Does Red Lobster do background checks?

Yes, Red Lobster conducts background checks on new hires after a conditional job offer.

Does Red Lobster drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by position and location. Post-accident testing may apply.

What positions are available at Red Lobster?

Red Lobster hires dishwashers, prep cooks, line cooks, hosts, servers, bartenders, and managers.

How many Red Lobster locations are there?

Red Lobster operates approximately 650 locations across the United States.

Does Red Lobster Hire Felons?

Last updated: 2026-03-28

Sometimes

Red Lobster conducts background checks but hires people with records for kitchen and host positions. Corporate-owned locations have consistent policies.

Red Lobster does hire some people with felony records. The seafood restaurant chain operates approximately 650 locations in the United States. Red Lobster conducts background checks on new hires but evaluates results on an individualized basis. Kitchen positions (prep cook, line cook, dishwasher) are the most accessible for people with criminal records, as they involve limited customer interaction and no cash handling. Server and host positions are assessed case by case. Red Lobster's casual dining environment and consistent staffing needs create opportunities for people with records. The company has been through ownership changes in recent years but continues to be one of the largest casual dining chains in America, with ongoing hiring needs across its locations.

Hiring by Position

Position	Felon Friendly?	Background Check	Notes
Dishwasher / Utility	Yes	Yes — basic criminal check	Back-of-house with no customer interaction. Most accessible position.
Prep Cook / Line Cook	Yes	Yes — basic criminal check	Kitchen preparation and cooking. Limited customer interaction.
Host	Yes	Yes — standard criminal check	Customer greeting and seating. No cash handling.
Server	Case-by-case	Yes — standard criminal check	Customer-facing with payment handling and alcohol service. Tips available.
Bartender	Case-by-case	Yes — standard check plus alcohol permit	State alcohol serving permits required. Some states restrict felons.
Management	Case-by-case	Yes — comprehensive check	Full restaurant management with cash and inventory responsibilities.

Red Lobster's Hiring Practices

Red Lobster is one of the largest casual dining seafood chains in the United States with approximately 650 locations. The company conducts background checks on new hires but uses individualized assessment. Kitchen positions are the most accessible entry points for people with criminal records. Red Lobster's kitchen operations are labor-intensive (seafood preparation requires significant prep work), which means there are consistent openings for back-of-house staff. The company values reliability and willingness to work, and many locations hire people with records for kitchen and support roles. Red Lobster's dining format means evening and weekend shifts are the busiest, creating scheduling opportunities for people with varied availability needs.

Background Check Process

Red Lobster conducts background checks through a third-party provider after a conditional job offer. The check includes criminal history search and Social Security verification. Server and bartender positions may also be subject to state alcohol serving permit requirements. The process typically takes 3-5 business days. Red Lobster follows FCRA requirements and applicable state and local ban-the-box laws.

Tips for Getting Hired

Apply online through Red Lobster's careers website or visit a location in person. Dishwasher and prep cook positions are the best starting points for people with records. If you want to eventually move to higher-paying server positions, start in the kitchen and work your way up. Be available for evening and weekend shifts. Highlight any prior restaurant or kitchen experience. Red Lobster's seafood-focused menu means the kitchen is busier and more complex than typical casual dining, so willingness to learn is valued.

Application Tips for People with Records

1.Apply online at redlobster.com/careers or visit your nearest location in person.
2.Target dishwasher, prep cook, or line cook positions as your starting point.
3.Be available for evening and weekend shifts when Red Lobster is busiest.
4.Highlight any kitchen or restaurant experience, even informal.
5.If interested in serving, start in the kitchen to build trust and tenure.
6.Check your state's alcohol service permit requirements if interested in bartender or server roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Red Lobster hire felons?: Red Lobster does hire some people with felony records. Background checks are conducted with individualized assessment. Kitchen positions are the most accessible.
Does Red Lobster do background checks?: Yes, Red Lobster conducts background checks on new hires after a conditional job offer.
Does Red Lobster drug test?: Drug testing policies vary by position and location. Post-accident testing may apply.
What positions are available at Red Lobster?: Red Lobster hires dishwashers, prep cooks, line cooks, hosts, servers, bartenders, and managers.
How many Red Lobster locations are there?: Red Lobster operates approximately 650 locations across the United States.

Take Action — Direct Links

Red Lobster Careers
Search and apply for positions at Red Lobster locations.
National HIRE Network
Free resources for people with criminal records seeking employment.

Related Resources on This Site

Similar companies

Helpful guides

Pardon & ClemencyFederal pardon — how to apply for a presidential pardon
ExpungementHow to find an expungement lawyer
DUI RecoveryHow to find a DUI lawyer
Safety & ProtectionProtective orders & restraining orders

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).