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Offender Friendly Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mental Health Associate

Pierre, SD · On-site

$23 - $31/hr

... friendly work environment to achieve shared goals. Who We Want: * a highly motivated and ... Skill to: * identify and effectively communicate offender behaviors, problems, and symptoms to ...

Newton, Iowa is a progressive, family friendly community, a shining star of Central Iowa and a ... Observes offender behavior/interaction with staff, other offenders, and visitors; communicates ...

Transfer Deputy

Port Huron, MI · On-site

$19.32 - $25.43/hr

Counsels offender as appropriate to maintain a stable environment, especially those with discipline ... friendly customer service; support the County's mission and values; ability to think critically ...

Counsels offender as appropriate to maintain a stable environment, especially those with discipline ... friendly customer service; support the County's mission and values; ability to think critically ...

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Offender Friendly information

What key skills and qualifications are needed to thrive in an offender-friendly employment setting, and why are they important?

To succeed in an offender-friendly job, candidates typically need a willingness to learn, reliability, and a basic educational background such as a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with on-the-job training programs, safety protocols, and sometimes basic computer or machinery use is often required. Strong work ethic, communication skills, and a positive attitude help individuals stand out and integrate effectively into the workplace. These qualities are crucial for building trust, demonstrating value to employers, and supporting successful reentry into the workforce.

What challenges might I encounter when seeking employment in offender-friendly workplaces, and how can I address them?

Job seekers with a criminal record may face challenges such as limited job openings, potential background checks, and stigma from employers or coworkers. Offender-friendly workplaces are designed to support second-chance hiring, but candidates should be prepared to discuss their past openly and demonstrate their skills and commitment to personal growth. Building a strong resume, obtaining relevant certifications, and preparing for common interview questions can help increase your chances of success. Many organizations also offer support services, mentorship, and on-the-job training to facilitate a smooth transition.

What is the difference between Offender Friendly vs Probation Officer?

AspectOffender FriendlyProbation Officer
CredentialsVaries; often includes background checks, training in offender supportRequires a degree in criminal justice or related field, certification often needed
Work EnvironmentCommunity-based, supportive settings, often non-traditional rolesOffice and fieldwork, supervising offenders in community
Industry UsageUsed in organizations focusing on rehabilitation and supportStandard role within criminal justice system
Search/Comparison IntentFocus on supportive, rehabilitative roles for offendersTraditional criminal justice supervision

Offender Friendly roles emphasize supportive, rehabilitative approaches to working with offenders, often in community or non-traditional settings. Probation Officers are more formal roles within the criminal justice system, focusing on supervising offenders and ensuring compliance with legal conditions. While both work with offenders, Offender Friendly positions tend to prioritize support and reintegration, whereas Probation Officers focus on monitoring and enforcement.

What are 'offender friendly' jobs?

'Offender friendly' jobs are positions that are open to hiring individuals with criminal records or past convictions. Employers offering these jobs are willing to consider applicants who may have been incarcerated or have a criminal background, focusing on their skills and qualifications rather than their past. These jobs are often found in industries such as construction, manufacturing, food service, and retail, but can be present in many sectors. Many organizations and job boards specialize in connecting former offenders with employers who believe in second chances. Pursuing 'offender friendly' jobs can help individuals reintegrate into society and rebuild their lives.
More about Offender Friendly jobs
What cities are hiring for Offender Friendly jobs? Cities with the most Offender Friendly job openings:
What states have the most Offender Friendly jobs? States with the most job openings for Offender Friendly jobs include:
Infographic showing various Offender Friendly job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Full Time, and 90% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
MDOC Internship (Offender Success Administration)

MDOC Internship (Offender Success Administration)

State of Michigan

Lansing, MI • On-site

Internship

Posted 16 days ago


State Of Michigan rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 181 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 50 rated states


Job description

Salary: $0.00 Hourly
Location : Lansing, MI
Job Type: Internship - Non Paid
Job Number: Internship- Offender Success
Department: Corrections - Central Office
Opening Date: 03/01/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Bargaining Unit: N/A
Job Description
The Michigan Department of Corrections is proud to be a Michigan Veteran's Affairs Agency (MVAA) Gold Level Veteran Friendly Employer.
MDOC is proud to employ nearly 1,500 veterans and actively serving military members across the department. The Department has many benefits and services available to support our military and veteran employees, spouses, and families. Learn more about what makes MDOC a Gold-Level Veteran Friendly Employer here.
We are currently accepting applications for the 2026 Fall Semester (September 2026 - December 2026).
Note: There are multiple internships located at the Michigan Department Corrections. In order to be considered, applicants must apply to the correct internship job posting. This job posting is specifically for applicants interested in doing an internship for the MDOC Offender Success (OS) Administration.
The mission of the Michigan Department of Corrections is to create a safer Michigan by holding offenders accountable while promoting their success. The Offender Success (OS) Administration is housed within the MDOC's Executive Office and has staff at various worksites throughout the state, including the community, prison, and central office. Staff members include educators, school staff, institutional parole agents, specialists, and analysts who oversee various programs within the prisons and contracted services in the community. The goal of this diverse group of professionals is to foster change and success for those in prison, as well as those on parole or probation.
This internship will help the student develop competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities and motivation) needed for a career with the Michigan Department of Corrections through daily interaction with staff, contractors, clients, and other stakeholders.
The intern responsibilities may include the following:
  • Review policy and procedures for the Michigan Department of Corrections
  • Attend and assist in facilitating OS events
  • Assist in the development of reports.
  • Assist OS staff in developing and facilitating job readiness and other support programs
  • Track job placement and employment retention outcomes
  • Provide research assistance and data collection on reentry programs, policies and practices
  • Collaborate with contracted reentry service providers, other law enforcement representatives and community organizations
  • Assist in administering risk assessments and developing case plans
  • Identify and refer parolees to local community resources
  • Participate in special assignments as directed by the Manager and/or OS Designee
  • Work on quality assurance measures.
  • Complete data collection and analysis.
  • Create PowerPoint presentations or surveys.
  • Research information to recommend solutions.

