Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

Getting a government job with a felony conviction is possible in some cases, but it depends on the type of felony, how much time has passed, and the specific job you’re applying for. Federal, state, and local government agencies all have different rules, and some positions automatically disqualify applicants with certain criminal histories. Still, many government jobs are open to people with past convictions, especially if the offense was nonviolent and you’ve shown rehabilitation.

How Felonies Affect Government Employment

• Nature of the offense – Crimes involving violence, fraud, theft, or dishonesty often disqualify applicants from jobs that involve security clearances, handling money, or working with vulnerable groups.
• Type of position – Some government jobs, like law enforcement, corrections, and military service, require a clean record. Others, like maintenance, clerical, or technical roles, may be more flexible.
• Time since conviction – The longer it has been since your conviction, the better your chances. Many agencies focus on your record after release and any evidence of rehabilitation.
• Expungement or pardon – If your felony was expunged or pardoned, you may not need to disclose it in most job applications, which improves your eligibility.

Federal vs. State Jobs

• Federal government – The federal government does not have a blanket ban on hiring felons. Instead, it reviews each case individually. You may still be eligible for jobs that do not require high-level security clearance or handling sensitive information.
• Kansas state government – Kansas follows “fair chance” hiring practices, which limit how and when criminal history can be considered. Many state jobs allow people with older or nonviolent felonies to apply, especially if they meet all other qualifications.

Jobs Often Open To People With Felonies

• Maintenance or custodial work
• Food service positions
• Transportation and logistics jobs
• Construction and labor roles
• Administrative or clerical positions, depending on the offense

Jobs That May Be Restricted

• Law enforcement and corrections positions
• Jobs requiring federal or state security clearance
• Positions involving handling public funds or sensitive personal data
• Teaching, childcare, or healthcare roles if the felony involved harm or risk to others

How To Improve Your Chances

• Be honest about your record, lying on an application can lead to automatic disqualification.
• Highlight education, job training, volunteer work, and rehabilitation programs completed since your conviction.
• Obtain letters of recommendation from employers, probation officers, or community leaders who can vouch for your progress.
• Apply for jobs through programs that support second-chance hiring or reentry assistance.

You can sometimes get a government job with a felony, depending on the nature of your offense, the position, and rehabilitation efforts. Many non-sensitive roles are open to people with older or nonviolent convictions, especially if you can show responsibility and good conduct since your release. Honesty, persistence, and proof of rehabilitation are the most important factors in improving your chances.