Does Chili's Hire Felons?
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Chili's hires some people with records. Corporate-owned casual dining chain with consistent policies and promotion opportunities.
Chili's hires some people with felony records. Owned by Brinker International, Chili's operates over 1,200 corporate-owned locations across the US. The company conducts background checks but evaluates records individually. Chili's is the largest full-service casual dining chain in America. Kitchen roles and back-of-house positions are the most accessible for people with records.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Felon Friendly? | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher | Yes | Yes — individualized | Most accessible back-of-house role. High turnover creates frequent openings. |
| Line Cook / Prep Cook | Sometimes | Yes | Kitchen experience valued. Back-of-house with limited customer contact. |
| Server | Sometimes | Yes | Customer-facing tipped position. Cash and credit card handling required. |
| Host / Hostess | Sometimes | Yes | First customer contact point. Presentation and attitude valued. |
| Bartender | Rarely | Yes | Alcohol service requires clean record in many states. Liquor license requirements apply. |
| Restaurant Manager | Rarely | Yes — comprehensive | Full management responsibility with thorough background review. |
Chili's Hiring Practices for People with Records
Chili's is a casual dining restaurant that conducts background checks on potential employees but evaluates criminal records through individualized assessment. The company considers the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and the relevance to the position being applied for. Back-of-house positions including dishwasher, prep cook, and line cook are generally the most accessible for people with criminal records. The restaurant industry as a whole has higher rates of hiring people with records compared to many other sectors.
Background Check Process
Chili's conducts background checks after extending a conditional offer of employment. The check typically includes a criminal history search covering 7 years. The company complies with applicable ban-the-box laws and EEOC guidance on considering criminal records in employment. If an issue is found, applicants typically receive notice and an opportunity to respond.
What Disqualifies You
Sex offenses are typically disqualifying at Chili's. Violent felonies within the past 5-7 years may be disqualifying, especially for customer-facing roles. Theft convictions may affect eligibility for positions involving cash handling. Drug convictions, especially older ones, are generally less concerning for kitchen roles. Bartender positions may be restricted based on state liquor licensing requirements that prohibit people with certain felonies from serving alcohol.
Tips for Getting Hired
Apply online through the Chili's career page or visit the restaurant in person during off-peak hours (2-4 PM). Target back-of-house positions for the best chances. Emphasize any restaurant experience and your availability for evenings and weekends. If you have kitchen skills, highlight them — experienced cooks are always in demand. Be prepared for a background check after a conditional offer.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Apply online or visit the restaurant during off-peak hours (2-4 PM) to speak with a manager.
- 2.Target back-of-house roles (dishwasher, prep cook, line cook) for the best chances with a record.
- 3.Emphasize restaurant experience and availability for evenings and weekends.
- 4.Be honest about your record if asked — the background check will reveal it anyway.
- 5.Kitchen skills are in high demand in casual dining. Highlight any cooking experience.
- 6.Ask about promotion opportunities during the interview to show long-term commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Chili's hire felons?
- Chili's hires some people with felony records. The company conducts background checks but uses individualized assessment. Back-of-house and kitchen positions are most accessible for applicants with records.
- Does Chili's do background checks?
- Yes, Chili's conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer. Criminal records are evaluated individually based on nature of offense, time elapsed, and job relevance.
- Can I be a server at Chili's with a felony?
- It depends on the nature of the felony and how long ago it occurred. Server positions are customer-facing and involve handling cash and credit cards, so theft convictions may be more of a concern. Non-violent, non-theft felonies are more likely to be accepted.
- Does Chili's drug test?
- Drug testing policies may vary by location and position. Some locations drug test for all positions while others focus on management and kitchen roles.
- How much do Chili's employees make?
- Kitchen staff typically earn $12-$18 per hour. Servers earn tipped wages plus tips, often averaging $15-$25 per hour including tips. Dishwashers earn $10-$14 per hour depending on location.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Chili's Careers
Official career page with job listings.
- National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.