Does Long John Silver's Hire Felons?
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Long John Silver's is franchise-dependent. Many franchise owners hire people with records for crew positions.
Long John Silver's hires some people with felony records depending on the franchise location. The seafood fast food chain is primarily franchise-operated, and individual franchise owners set their own hiring policies. Many franchise locations are willing to hire people with non-violent felony records for crew and kitchen positions. Long John Silver's often shares locations with other Yum! Brands restaurants (like KFC or Taco Bell), which can affect hiring policies at combo locations.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Felon Friendly? | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Crew Member | Yes | Varies by franchise | Entry-level role. Many franchises hire without extensive background checks. |
| Cook / Kitchen Staff | Yes | Varies by franchise | Seafood preparation. Kitchen roles are most accessible. |
| Cashier | Sometimes | Varies by franchise | Cash handling position. Theft convictions may be reviewed. |
| Shift Supervisor | Sometimes | Usually yes | Promoted from within. More responsibility means more scrutiny. |
| Restaurant Manager | Rarely | Yes | Full management responsibility with comprehensive background review. |
Long John Silver's Hiring Practices
Long John Silver's is a fast food seafood chain with around 600 locations in the United States. Many locations are co-branded with KFC or Taco Bell (all Yum! Brands family). The chain is primarily franchise-operated, meaning individual owners make hiring decisions. Long John Silver's has a smaller footprint than major fast food chains, and many locations are in smaller markets where hiring competition is less intense, which can benefit applicants with records.
Background Check Process
Background check policies depend on the franchise owner and whether the location is a combo restaurant with another Yum! Brands chain. Standalone Long John Silver's franchise locations may have more relaxed screening. Combo locations (LJS/KFC or LJS/Taco Bell) may follow the other brand's franchise policies. Most franchise locations do not conduct extensive background checks for entry-level crew roles.
What Disqualifies You
Disqualification varies by franchise. Sex offenses and active warrants are typically disqualifying. Violent felonies are evaluated case-by-case. Most non-violent drug and property offenses are not disqualifying for crew positions, especially older convictions. The franchise owner's individual judgment is the primary factor.
Tips for Getting Hired
Apply in person at multiple Long John Silver's locations. Many locations share space with KFC or Taco Bell, so you may be considered for positions at either brand. Emphasize your availability and reliability. Food service experience is helpful but not required. Be prepared to start quickly if hired.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Apply in person during slow hours to speak with the manager directly.
- 2.At combo locations (LJS/KFC), you may be considered for both brands simultaneously.
- 3.Emphasize flexibility with scheduling and willingness to work all shifts.
- 4.If one location declines, try another — franchise owners have independent policies.
- 5.Highlight any food service or customer service experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Long John Silver's hire felons?
- Many Long John Silver's franchise locations hire people with felony records for crew and kitchen positions. Policies vary by franchise owner.
- Does Long John Silver's do background checks?
- Background check policies vary by franchise location. Many do not conduct formal checks for entry-level positions.
- Does Long John Silver's drug test?
- Most franchise locations do not drug test for crew positions. Policies vary by owner.
- How many Long John Silver's locations are there?
- Long John Silver's operates around 600 locations in the US, many co-branded with KFC or Taco Bell.
- Is Long John Silver's part of Yum! Brands?
- Long John Silver's was previously owned by Yum! Brands but is now independently owned. However, many locations still share space with KFC or Taco Bell through co-branding agreements.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Long John Silver's Careers
Official career page.
- National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.
Related Resources on This Site
Similar companies
Helpful guides
- Free Legal AidFree legal aid by state
- ProbationFederal probation & supervised release
- TransportationInsurance After Felony
- Background ChecksHow long do background checks take?