Does Albertsons Drug Test?
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Albertsons generally does not drug test employees during the hiring process for most store positions. Pharmacy staff and distribution center workers may be tested.
Albertsons does not drug test most employees during the hiring process. Albertsons Companies operates over 2,200 stores under multiple banners including Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, and others. The company has moved away from pre-employment drug testing for most store-level positions. Cashiers, stockers, deli workers, bakery staff, and produce associates are generally not tested. Pharmacy employees are subject to testing due to pharmacy board requirements. Distribution center and CDL driver positions may also require testing. Albertsons is one of the largest grocery employers in the United States.
Drug Testing by Position
| Position | Tested? | Test Type | When |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cashier / Front End | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Stocker / Grocery Associate | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Deli / Bakery / Produce | No | N/A | Post-accident only (rare) |
| Pharmacy Technician | Yes | Urine | Pre-employment, post-accident |
| Distribution Center Worker | Yes | Urine | Pre-employment, post-accident |
| Store Manager | Varies | Urine (if tested) | Pre-employment (some locations), post-accident |
Albertsons' Hiring Practices
Albertsons Companies is one of the largest grocery retailers in the United States, operating stores under multiple regional banners. The company has moved away from pre-employment drug testing for most store-level positions. This change reflects both the competitive labor market for grocery workers and the broader industry trend toward focusing on performance rather than pre-employment screening. Albertsons' hiring process involves an online application, interview, and onboarding.
Pharmacy and Distribution Exceptions
Pharmacy employees at Albertsons stores are subject to drug testing as required by state pharmacy board regulations. This applies to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. Distribution center workers who operate forklifts, pallet jacks, and other heavy equipment are also typically tested. CDL drivers who transport goods between distribution centers and stores are subject to DOT-mandated testing.
Albertsons Family of Stores
If you are applying to any store owned by Albertsons Companies, the same general drug testing policy applies. This includes Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's, Acme Markets, Tom Thumb, Randalls, and other regional banners. The hiring process and drug testing requirements are consistent across these brands for equivalent positions.
Recent Policy Changes
- 2020-2023: Maintained minimal pre-employment drug testing for most store positions during the pandemic and labor shortage
- 2024-2026: Continues the grocery industry trend of not drug testing most store-level employees for pre-employment
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Albertsons drug test employees?
- No, Albertsons does not drug test most store employees during the hiring process. Pharmacy and distribution center positions may require testing.
- Does Albertsons drug test for marijuana?
- For most store positions, marijuana is not screened. Pharmacy and distribution employees may be tested for THC.
- Does Safeway drug test? (owned by Albertsons)
- Safeway follows the same policies as Albertsons. Most store positions are not drug tested. Pharmacy staff may be tested.
- Does Albertsons do random drug tests?
- No. Albertsons does not conduct random drug testing for store employees. DOT-regulated drivers may be randomly tested.
- Does Albertsons hire felons?
- Albertsons evaluates backgrounds on a case-by-case basis and is generally willing to hire people with records for store positions.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Albertsons Careers — Apply for jobs
Official Albertsons Companies career portal for store and corporate positions
- SAMHSA National Helpline
Free, confidential, 24/7 treatment referral and information service: 1-800-662-4357
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