Does Pepsi Hire Felons? | Felony-Friendly Jobs at PepsiCo

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, around 19 million Americans have felony convictions on their record. That’s roughly 1 in 12 adults.

or these individuals, re-entering the workforce can feel like climbing a mountain—backwards, blindfolded, and wearing handcuffs. But companies like PepsiCo are beginning to shift their hiring practices, recognizing that people deserve a shot at redemption.

Yes, PepsiCo can hire felons, but whether you get hired depends on several factors like the nature of your conviction, how long ago it occurred, and the role you’re applying for.

Official Policies: What PepsiCo Says?

PepsiCo doesn’t explicitly state on its official website that they hire felons, but they do mention being an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on race, religion, sex, national origin, or disability status.

“PepsiCo is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant…”
— PepsiCo Careers

Although the statement doesn’t mention criminal records directly, in practice, Pepsi has hired people with felony convictions in the past, particularly for roles in manufacturing, warehousing, and delivery.

Background Checks at Pepsi

What Kind of Background Check Does Pepsi Conduct?

PepsiCo conducts a pre-employment background check that typically includes:

• Criminal record history
• Employment history
• Drug screening
• Education verification (for certain roles)
• Motor vehicle record (if applying for driving roles)

How Far Back Does It Go?

Pepsi’s background checks generally look back 7 years, but this can vary depending on state law. For example:

• California, New York, and Texas: Limit background checks to 7 years
• Florida: No time limit unless you’re applying for positions involving vulnerable populations

If your felony occurred more than 7 years ago and you’ve stayed clean since, your chances improve significantly.

Learn More: Is Animal Cruelty a Felony?

Felon-Friendly Positions at PepsiCo

While not all roles may be available to individuals with criminal records, the following positions are often more accessible:

Warehouse and General Labor Roles

• Loader/Unloader
• Forklift Operator
• Warehouse Associate

Delivery and Route Sales

• Delivery Driver Helper (non-DOT)
• Route Sales Representative
• Merchandiser

Manufacturing & Production

• Machine Operator
• Packaging Technician
• Production Worker

Entry-Level Support Roles

• Janitorial Staff
• Maintenance Assistant
• Groundskeeper

These roles typically require minimal contact with sensitive information or high-security environments, making them more open to applicants with a record.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired at Pepsi

Applying with a felony conviction can be tough, but there are ways to improve your odds.

Be Honest, But Strategic

• Never lie on your application.
• If there’s a section for explanations, keep it short, sincere, and focused on your growth.

Get a Referral

• If you know someone working at Pepsi, ask for a referral.
• A trusted referral can sometimes override an automatic disqualification.

Apply In-Person When Possible

• Especially for warehouse or factory roles, visiting a Pepsi facility and introducing yourself can make a big impression.

Earn a Certificate of Rehabilitation

• Many states offer this to show you’ve been reformed.
• It’s a powerful way to validate your growth post-conviction.

Experiences from Former Felons

James from Missouri (2018)

“I did 4 years for possession. After I got out, I applied at Pepsi as a loader. They called me in for an interview. I was upfront about my record. Got hired. That job turned into a full-time warehouse supervisor role.”

Latoya from Texas (2021)

“Applied to be a merchandiser. They did a background check and asked questions about my past. I told them straight up. Didn’t get the job the first time, but they called me back for another position three months later. I’ve been there ever since.”

These stories show it’s possible, but persistence, honesty, and patience are key.

State Laws That May Affect Your Application

Different states have different protections for applicants with criminal records.

States with “Ban the Box” Laws (Pepsi Must Delay Background Checks)

• California
• Colorado
• Illinois
• New York
• Minnesota
• Georgia (for public jobs)

These laws prevent employers from asking about criminal history on the initial job application, allowing you to get your foot in the door first.

Other Felon-Friendly Companies Like PepsiCo

If Pepsi doesn’t work out, here are some other big companies known to give second chances:

• Coca-Cola – Competes with Pepsi and has similar roles
• Amazon – Especially warehouse roles
• Walmart – Stockers, loaders, cleaners
• Target – Select retail and warehouse jobs
• J.B. Hunt – Trucking and logistics
• Goodwill – Committed to hiring people with barriers

Check out 30+ Companies That Hire Felons in 2025

Final Thought

Absolutely. While there are no guarantees, PepsiCo has a track record of hiring people with felonies, particularly in warehouse, manufacturing, and merchandising roles. They conduct background checks but don’t automatically disqualify you for having a record.

If you:

• Are honest on your application
• Apply for the right positions
• Show growth and responsibility

…you have a solid shot at landing a job and building a future at PepsiCo.

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