Jobs for Felons in California (2026) — Employers, Staffing Agencies & Reentry Programs

California Fair Chance Act (AB 1008, 2017; Gov. Code §12952) — employers with 5+ employees cannot ask about or consider criminal history until after a conditional job offer. Los Angeles and San Francisco add stricter local ordinances.

The Fair Chance Act also mandates a formal individualized assessment: written notice of the potentially disqualifying conviction, a copy of the background report, and at least 5 business days for the applicant to respond before adverse action.

No matter what the law says, the practical rule everywhere is the same: employers may consider a record, but they cannot have a blanket no-felons policy. Under EEOC guidance, an employer must look at the nature of the offense, how long ago it happened, and whether it relates to the job. If you were rejected solely because of a record, you can file a free complaint with the EEOC or your state civil rights agency.

1. Lead with the tax credit and the bond. When the application asks about your record and you get to an interview, be direct: "I have a record from a few years ago. If it matters to your hiring decision, you qualify for a $2,400 Work Opportunity Tax Credit and a free federal bond for my first six months." Employers rarely know these exist — being the candidate who does makes you the low-risk hire.

2. Start with temp, convert to permanent.Temp-to-hire lets an employer see your work ethic before they see your paperwork. Roughly 30–40% of temp placements convert. Accept the first assignment even if it's not ideal — recent work history is the asset that unlocks everything else.

3. Know what California employers can ask. California restricts when private employers can ask about criminal history — the box can't appear on the initial application. Answer honestly when asked — lying on an application is itself a firing offense and reads worse than most convictions.

4. Check whether your record can be cleared. A pardon or expungement changes the job search completely. Read our California expungement guide and California pardon guide.

5. Get the interview in person when you can.Records screened by software reject; records evaluated by a human who has met you often don't. Walk in, apply in person for local and service jobs, and ask for the manager. It's the oldest advice there is because it works.