Does Perkins hire felons?

Some Perkins locations hire people with felony records. Policies vary by franchise owner. Kitchen and bakery positions are most accessible.

Does Perkins do background checks?

Background check policies vary by franchise location. Some conduct checks for all positions while others focus on management.

Does Perkins drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by franchise owner.

How much does Perkins pay?

Kitchen staff earn $10-$14/hour. Servers earn tipped wages. Baker positions earn $11-$15/hour.

Where are Perkins locations?

Perkins operates primarily in the Midwest and Northeast, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and surrounding states.

Does Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Hire Felons?

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sometimes

Perkins hires some people with records. Franchise-dependent family dining chain with kitchen roles being most accessible.

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery hires some people with felony records depending on the franchise location. The family dining chain operates through franchise owners who set their own hiring policies. Kitchen, bakery, and dishwasher positions are the most accessible for people with criminal records. Perkins' focus on breakfast and bakery operations creates early morning shift opportunities. The chain operates primarily in the Midwest and Northeast.

Hiring by Position

Position	Felon Friendly?	Background Check	Notes
Dishwasher	Yes	Varies by franchise	Most accessible back-of-house role.
Baker / Prep Cook	Sometimes	Varies by franchise	Bakery work starts very early (3-5 AM). Unique entry point.
Line Cook	Sometimes	Varies by franchise	Kitchen experience valued. Back-of-house.
Server	Sometimes	Varies	Customer-facing tipped position.
Manager	Rarely	Yes	Background check standard for management.

Perkins Hiring Practices

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery is a family dining chain with locations primarily in the Midwest and Northeast. The chain is franchise-operated, meaning individual owners make hiring decisions. Perkins is known for its bakery operations, creating unique positions like baker and bakery prep that start very early in the morning (3-5 AM). These early morning bakery shifts are often difficult to fill, which creates opportunities for applicants willing to work non-traditional hours.

Background Check Process

Background check policies vary by Perkins franchise owner. Some franchise locations conduct checks for all positions while others focus on management roles. The franchise owner's individual policies determine the level of screening. Family dining chains like Perkins tend to have moderate screening compared to upscale restaurants.

What Disqualifies You

Disqualification depends on the franchise owner. Violent felonies and sex offenses are most likely to disqualify. Theft convictions may affect server and cashier eligibility. Drug offenses are typically less concerning for kitchen and bakery roles. Each franchise owner evaluates individually.

Tips for Getting Hired

Apply in person during slower hours. Target bakery positions (early morning shifts) and kitchen roles for the best chances. Perkins bakery operations start at 3-5 AM and are always looking for reliable early-morning workers. Emphasize any food service or baking experience.

Application Tips for People with Records

1.Target early morning bakery positions — these shifts (3-5 AM start) are hardest to fill.
2.Apply in person during off-peak hours to speak with the manager.
3.Emphasize reliability and willingness to work early morning shifts.
4.Highlight any baking, cooking, or restaurant experience.
5.Apply to multiple locations — franchise owners have independent hiring policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Perkins hire felons?: Some Perkins locations hire people with felony records. Policies vary by franchise owner. Kitchen and bakery positions are most accessible.
Does Perkins do background checks?: Background check policies vary by franchise location. Some conduct checks for all positions while others focus on management.
Does Perkins drug test?: Drug testing policies vary by franchise owner.
How much does Perkins pay?: Kitchen staff earn $10-$14/hour. Servers earn tipped wages. Baker positions earn $11-$15/hour.
Where are Perkins locations?: Perkins operates primarily in the Midwest and Northeast, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and surrounding states.

Take Action — Direct Links

Perkins Careers
Official career page.
National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.

Related Resources on This Site

Similar companies

Helpful guides

Banking & CreditPredatory Lending Guide
EducationTrade schools for felons
Food & BenefitsFood banks near you
Phone & InternetFree government phone (Lifeline program)

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Company hiring policies change frequently and may vary by location, franchise, or position. Always confirm the current policy with the hiring manager or HR representative. A background check does not automatically disqualify you — you have rights under the EEOC guidelines and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).