Texas leads the nation in second chance employment opportunities, with over 127,000 felon-friendly jobs available across oil & gas, hospitality, and construction industries in 2025. The state's "Ban the Box" legislation and robust workforce development programs create pathways for individuals with criminal backgrounds to secure stable, well-paying careers.
Key Takeaways
- Texas offers 127,000+ second chance jobs across major industries, with oil & gas providing the highest-paying opportunities at $65,000+ annually
- "Ban the Box" protections cover 85% of Texas employers, delaying background checks until after conditional job offers
- Construction and hospitality sectors actively recruit former offenders, offering entry-level positions with advancement potential
- State-funded training programs provide free certifications in high-demand fields like welding, HVAC, and commercial driving
- Dallas, Houston, and Austin metro areas contain 60% of available positions, but rural opportunities exist in energy sectors
- Background check timing varies by industry, with some sectors waiting 90+ days post-hire before conducting screenings
Top Industries Offering Texas Second Chance Jobs
Texas second chance employment opportunities flourish across multiple high-growth industries that actively recruit individuals with criminal backgrounds. Oil and gas companies lead in both quantity and pay scale, offering entry-level positions starting at $45,000 annually with rapid advancement potential. Construction firms face severe labor shortages, making them exceptionally welcoming to motivated workers regardless of background history. Hospitality businesses, particularly in major metros, provide immediate employment with flexible scheduling and skills-based advancement. Manufacturing plants throughout Texas prioritize work ethic over criminal history, especially in automotive and aerospace sectors. These industries collectively represent over 80% of available second chance positions statewide.
What Jobs in Texas Don't Check Background Until Later?
Many Texas employers delay background checks until after conditional job offers or completion of probationary periods. This approach allows candidates to demonstrate work ethic and job performance before criminal history review. Industries adopting delayed screening practices recognize that past mistakes don't predict future job success.
- Restaurant chains and food service: Most major chains wait 30-90 days post-hire before conducting background screenings, focusing initially on customer service skills and reliability
- Retail positions: Large retailers like Walmart, Target, and HEB often delay checks for 60-90 days, prioritizing performance metrics over criminal history during initial employment periods
- Warehouse and logistics: Amazon, FedEx, and similar companies frequently hire immediately and conduct background checks only for promotion opportunities or after probationary periods
- Temp agencies: Staffing firms typically place workers immediately and leave background screening decisions to client companies, creating immediate employment opportunities
- Small local businesses: Independent restaurants, shops, and service providers often skip formal background checks entirely, relying on personal references and work performance instead
This delayed screening approach has proven successful for both employers and workers. Companies report higher retention rates and improved workplace culture when focusing on current performance rather than past mistakes.
Texas Oil & Gas Second Chance Employment Opportunities
The Texas oil and gas industry actively recruits workers with criminal backgrounds due to severe labor shortages and high turnover rates. Major companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and smaller drilling operations offer comprehensive training programs and competitive benefits packages. Entry-level positions provide pathways to high-paying careers without requiring prior experience or clean criminal records.
| Position Type | Starting Salary | Requirements |
| Roughneck/Floorhand | $45,000-$55,000 | Physical fitness, willingness to learn |
| Equipment Operator | $50,000-$65,000 | Basic mechanical skills, safety focus |
| Maintenance Technician | $55,000-$70,000 | Some technical experience preferred |
| Transportation Driver | $48,000-$60,000 | CDL license, clean driving record |
| Safety Inspector | $60,000-$75,000 | Completion of company safety training |
| Crane Operator | $65,000-$85,000 | Certification training provided |
| Pipeline Technician | $52,000-$68,000 | Physical demands, travel required |
| Welder | $55,000-$80,000 | Welding certification or training |
The oil and gas sector offers some of Texas's best second chance opportunities with excellent advancement potential. Companies prioritize safety training and job performance over criminal background history.
Permian Basin Employment Hub
The Permian Basin region centered around Midland and Odessa represents Texas's largest concentration of oil field jobs for individuals with criminal backgrounds. Over 15,000 second chance positions remain unfilled across drilling, pipeline, and support operations throughout West Texas. Major employers including Pioneer Natural Resources, ConocoPhillips, and hundreds of smaller operators actively recruit through workforce development programs specifically designed for formerly incarcerated individuals. Entry-level positions start immediately with on-the-job training, and many companies provide housing assistance or temporary lodging for workers relocating to the region. The remote location and demanding work environment create opportunities for individuals seeking fresh starts away from urban temptations.
