Does Pilgrim's Pride Hire Felons?
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Pilgrim's Pride is known as a felon-friendly employer. Poultry processing plants actively hire people with records.
Yes, Pilgrim's Pride hires people with felony records. As one of the largest chicken producers in the US, Pilgrim's Pride operates poultry processing plants across the country that have high hiring volumes and consistent staffing needs. Like other meat processing companies, Pilgrim's Pride is known for being felon-friendly. Production line, sanitation, and warehouse positions are the most accessible for people with records. The company's rural plant locations often make it a primary employer in the community.
Hiring by Position
| Position | Felon Friendly? | Background Check | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Production Line Worker | Yes | Yes — flexible | Poultry processing line. Physical work in cold environment. |
| Sanitation Worker | Yes | Yes — flexible | Plant cleaning, typically overnight. Entry-level. |
| Machine Operator | Yes | Yes — flexible | Operating processing equipment. Training provided. |
| Warehouse / Cold Storage | Yes | Yes | Warehouse operations in refrigerated environments. |
| Maintenance Technician | Sometimes | Yes | Industrial maintenance. Skills-based position. |
Pilgrim's Pride Hiring Practices
Pilgrim's Pride is one of the largest poultry producers in the US, owned by JBS (the world's largest meat company). The company operates processing plants across the US with significant hiring needs. Poultry processing, like all meat processing, is one of the most felon-friendly industries. The physical demands, turnover rates, and rural locations create an environment where employers focus on reliability over background history.
Background Check Process
Pilgrim's Pride conducts background checks but is generally flexible for production positions. The hiring process is typically fast with turnaround of days rather than weeks. The company focuses on filling positions quickly to maintain production capacity.
What Disqualifies You
Pilgrim's Pride is more flexible than most large employers. Sex offenses and active warrants are typically disqualifying. Most other criminal convictions are accepted for production roles. The primary focus is on the applicant's ability and willingness to do the work.
Working Conditions
Poultry processing involves working in cold, wet environments with repetitive motions. The work is physically demanding. Shifts are typically 8-10 hours. Despite the challenging conditions, the work provides stable employment with benefits including health insurance. Many plants offer competitive wages above minimum wage.
Application Tips for People with Records
- 1.Apply online at pilgrims.com/careers or visit the plant directly.
- 2.Be prepared for physical work in cold, wet conditions.
- 3.Sanitation and production line positions are the most accessible.
- 4.Many plants offer sign-on bonuses and shift premiums.
- 5.No prior experience required — training is provided.
- 6.Pilgrim's Pride plants often host hiring events. Check locally for dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does Pilgrim's Pride hire felons?
- Yes, Pilgrim's Pride is known as a felon-friendly employer in the meat processing industry.
- Does Pilgrim's Pride do background checks?
- Yes, but Pilgrim's Pride is generally flexible for production positions.
- Does Pilgrim's Pride drug test?
- Pilgrim's Pride typically requires pre-employment drug testing.
- How much does Pilgrim's Pride pay?
- Production workers earn $14-$20/hour depending on location and shift. Benefits include health insurance and paid time off.
- Is Pilgrim's Pride owned by JBS?
- Yes, Pilgrim's Pride is a subsidiary of JBS, the world's largest meat processing company.
Take Action — Direct Links
- Pilgrim's Careers
Official career page.
- National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.
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