When it comes to securing employment after a felony conviction, many individuals find themselves facing a wall of uncertainty. One of the most commonly searched questions is: Does Amazon hire felons? With Amazon being one of the world’s largest employers and a symbol of innovation and opportunity, it’s no surprise that job seekers—including those with criminal backgrounds—are interested in what Amazon offers.
This article dives deep into Amazon’s hiring policies, explores real-world experiences, and provides a realistic look at what felons can expect when applying to work for this e-commerce giant.
Table of Contents
Amazon’s General Hiring Philosophy
Amazon employs over a million people globally, from warehouse associates to corporate roles in engineering, marketing, logistics, and more. With such a vast workforce, the company is often viewed as a major source of employment—especially for those seeking entry-level or manual labor jobs.
As part of its hiring strategy, Amazon has made public commitments to diversity and inclusion. This extends to providing opportunities to people from various backgrounds, including individuals with criminal records.
So, Does Amazon Hire Felons?
Yes, Amazon does hire felons—under certain conditions.
However, this answer isn’t black and white. Hiring decisions at Amazon depend on several key factors:
- Nature of the felony – Violent crimes, theft, or crimes that may relate directly to the job (such as financial fraud for roles involving sensitive financial data) are more likely to be barriers.
- Time since conviction – If the felony occurred a long time ago and the applicant has demonstrated a consistent work history since then, Amazon is more likely to consider them.
- Type of job applied for – Warehouse positions are more likely to be open to felons compared to sensitive roles in IT, finance, or corporate operations.
- State laws and background check policies – Background checks and hiring regulations vary by state. In some states, employers cannot hold older convictions against applicants if they are not job-related.
Background Checks at Amazon
Amazoct period depends on the state.
The background check includes:
- Criminal history
- Employment verification
- Educational background
- Drug testing (depending on the job)
A past felony will not automatically disqualify someone, but Amazon will evaluate the conviction against the responsibilities of the role.
Felon-Friendly Positions at Amazon
Here are some positions where felons have reportedly found success:
- Warehouse Associate / Fulfillment Center Worker
These roles focus on sorting, packing, and shipping products. Physical labor and shift flexibility are key. - Delivery Driver (via Amazon Flex)
Some individuals work as independent contractors delivering packages using their own vehicles. - Seasonal Jobs
Amazon hires thousands of seasonal workers each year, offering a potential entry point for those with criminal records.
It’s worth noting that not every warehouse or delivery hub will have the same standards. Local management discretion plays a role.
Amazon’s Fair Chance Policy
Amazon adheres to the principles of the Fair Chance Business Pledge, a federal initiative encouraging companies to eliminate barriers to employment for individuals with criminal records.
This means Amazon is committed to considering qualified applicants regardless of past mistakes—so long as those mistakes are not directly relevant to the role or indicative of current risk.
However, because Amazon is decentralized and hires for thousands of locations, some inconsistencies can still exist in how this policy is applied.
Real-World Experiences from Felon Applicants
Online forums such as Indeed, Reddit, and Glassdoor include numerous testimonials from individuals with felonies who have applied to Amazon. Here are some recurring themes:
- Mixed experiences: Some applicants report being hired with no issue, while others were turned down despite similar convictions.
- Success after time passed: Many successful hires occurred years after the conviction, especially if the applicant maintained a clean record since then.
- Hiring agencies: Some applicants were hired through third-party staffing agencies working with Amazon, even when direct applications were unsuccessful.
Tips for Felons Applying to Amazon
If you have a felony conviction and want to work for Amazon, consider the following steps:
- Be honest on your application. Lying about your record is a common reason for disqualification.
- Start with seasonal or entry-level roles. These are typically easier to land.
- Show a positive track record. Letters of recommendation, community service, and recent job experience can strengthen your application.
- Apply in person or at job fairs. This allows for direct contact with hiring managers who may be more understanding than automated systems.
- Consider reentry programs. Some organizations partner with large employers like Amazon to help individuals with criminal records re-enter the workforce.
The Bigger Picture: Second Chances Matter
Employment is one of the most important factors in reducing recidivism. By giving felons a chance to earn an honest living, companies like Amazon contribute to safer and stronger communities. While not every applicant will be successful, the possibility is real—and growing.
It’s also important for applicants to stay informed and to continue improving their qualifications, whether through education, certification programs, or rehabilitation efforts.
FAQs
Q1: Does Amazon hire felons for warehouse jobs?
Yes, many individuals with felony convictions have been hired for warehouse roles, especially if the offense was not violent or recent.
Q2: Does Amazon do a background check?
Yes. All job applicants undergo a background check, which usually covers the past seven years.
Q3: Will a felony automatically disqualify me from working at Amazon?
No. Amazon considers the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether it’s relevant to the position.
Q4: What kind of felonies might prevent hiring?
Crimes involving violence, theft, or fraud—especially if they relate to the responsibilities of the role—are more likely to lead to disqualification.
Q5: Can I reapply if I was denied before?
Yes. Many applicants reapply successfully after gaining more experience or allowing more time to pass since their conviction.
Final Thoughts
Amazon does not have a blanket policy of excluding felons. While some roles may not be available, many others are open to individuals who have turned their lives around. Each case is reviewed individually, giving many people a real opportunity to move forward with dignity and employment.
If you or someone you know has a felony conviction and is seeking a job, Amazon may be a door worth knocking on—with preparation, honesty, and persistence