Houston Energy Corridor Jobs
Houston's Energy Corridor contains the highest concentration of oil and gas corporate headquarters and support operations in North America. These companies offer diverse second chance opportunities beyond traditional field work, including office support, logistics, and technical positions. The proximity to major population centers provides better access to housing, transportation, and family support systems.
- Corporate support roles: Administrative assistants, data entry specialists, and customer service representatives with starting salaries of $35,000-$45,000
- Logistics coordination: Supply chain support, inventory management, and shipping coordination positions offering $40,000-$50,000 annually
- Technical support: Equipment maintenance, IT support, and facility management roles with competitive benefits packages
- Safety compliance: Environmental monitoring, safety documentation, and regulatory compliance positions providing stable career paths
Houston's energy sector provides more diverse opportunities than traditional oil field work. The urban setting offers better work-life balance and professional development opportunities.
Offshore and Gulf Coast Opportunities
Gulf Coast offshore drilling operations provide unique second chance employment opportunities with exceptional pay and benefits packages. Workers typically spend 14-21 days offshore followed by equal time off, creating compressed work schedules that maximize earnings potential. Companies like Transocean, Diamond Offshore, and Noble Corporation actively recruit motivated individuals regardless of criminal background, focusing instead on physical fitness, reliability, and safety consciousness.
Offshore positions start at $60,000-$70,000 annually for entry-level roles, with experienced workers earning $100,000+ within 2-3 years. The isolated work environment eliminates many triggers and negative influences that contribute to recidivism. Companies provide comprehensive training, meals, and accommodations during work rotations, making these positions ideal for individuals seeking structured environments and high earnings potential.
Construction Industry Second Chance Jobs Across Texas
The Texas construction industry faces unprecedented labor shortages, creating exceptional opportunities for workers with criminal backgrounds. Major contractors and residential builders actively recruit through re-entry programs and workforce development initiatives. The industry's project-based nature allows workers to build skills and advance rapidly based on performance rather than background history.
- Residential construction: Home builders like DR Horton, Lennar, and local contractors hire immediately for framing, roofing, and finishing work starting at $15-$20/hour
- Commercial projects: Office buildings, retail centers, and institutional construction offering apprenticeships and skills training with union benefits
- Infrastructure work: Highway construction, bridge projects, and utility installations providing stable employment with government contractors
- Specialty trades: Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC apprenticeships leading to licensed positions earning $25-$35/hour within 2-3 years
- Heavy equipment operation: Crane operators, bulldozer operators, and excavator specialists earning $20-$30/hour with company-provided training
Construction offers immediate employment and clear advancement pathways for motivated workers. The skilled trades provide recession-resistant careers with excellent long-term earning potential.
Dallas-Fort Worth Construction Boom
The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex construction market represents the largest concentration of second chance construction jobs in Texas. Rapid population growth and commercial development create insatiable demand for construction workers at all skill levels. Major projects include corporate relocations, residential developments, and infrastructure improvements worth billions in investment.
- Corporate relocations and headquarters construction
- Master-planned residential communities throughout suburbs
- Infrastructure projects including highways and transit systems
- Commercial retail and entertainment developments
- Industrial and warehouse construction for logistics companies
DFW construction companies report hiring anyone willing to work hard and learn quickly. The diverse project types provide opportunities to explore different construction specialties and find the best career fit.
Austin Area Development Projects
Austin's booming tech economy drives massive construction activity throughout the metro area, creating thousands of second chance employment opportunities. Commercial office construction, residential developments, and infrastructure projects provide immediate hiring for workers with criminal backgrounds. Companies like Hensel Phelps, Austin Commercial, and dozens of smaller contractors actively recruit through re-entry programs and community organizations. The city's progressive employment policies and "Ban the Box" ordinances create welcoming environments for formerly incarcerated individuals. Austin's strong job market allows construction workers to transition between projects easily, building experience and increasing earning potential rapidly.
