Does Aramark Hire Felons?

Hiring by Position

Aramark's Relationship with the Reentry Population

Aramark has a unique position among major employers because the company operates food service in hundreds of correctional facilities across the United States. This means Aramark employs people inside prisons and jails, has deep familiarity with the justice-involved population, and understands the challenges of reentry. Some formerly incarcerated individuals who worked in Aramark-operated prison kitchens have been hired by Aramark for positions on the outside after their release. While Aramark has not launched the kind of high-profile fair-chance hiring campaigns that some other companies have, the company's operational experience in corrections gives it a practical understanding of and comfort level with hiring people who have records. Aramark also partners with community organizations and workforce development programs in some markets to recruit workers with employment barriers.

Work Sites and How They Affect Your Chances

Aramark operates at a wide range of client sites, and the type of site significantly affects hiring requirements. University dining halls are often the most accessible — they have high volume, high turnover, and generally reasonable background check requirements. Corporate cafeterias and office buildings are also typically accessible for people with most types of records. Stadium and arena concessions are seasonal but offer good opportunities, though some venues have their own security requirements. Hospital and healthcare facility food service may have stricter requirements due to patient safety regulations — some hospitals require clean background checks for all employees, regardless of whether they are Aramark staff. School districts that contract with Aramark typically require background checks that screen for offenses involving minors. When applying, be aware that your eligibility may vary by site, and ask the recruiter about opportunities at different locations if one site's requirements are restrictive.

The Background Check Process

Aramark conducts background checks on all new hires through a third-party screening provider. The check typically includes criminal history (county, state, and national databases), identity verification, and employment eligibility. Some client sites require additional screening, such as drug testing, fingerprinting, or client-specific background check requirements. Aramark follows applicable state and local fair-chance hiring laws, including Ban the Box where required. The lookback period for criminal history depends on state law and client requirements. If your background check reveals a criminal record, the evaluation process considers the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and the requirements of the specific client site. You have rights under the FCRA if a background check is used in a negative employment decision — you must be notified and given an opportunity to dispute any inaccuracies in the report.

Benefits and Compensation

Aramark offers benefits to eligible employees, though coverage varies by position type and hours worked. Full-time employees typically qualify for health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and employee assistance programs. Part-time and seasonal employees may have more limited benefit options. Pay rates vary significantly by location and position — food service workers typically earn $13-$18 per hour, with cooks earning toward the higher end. Supervisors and managers earn more. One practical benefit at food service locations is free or discounted meals during shifts. Some Aramark positions at universities come with additional perks like campus recreation access. While Aramark pay may not be the highest in the industry, the company provides stable, consistent employment with potential for advancement.

Using Aramark as a Career Stepping Stone

Aramark provides institutional food service and facilities management experience that is highly transferable. If you work as a prep cook at an Aramark university dining hall, that experience qualifies you for positions at restaurants, other food service companies, hotels, and institutional kitchens. Aramark also provides food safety training (ServSafe certification) and other professional development that adds to your resume. Within Aramark, advancement from food service worker to lead, supervisor, and unit manager is common. The company is large enough that you can also transfer between locations if you move to a different city. Building a solid work history at Aramark — showing up consistently, performing well, and being reliable — creates the foundation for whatever comes next in your career, whether you stay with Aramark or use the experience to move elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Aramark hire felons?

Yes, Aramark does hire people with felony records, particularly for food service, custodial, and laundry positions. The company's extensive experience operating in correctional facilities gives it a practical comfort level with the reentry population. However, some client sites (especially hospitals and schools) may have stricter background check requirements that could limit placement options for certain conviction types.

Does Aramark do background checks?

Yes, Aramark conducts background checks on all new hires through a third-party provider. The check covers criminal history, identity verification, and employment eligibility. Additional screening may be required depending on the client site. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you — the company evaluates records in context.

Can I work at Aramark if I worked in an Aramark prison kitchen?

Yes, having food service experience from an Aramark-operated correctional facility can actually be an advantage. It demonstrates relevant skills and familiarity with Aramark's operations. Some people have successfully transitioned from working in Aramark prison kitchens to Aramark positions on the outside.

Which Aramark work sites are most felon-friendly?

University dining halls and corporate cafeterias tend to be the most accessible for people with records. Stadium and arena concessions are also generally accessible, though some venues have their own security requirements. Hospital and school sites typically have the strictest requirements due to patient safety regulations and child protection laws.

Does Aramark drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by location and client site. Some Aramark sites require pre-employment drug screening, while others do not. Positions involving driving, operating equipment, or working at client sites with drug-free workplace policies are more likely to require testing. Ask about the specific site's policy when you apply.

What benefits does Aramark offer?

Full-time Aramark employees typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and employee assistance programs. Many food service positions include free or discounted meals during shifts. Part-time and seasonal employees may have limited benefit eligibility. Benefits vary by position and location.

Can I advance at Aramark with a criminal record?

Yes, Aramark promotes from within, and strong job performance is the primary factor in advancement decisions. Many supervisors and managers started in entry-level food service or custodial positions. Once you establish a positive work history with Aramark, advancement opportunities become available regardless of your criminal background.