Does Sysco Hire Felons? What Ex-Offenders Need to Know Before Applying

Sysco, the global leader in food distribution, employs more than 58,000 people in North America alone. But here’s the million-dollar question: Does Sysco hire felons?

Sysco’s hiring policies don’t explicitly ban people with felony convictions. In fact, they follow federal guidelines that prohibit blanket discrimination against individuals with criminal records.

According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), employers must evaluate criminal records based on the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and how it relates to the job duties.

And while Sysco hasn’t publicly signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge, hundreds of applicants and employees report mixed—but real—opportunities for people with records.

What Is Sysco?

Sysco Corporation is the largest foodservice distributor in the U.S., supplying everything from meat and produce to restaurant equipment. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company operates over 330 distribution facilities worldwide, with annual revenues topping $76 billion as of 2024.

Their workforce includes truck drivers, warehouse workers, customer service reps, and IT professionals.

Key Stats:

• Employees: ~58,000
• Annual Revenue: $76 billion (2024)
• Headquarters: Houston, Texas
• Publicly Traded: Yes (NYSE: SYY)

Does Sysco Hire Felons?

Yes, Sysco May Hire Felons — Depending on the Circumstances. Sysco does not have a formal “felon-friendly” label, but they do hire felons on a case-by-case basis. The hiring decision depends on:

• The nature of the felony
• Time passed since conviction or release
• Job applied for (e.g., warehouse vs. delivery driver)
• Interview performance and work history

Jobs at Sysco That May Be More Accessible for Felons

1. Warehouse Associates
   • Felons with non-violent or non-theft-related records stand a better chance here.
   • Duties include loading/unloading, inventory handling, and equipment operation.
2. Delivery Drivers
   • Harder for felons, especially if the record includes DUI, theft, or violence.
   • DOT (Department of Transportation) regulations apply here.
3. Maintenance and Utility Workers
   • Generally offer a little more flexibility for past convictions.
4. Entry-Level Roles (Picker/Packer, Sanitation)
   • Often have higher turnover and lower barriers to entry.
5. Corporate Positions (Harder for Felons)
   • Roles involving finance, IT, or HR may be out of reach due to access to sensitive information.

What Kind of Background Check Does Sysco Do?

Sysco runs a standard pre-employment background check, which usually covers:

• Criminal record (Federal, State, and County)
• Social Security number validation
• Employment history
• Education verification
• Driving record (for driver positions)

The background check is typically processed by a third-party vendor and goes back 7–10 years, though some states limit how far back employers can look. For example:

Sysco usually asks for your consent before initiating this background screening. You’ll be notified if they plan to take “adverse action” (i.e., deny you) based on the findings.

What Felonies Are Most Likely to Be Disqualifying?

While each application is reviewed individually, here are felonies that are most likely to hurt your chances at Sysco:

• Theft or Fraud: Especially for positions dealing with inventory, shipping, or finance.
• Violent Crimes: Assault, robbery, or weapons-related offenses.
• Drug Distribution: Especially if applying for driver or warehouse roles.
• DUI/DWI: Disqualifying for driver roles due to DOT regulations.

Minor drug possession, outdated non-violent felonies, and youthful mistakes (from 10+ years ago) are generally less concerning—especially if you’ve shown growth since then.

What Do Employees Say? (Real Reviews from Indeed and Glassdoor)

Let’s hear it straight from folks who’ve been there. Based on hundreds of reviews:

• ✅ Positive Reports:
  “I got hired at Sysco 5 years after my conviction. They asked me about it during the interview but were more interested in my work ethic and references.” – Indeed Reviewer, Houston, TX
• ⚠️ Mixed Experiences:
  “They say they’re open, but it depends on the manager. I had a friend with a similar charge who got hired in Ohio but I was rejected in Florida.” – Glassdoor Review, 2023
• ❌ Negative Stories:
  “Applied twice, was honest about my record, and never got a callback. Wish they were clearer upfront.” – Reddit user r/ExCons

So yeah—it’s not a free-for-all, but it’s not a dead end either.

Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Hired at Sysco (With a Record)

1. Be Honest on the Application
   • Lying will almost always get you disqualified. Be upfront if asked about convictions.
2. Gather Good References
   • Letters from former employers, probation officers, or faith leaders go a long way.
3. Apply for Entry-Level or Night Shift Jobs First
   • These positions have higher turnover and may be more forgiving.
4. Get a CDL License (if eligible)
   • Opens doors to higher-paying driver jobs.
5. Consider Sealing or Expunging Your Record
   • Some states let you clear older felonies from public background checks.
6. Follow Up!
   • After applying, call the HR department. Show you’re serious.

Does Sysco Follow Ban-the-Box Laws?

Ban-the-box laws make it illegal for employers to ask about criminal history on the initial job application.

• Sysco does comply with ban-the-box laws in states that enforce them.
• That said, they will still perform a background check before finalizing any offer.

According to the National Employment Law Project, more than 37 states and 150 cities now have some version of this law.

Does Sysco Support Fair Hiring Practices?

Although Sysco hasn’t signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge, they comply with EEOC regulations and conduct individualized assessments during hiring.

That means your record doesn’t automatically disqualify you—especially if you apply with honesty and effort.

Companies Similar to Sysco That Hire Felons

Looking for backup options? Here are a few:

1. PepsiCo
2. Coca-Cola
3. Walmart Distribution Centers
4. Amazon Warehouses
5. J.B. Hunt and Schneider Trucking (with CDL)

Many large corporations have relaxed policies in recent years and are more open to second chances.

Final Thoughts

Getting a job with a felony isn’t easy—but it’s far from impossible. Sysco has hired ex-offenders in the past and continues to do so when the circumstances line up.

So if you’re thinking about applying to Sysco, go for it. Prepare your resume, be honest about your past, and show them you’re ready to move forward.

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