Does amazon hire felons with theft charges?

Does Amazon Hire Felons with Theft Charges?

Amazon, the world’s largest online retailer, has a reputation for being a fair and equal employer. But what happens if you have a criminal record, specifically a theft-related conviction? Can you still work for Amazon? The answer is yes, Amazon does hire felons with theft charges, but with certain conditions.

History of Amazon’s Hiring Policies

Amazon has a history of hiring individuals with criminal records, including those with felony convictions. In 2015, Amazon publicly stated that it would hire former inmates and provide them with job training and employment assistance. This move was part of the company’s effort to reduce recidivism rates and give former offenders a second chance.

Amazon’s Hiring Policy

Amazon’s hiring policy for felons with theft charges is not explicitly stated, but it is known that the company considers individual circumstances and the nature of the offense. Here are some key points to note:

• Felony conviction vs. misdemeanor: Amazon considers felony convictions more seriously than misdemeanor convictions. A felony conviction for theft may make it more difficult to get hired, while a misdemeanor conviction may not carry the same weight.
• Length of time since conviction: The longer ago the conviction, the less impact it may have on your hiring chances. Amazon may be more willing to hire someone who has a felony conviction from 5-10 years ago, as opposed to someone who has a recent conviction.
• Nature of the offense: The type of theft charge and the circumstances surrounding it can affect hiring decisions. For example, a conviction for shoplifting or petit theft may carry less weight than a conviction for grand theft or robbery.

The Application Process

If you have a theft-related conviction and want to apply for a job at Amazon, here are the steps you can take:

• Create an account: Go to Amazon’s careers website and create an account. You can upload your resume and fill out an application.
• Be honest: Amazon has a policy of background checks, so it is essential to be honest about your criminal history. Concealing a conviction can result in your application being rejected or even termination if discovered after being hired.
• Prepare for the interview: Be prepared to discuss your criminal history and explain the circumstances surrounding your conviction. Highlight any positive steps you have taken since then, such as completing counseling or taking classes.

Tips for Felons Applying to Amazon

Here are some tips to keep in mind when applying to Amazon as a felon with a theft charge:

• Research the company: Before applying, research Amazon’s policies and procedures regarding criminal backgrounds. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect during the hiring process.
• Be upfront: Be honest about your criminal history and address any concerns you may have about your application.
• Highlight your strengths: Emphasize your strengths and qualifications, and demonstrate how they can benefit the company.
• Consider entry-level positions: If you have a felony conviction, you may want to consider applying for entry-level positions, such as customer service representative or warehouse associate.

Conclusion

While Amazon does hire felons with theft charges, it is essential to be honest about your criminal history and address any concerns you may have during the hiring process. By being upfront and highlighting your strengths, you can increase your chances of getting hired. Remember to research the company’s policies and procedures and be prepared to discuss your criminal history.

Amazon’s Hiring Statistics

Resources

• Amazon’s Career Website: www.amazon.jobs
• Amazon’s Public Policy Statement on Criminal Justice Reform: https://www.amazon.com/ph/b/
• National Employment Law Project (NELP) Guide to Hiring People with Felony Convictions: www.nelp.org/document//guide-hiring-people-felony-convictions/