Does DISH Network Hire Felons?
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DISH Network hires some people with records for technician and customer service roles. The company uses individualized assessment for background check results.
DISH Network does hire people with felony records for some positions. DISH Network (now part of EchoStar) is a satellite TV and wireless provider that employs approximately 15,000 people across the United States. The company hires for field technician (satellite installation), customer service, and retail positions. DISH runs background checks on all applicants but uses individualized assessment. Field technician positions are the most common role and involve entering customers' homes, which means violent and theft felonies are more carefully scrutinized. Customer service and call center positions may be more accessible for people with certain types of records. DISH has been a participant in workforce development programs and values technical aptitude in its hiring.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Record Review | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Field Technician (Satellite Installation) | Case-by-case | Yes — including driving record | Enters customer homes. Violent felonies and theft are more scrutinized. Clean driving record needed. |
| Customer Service Representative | Case-by-case | Yes | Call center position. Access to customer accounts. Fraud convictions may be concerning. |
| Retail Sales (DISH / Boost Mobile) | Case-by-case | Yes | Store positions selling DISH and Boost Mobile services. Theft convictions may be a concern. |
| Warehouse / Supply Chain | Case-by-case | Yes | Equipment distribution and logistics. May be more accessible than customer-facing roles. |
Background Check Policy
DISH Network conducts background checks on all new hires after a conditional offer. The company uses a third-party screening provider that checks criminal history typically going back 7 years. Field technician positions also require a driving record check since technicians drive company vehicles to customer homes. DISH uses individualized assessment and follows FCRA procedures. The company complies with applicable ban-the-box laws.
What Disqualifies You
For field technician positions, violent felonies within 7 years and theft/burglary convictions are the most common barriers, since technicians enter customers' homes and handle equipment. DUI or serious driving violations within 3-5 years may disqualify for technician roles that require driving. Sex offenses are generally disqualifying for all positions. For customer service roles, fraud and identity theft convictions may be disqualifying given access to customer accounts. Drug possession older than 3-5 years is typically less of a concern.
Application Tips
Apply through DISH's careers website or through EchoStar's job portal. Field technician positions are the highest-volume role and offer training for people without prior satellite installation experience. If you have a clean driving record and no violent or theft felonies, technician roles are a good opportunity. Customer service positions offer an alternative for those with driving or home-access concerns. DISH also works with subcontractors for installation, and subcontractors may have different hiring standards.
DISH and EchoStar Merger
DISH Network merged with EchoStar in 2024. Jobs may be listed under either the DISH or EchoStar name. The combined company operates DISH satellite TV, Sling TV, and Boost Mobile wireless. This merger has not fundamentally changed hiring policies for field positions.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Apply at careers.dish.com or echostar.com/careers for available positions.
- 2.Field technician roles offer training and do not require prior experience. Highlight mechanical aptitude and reliability.
- 3.If you have driving or home-access concerns, target customer service or warehouse positions instead.
- 4.DISH subcontractors may have different hiring standards — check local installation companies as well.
- 5.Highlight technical skills, customer service experience, and willingness to work flexible schedules.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does DISH Network hire felons?
- DISH Network considers applicants with felony records on a case-by-case basis. Customer service and warehouse positions may be more accessible than field technician roles, which involve entering customer homes.
- Does DISH Network do background checks?
- Yes. DISH runs background checks on all new hires covering 7 years of criminal history. Technician positions also include a driving record check.
- Does DISH Network drug test?
- DISH may drug test for field technician positions, particularly since technicians operate company vehicles. Customer service roles may not always require pre-employment drug testing.
- Can I be a DISH technician with a felony?
- It depends on the felony. Non-violent, non-theft felonies older than 5 years are the least likely to disqualify. Violent felonies and theft/burglary convictions are more concerning since technicians enter customers' homes.
- How much does DISH Network pay technicians?
- DISH field technicians typically earn $15-$22 per hour, with experienced technicians earning more. Benefits include health insurance, 401(k), and company vehicle. The job provides valuable technical skills.
Take Action — Direct Links
- DISH / EchoStar Careers
Official DISH Network careers page.
- National HIRE Network
Free resources for people with criminal records seeking employment.
Related Resources on This Site
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Helpful guides
- Background ChecksWhat shows up on a background check?
- ExpungementHow to find an expungement lawyer
- EducationTrade schools for felons
- ToolsReentry Checklist — Preparation Steps After Release