Does Steak 'n Shake do background checks?

Background check policies vary by franchise location|depend on the position. Many locations do not conduct formal checks for entry-level crew positions.

Does Steak 'n Shake drug test?

Drug testing policies vary by location and position. Many locations do not drug test for crew positions.

How much does Steak 'n Shake pay?

Crew members typically earn $9-$15 per hour depending on location and state minimum wage. Management positions pay more.

What positions at Steak 'n Shake are best for someone with a felony?

Kitchen and cook positions are typically the most accessible. Back-of-house roles have less customer interaction and may be more flexible with background requirements.

Does Steak 'n Shake Hire Felons?

Last updated: 2026-04-01

Yes

Steak 'n Shake is known as a felon-friendly employer with 24/7 operations and consistent staffing needs.

Yes, Steak 'n Shake hires people with felony records. The burger and milkshake chain has transitioned many locations to a franchise/partner model and is known in the second-chance community as a felon-friendly employer. Many locations operate 24 hours and have constant staffing needs. The chain's counter-service model creates accessible crew positions. Steak 'n Shake has historically been willing to hire people with records for crew and kitchen positions.

Hiring by Position

Position	Felon Friendly?	Background Check	Notes
Crew Member / Team Member	Yes	Varies by franchise	Entry-level position. Most accessible for people with records.
Cook / Kitchen Staff	Yes	Varies by franchise	Back-of-house food preparation. Kitchen roles typically most accessible.
Cashier	Sometimes	Varies by franchise	Customer-facing with cash handling. Theft convictions may be assessed.
Shift Leader / Supervisor	Sometimes	Usually yes	Promoted from within. Reliability and performance are key qualifications.
Assistant Manager	Rarely	Yes	Management responsibility with more thorough background review.
General Manager	Rarely	Yes — comprehensive	Full restaurant management with comprehensive vetting.

Steak 'n Shake Hiring Practices for People with Records

Steak 'n Shake is a restaurant chain that hires for crew, kitchen, and management positions. As a franchise-operated chain, individual franchise owners set their own hiring policies. The company evaluates applicants based on availability, experience, and reliability. Kitchen and back-of-house positions are generally the most accessible for people with criminal records. The restaurant industry has higher rates of hiring people with records compared to many other sectors.

Background Check Process

Background check policies at Steak 'n Shake vary by franchise location. Some locations conduct formal background checks while others rely on the interview process for entry-level positions. Management positions typically require background checks regardless of location. The hiring process for crew positions is usually straightforward with quick turnaround.

What Disqualifies You from Working at Steak 'n Shake

Violent felonies and sex offenses are most likely to be disqualifying. Theft convictions may affect cashier positions. Drug convictions, especially older ones, are typically not disqualifying for crew roles. Each franchise owner makes independent hiring decisions, so experiences vary by location.

Tips for Getting Hired at Steak 'n Shake with a Record

Apply in person during off-peak hours (2-4 PM) to speak directly with a manager. Emphasize reliability, availability for all shifts, and any food service experience. Apply to multiple locations since different franchise owners have different policies. If one location declines, try another. Starting as crew and proving yourself reliable opens doors for advancement.

Application Tips for People with Records

1.Apply in person during off-peak hours (2-4 PM) to make a personal impression.
2.Emphasize availability for all shifts including early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
3.Highlight any food service or customer service experience.
4.Apply to multiple locations — different franchise owners have different policies.|Be honest about your record if asked directly.
5.Starting as crew and proving reliability is the fastest path to advancement.
6.Ask about promotion opportunities during your interview to show long-term interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Steak 'n Shake hire felons?: Steak 'n Shake hires some people with felony records. As a franchise-operated chain, policies vary by location. Kitchen and crew positions are the most accessible for people with records.
Does Steak 'n Shake do background checks?: Background check policies vary by franchise location|depend on the position. Many locations do not conduct formal checks for entry-level crew positions.
Does Steak 'n Shake drug test?: Drug testing policies vary by location and position. Many locations do not drug test for crew positions.
How much does Steak 'n Shake pay?: Crew members typically earn $9-$15 per hour depending on location and state minimum wage. Management positions pay more.
What positions at Steak 'n Shake are best for someone with a felony?: Kitchen and cook positions are typically the most accessible. Back-of-house roles have less customer interaction and may be more flexible with background requirements.

Take Action — Direct Links

Steak 'n Shake Careers
Official career page with job listings.
National HIRE Network
Employment resources for people with records.

Related Resources on This Site

Similar companies

Helpful guides

RecoverySAMHSA treatment locator
Banking & CreditRent-to-Own Alternatives
EducationHow to get your GED
Food & BenefitsFree meals and community kitchens

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).