Does Chick-fil-A Do Background Checks?

Does Chick-fil-A do background checks? Chick-fil-A, the popular fast food chain known for its chicken sandwiches and trademark “My pleasure” employee response, takes hiring practices seriously. Like many major restaurant chains, Chick-fil-A has standards and procedures in place during the recruitment process. However, the specifics of their background check policy remain somewhat ambiguous. 

Do they run comprehensive screens on all applicants? Or is it reserved for management hires? If you’re considering applying for a job at Chick-fil-A, you probably have questions about what exactly the background check entails. 

Before submitting your application, make sure to do your research. The ins and outs of the process may surprise you. Don’t miss out on the chance to fry chicken for the masses due to an old infraction or faulty assumption. Get the facts on does Chick-fil-A hires felons so you can properly weigh your options.

Does Chick-fil-A Do Background Checks?

Yes, Chick-fil-A does perform background checks on potential employees as part of the hiring process.

Does Chick-fil-A Hire Felons?

When it comes to hiring felons, Chick-fil-A takes a personalized approach. Though they don’t have an outright ban on employing people with criminal records, the popular fast food chain does vet applicants on a case-by-case basis. 

Rather than immediately dismissing felons, Chick-fil-A focuses more on character and fit. They want to understand the full story behind an individual’s past mistakes. If the person demonstrates positive qualities like responsibility and integrity during the hiring process, they may still have a shot at getting hired. 

Chick-fil-A locations are independently owned and operated, so specific hiring policies can vary. But in general, felons shouldn’t assume they have no chance of working at this establishment. 

As long as you convey remorse, personal growth, and qualifications, you could potentially don the Chick-fil-A uniform. It comes down to impressing hiring managers with your merits and attitude.

Does Chick-fil-A Drug Test?

While Chick-fil-A doesn’t make new hires take a drug test before starting employment, they do require testing within the first week on the job. Specifically, all employees must pass a drug screening within their first five days of work. This allows Chick-fil-A to bring people on board without the hassle of pre-employment testing but still ensures a drug-free workforce. 

If issues arise once you’ve started, the company also reserves the right to test any employee it suspects of substance use. So don’t assume you’re in the clear just because you don’t get tested on day one. Chick-fil-A wants to promote a safe, healthy environment for customers and employees alike. 

Part of that involves monitoring for drug problems that could impair work performance and judgment. While the delayed testing allows for more leeway, you will have to pass the screening to remain employed there. If recreational drug use is part of your lifestyle, a job flipping chicken sandwiches and waffle fries may end up not being a good fit.

How To Get a Job At Chick-fil-A with A Felony Record?

Getting hired at Chick-fil-A with a criminal history is possible, but requires preparation and diligence. Here are some tips:

• Search for owner-operated franchises in your area, as they may be more flexible in hiring than corporate locations. The franchise owner makes the final call.
• Be upfront about your conviction when applying. Don’t hide it hoping they won’t find out. Honesty is valued.
• Highlight your qualifications and skills. Focus on why you would be an asset despite your record. Emphasize any previous experience.
• Obtain strong references who can speak to your character and work ethic. Look to managers, teachers, or counselors.
• If given an interview, use it to explain the context around your crime, express regret, and how you’ve changed. Remain positive.
• Be prepared to pass background and drug screening that most locations require. These are hard stops.
• Get letters of recommendation from parole officers, counselors, mentors, or programs you’ve completed. This helps build your case.
• Explain how you’ve become an active, contributing member of society since your offense. Discuss volunteer work, classes, etc.

With determination and grit, you can show Chick-fil-A you deserve a chance. Be open, honest, and focused on moving your life in a positive direction.

How Long Does A Background Check At Chick-fil-A Take?

Don’t expect background screening to hold up your Chick-fil-A job application for too long. Thanks to the use of external companies to handle the process, Chick-fil-A can vet candidates efficiently. 

Within 5 days or less, the chicken chain can complete your criminal history, employment verification, and education confirmation. They want to get new hires onboarded and trained quickly to keep operations running smoothly. 

However, exact timing varies case-by-case depending on an applicant’s history and screening company workload. Some candidates receive clearance within a day or two. The most important things are being upfront about your record and giving the third-party agency what they need to do their job. 

With cooperation and full disclosure, your background check shouldn’t cause more than a brief speed bump on your way to handing out those “my pleasure” greetings.

What Are the Jobs That You Can Get Easily at Chick-fil-A As a Felony?

Here are some positions at Chick-fil-A that may be attainable for felons:

• Team Member: Chick-fil-A’s entry-level position involves taking orders, preparing food, cleaning, etc. High turnover means more openness to hiring felons.
• Kitchen Team Member: Those with cooking experience may be able to land this food prep role. Food service often values skill over background.
• Dining Room Attendant: This front-of-house role keeps the dining area clean and organized. Less customer interaction.
• Opening/Closing Team Member: Tasks like setting up and tearing down the restaurant for day parts. Felons often get graveyard shifts.
• Stocker/Receiver: Tasked with unloading supplies and ingredients and keeping stock organized. Behind-the-scenes work.
• Overnight Baker: Preparing biscuits, muffins, and pastries for the next day. Works independently at night.

The key is applying at franchises rather than corporate stores, as local owners have more leeway in hiring. Be honest about your record and highlight any relevant experience. With persistence and qualifications, Chick-fil-A employment is achievable.

What Are the Felony Charges That Can Reduce Your Hiring Chances at Chick-fil-A?

Though Chick-fil-A may hire some felons, certain criminal convictions make applicants very unlikely candidates. Charges involving theft, fraud, or embezzlement would raise major red flags for the restaurant. Handling money is central to the business, so financial crimes cause serious concern. 

Violent offenses like assault or domestic violence would also cast doubt on an applicant’s temperament and guest service skills. Sex crimes in particular would almost certainly disqualify someone from working there, especially around young customers. 

While Chick-fil-A may offer second chances in some cases, convictions involving dishonesty, violence, or abuse of others would be very difficult to overcome. The company ultimately seeks those whose past actions demonstrate integrity, responsibility, and sound judgment.

Conclusion

When it comes to getting a job at Chick-fil-A with a criminal record, the outcome depends heavily on the specific offense and franchise location. While the company does perform background checks and drug tests, they may offer second chances on a case-by-case basis. Minor nonviolent felonies do not necessarily disqualify candidates. However, crimes involving violence, theft, fraud, or abuse make employment there highly unlikely.

Ultimately, being transparent about your conviction, highlighting your qualifications, securing strong references, and conveying personal growth and integrity will be key. If you can impress the franchise owner despite your record, a job at Chick-fil-A may still be achievable. With preparation and persistence, you may find opportunities for a fresh start flipping chicken sandwiches tagged with the famous “my pleasure” catchphrase.