How to Apply for Jobs When One Has a Misdemeanor on Record in Oregon
In the state of Oregon, a misdemeanor will stay on your criminal record permanently unless you have it expunged. This can make it difficult if you are applying for a job, especially jobs that require an extensive background check. There is no right or wrong way to apply for a job if you have a misdemeanor on your record; however, there are steps you can take to make the process go more smoothly for you and your potential employer.
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Instructions
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Read the application instructions carefully for the job to which you are applying. Some jobs, including many in the education and law enforcement fields, explicitly restrict those with criminal backgrounds from applying.
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Supply all pertinent information required for the application. The application may ask if you have a criminal record; if it does, answer honestly. Lying on an application can automatically disqualify you from the hiring process.
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Highlight your career goals, prior experience and skills on your resume. You do not have to list the misdemeanor. A resume is supposed to include only the best information about your employment history, not your past faults or weaknesses.
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Answer honestly if asked about your criminal record during the interview process. Many employers will respect your honesty, and may be willing to overlook your past because of it. Be prepared for some prospective employers to immediately disqualify you from the interview process once the information is revealed.
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Supply any necessary information for a criminal background check. Typically, this is one of the final steps in the interview process. Because employers must pay to get your background check, they will likely only request it if you are a top candidate for the position.
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Begin the process of having your misdemeanor expunged from your record if your criminal history continually prevents you from landing work. You will need to hire a lawyer, file a petition with the state of Oregon and present evidence as to why your misdemeanor should be expunged. This is usually only an option for first-time offenders who are otherwise in good legal standing.
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Tips & Warnings
Honesty is the best policy: that is more than a cliche when it comes to lying on a job resume or application. Even if you get past the interview and are hired, an employer is likely to fire you if company officials ever discover you lied about your criminal past.
In some cases, it can be illegal to lie on your job application. This applies mainly to government jobs, including work in the law enforcement field.