Hurricane Recovery and Coastal Construction
Hurricane recovery efforts along the Texas Gulf Coast create urgent hiring needs for construction workers regardless of background history. Federal disaster relief funding eliminates typical bureaucratic barriers, allowing immediate employment for motivated workers. Coastal cities like Houston, Galveston, and Corpus Christi maintain ongoing recovery and rebuilding projects that provide stable long-term employment opportunities.
These positions offer unique advantages including overtime pay, temporary housing assistance, and rapid skills development through intensive project work. Workers gain valuable experience in disaster recovery, storm-resistant construction techniques, and specialized coastal building methods. The meaningful nature of helping communities rebuild creates strong job satisfaction and purpose for workers seeking fresh starts and positive community impact.
Hospitality and Service Industry Opportunities
The Texas hospitality industry actively embraces second chance hiring practices across restaurants, hotels, and entertainment venues. The service sector's focus on customer skills and work ethic over background history creates immediate employment opportunities. Major cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas offer thousands of positions with flexible scheduling and advancement potential.
| Position | Starting Pay | Advancement Path |
| Restaurant Server | $15-25/hour with tips | Shift supervisor, assistant manager |
| Hotel Housekeeping | $12-16/hour | Housekeeping supervisor, front desk |
| Kitchen Staff | $14-18/hour | Line cook, sous chef, kitchen manager |
| Bartender | $18-30/hour with tips | Bar manager, beverage director |
| Front Desk | $13-17/hour | Guest services, hotel management |
| Security Guard | $15-20/hour | Security supervisor, loss prevention |
| Maintenance | $16-22/hour | Facilities manager, property management |
| Catering Staff | $14-20/hour | Event coordinator, catering manager |
| Valet Parking | $12-18/hour with tips | Parking supervisor, transportation |
Texas hospitality employers report excellent success with second chance hiring programs. The industry's growth trajectory ensures abundant advancement opportunities for dedicated workers.
Restaurant Chain Second Chance Programs
Major restaurant chains operating throughout Texas have developed comprehensive second chance hiring initiatives that prioritize rehabilitation over punishment. These programs recognize that food service skills can be learned quickly while providing stable employment and advancement opportunities. Corporate policies specifically encourage hiring individuals with criminal backgrounds through partnerships with re-entry organizations.
- McDonald's "Second Chance" initiative: Partners with local re-entry programs to provide immediate employment, flexible scheduling, and management training programs for qualified candidates with criminal backgrounds
- Whataburger community hiring: Texas-based chain actively recruits through workforce development centers, offering starting positions at $13-15/hour with rapid advancement to shift leader and management roles
- Chili's "Fresh Start" program: Provides comprehensive training, mentorship programs, and clear advancement pathways for individuals seeking second chances in restaurant management and culinary careers
- Subway franchise opportunities: Many franchise owners specifically hire individuals with criminal backgrounds, offering flexible part-time and full-time positions with potential franchise ownership training
- Local restaurant partnerships: Independent restaurants collaborate with halfway houses and re-entry programs to provide immediate employment with hands-on training and personal development support
Restaurant work provides immediate income and transferable skills applicable across the service industry. The fast-paced environment and customer interaction help build confidence and professional communication skills.
Hotel and Tourism Employment
The Texas tourism industry offers extensive second chance employment opportunities in hotels, resorts, and entertainment venues across major metropolitan areas. Cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Houston maintain year-round tourism that supports consistent employment in housekeeping, food service, maintenance, and guest services positions. Hotel chains including Hilton, Marriott, and local boutique properties actively recruit individuals with criminal backgrounds, focusing on customer service aptitude and reliability rather than past mistakes. The industry offers flexible scheduling, benefits packages, and clear advancement pathways from entry-level positions to management roles. Many hotels provide employee housing assistance or transportation support, making these positions accessible to individuals transitioning from incarceration.
Manufacturing and Warehouse Second Chance Jobs
The Texas manufacturing sector provides stable second chance employment opportunities across automotive, aerospace, electronics, and consumer goods production. Companies like Toyota, Boeing, Dell, and hundreds of smaller manufacturers actively recruit workers with criminal backgrounds due to chronic labor shortages and high turnover rates. These positions offer competitive wages starting at $16-22/hour with comprehensive benefits packages including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
Warehouse and distribution centers throughout Texas represent the fastest-growing segment of second chance employment opportunities. Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and logistics companies provide immediate hiring with minimal background screening for entry-level positions. The growth of e-commerce creates insatiable demand for warehouse workers, order fulfillment specialists, and delivery drivers. These positions offer predictable schedules, advancement opportunities, and skills training that transfers across multiple industries.