Required Education and Experience
Applicants applying for the OS Administration internship opportunity:
  • Must be enrolled in a college or university pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, correctional administration, criminology, psychology, social work, counseling and guidance, child development, sociology, school social work, social work administration, education psychology, family relations, human services, or theology or a related field approved by the OS Administration
  • Must have good written and verbal communication skills
  • Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5
  • Must pass a LEIN background check
  • Must pass a fingerprinting screen, through the source designated by the Department
  • Must pass pre-employment drug screening

Additional Requirements and Information
Please attach a cover letter, current resume, and a copy of your current college transcripts (official or unofficial). Your cover letter must include your response to the following questions.
1. What qualities or attributes would you bring to the State of Michigan?
2. What are your career interests, goals and plans? Please be specific.
3. What do you expect to gain from this internship experience?
Failure to include all attachments will result in your application being screened out.
** If offered an internship, applicants will be required to complete the program fingerprint screen, drug testing, and a LEIN (background check).
The Department of Corrections may screen out job applicants who have been convicted of a felony in accordance with Public Act 191 of 2017. Applicants who have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony are ineligible for employment with the Department of Corrections until satisfactory completion of any sentence imposed, including parole or probation.
Accommodations
If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or selection processes, please contact the for the agency that posted this position vacancy.
State of Michigan unpaid Intern positions do not include a comprehensive benefits plan.
01
Are you currently enrolled in a college or university pursuing a bachelor's degree in criminal justice, correctional administration, criminology, psychology, social work, counseling and guidance, child development, sociology, school social work, social work administration, education psychology, family relations, human services, or theology? If so, please attach your college transcripts to your application.
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have a GPA of 2.5 or higher?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Will you be seeking academic credit for this internship?
  • Yes
  • No

04
Please state the deadline date that you will need to meet in order to notify your academic faculty member to receive academic credit for this internship.
05
*CORR2 - Are you related to or acquainted with anyone who is currently incarcerated in a State prison, tether program, on parole or felony probation status? (NOTE: an affirmative response to this question will NOT automatically result in you being screened out for consideration)
  • Yes
  • No

06
*CORR3 - If yes, indicate name(s), and incarceration/supervision location of prisoner, parolee, or probationer. What is your relationship to the person(s)? If no, enter N/A
07
*CORR4 - I understand and agree that the Department of Corrections will complete a thorough investigation of my ENTIRE CRIMINAL HISTORY and may verify all data given in the criminal history check. Any material misrepresentation or deliberate omission of a fact in their application may be justification for refusal of, or if employed, termination from employment.
  • Yes
  • No

08
*CORR5 - I have provided a valid e-mail and understand it is my responsibility to monitor said e-mail account for interview opportunities. I also acknowledge that correspondence received through NEOGOV may be sent to a junk mail (including state of Michigan junk mail) or spam account and I will monitor those accounts accordingly.
  • Yes
  • No

09
*CORR9 I confirm that I have reviewed the required information on the Ethical Standards and Conduct via the link provided on the job posting. Based on that review please select the appropriate answer below.
  • Neither I nor any member of my immediate family (grandparent, parent, parent-in-law, stepparent, sibling, spouse, child or stepchild), have personal or financial interests in a business or entity which is contracted with the State of Michigan. Indicate N/A in the box below if this applies.
  • I, or a member of my immediate family (grandparent, parent, parent-in-law, stepparent, sibling, spouse, child or stepchild), have personal or financial interests in a business or entity which is contracted with the State of Michigan as summarized below.

10
*CORR10 -If you responded that you or a family member does have a conflict of interest to the question above, please explain in detail below. If you responded neither you nor a family member has a conflict please enter N/A.
11
*CORR11 - Have you ever been employed by the State of Michigan?
  • Yes
  • No

12
*CORR12 - If you answered yes to the question above please identify which department, former name if used and/or ID number if known. If you answered no, please enter N/A.
Required Question

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