Intro Level Jobs
Intro Level Jobs by Scott Devine is a practical guide to employment opportunities for individuals reentering the workforce, especially those with prior convictions. It highlights high-demand skilled trades, warehousing, food services, and entrepreneurship paths that don’t require a degree. With second-chance employers, apprenticeship programs, and actionable tips for reentry success, this resource empowers people to build stable careers and fresh starts.
Skilled Trades (High Demand + Good Pay)
Many of these don’t require a college degree and are open to people with records:
Electrician
Plumber
HVAC Technician
Welding
Construction laborer or operator
Auto mechanic or body repair tech
Some unions and apprenticeship programs actively work with returning citizens.
Logistics & Warehousing
These are often entry-level but can lead to steady careers:
Warehouse associate (e.g., Amazon, FedEx)
Forklift operator
Delivery driver
Inventory specialist
Manufacturing & Production
Machine operator
Assembly line worker
Packaging and quality control
Culinary & Food Services:
Line cook or prep cook
Dishwasher
Food truck or catering
Baker
Some restaurants and culinary programs specifically work with formerly incarcerated individuals.
Maintenance & Janitorial Services:
Custodian/janitor
Building maintenance tech
Groundskeeper/landscaper
Entrepreneurship / Self-Employment
Handyman Services:
Car detailing
Lawn care/landscaping
Art/music or clothing if creative talents are there
Reentry-Friendly Employers
Some large companies have second chance hiring programs:
Goodwill
The Salvation Army
Home Depot
Walmart
UPS
Mod Pizza
Dave’s Killer Bread
JPMorgan Chase (for finance-adjacent jobs)
Tips:
Look into reentry programs — many provide training, housing, and help finding jobs.
Expungement or record-sealing may be an option depending on the conviction and state laws.
Start with temp agencies that are felon-friendly — sometimes they lead to full-time roles.