, colleges and more. You’ll mow lawns, prune trees, plow snow and perform general upkeep. It’s physically demanding, especially in extreme weather. But you can build skills in areas like paving, irrigation and equipment operation. Having a clean driver’s license helps. Be upfront about your record. Show you’re willing to work hard.

Maintenance and Janitorial

If you don’t mind hands-on work, consider maintenance and janitorial jobs. Positions involve duties like cleaning, basic repairs, floor waxing, painting and trash removal. Entry-level pay is usually minimum wage or slightly above. But you can join a crew or apply at schools, offices, hotels and other large venues. Reliability and attention to detail are valued traits. Be prepared for background checks. Focus on your work ethic and punctuality.

Telemarketing

Love talking on the phone? Telemarketing centers in New Jersey hire people to make calls pitching products, services or donations. It can be repetitive and fast-paced. Dealing with rejection is also part of the job. But it’s an income source with set hours and often base pay plus commissions. Share how you handle difficult conversations calmly and professionally. Know that drug tests and background checks are common during hiring.

Data Entry

Detail-oriented? Look for data entry jobs where you input information from paper forms to computer databases. Speed and accuracy are prized here. It can be tedious but provides stable office work. Temp agencies often recruit for these roles. Employers range from banks to law firms to insurance companies. Background checks vary by employer. Be upfront about your record. Tout your proficiency with data entry programs and devices.

Delivery Driver

Pizza shops, flower stores, grocery stores and other retailers need drivers. You’ll need a valid license, insurance and reliable car. The base pay is often minimum wage plus tips. But it’s a way to get moving versus being stuck in an office. Show you’re dependable and familiar with the area. Know that background checks are common. Be transparent about your record and driving history. Focus on your customer service skills too.

There are many other options too – car wash attendant, pet groomer, junk removal, recycling center worker, furniture mover, landscaper, construction flagger, parking lot attendant, auto detailer, home health aide, and more.

The key is selling your strengths and work ethic. Be honest about your record. But stay positive, show you’ve changed and emphasize the value you can bring to an employer. With determination and perseverance, you can find a rewarding career in New Jersey, despite your past mistakes. Don’t get discouraged – keep networking, learning new skills and showing that you’re dependable.