Airports are known as the places for travel, commerce, and employment. Talking about airports as the places for employment, for people with a felony record, working within an airport environment seems to be impossible due to strict security regulations and background checks. The question is, can one find employment at an airport with a felony conviction?
Possibility of Working at the Airport with a Felony
For anyone who is wondering if someone with a felony can work at the airport, the short answer to the question is yes. It is possible to work at the airport even if you have a felony conviction. According to Felony Record Hub, both the Transportation Security Administration or TSA and a few airlines do hire felons as long as they meet specific criteria. In general, someone with a felony can be hired if their conviction is older than 7-10 years. Besides, that person must not be on any government watchlist or terrorist list. In addition, there may also be some other ones, depending on the job type and the employer.
Factors that Impact Employment Eligibility
Once again, there is a chance of people with a felony conviction to work at the airport, depending on several factors, such as:
- Type of felony
- Time since the conviction
- Particular job they are applying for
- Local regulations and policies
Airport Jobs for Individuals with Felony
As stated before, depending on the type of your conviction, the age of your conviction, and the type and level of the job you are applying for, you may still be able to find a job at the airport even if you have a felony. Some of the most recommended airport jobs for felons include:
1. Call center agent
Call center agents are the ones who are responsible for answering calls from customers at an airline. Apart from that, their jobs also include offering solutions to booking issues or travel requests. For anyone who has a clean record in the past ten years and has skills to become a call center agent, this may be the best option to restart your career. If you are still not confident meeting with people as you are afraid they will judge you, you are suggested to find a job that you can do remotely from the comfort of your home.
2. Customer service agent
Customer service agents are some of the most important employees working at the airports. They are the ones who have people book or manage their flights. Besides, they also help these people by answering questions regarding reservations. It is a good option for someone with a felony who meets the criteria. By working as a customer service agent, you can enter at entry-level and work your way to the top.
3. Airport custodian
Airport custodians are the employees who are responsible for maintenance at the airport. Their tasks may include cleaning windows, floors, bathrooms, and restaurants at the airports. Becoming an airport custodian can be a good option for someone with a felony because the requirements are minimal. However, this job may be full of challenges as it requires enough physical fitness to use cleaning tools.
4. Transportation security officer
A transportation security officer or TSO refers to a person who is in charge of ensuring the safety of travelers passing through airport security. Their tasks include checking and monitoring luggage. While on duty, they get help from the screening equipment. Aside from that, they also check exit and entry points at the airports without carrying weapons. It is also worth noting that they do not have the ability to arrest people.
5. Ground support equipment operator
A ground support equipment operator is an employee who is responsible for operating and maintaining the equipment used on the ground, including carts, tugs, deicers, and generators. In order to become a ground support equipment operator, one must have mechanical skills, technical skills, and the ability to work in various weather conditions and temperatures. It is possible for someone with a felony conviction to be hired as a ground support equipment operator if the conviction is older than 7-10 years and if the conviction does not have anything to do with fraud, drugs, or theft.
6. Ramp agent
A ramp agent is defined as someone who performs a number of different tasks on the ramp, including driving vehicles, guiding the aircraft, operating equipment, or cleaning the cabin. The key parts while working in this field include teamwork and communication skills. Plus, the employees should also know how to follow the safety procedures and regulations. The areas where the ramp agents work include the aircraft, the runway, and the terminal. Someone with a felony has a chance to work as a ramp agent if their conviction is older than 7-10 years. Additionally, the conviction should not be related to fraud, drugs, or theft.
7. Cargo operations
Individuals with a felony conviction may want to consider cargo operations if they want to work at the airport. The main tasks of this job include loading and unloading cargo from airplanes. However, remember that it may require some prior experience or training.
8. Baggage handler
One of the best options to work at the airport for someone with a felony conviction is working as a baggage handler. This one requires physical labor. Sometimes, it also includes working outside. However, it is worth it as it can pay well and offer many things.
9. Retail and food services
Usually, retail and food services are offered by third-party contractors. Due to the fact, there is a low chance for the authority to conduct background checks on these employees.
10. Janitorial and maintenance services
It is best for those with a felony conviction to start from the bottom if they want to work at the airport. The most recommended jobs include janitorial and maintenance services. The reason why they are recommended is because they usually require little to no prior experience. Besides, they can also work for a third party contractor that provides these jobs to the airport.
Tips for Getting a Job at the Airport with a Felony
For those with a felony who want to work at the airport, don’t get surprised if you face some challenges and obstacles as they are normal. However, there is nothing to worry as you may also have some opportunities and options. Check out some tips to help you get a job at the airport with a felony below:
- Be flexible and be open-minded about the job options. It is better for you to not limit yourself to one certain job or company as it minimizes your chances of finding a job. Do not hesitate to start with an entry-level job and work your way up.
- Do not lie and just be honest about your past. Lying can only backfire and eliminate your chances of getting hired. Aside from that, you should also explain that you have changed and improved yourself. In addition, highlighting your qualifications, skills, and achievements, and showing your potential are also recommended.
- Keep searching for a job and do not give up or get discouraged if the employer rejects or discriminates against you. It may be necessary for you to apply for many jobs before you get one. Apart from that, you may also need to deal with some negative reactions from the employers or coworkers. Please try your best to stay strong as it is one of the keys to achieve the goal of working at the airport.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, it is possible for someone with a felony to work at the airport. However, they may face some challenges while looking for a job. The eligibility is influenced by a few things, including the nature of the offense and the type of role applied for. If you are with a felony conviction looking for airport employment, make sure to understand airport policies, explore available resources and opportunities, and show that you have changed for something better.
A bookworm and researcher especially related to law and citizenship education. I spend time every day in front of the internet and the campus library.
