Does Allied Universal Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Why Security Jobs Are Difficult With a Felony

The security industry is one of the most restrictive for people with criminal records, and this is largely driven by state law rather than individual company policy. Most states require private security officers to obtain a state guard license or registration, and the licensing requirements typically include a criminal background check conducted by the state. Many states explicitly disqualify applicants with felony convictions from obtaining a guard license, either permanently or for a specified period (often 7-10 years). Even in states where a felony does not automatically bar licensing, the state licensing board conducts a review and may deny the license based on the nature and recency of the conviction. Allied Universal cannot hire someone as a security officer who cannot obtain the required state license, regardless of the company's own willingness. This is a legal restriction, not just a company policy.

State Licensing Requirements — Key Variations

State guard licensing requirements vary significantly across the country. Some states, like California, have a detailed process through the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS) that considers the nature of the offense and time elapsed — certain older convictions may not bar licensing. Other states, like Texas through the Department of Public Safety, have specific lists of disqualifying offenses. New York's Security Guard Advisory Council also conducts individualized reviews. Some states have no state-level licensing requirement at all, leaving requirements up to local jurisdictions or the employer. If you have a record and are interested in security work, the first step is to check your state's specific guard licensing requirements. Even if Allied Universal or another security company would consider hiring you, you must be able to obtain the state license. Some states have a process for people with records to petition for a license by demonstrating rehabilitation.

Armed vs. Unarmed Positions

Armed security officer positions are the most restrictive category. Under federal law, people convicted of felonies are prohibited from possessing firearms (18 U.S.C. 922(g)), which makes armed security legally impossible for anyone with a felony conviction unless they have had their rights restored through a gubernatorial pardon or expungement that specifically restores firearms rights. Even misdemeanor domestic violence convictions bar firearms possession under the Lautenberg Amendment. Unarmed security positions are still difficult with a felony but are not subject to the federal firearms prohibition. For unarmed roles, the main barrier is the state guard licensing requirement. If your state allows people with older felonies to obtain a guard license after a waiting period and demonstration of rehabilitation, unarmed security may eventually become an option.

Non-Security Roles at Allied Universal

While the vast majority of Allied Universal's workforce consists of security officers, the company does have some non-security positions that do not require a guard license. These include administrative support staff in regional and branch offices, recruiting coordinators, operations support, and technology specialists. Allied Universal also has subsidiary operations that provide janitorial and facility services, which have different background requirements than security positions. These non-security roles are evaluated on a case-by-case basis and are more accessible to people with records, though they represent a small fraction of the company's total positions. If you are interested in the security industry but cannot currently qualify for a guard license, an administrative or support role at Allied Universal could provide industry experience and a foot in the door while you work toward license eligibility.

Alternative Paths Into Security Work

If you have a criminal record and aspire to work in security, there are some strategies to consider. First, check whether your conviction can be expunged or sealed — this is the most direct path to clearing the licensing barrier. Second, research your state's specific guard licensing rules and timeline — some states only look back 7-10 years, meaning you may eventually age into eligibility. Third, consider related fields that do not require a guard license, such as loss prevention (retail security), parking lot attendant, front desk reception in buildings, or security camera monitoring — some of these roles are performed by Allied Universal but may not require a guard license in all states. Fourth, if your state allows it, file a petition with the licensing board demonstrating rehabilitation, employment history, and community support. Letters from employers, probation officers, and community leaders can strengthen your petition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Allied Universal hire felons?

For security officer positions, Allied Universal rarely hires people with felony records because most states require a clean background for guard licensing. For non-security roles (administrative, janitorial, operations support), the company evaluates applicants on a case-by-case basis and people with records may be considered.

Does Allied Universal do background checks?

Yes, Allied Universal conducts thorough background checks on all employees. Security officer positions require both a company background check and a state-level background check for guard licensing. The scope and lookback period depend on the state and the specific client site requirements.

Can I be a security guard with a felony?

In most states, a felony conviction disqualifies you from obtaining a security guard license, either permanently or for a set period. Some states allow licensing after 7-10 years if rehabilitation is demonstrated. Armed security is not possible with a felony under federal firearms law unless rights are formally restored. Check your specific state's licensing requirements.

Can a felon work armed security?

No. Under federal law (18 U.S.C. 922(g)), people convicted of felonies are prohibited from possessing firearms. This means armed security positions are legally impossible for anyone with a felony conviction unless they have received a gubernatorial pardon or other legal action that specifically restores firearms rights.

How much does Allied Universal pay security officers?

Pay varies significantly by location and client site. Unarmed security officers typically earn $14-$20/hour. Armed officers earn $16-$25/hour. Site supervisors earn $18-$28/hour. Benefits are available for full-time employees, including health insurance and 401(k). Government and high-security site assignments tend to pay more.

What are the alternatives to security work with a record?

Related fields that may not require a guard license include loss prevention (retail security), parking lot management, building reception and front desk, security camera monitoring, and facility maintenance. Some of these roles are performed by Allied Universal or its subsidiaries and may have more flexible background requirements than licensed security officer positions.