Can You work for ups with a felony?

Can You Work for UPS with a Felony?

A Straightforward Answer

The answer to this question is yes, you can work for UPS with a felony, but there are certain restrictions and considerations that apply. UPS has a strict policy of considering all applicants fairly and making hiring decisions based on individual qualifications and job requirements. However, a felony conviction can impact your ability to work for UPS in certain roles or locations.

Felony Convictions and Background Checks

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand that UPS, like many other companies, conducts thorough background checks on all job applicants. These checks typically include a review of your criminal history, including any felony convictions.

If you have a felony conviction, it may not necessarily disqualify you from working for UPS. However, the severity and nature of the conviction, as well as the length of time since the conviction, can impact your eligibility.

Types of Felony Convictions

UPS considers the following factors when evaluating felony convictions:

• Severity of the offense: Misdemeanors and non-violent felonies may be considered more favorably than violent or serious felonies.
• Nature of the offense: Certain types of crimes, such as those related to theft, fraud, or drug-related offenses, may be more problematic than others.
• Time since the conviction: A conviction that occurred many years ago may be less relevant than a more recent one.

Positions That May Be More Challenging to Get

While it’s possible to work for UPS with a felony conviction, some positions may be more challenging to obtain due to the nature of the job or the need for special permits or licenses. These positions include:

• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) positions: Felony convictions can impact your ability to obtain a CDL, which is required for many UPS driving positions.
• Airport and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) positions: Certain felony convictions may disqualify you from working in these roles due to the need for security clearances.
• Jobs requiring special permits or licenses: Positions that require specific licenses or permits, such as hazardous materials handling or medical licenses, may be more challenging to obtain with a felony conviction.

Positions That May Be More Accessible

While some positions may be more challenging to obtain with a felony conviction, others may be more accessible. These positions include:

• Warehouse and logistics roles: Many UPS warehouse and logistics positions do not require special permits or licenses, and may be more open to hiring individuals with felony convictions.
• Customer Service and Administrative roles: Positions in customer service, administration, and other non-transportation roles may be more accessible to individuals with felony convictions.
• Entry-level positions: UPS often hires for entry-level positions, which may be a good starting point for individuals with felony convictions who are looking to re-enter the workforce.

What You Can Do to Increase Your Chances

If you’re looking to work for UPS with a felony conviction, here are some tips to increase your chances:

• Be honest and upfront: When applying for a job, be honest and transparent about your felony conviction.
• Highlight your strengths: Emphasize your skills, experience, and qualifications, and how they align with the job requirements.
• Consider a second-chance program: UPS has a second-chance program for individuals with felony convictions, which provides training and support to help them re-enter the workforce.
• Prepare for a background check: Be prepared to provide detailed information about your criminal history and be prepared to answer questions about your conviction.

Conclusion

While a felony conviction can impact your ability to work for UPS, it’s not necessarily a barrier to employment. By understanding the types of positions that may be more challenging to obtain and focusing on those that are more accessible, individuals with felony convictions can increase their chances of getting hired. Remember to be honest and upfront about your conviction, highlight your strengths, and prepare for a background check. With the right approach, you can overcome the challenges and build a successful career with UPS.