Finding a job can be difficult enough, but it can be even more challenging if you have a drug charge on your record. Unfortunately, many employers are reluctant to hire people with a criminal history, and a drug charge can make it seem like you’re not worthy of trust.
Oftentimes a drug charge signals that an individual is not reliable or responsible — two qualities that are essential for any employee. This can make it very hard to find a job, even if you are otherwise qualified.
However, there are ways to overcome this obstacle and get the job you want.
Why Is It Difficult To Get a Job With a Drug Charge?
Even if you don’t tell an employer about your history in your job application or interview, they may ultimately come across a drug charge during a background check, which most employers conduct during the application process.
In addition, certain professions (such as healthcare) require employees to have a clean drug test, and a past drug charge may make you ineligible for these positions.
On top of that, there are plenty of challenges that you may face during the hiring process which may make employers wary, including:
- License suspension: If you are convicted of a drug charge, your driver’s license may be suspended. This can make it challenging to find jobs that require driving, such as delivery or truck driving positions.
- Lack of experience: If you have been convicted of a drug charge, you likely have gaps in your employment history. This can make it hard for potential employers to see you as a qualified candidate.
- Stigma: There is a stigma attached to people with criminal records, which can make it difficult to find jobs, regardless of the nature of the charge.
- Questioning your accountability: A drug charge can make an employer question your reliability and responsibility. This is especially true if you are applying for a position that involves handling money or working with customers.
- Risking the reputation of business: If your potential employer is known to hire people with criminal records, it may reflect poorly on them and make it more difficult to keep and attain loyal customers or clients.
- Legal liability: Employers can be held liable if an employee with a criminal record commits a crime while working for them.
- Cost: Hiring someone with a criminal record can be more expensive for an employer, as they may have to provide training or extra support to help the employee succeed.
As a result of these obstacles, individuals with a drug charge on their record often find it difficult to get a job.
Finding Jobs That Hire People With a Drug Charge
Despite the challenges, there are still jobs out there willing to hire people with a criminal history, including those with a drug charge. Here are some tips for finding these positions:
- Check your state’s resources: Many states have resources that help connect ex-offenders with employers who are willing to hire them. This can be a great way to find job leads and learn about companies open to hiring people with a criminal history.
- Check out entry-level positions: Entry-level positions are often an excellent option for those with a criminal record, as employers are less likely to require a background check. There may be fewer job openings in this category, but it’s worth checking out if you’re struggling to find a position.
- Look for companies that are open to hiring ex-offenders: Not all companies are willing to hire people with a criminal history, but some are open to it. Do some research on companies that you’re interested in working for and see if they have a policy of hiring ex-offenders.
- Network with other ex-offenders: There is strength in numbers, and networking with other ex-offenders can help you find jobs that aren’t ordinarily available to you. Several organizations support ex-offenders, and they may be able to help you find a job.
- Start your own business: If getting a job is proving to be difficult, consider starting your own business. This can be a great way to showcase your skills and experience, and there are several resources available to help you get started.
In addition, there are many resources available to help those with a criminal record find employment, such as:
- 2nd Chances 4 Felons;
- CareerOneStop (U.S. Department of Labor);
- Employment & Training Administration (U.S. Department of Labor).
By using the resources available to you, you can increase your chances of finding a position that is a good fit for you.
Get Training in a Specialized Skill
In some cases, getting specialized training can make you a more attractive candidate for jobs that are normally unwilling to hire people with a drug charge. This type of training can show employers that you are serious about getting your life back on track and are willing to do what it takes to be successful.
Some examples of specialized training include:
- Certification in a trade such as welding or HVAC;
- Training in customer service or another area that is essential for the position;
- Postsecondary education in a field relevant to the job, such as agriculture or technology.
Moreover, there are many resources available to help you get the training you need, such as:
- Trade schools — Many trade schools across the country offer certification in various trades.
- Community colleges — Community colleges offer certificates and associate’s degrees in a variety of fields.
- Online courses — Many online courses can help you get the training you need to succeed in your career.
- Vocational rehabilitation programs — These programs offer training and support to help ex-offenders find employment.
- Employment and training programs offered by the military — The military offers several training programs that can prepare you for a career after service.
By getting the proper training, you can put yourself in a better position to find a job that is a good fit for you.
Expunging Felonies From Your Record
It may be possible to have your felony drug charge expunged from your record in some cases. This complicated process varies state by state, but it is worth looking into if you are eligible.
All requirements must be satisfied to have an offense expunged. However, expungement can be expedited depending on the charge, your progress through your sentence, how many arrests you’ve incurred, and if you’ve gone through any kind of rehabilitation since the original arrest.
When a felony drug charge is expunged, it is removed from all federal and state records. This can make it much easier to find a job, as many employers will not hire someone with a criminal history during a background check. However, keep in mind, that expungement does not include any record that may have been noted through the press or social media.
Be Proactive
When you are first charged with a drug felony, it is important to be proactive. This means contacting an attorney right away to start working on a defense strategy. By getting a lawyer involved early on, you may be able to beat the charge or get it reduced.
Though not all felonies such as drug crimes or DUI/DWI can be expunged, first-time offenders may be able to take a class and have the felony reduced to a misdemeanor or wiped completely.
Other ways to be proactive include:
- Keeping a clean record — This means not getting arrested again and following the terms of your probation.
- Completing court-ordered treatment programs — If you are required to attend a treatment program, make sure to complete it successfully.
- Working with an employment specialist — These specialists can help you find a job that is a good fit for you, regardless of your criminal record.
By being proactive, you can put yourself in a better position to deal with the consequences of a drug felony charge.
Though felonies can make it hard to find a job, they don’t have to define you. With the right training and a positive attitude, you can get a job in almost any industry.
