Can You Work at the Airport with a Felony?
The answer to this question is not a straightforward yes or no. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other airport authorities have specific rules and regulations regarding the employment of individuals with felony convictions. In this article, we will delve into the details and provide a comprehensive answer to this question.
Background Check Requirements
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the background check process for airport jobs. The TSA requires all airport employees, including security screeners, law enforcement officers, and federal air marshals, to undergo a thorough background investigation. This includes a comprehensive review of an individual’s criminal history, including felonies.
Felony Convictions and Airport Jobs
So, can you work at the airport with a felony? The answer depends on the type and severity of the felony, as well as the nature of the job you’re applying for. Here are some general guidelines:
- Non-security jobs: Individuals with non-violent, non-criminal convictions that are more than 5 years old may be eligible for non-security jobs at the airport, such as customer service representatives, airport operations staff, or concessions workers.
- Security jobs: For security-sensitive positions, such as Transportation Security Officers (TSOs), law enforcement officers, or federal air marshals, the TSA has more stringent requirements. Individuals with felony convictions must have:
- Received a pardon or expungement for the felony conviction
- Completed all terms of their sentence, including probation and parole
- Been free of criminal activity for at least 5 years
- Exceptions: Some states have laws that prohibit employment in certain industries, such as law enforcement or finance, for individuals with certain types of felony convictions.
Types of Felony Convictions
Not all felony convictions are created equal. The TSA and other airport authorities may differentiate between felonies based on their nature and severity. Here are some examples:
- Non-violent felonies: Misdemeanors, such as drug offenses or property crimes, may not be as significant of a concern as violent felonies.
- Violent felonies: Felonies involving violence, such as assault or theft with violence, may disqualify an individual from airport employment.
- Crime of moral turpitude: Felonies related to moral turpitude, such as fraud or embezzlement, may also be considered a higher risk.
Applying for Airport Jobs with a Felony Conviction
If you have a felony conviction and want to apply for an airport job, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be honest: Make sure to disclose your felony conviction on your application. Lying about a felony conviction can result in immediate termination.
- Research the job requirements: Understand the specific requirements for the job you’re applying for and the security clearance level required.
- Consult with a criminal defense attorney: If you’re unsure about the nature of your felony conviction or its impact on your eligibility for airport employment, consider consulting with a criminal defense attorney.
Conclusion
While it’s possible to work at the airport with a felony conviction, it’s essential to understand the specific rules and regulations regarding employment at airports. The type and severity of the felony, as well as the nature of the job, will play a significant role in determining your eligibility.
Here’s a summary of the key points:
- Non-security jobs may be available to individuals with felony convictions that are more than 5 years old and non-violent.
- Security jobs, such as TSOs, law enforcement officers, or federal air marshals, may require a pardon or expungement, completion of all terms of sentence, and a 5-year moratorium on criminal activity.
- Felony convictions that involve violence, moral turpitude, or were related to airport security may be considered a higher risk.
By understanding the requirements and regulations, you can better navigate the process of applying for airport jobs with a felony conviction.
