3 High-Paying Careers for People With Criminal Records

It’s easy to find yourself with a criminal record, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t have a long and rewarding career. Whether it was a single misdemeanor for a small crime or a felony for something more serious, you’ve always got options. Many career paths thrive by giving convicted criminals a second chance. Your past doesn’t define who you are. Change your future by checking out some rewarding jobs.

Construction

Construction is often viewed as a “blue-collar” career, but it’s perfect for hardworking individuals who need a second chance. If you have no prior experience, seek out positions that are entry-level apprenticeships. Many temp agencies can help with placement if you’re unsure of how to start. Construction workers make a pretty good living if they’re willing to put in the work. For example, many employees report bringing in wages around $30 an hour with the potential for overtime. As you gain experience, your skills will be eligible for higher paychecks. The specialties available within construction are vast, so you are sure to have steady work. From carpentry to flooring, there’s nothing standing in your way. Additionally, construction is a great way to spend your day doing something meaningful. It’s challenging yet rewarding. You’ll make lifelong relationships too. If you’re ready to turn your life around, consider going into construction.

Real Estate Agents

Real estate is another great industry to try if you have some sort of criminal record. This business is very understanding and forgiving. You don’t have to have a college degree, either. To succeed, you just have to be hardworking. To be recognized as legitimate, you’ll want to obtain your license. The requirements vary from state to state, but you’ll typically need to pass a course followed by an exam. Agents in real estate who work hard can bring in a lot of money from commissions. The job requires some charisma, but it also requires you to be a self-starter. You’ll frequently find yourself interacting with others. From listing houses to showing properties to potential buyers, you’ll always have to interact with people. Where you live is a factor of how much you can earn. Depending on the area, real estate agents can make over 100K a year. Don’t let your record stop you from entering real estate.

Truck Driver

Truck drivers literally drive the country, and you could get in on it. There’s no shortage of need for drivers, and companies accept hard workers, even those with criminal records. Many employers offer paid training that allows you to make money while learning. Before you can work, you’ll have to obtain your commercial driver’s license (CDL). Once you’re official, you can begin making a lot of money, often by your mileage. Average first-year drivers make around $40,000 yearly. It’s hard work, but you can become an important member of the driving teams.

You have all the power to give yourself an amazing future. Aspire to excel in construction, truck driving or even real estate to show the world that criminal records don’t matter. You’re a hard worker, and you’re going to make it.