Does G4S (Allied Universal) Hire Felons?
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G4S (now part of Allied Universal) has strict background requirements for security roles due to state licensing and client contracts.
G4S, which merged with Allied Universal in 2021, rarely hires people with felony records for security positions. The same restrictions that apply to Allied Universal and Securitas apply to G4S — security guard positions require state licensing that typically disqualifies felony convictions. Armed security is permanently off-limits to felons under federal law. Non-security support positions may have more flexibility, but security roles make up the vast majority of the company's positions.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Felon Friendly? | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Security Officer (Unarmed) | Rarely | Yes — plus state licensing | State guard license required. Most states disqualify felony convictions. |
| Security Officer (Armed) | No | Yes — comprehensive | Federal law prohibits felons from possessing firearms. |
| Security Supervisor | Rarely | Yes — comprehensive | Guard license plus supervisory vetting required. |
| Administrative / Support | Sometimes | Yes | Non-security office roles. More flexibility. |
G4S / Allied Universal Hiring Practices
G4S merged with Allied Universal in 2021, creating the world's largest security company. All G4S positions are now under Allied Universal's umbrella. Security guard positions require state licensing, which in most states involves background checks that disqualify people with felony convictions. The restrictions are similar across all major security companies.
Background Check Process
Background checks for security positions include criminal history, sex offender registry, state licensing verification, and often drug testing. The scope of checks depends on the position and client site requirements. Government contract sites have the strictest requirements.
What Disqualifies You
For armed security: any felony conviction is permanently disqualifying. For unarmed security: state licensing laws determine eligibility. Violent felonies, sex offenses, theft, and drug felonies are commonly disqualifying. Timeframes vary by state.
Alternative Opportunities
If security guard work is not an option due to licensing restrictions, consider facility services companies (ABM, ISS) or warehouse and logistics companies. These industries have similar shift-based work but without the security licensing requirements.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Check your state's security guard licensing requirements before applying.
- 2.G4S is now part of Allied Universal — apply through Allied Universal's career portal.
- 3.If you cannot get a security guard license, look at facility services as an alternative.
- 4.Non-security administrative positions may have more flexibility.
- 5.Armed security is permanently unavailable to anyone with a felony conviction.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does G4S hire felons?
- G4S (now Allied Universal) rarely hires people with felony records for security positions due to state licensing requirements.
- Is G4S the same as Allied Universal?
- G4S merged with Allied Universal in 2021. All G4S operations are now under the Allied Universal brand.
- Does G4S do background checks?
- Yes, comprehensive background checks are required for all security positions, including state licensing checks.
- Can a felon work in security?
- It depends on your state's licensing laws. Many states disqualify felony convictions from security guard licenses. Armed security is off-limits to all felons under federal law.
- How much does G4S/Allied Universal pay?
- Security officers earn $12-$20/hour depending on location, site, and whether the position is armed or unarmed.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Allied Universal Careers
Careers at Allied Universal (includes former G4S positions).
- National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.