Does ABM Industries Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Why ABM Industries Is Second-Chance Friendly

ABM Industries operates in the facility services sector, which is one of the most accessible industries for people with criminal records. The nature of the work — janitorial services, building maintenance, parking operations, landscaping — is physically demanding and often involves non-standard hours (evenings, nights, weekends). These factors create high turnover and a persistent need for reliable workers, which makes companies like ABM more willing to look past criminal records to find employees who will show up consistently and do the work. ABM has over 100,000 employees across thousands of client sites nationwide, and the company's scale means there are almost always openings in most metro areas. The facility services industry has long been an entry point for people reentering the workforce, and ABM is one of the larger players in this space. Many ABM hiring managers are experienced at working with people who have records and focus more on reliability and work ethic than past mistakes.

How ABM's Background Check Works

ABM conducts background checks on all new hires through a third-party screening company. The standard check includes a criminal history search, Social Security number trace, and employment eligibility verification. For positions involving driving (parking operations, mobile maintenance), a Motor Vehicle Records check is also included. The lookback period is generally 7 years, consistent with EEOC guidelines. ABM uses individualized assessment, considering the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and job relevance. One important factor is that ABM's clients often set additional background requirements for the workers assigned to their facilities. A hospital client may require stricter screening than a commercial office building. This means your eligibility may depend not just on ABM's company-wide standards but on the specific client site where you would be working. If one site's requirements disqualify you, ABM may be able to assign you to a different site with less restrictive standards.

Janitorial and Custodial Positions

Janitorial and custodial positions are the most commonly available and most accessible roles at ABM for people with records. These positions involve cleaning offices, restrooms, common areas, and other spaces in commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, airports, and other facilities. The work typically takes place during evening or overnight hours when the building is less occupied. Pay ranges from $13-$18/hour depending on the market and shift (night shifts often pay a premium). Benefits are available for full-time employees. The physical nature of the work and non-standard hours create high turnover, which means ABM is almost always hiring for these roles. For someone reentering the workforce, janitorial work offers steady employment, consistent hours, and a paycheck while you build a work history. Many people use ABM janitorial positions as a stepping stone — gaining stability and references that help them apply for higher-paying positions later.

Skilled Trade Positions (HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing)

ABM also employs skilled tradespeople — HVAC technicians, electricians, plumbers, and general maintenance technicians — to maintain building systems at client facilities. These positions pay significantly more than janitorial roles, typically $20-$35/hour depending on the trade, certifications, and market. If you have trade skills or certifications, these roles can provide a solid career path. Background requirements for skilled trade positions are somewhat stricter than for janitorial work because these employees often have broader access to facilities and may work in sensitive areas. Additionally, some trade positions require state or local licenses (HVAC certification, electrical license), and the licensing boards may conduct their own background checks. However, many people with non-violent records have successfully worked in skilled trades at ABM, and the demand for qualified tradespeople means employers are often willing to look past records to fill these roles.

Client Site Variation — What to Expect

One of the most important things to understand about ABM employment is that your background eligibility may depend on the specific client site. ABM provides services to a wide range of facilities, including commercial office buildings, hospitals, schools, government buildings, airports, shopping malls, and sports venues. Each type of facility may have different background requirements. Government buildings and hospitals tend to have the strictest requirements — some government contracts require workers to pass a government background investigation. Schools may have restrictions related to offenses involving minors. Airports require TSA background checks. On the other hand, commercial office buildings and industrial facilities typically have the most lenient standards. When applying to ABM, if your background check comes back with flags, ask whether there are alternative site assignments available. ABM's large footprint means there are often multiple client sites in a given metro area with different requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does ABM Industries hire felons?

Yes, ABM Industries is generally regarded as second-chance friendly and does hire people with felony records for many positions, particularly janitorial and general maintenance roles. Background checks are conducted, but non-violent offenses and older felonies are often acceptable. Eligibility may depend on the specific client site's requirements.

Does ABM Industries do background checks?

Yes, ABM conducts background checks on all new hires. The check includes criminal history, Social Security trace, and MVR for driving positions. The standard lookback is 7 years. Additionally, some client sites impose their own background requirements on ABM workers assigned to their facilities.

What kind of jobs does ABM Industries offer?

ABM offers janitorial/custodial services, floor care, HVAC, electrical, plumbing, parking management and valet, landscaping, and facility management roles. Janitorial positions are the most commonly available and accessible for people with records. Skilled trade positions pay more but may require certifications.

How much does ABM Industries pay?

Pay varies by role and location. Janitorial/custodial positions typically earn $13-$18/hour. Floor technicians earn $14-$19/hour. HVAC technicians earn $22-$35/hour. Parking attendants earn $13-$17/hour. Night shifts often include a pay premium. Full-time employees receive benefits including health insurance and retirement plans.

Does ABM Industries drug test?

ABM conducts pre-employment drug testing for most positions. The specifics may vary by client site requirements and position type. Driving positions (parking operations) may be subject to DOT testing. Some client sites, particularly hospitals and government facilities, may have additional testing requirements.

Can I work at ABM with a violent felony?

Violent felonies are more challenging but not necessarily automatically disqualifying for all ABM positions. Janitorial roles at commercial office buildings may still be available for people with older violent offenses. However, client sites like hospitals, schools, and government buildings are likely to have stricter requirements. The nature and recency of the offense are key factors in the assessment.