Those who like to work with computers have numerous options to consider. There are plenty of information technology (IT) jobs for ex-felons. Whether you have had formal training in the field or you are self-taught, you should still be able to find positions that are open to you. IT jobs are not inherently off limits for ex-felons, so it’s a good idea to explore the options.
Many employers do want to know if those apply for a job has been convicted of a felony, or if they have served time in jail or prison. When looking for an IT job, you don’t have to add that information to your resume, but if you are filling out an application and they ask the question you should be honest. Simply asking the question doesn’t mean they won’t hire an ex-felon, but it does mean they want to be aware of the situation. They may also ask what you were convicted of.
Being honest is the best way to handle the questions on the application, so that there are no issues that arise later. Supply the information when asked about it, but don’t readily offer it up or add it to your resume to advertise it. You should still be able to find good IT jobs for ex-felons, because most places will not automatically bar you from being hired.
Types of IT Jobs for Ex-Felons :::: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are different types of positions that fall under the IT category. They predict that the field will grow at a faster than average pace, with nearly 700,000 new jobs being added in the field in the coming years. Plus, these positions tend to pay a higher than average salary. They report that the average pay is over $97,000 per year.
A college degree is not required to work in all of the IT jobs. The educational requirements vary, depending on the position, company, and complexity of the work being done. Many companies require only a high school diploma, while others want some college education, an associate’s degree, or certificates. There are IT certificate programs that are quick to complete and can increase your chances of getting hired in some positions. Check with your local community college to see what courses or certificate programs are being offered in IT.
Some of the types of IT jobs for ex-felons include:
Computer Support Specialists – People who work in these IT positions help others with their computers. Many corporations have support specialists on staff, so that if people in the company need help with their computer they can have the specialist there within minutes. They will help with the computer, programs, teaching the person how to use the devices, and more. Many positions only require a high school diploma, while others may want you to have had some computer college classes or certificates.
Web Developers – If you have an artistic side, along with knowing how to use computers well, you can work in Web development. Those in these positions tend to help create websites, functions, and make work on the navigation aspect. There are many jobs available in this particular area, and it’s also one that you can do on your own. If you have the skills you can create your own business offering Web development services. Many people who work in this area are self-employed. The educational requirements for this position vary by company.
Software Developers – These IT jobs for ex-felons may require more knowledge than the others listed to this point. To obtain a software developer job you have to know how to create and test software, which includes identifying issues and knowing how to work to fix them. Most people who work in this position have some type of educational in software development, with many having a master’s degree in the field. The position pays a higher salary than most others in IT, with the average being around $120,000 per year.
Computer Programmers – This is another possible IT job for ex-felons. Computer programmers tend to work in office settings and often have education that is related to programming. Most people who work as computer programmers know multiple programming languages, or they have studied math in-depth. They work to help ensure that computer software is working correctly and to write and test scripts. While the outlook for these jobs is that there will be fewer of them in the near future, they are still plentiful at this time. Since computer technology continues to evolve, those working in this field may need to keep up on the changes through continuing education courses.
Cyber Security – This is a growing field that is important to most companies that have information stored on their computers. It’s crucial to be able to protect the information and data that is being collected, and ensure that people are not able to hack into programs to steal it. Many companies hire cyber security professionals to help keep their data safer. Good problem solving skills are necessary to enter this field and are often more important than having a degree.
There are plenty of IT jobs for ex-felons. The opportunities that are available to you are going to be influenced by your education and experience, more so than being an ex-felon. Most companies want to hire people to work in IT who know what they are doing, are good problem solvers, and can work well with others.
Check online job boards in your area to find IT jobs. For ex-felons it is important to remember that they are not going to state that they are looking for ex-felons, or that they won’t hire them. Go forward with applying for any jobs that interest you and that you feel qualified for, and if the question comes up it can be addressed then. It also helps if you have one or two people who can be a good reference for you. This gives the company someone they can call on to get reassurance that you will be a good person to hire.
