So, you committed a felony and got arrested for it. You then served time, learned your lesson, and now, you want to give yourself another chance and make a fresh start to your life. Smart choice. However, it can be quite difficult to find a decent job, even if the crime was committed years ago, because more than 90% employers run a background check in some form or the other before hiring any potential employee. There are ex-felons who are highly qualified and experienced, yet they find it extremely difficult to get a job because of some felony they committed during their teenage years. If this is the case with you, don't get disheartened at all. There are certain employers and jobs that are open to hiring convicted felons, and help them put their life back in order. Moreover, discuss with your lawyer the possibility of filing for expunging the felony, as this will erase the charges completely from your criminal records. Here are a few job options for convicted felons. You can work from home by undertaking online surveys or work as a freelancer writer. Most of these job applications never ask whether the individual is a convicted felon and if they do, the applicant should never lie. A decent amount of money can be made by participating in online surveys and writing articles. Moreover, the individual can work from the comfort of his/her home. Both men and women can try out these opportunities. The field of real estate construction offers loads of opportunities for convicted felons. Many ex-felons are hesitant to take such jobs because of the limited paycheck; however, this isn't true. Decent money can be made in the construction business, and someone who wants to rise can surely work hard and be successful. Due to their limited formal education, most convicted felons have to start from the bottom, and then, make their way to the top. By working on this job, you can show your credentials and apply for grants for felons, which may help you complete your education. Another industry where ex-felons are most likely to find employment is offshore-drilling. Oil drillers earn a decent salary, but are required to spend about 2-3 weeks in a month on the rig, followed by a 14-day break. Jobs in this sector are mostly found in locations such as Alaska and Gulf of Mexico. This job is ideal for men. Law says that convicted felons can't enlist in the military, but during times of high demand, some of them have been enlisted. The military chooses an applicant with a felony record only after completely reviewing his/her application. The military doesn't accept any applicants who were convicted for serious offenses such as drug-, human-, and arms-trafficking, and sexual offenses. It is always better if you can start a venture of your own. This way, you really don't have to bother about the background checks that disqualify you from jobs. Also, starting something of your own will allow you to regain your self-confidence without having to worry about your past. You can even buy an established business or opt for a franchise, if you do not wish to start right from scratch. Working as a delivery guy at a restaurant or pizza place is also another option. If you are planning to enroll for a course, such jobs offer the convenience of earning while you learn. Also, a little generosity from customers in the form of tips amounts to some decent earnings. You can also work as courier delivery guy. These jobs do not require you to get a background check. If you want work in a job where no cash-handling is involved, you can definitely work as a receptionist at a company. If you are smart, presentable and like to interact with people, then this might be an ideal job for you. Not only will you get to meet different people, but this job will help to hone your social skills. Also, you can easily get on-the-job training. There are several companies which outsource their customer service and telemarketing departments to smaller organizations. These organizations often require telemarketing callers. While some companies do run a background check, there are others who hire based on your skill-set. If you have a flair in engaging people on the phone, with a little voice modulation and telemarketing training provided by the company, your job is secured. If you are adept at any other language apart from English, then you can definitely work as a translator. Suppose you are adept at French, then you can translate French business documents to English and vice versa. Not only does this vocation allow you to work from the confines of your home, but it is also a highly lucrative career option. If you are good at making handmade jewelery and craft items, then there is a huge market open for you. All you have to do is register on web-stores like Etsy and eBay, and start showcasing your work. These websites will help you get clients. If your creations are innovative, eye-catching, well-marketed, and priced rightly, they are bound to sell like hot cakes. Also, as you will be selling jewelery and craft online, you really don't have to worry about any kind of background check. Many non-English speaking countries today require English teachers. If you are lucky enough, and you apply for a job abroad through job websites, in all probability, you will end up getting a good placement. Many times, there is no background check for such jobs, and if you prove to be a good teacher, you will definitely get a better pay-package eventually. While some NGOs may seem reluctant, there will be others who will offer you a job and would encourage you to earn a living on your own. All you have to do is find the right type of job. Remember, being an NGO, the salary they can afford to pay you may not be very high, but your experience will definitely count. Many small time supermarkets, showrooms, or boutiques cannot afford a background check, and may hire you based on your persuasion skills and salesmanship. By proving your marketing skills and commitment, you definitely can rise further in such setups. These were some of the best jobs for convicted felons that may not require a background check. Apart from the ones mentioned above, you can also work at restaurants, as a used car dealer, cook, janitor, etc. You can also seek advice and help from non-profit organizations who help felons turn a fresh page. Use all your contacts to get yourself employed. Call them and let them know that you are currently looking for a job, and you would be very grateful if they could help you out. You can also get in touch with the state employment office and enroll yourself in their programs which focus on getting employment for all kinds of people. Remember not to be picky about the jobs being offered at this point, the important thing is getting a job and getting your life back on track.