Automotive Manufacturing Opportunities
Texas automotive manufacturing provides some of the state's best second chance employment opportunities with excellent wages and benefits. Companies like Toyota, General Motors, and numerous auto parts suppliers actively recruit workers with criminal backgrounds for production, quality control, and maintenance positions. The industry's growth and aging workforce create abundant openings for motivated individuals seeking stable careers.
- Production line workers: Assembly, quality inspection, and packaging positions starting at $18-24/hour with overtime opportunities and comprehensive benefits packages
- Maintenance technicians: Equipment repair, preventive maintenance, and facility support roles offering $22-28/hour with technical training and advancement potential
- Material handlers: Inventory management, parts distribution, and logistics support providing stable employment with predictable schedules and growth opportunities
- Quality control inspectors: Product testing, documentation, and compliance verification offering detail-oriented work with competitive compensation and job security
Automotive manufacturing offers exceptional job security and advancement potential for dedicated workers. The industry's technical training programs provide valuable skills transferable throughout manufacturing sectors.
Aerospace and Defense Contracting
The Texas aerospace industry offers unique second chance opportunities despite security clearance requirements that may limit some positions. Companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and hundreds of suppliers provide manufacturing, assembly, and support positions that don't require security clearances. These roles focus on commercial aircraft production, component manufacturing, and facility maintenance with starting wages of $20-26/hour. The industry's precision requirements and quality standards create structured work environments ideal for individuals seeking stable, meaningful careers. Many aerospace employers provide comprehensive training programs, apprenticeships, and tuition assistance for workers pursuing additional education or certifications.
Transportation and Logistics Career Pathways
The Texas transportation industry offers immediate second chance employment opportunities across trucking, delivery, and logistics operations. The state's central location and massive economy create constant demand for drivers, warehouse workers, and logistics coordinators. CDL training programs specifically target individuals with criminal backgrounds, providing pathways to high-paying careers.
- Commercial truck driving with starting salaries of $50,000-$65,000 annually
- Local delivery services for companies like Amazon, FedEx, and UPS
- Warehouse operations including order fulfillment and inventory management
- Freight handling and shipping coordination at ports and rail terminals
- Equipment maintenance for commercial vehicle fleets
Transportation careers provide independence and travel opportunities for individuals seeking fresh starts. The industry's growth ensures stable employment and advancement potential for reliable workers.
Commercial Driving Opportunities
Commercial driving represents one of Texas's most accessible high-paying second chance careers with immediate hiring potential. Trucking companies actively recruit individuals with criminal backgrounds, focusing on driving records rather than criminal history for most positions. CDL training programs throughout Texas provide free or low-cost certification with guaranteed job placement.
| Driving Position | Annual Salary | Requirements |
| Local Delivery Driver | $45,000-$55,000 | Clean driving record, physical fitness |
| Regional Truck Driver | $55,000-$65,000 | CDL Class A, willingness to travel |
| Long-Haul Trucker | $60,000-$75,000 | CDL, 2+ years experience preferred |
| Specialized Transport | $70,000-$85,000 | Additional certifications, clean record |
| Owner-Operator | $80,000-$120,000 | Business skills, truck ownership/lease |
| Heavy Equipment Transport | $65,000-$80,000 | Specialized training, safety focus |
Commercial driving provides immediate employment and excellent earning potential for qualified candidates. The nationwide driver shortage ensures job security and advancement opportunities throughout the transportation industry.
Warehouse and Distribution Centers
The Texas warehouse and distribution sector provides the largest number of immediate second chance employment opportunities statewide. E-commerce growth drives insatiable demand for warehouse workers, order processors, and shipping specialists across major metropolitan areas. Companies like Amazon, Walmart, and Target operate massive distribution centers that hire immediately with minimal background screening requirements. Starting wages range from $15-20/hour with opportunities for overtime, shift differentials, and rapid advancement based on performance metrics.
These positions offer predictable schedules, climate-controlled working conditions, and comprehensive benefits packages including health insurance and retirement plans. The structured work environment and clear performance expectations provide stability for individuals transitioning from incarceration. Many warehouse employers provide transportation assistance, flexible scheduling for education or family obligations, and tuition reimbursement for workers pursuing additional certifications or degrees.
Training Programs and Workforce Development Resources
Texas offers comprehensive workforce development programs specifically designed to help individuals with criminal backgrounds develop marketable skills and secure stable employment. State-funded initiatives provide free training, certification assistance, and job placement services through partnerships with employers actively seeking second chance workers. These programs report 75-85% job placement rates with average starting salaries 40% higher than minimum wage positions.
- Texas Workforce Commission Second Chance Programs: Provides free vocational training in high-demand fields including welding, HVAC, commercial driving, and healthcare support with guaranteed job placement assistance and employer partnerships
- Community college re-entry initiatives: Accelerated certificate programs in construction trades, automotive repair, computer skills, and business administration designed specifically for individuals with criminal backgrounds seeking career advancement
- Non-profit training organizations: Groups like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local faith-based organizations offer skills training, job placement services, and ongoing mentorship throughout the employment transition process
- Industry-specific apprenticeships: Labor unions and trade associations provide paid apprenticeships in electrical work, plumbing, carpentry, and other skilled trades with guaranteed employment upon completion
- Online certification programs: State-subsidized access to digital skills training, professional certifications, and remote learning opportunities that accommodate various schedules and learning preferences
These training programs address the skills gap while providing pathways to meaningful careers for motivated individuals. Employer partnerships ensure that training aligns with actual job market demands and hiring needs.
Conclusion
Texas leads the nation in providing meaningful second chance employment opportunities across diverse industries that actively welcome individuals with criminal backgrounds. The combination of "Ban the Box" protections, industry labor shortages, and comprehensive workforce development programs creates an exceptionally supportive environment for career advancement. Oil and gas, construction, and hospitality sectors offer immediate employment with excellent advancement potential and competitive wages. Success in securing second chance employment requires leveraging available training resources, understanding industry-specific hiring practices, and maintaining focus on long-term career development rather than just immediate employment needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What industries in Texas hire the most people with criminal backgrounds?
Construction, oil and gas, hospitality, and manufacturing lead in second chance hiring, with construction offering the most immediate opportunities and oil and gas providing the highest wages averaging $45,000-$65,000 starting salaries.
Is Texas a "Ban the Box" state for employment background checks?
Yes, Texas "Ban the Box" legislation prohibits employers with 15+ employees from asking about criminal history on initial job applications, covering approximately 85% of Texas employers and allowing candidates to demonstrate qualifications before background screening.
How long do Texas employers wait before running background checks?
Most Texas employers wait 30-90 days after hiring before conducting background checks, with some industries like hospitality and retail delaying screening until after probationary periods or promotion opportunities.
What jobs in Texas don't require background checks at all?
Small local businesses, many restaurants, construction companies, temp agencies, and cash-paid positions often skip formal background checks entirely, focusing instead on work performance and personal references.
Where are the best second chance job opportunities located in Texas?
Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio metro areas contain 60% of available positions, while West Texas oil fields and Gulf Coast industrial areas offer high-paying opportunities with housing assistance.
What training programs help people with criminal records find jobs in Texas?
Texas Workforce Commission, community colleges, and non-profit organizations provide free vocational training in welding, HVAC, commercial driving, and other high-demand fields with 75-85% job placement rates.
Additional Resources
- Texas Workforce Commission Second Chance Employment Programs
https://www.twc.texas.gov/jobseekers/second-chance-employment - Texas "Ban the Box" Employment Law Information
https://www.twc.texas.gov/news/efte/ban_the_box.html - Oil and Gas Industry Workforce Development Council
https://www.txoga.org/workforce-development - Texas Construction Career Center
https://www.texasabc.org/workforce-development - Hospitality Industry Second Chance Hiring Resources
https://www.restaurantopportunitycenters.org/texas - Commercial Driver License Training Programs Directory
https://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration/commercial-drivers-license/cdl-training-providers
