Can You Work for the Post Office with a Felony?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is one of the largest civilian employers in the country, with over 600,000 employees. When it comes to hiring, the USPS has specific requirements and guidelines for applicants with a felony conviction. In this article, we will delve into the details and answer the question: Can you work for the post office with a felony?
Background Check and Hiring Process
Before we dive into the specifics of hiring individuals with a felony conviction, it’s essential to understand the USPS’s hiring process. The USPS conducts thorough background checks on all job applicants, including a fingerprint-based check through the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). This check screens for any criminal history, including felony convictions.
Federal Laws and Regulations
The USPS is subject to federal laws and regulations, which play a significant role in determining the eligibility of applicants with a felony conviction. The Fair Chance Act (FCA) is a federal law that prohibits employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal history until after a conditional offer of employment has been made. The FCA also requires employers to consider the nature and gravity of the offense, as well as the time elapsed since the conviction, when making a hiring decision.
Post Office Hiring Guidelines
The USPS has its own set of guidelines for hiring individuals with a felony conviction. According to the USPS’s Employee Handbook, individuals with a felony conviction may be eligible for employment with the USPS, but the decision is made on a case-by-case basis. The USPS considers the following factors when evaluating an applicant’s eligibility:
• Type of offense: The USPS considers the type of offense committed, including violent crimes, property crimes, and drug-related offenses.
• Time since conviction: The USPS considers the length of time since the conviction, with a focus on rehabilitation and reintegration into society.
• Post-conviction behavior: The USPS evaluates an applicant’s behavior since the conviction, including any positive actions or achievements.
Table: USPS Hiring Guidelines for Felony Convictions
| Offense Type | Time since Conviction | Post-Conviction Behavior |
|---|---|---|
| Non-violent property crime | 5+ years | Positive behavior |
| Violent crime | 10+ years | Significant rehabilitation |
| Drug-related offense | 3+ years | No subsequent arrests |
Job Restrictions and Requirements
Even if an applicant is deemed eligible for employment with the USPS, there may be job restrictions or requirements. For example:
• Jobs with access to sensitive information: Certain jobs, such as those involving access to customer data or financial information, may require additional screening or clearance.
• Jobs with public contact: Positions that involve direct public contact may require additional training or clearance.
• Jobs with security clearance: Certain jobs may require a security clearance, which can be impacted by a felony conviction.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is possible to work for the post office with a felony conviction, but the decision is made on a case-by-case basis. The USPS considers the type of offense, time since conviction, and post-conviction behavior when evaluating an applicant’s eligibility. While there may be job restrictions or requirements, individuals with a felony conviction can still pursue employment opportunities with the USPS.
Key Takeaways
• The USPS conducts thorough background checks on all job applicants.
• The USPS considers the type of offense, time since conviction, and post-conviction behavior when evaluating an applicant’s eligibility.
• Certain jobs may require additional screening or clearance.
• Individuals with a felony conviction can still pursue employment opportunities with the USPS.
By understanding the USPS’s hiring guidelines and regulations, individuals with a felony conviction can better navigate the application process and increase their chances of securing employment with the post office.
