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Have you ever wondered: Does Jack in the Box hire felons? If you live on the west coast of the United States, you’re probably familiar with this popular fast food restaurant chain.
Maybe you also have other questions, such as:
- Does Jack in the Box hire people with misdemeanors?
- What kind of entry level jobs do they have?
- How does Jack in the Box do background checks?
Getting a job in fast food is a great way to get back on your feet when you have a record. Relaunch Pad knows how hard it is to find a job as a former felon. Many of us have been in your shoes or helped people land on their feet after jail. That’s exactly why we reach out to companies directly to ask about their hiring policy for former felons.
We contact the companies so you don’t have to! We’re also determined to assist you by giving you the best information on how to get hired at Jack in the Box. Come see what we found out!
Does Jack in the Box hire felons?
Official company policy for hiring felons
We’re in the process of making contact with the company, so we can’t yet tell you what their official policy is. Additionally, some Jack in the Box locations are franchises so keep that in mind when you apply. If you’re apply to a franchise, it might have entirely different rules from another Jack in the Box in the same town.
Has Jack in the Box hired felons in the past?
Honestly, we’re not sure. Online reviews are mixed.
Does Jack in the Box hire people with misdemeanors?
This isn’t clear. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, though, so you have a better chance.
Is Jack in the Box on the Ban the Box list?
We found no evidence of Jack in the Box on the Ban the Box list. This program asks companies to take the criminal record check box off their application form. In other words, it encourages employers to consider your job qualifications before your felony or misdemeanor background.
The good news is that the company has signed the Fair Chance Business Pledge. Basically, the Pledge means what it suggests — all job applicants are given a fair chance, even with a criminal record.
We can also tell you that a number of states require private employers to ban the box. Look up your state and see what laws your local Jack in the Box follows.
Does Jack in the Box have special programs for hiring felons?
No, they don’t seem to.
What are the odds someone with a felony will get hired?
We think that the odds are average. While some of our research is promising we also don’t have a lot to go on. Here’s what we know:
- Their website doesn’t explain exactly how does Jack in the Box hire felons.
- We have no official company policy yet.
- Although they aren’t on the Ban the Box list, they’ve taken the Fair Chance Business Pledge.
- There are some online staff comments saying that you can get a job at Jack in the Box with a felony and a few that say you can’t.
What are some entry-level jobs?
At Jack in the Box, the best entry-level job is being a Team Member. That’s because you can apply even if you don’t have a high school diploma or equivalent. Also, no related job experience is needed — you just have to be willing to learn the usual responsibilities of working in a fast food restaurant. This includes operating cash, taking orders, serving guests and keeping the place clean.
How to get hired at Jack in the Box with a felony
Start by looking at job openings on the company’s website. Some postings tell you to apply in person at the restaurant. Others require applying online by first creating an account.
Whether you’re applying online or in person, create a strong resume that focuses on the main job duties. Look at these standard requirements from a typical Jack in the Box job posting and try to include similar wording to describe your work or volunteer experience:
- “Focus on providing service to guests that is hassle-free, friendly and comfortable” — use language such as “customer-focused” and “respectful” when talking about any experience serving customers.
- “Enjoy working in a fast-paced and high energy environment” — say how you worked quickly in previous jobs with words like “efficient”, “timely” and “responsive”.
- “Are good team players and treat others with care and respect” — “team work”, “collaborative” and “cooperative” are helpful language for explaining how you work well with others.
- “Learn quickly and ask questions” — use words like “self-starter” and “quick learner” when writing your resume.
To make a really great first impression, consider these tips:
- If you’re applying in person, call ahead to find out the best time to drop off your resume. Your initiative will pay off.
- Be polite and respectful with everyone you meet at the restaurant — not just the hiring manager!
- Bring an extra copy of your resume to the job interview. And don’t forget the contact information for your references!
- Be on time for your appointment. Even better, get there 10 to 15 minutes early.
- Wear clean and pressed clothing. A good pair of khakis or dress pants and a nice shirt or blouse will impress.
- Try to be relaxed and your real self in the interview. They want to make sure you can hold a conversation with strangers.
- Answer questions honestly and share a few accomplishments that you’re proud of. This could even cover what you’re doing to settle into the community after incarceration.
- Ask when they’ll make a hiring decision and be sure to say the best way to reach you if you’re the successful candidate.
Does Jack in the Box do background checks?
Yes, according to online employee comments, Jack in the Box does background checks. What that consists of isn’t clear, however.
Take a look at the following important information about how different states do background checks:
Rest easy if your record is clean for the last seven years, because that’s all that will show up if you live in these states:
- California
- Colorado*
- Kansas*
- Maryland*
- Massachusetts
- Montana
- Nevada
- New Hampshire*
- New York*
- Texas*
- Washington*
(* sometimes certain pay or salary bracket positions require one.)
In the following states, not guilty verdicts won’t be considered:
- Alaska
- California
- Hawaii
- Indiana (limited check)
- Kentucky
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- New York
Be warned that if you apply for work in the states below, your entire record will show in a background check. This includes not guilty verdicts:
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Connecticut
- DC
- Delaware
- Florida
- Idaho
- Indiana (extensive check)
- Iowa
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Nebraska
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Tennessee
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Company ratings
Glassdoor rates Jack in the Box 3.1 out of 5 based on 992 employee reviews. Only 52% say they’d recommend the employer to a friend. Here are the main pros and cons given:
Pros:
- Fast-paced work with plenty of hours
- Free food on your breaks
Cons:
- Lack of communication between Team Leaders and Managers
- Long hours
What felony convictions might have a hard time getting hired here?
If you have a felony or misdemeanor theft or fraud offense, you might have a more difficult time getting hired. Jack in the Box needs staff they can trust to handle money, merchandise and materials.
A history of substance abuse could raise a concern from the hiring manager as well. They want to be confident that you’ll show up for your shift alert, on time and ready to put in a solid effort.
Finally, Jack in the Box is a family establishment that relies on good teamwork and friendly customer service. A criminal background involving assault or harassment could suggest that you have difficulty working well with others.
Does Jack in the Box drug test?
What we found online said they might drug test if you have prior drug-related convictions or get injured on the job.
Have you applied for a job or worked here? Share your experiences!
We’d love to hear what you have to say about anything related to this company. What you know firsthand can really help others out!
