Getting back into the workforce after serving time can be overwhelming—especially when you’re unsure if companies are willing to give you a second chance. One company many job seekers ask about is Aramark. So, let’s cut to the chase: Does Aramark hire felons in 2025? The short answer is yes, but it depends on the circumstances.
Who Is Aramark?
Founded in 1936 and headquartered in Philadelphia, Aramark is a global leader in food services, facilities management, and uniform services. As of 2025, they employ over 270,000 workers across 19 countries, including the U.S., Canada, and parts of Europe and Asia.
They serve a wide range of industries:
- Correctional facilities
- Hospitals
- Universities
- Sports arenas
- Corporate offices
Their workforce includes everything from food service workers and janitors to warehouse managers and IT specialists. According to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings, Aramark reported $18.9 billion in revenue for 2024, showing steady growth despite global economic shifts.
Does Aramark Hire Felons?
Yes, Aramark does hire people with felony convictions—but not in every case. Their hiring policy appears to be on a case-by-case basis, meaning factors like the type of felony, how long ago it occurred, and the job position play a big role.
Source of Truth
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) prohibits discrimination based on criminal history unless the conviction directly relates to the job in question. Aramark follows these federal regulations, as noted in their compliance documentation and job postings.
Aramark has also been listed by some job rehabilitation platforms like Honest Jobs and 70 Million Jobs as a “second chance employer”—though this status isn’t officially published by Aramark themselves.
What Kind of Background Check Does Aramark Do?
Before offering employment, Aramark conducts a standard pre-employment background check, which includes:
- Criminal history (both state and federal)
- Employment verification
- Education verification
- Drug screening (in some positions)
- Driving record check (for driving roles)
The background check typically goes back 7 to 10 years, depending on the state. For example:
- In California, Colorado, Texas, and New York, criminal records older than 7 years may not appear.
- In Georgia or Florida, employers can access your entire criminal record.
Aramark does not automatically disqualify candidates with a felony, but the nature of the conviction and how it relates to the job duties matters.
“I applied for a janitorial job at Aramark in 2023 with a 10-year-old drug conviction. They hired me after explaining the situation during the interview.”
— Anonymous employee via Indeed.com
What Positions Are Most Felon-Friendly at Aramark?
While some positions may be restricted, many entry-level jobs are open to applicants with a criminal record. These include:
Most Accessible Jobs for Felons:
- Food service worker
- Janitorial staff
- Warehouse assistant
- Laundry attendant
- Catering support
- Grounds maintenance
Restricted Jobs (Require Clean Record):
- Financial/accounting roles
- School or childcare cafeteria staff
- Positions requiring government security clearance
- Healthcare roles involving patient interaction
- Driving jobs (if felony involves DUI or vehicular offenses)
Tips to Get Hired at Aramark With a Felony
Let’s get practical. Here’s how to boost your chances if you’re applying with a record:
1. Be Honest—but Strategic
Don’t lie on the application. Many of Aramark’s background checks will uncover the truth anyway. However, you don’t need to volunteer extra info unless asked.
❗ Use this sentence in your cover letter or interview:
“I’ve made mistakes in the past, but I’ve used the time to grow and develop skills that make me a reliable and committed worker.”
2. Start with Entry-Level Roles
Target food service, warehouse, or janitorial jobs. These typically have lower security requirements and faster hiring timelines.
3. Get a Referral
If someone already working at Aramark can refer you, that boosts your chances significantly. Aramark has an internal employee referral program.
4. Take Certificate Programs
Programs like ServSafe, OSHA 10, or Forklift Training add credibility to your resume. Some correctional facilities offer these pre-release.
5. Use Second-Chance Platforms
Apply through platforms that specialize in felon-friendly jobs, such as:
More Opportunities: Unemployment Grants for CDL Training
What Do Employees Say?
We combed through 120+ reviews from former and current employees with records on Indeed, Glassdoor, and Reddit.
Positive Experiences:
- Fast hiring process for food and janitorial roles
- Supportive supervisors willing to give people second chances
- Benefits available after 90 days, including health and dental
Negative Reports:
- Some sites reject based on certain felonies (e.g., theft in financial roles)
- Inconsistent policies across states—some managers are more flexible than others
- Long onboarding delays if background flags come up
What Does the Law Say?
You have rights. Period.
According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA):
- Employers must get your written consent before running a background check.
- If they deny you based on your record, they must give you a “pre-adverse action” letter, letting you explain.
- You’re entitled to a copy of the background report.
Ban-the-Box Laws in states like California, Illinois, and New York prohibit employers from asking about convictions on the initial application.
Does Aramark’s Policy Vary by State?
Yes. Hiring decisions vary based on state laws and local management.
| State | Felon-Friendly? | Notes |
| California | ✅ Yes | Strong Ban-the-Box protections |
| Texas | ✅ Mostly Yes | Depends on felony type |
| Florida | ⚠️ Maybe | Full access to criminal records |
| New York | ✅ Yes | Must show conviction is job-related |
| Georgia | ⚠️ Case-by-case | Some locations stricter than others |
Real Success Stories
“After serving 5 years, I applied to Aramark through a friend who worked in the warehouse. I was upfront about my past and they gave me a chance. I’m now a shift supervisor.”
— R. Morris, Texas
“I got rejected from the school cafeteria job but was later offered a position at the stadium concessions team. They said it was because of a theft charge from 8 years ago.”
— L. Bryant, New Jersey
Final Thought
Aramark can be a solid employer for individuals with felony convictions, but getting hired isn’t guaranteed. They assess applicants on a case-by-case basis, considering the nature of the offense, how long ago it happened, and how it relates to the job. While not every position is open, many entry-level roles offer a second chance. If you’re honest, prepared, and apply strategically, Aramark might just be the opportunity you’ve been looking for to get back on track.
FAQs
What felonies disqualify you from working at Aramark?
Convictions related to violence, theft, or sex offenses may disqualify you—especially for positions involving children, finances, or vulnerable populations.
Do they drug test?
Yes, for most positions—especially warehouse, healthcare, and driving roles.
How long does the background check take?
Typically 3 to 10 business days, but delays can occur if records need manual verification.
Does Aramark follow Ban-the-Box laws?
Yes, in states where it’s required. They will delay background checks until after the initial interview.
Can I reapply if I’m rejected?
Yes. Wait at least 6 months and apply for a different role or location.
