Does Pollo Tropical do background checks?

Yes, Pollo Tropical conducts background checks after conditional job offers.

Does Pollo Tropical drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by position and location.

How much does Pollo Tropical pay?

Pay varies by position and location. Entry-level positions typically start at $11-$18/hour.

What positions at Pollo Tropical are best for someone with a felony?

Entry-level, warehouse, and back-of-house positions are generally the most accessible for people with records.

Does Pollo Tropical Hire Felons?

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Sometimes

Pollo Tropical hires some people with records. Caribbean-inspired restaurant chain in the Southeast.

Pollo Tropical hires some people with felony records. The Caribbean-inspired restaurant chain operates over 140 locations primarily in Florida and the Southeast. Pollo Tropical conducts background checks but evaluates records individually. Grill cook, prep cook, and crew positions are the most accessible for people with records. The chain's focus on grilled chicken creates kitchen-heavy operations.

Hiring by Position

Position	Felon Friendly?	Background Check	Notes
Entry-Level / Associate	Sometimes	Yes — individualized	Most accessible entry point. Background check with individualized assessment.
Warehouse / Stock	Sometimes	Yes	Back-of-house or warehouse work. Less customer interaction.
Customer-Facing / Sales	Sometimes	Yes	Customer interaction required. Some positions involve cash handling.
Skilled / Technical	Sometimes	Yes	Skills-based positions. Relevant experience valued.
Management	Rarely	Yes — comprehensive	Leadership roles with thorough background review.

Pollo Tropical Hiring Practices for People with Records

Pollo Tropical conducts background checks on applicants but evaluates criminal records through individualized assessment. The company considers the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and relevance to the position. Entry-level and labor-intensive positions are generally the most accessible for people with criminal records. The company complies with applicable fair chance hiring laws.

Background Check Process

Pollo Tropical conducts background checks after extending conditional job offers. The check typically covers 7 years of criminal history. If adverse information is found, the company provides pre-adverse action notice as required by the FCRA, giving applicants the opportunity to respond.

What Disqualifies You from Working at Pollo Tropical

Violent felonies and sex offenses are typically disqualifying. Theft and drug convictions are assessed individually based on the position and time elapsed. The specific criteria may vary based on the role and local laws.

Tips for Getting Hired at Pollo Tropical with a Record

Apply online through Pollo Tropical's career portal. Target entry-level positions for the best chances. Emphasize reliability, relevant skills, and availability. Be honest about your record during the background check process. Know your rights under your state's fair chance hiring laws.

Application Tips for People with Records

1.Apply online through Pollo Tropical's official career page.
2.Target entry-level and back-of-house positions for better chances with a record.
3.Emphasize reliability, relevant experience, and availability for all shifts.
4.Be honest about your record — background checks will reveal it.
5.Know your rights under your state's fair chance hiring laws.
6.Apply to multiple locations if available for more opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Pollo Tropical hire felons?: Pollo Tropical hires some people with felony records. Background checks use individualized assessment.
Does Pollo Tropical do background checks?: Yes, Pollo Tropical conducts background checks after conditional job offers.
Does Pollo Tropical drug test?: Drug testing policies vary by position and location.
How much does Pollo Tropical pay?: Pay varies by position and location. Entry-level positions typically start at $11-$18/hour.
What positions at Pollo Tropical are best for someone with a felony?: Entry-level, warehouse, and back-of-house positions are generally the most accessible for people with records.

Take Action — Direct Links

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

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Background ChecksWhat shows up on a background check?
Criminal LawHow to find a criminal defense lawyer
RightsCan a felon travel to Canada?
RecoveryAA meetings — how to find one

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).