Having a felony on your record can be damaging when looking for a job. However, many employers will still consider you if you meet their hiring requirements and are qualified for the position.
Read on and get informed if you want to know whether Chick-Fil-A hires felons!
Does Chick-Fil-A Hire Felons In 2024?
Chick-Fil-A hires felons in some locations and on a case-by-case basis as of 2024. The company focuses more on the individual than their criminal history. Chick-Fil-A does not have a policy against employing felons. However, the company does consider each applicant based on their character, experience, and qualifications for all positions.
Keep reading for more information on whether Chick-Fil-A hires people with a criminal record, which jobs you can apply for at Chick-Fil-A with a felony charge, and much more!
Does Chick-Fil-A Hire Person With A Criminal Record?
Yes, Chick-Fil-A hires workers with criminal records. That said, the company does not automatically disqualify you for being incarcerated or having a felony conviction on your record.
However, Chick-Fil-A is a franchise, and the decision to hire depends on the business owner.
Therefore, the hiring rules may differ with the location since each business owner sets their employment procedures and policies.
Ideally, Chick-Fil-A will allow you to work at any of its restaurants if you can hold down a job and have proof of identification and a Social Security card.
Does Chick-Fil-A Drug Test?
Chick-Fil-A does not do pre-employment drug testing, but it requires all new hires to pass a drug test within the first five days.
Also, the company reserves the right to test employees if it suspects that an employee is using drugs.
Moreover, a third-party company performs tests under contract with Chick-Fil-A.
Naturally, Chick-Fil-A’s drug policy is applied uniformly without regard to age or length of service. So, if an employee tests positive for illegal drugs, they will be terminated immediately.
Finally, tests for drugs can include hair, saliva, urine, and blood tests, and it ensures the safety of everyone involved in the company’s daily operations.
Does Chick-Fil-A Run A Background Check?
Yes, Chick-Fil-A performs background checks on prospective employees.
That said, the background check aims to reassure the candidates they hire are trustworthy.
However, what will show up on the background check will depend on the state.
For example, if the Chick-Fil-A restaurant is located in a state that has passed the “ban the box” policy, Chick-Fil-A won’t consider your criminal history during the job application.
How Long Does A Background Check At Chick-Fil-A Take?
A background check takes a maximum of five days because Chick-Fil-A uses third-party screening companies to conduct background checks.
Also, the screening companies check applicants’ criminal history, work history, and education.
Basically, a background check is an investigation of your past and is a way of predicting whether or not you will commit future crimes.
How To Get Hired At Chick-Fil-A With A Felony Charge
If you would like to get hired at Chick-Fil-A with a felony, start by sending in an application letter alongside your resume.
Then, if you manage to get to the interview level and a question about your criminal record arises, it’s best to be honest.
Remember, your primary focus here is on how you have changed and kept your record clean since the release date.
Moreover, you can increase your chances of being hired if you have a referral or recommendation from someone who works at Chick-Fil-A.
Also, you will have an added advantage if you have experience working in a fast-food restaurant.
What Chick-Fil-A Jobs Can You Apply For With A Felony?
The team member position is the most appropriate job to apply for at Chick-Fil-A with a felony because it involves cleaning and food preparation and requires minimal to no experience.
With that, Chick-Fil-A will teach you all you need to know about the role once you get recruited.
Which Felony Charges Can Lower Your Chances Of Being Hired At Chick-Fil-A?
Applicants registered as sex offenders in any state, territory, or country will not be hired by Chick-Fil-A.
Also, those convicted of violent crimes will likely not be considered for employment.
However, similar rules do not apply at every location of Chick-Fil-A restaurants.
As previously mentioned, it is up to each franchise manager to decide whether or not they would like to hire felons at their location.
What Are The Odds Chick-Fil-A Will Hire You With A Felony?
The odds that Chick-Fil-A will hire you with a felony are average. That said, some locations might choose to hire you, while others will decline.
As highlighted earlier, the hiring policy is dependent on the franchise owner.
Should You Tell Chick-Fil-A About Your Felony?
It’s essential to be completely honest when completing the application. If you lie about your past, you could get the job, only to be let go when the truth comes out.
Instead of focusing on the past, treat the interview process as an opportunity to showcase your strengths and experience.
Overall, Chick-Fil-A is looking for people with a history of excellence and integrity. Therefore, be sure to include all work and volunteer experiences related to the position you are applying for.
Additionally, the company does not have a zero-tolerance policy for felons, but its goal is to hire honest and trustworthy individuals.
What Should You Know Before Applying At Chick-Fil-A With A Felony?
If you apply for a job at Chick-Fil-A with a criminal background, you will undergo a screening process.
Typically, your application will go through several channels before it reaches the hiring manager.
First, your application will be sent to the corporate office, where it will be reviewed by someone who looks over all new applications.
If your background check comes back clean, your application will move to the next step in the hiring process.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on why is Chick-Fil-A so popular, does Chick-Fil-A hire 14 or 15 year olds, and why is Chick-Fil-A so expensive.
Conclusion
Being convicted of a felony doesn’t necessarily bar you from working at Chick-Fil-A. However, the nature of your crime will determine whether you can work for the fast-food chain.
Also, it is essential to remember that each franchise location may have different policies when it comes to hiring former offenders.
With that, this means some locations may be more willing than others to hire felons.
