Find Employers That Hire
This directory lists 33+ employers across Fall River and southeastern Massachusetts that are known to hire individuals with felony convictions. These are real companies with documented second-chance hiring practices \u2014 researched and compiled as part of the F.R.E.E. initiative.
Massachusetts is a Ban the Box state. Employers cannot ask about your criminal history on the initial job application. Know your rights \u2014 scroll down for details.
Felon-Friendly Employer Directory
Companies known to hire individuals with felony convictions. Many have signed the Fair Chance Pledge or follow Ban the Box policies. Confirm directly with each employer \u2014 policies can change.
Amazon
LocalHires individuals with records for warehouse/fulfillment roles. Individual review per application.
Fall River & surrounding area fulfillment centers
FedEx
LocalEvaluates applicants case-by-case. No blanket ban on felony convictions.
Seekonk, MA hub nearby
UPS
LocalCase-by-case evaluation. Considers nature/age of offense and relevance to position.
Multiple locations in southeastern MA
Staffmark
LocalStaffing agency actively hiring warehouse associates. No experience required, training provided.
Fall River, MA — $18-20/hr
Daikin Comfort Technologies
LocalSeeking warehouse associates for branch operations.
Fall River, MA branch
Your Rights in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has some of the strongest protections for job seekers with criminal records. Know these before you apply.
Ban the Box Law
Massachusetts employers CANNOT ask about your criminal history on the initial job application. They can only ask after an interview or conditional offer.
CORI Reform
Felony convictions older than 10 years and misdemeanor convictions older than 5 years generally do NOT appear on standard background checks (with limited exceptions).
Sealed & Expunged Records
If your records are sealed or expunged, you can legally answer "no record" to any employer question about criminal history.
Right to Dispute
If an employer considers not hiring you based on your CORI, they MUST give you a copy of the report and a chance to dispute any inaccuracies before making a final decision.
Employer Cannot Request Your CORI
Employers are prohibited from asking YOU to provide a copy of your own CORI or arrest records.
Application Tips
Practical advice from reentry professionals and people who have been through it.
Be Honest, Be Brief
When asked about your record, be upfront but concise. Focus on what you learned and how you have changed — not the details of the offense.
Know Your Rights First
If an application asks about criminal history upfront, that may violate MA law. You are not required to disclose on initial applications.
Highlight Skills & Training
Certifications, volunteer work, and any training you completed (including while incarcerated) strengthen your application significantly.
Use Staffing Agencies
Agencies like Staffmark, Labor Finders, and PeopleReady are often the fastest path to employment. Many specialize in second-chance placements.
Apply to Multiple Places
Do not wait to hear back from one employer. Apply widely — the more applications out, the faster you will land something.
Ask About WOTC
Mention that hiring you may qualify the employer for a Work Opportunity Tax Credit of up to $2,400. This can tip the scales in your favor.
For Employers: WOTC Benefits
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal tax credit that pays employers up to $2,400 per eligible hire, and up to $9,600 for certain veterans. Hiring returning citizens makes your business eligible.
Submit IRS Form 8850 and ETA Form 9061 within 28 days of hire
40% of first $6,000 in wages = $2,400 per employee
Contact Jack Sprince at MA Dept. of Career Services for guidance
Federal Bonding Program covers first 6 months at no cost to employer
Additional Resources
MassHire Career Centers
Free job search, resume writing, and training. Mention you are a returning citizen for targeted support.
Visit JobQuestMA Reentry Resources
1,200+ resources across 33 categories for returning citizens across Massachusetts.
Visit DirectoryJails to Jobs Network
National directory of second-chance employers, resume help, interview tips, and legal resources.
Visit Jails to JobsF.R.E.E. Workforce Pathway \u2014 In Development
This workforce model is being developed as part of the F.R.E.E. initiative. It will offer structured training, mentorship, and direct employer partnerships in Fall River for justice-involved individuals.
If you are an employer, reentry organization, or individual interested in being part of this when it launches, register your interest below.