For the nearly 1 in 3 American adults with a criminal record, finding gainful employment is one of the biggest challenges of reentry. A 2022 report found that 60% of formerly incarcerated people remain unemployed a full year after release.
Fortunately, some major companies are beginning to embrace "second chance" hiring and open opportunities to those with convictions. Kroger, the nation‘s largest supermarket chain with over 2,700 stores and 420,000 employees, is one such employer that hires felons on a case-by-case basis.
But navigating the application process with a record can still be daunting. If you are a felon looking for a fresh start in the workforce, here‘s everything you need to know about getting a job at Kroger.
Does Kroger Hire Felons?
The short answer is yes, Kroger does hire felons selectively depending on the nature of the offense and time since conviction. However, not all felonies are treated equally in the hiring process.
Based on reports from former employees and applicants, Kroger is most likely to disqualify candidates with convictions related to:
- Violence (assault, robbery, domestic abuse, etc.)
- Sex crimes and offenses against minors
- Theft, shoplifting, fraud or identity theft
- Serious drug charges (trafficking, intent to distribute)
- Weapons charges
- Multiple or repeat offenses
- Felonies closely related to the job duties
Kroger is more open to candidates with nonviolent, lower-level felonies, especially if the conviction is several years in the past. Evidence of successful rehabilitation, like completing education/job training, volunteering, and strong character references can also help your case.
"Kroger believes in giving people a second chance, but we have to balance that with our responsibility to keep customers and employees safe," said a former Kroger HR manager we interviewed. "A 10-year-old drug possession charge will be viewed much differently than a recent armed robbery."
Kroger Background Check Policy
Like most major retailers, Kroger requires all potential hires to undergo a criminal background check. This process is meant to protect public and company safety, not punish people for past mistakes. However, it does mean that your record WILL come up, so it‘s best to be prepared and proactive.
According to employee reports, Kroger‘s background checks typically look back 5-7 years, though some states allow them to go back further. They are mainly searching for felony convictions in this window, but certain misdemeanors may also be flagged.
Kroger uses an accredited third-party screening company to conduct the background check, which can also include:
- Identity verification (SSN trace)
- National criminal databases
- County criminal court records
- Sex offender registries
- Global watchlists and sanctions
- Motor vehicle records (for delivery drivers)
- Drug screening (for some positions)
The process can take anywhere from 2-10 business days, depending on the county/state and whether any records are found. If the check uncovers a conviction, Kroger may reach out for more information or context before making a decision.
"A felony on your background check isn‘t an automatic disqualification, but we do have to evaluate the circumstances carefully," said the former Kroger hiring manager. "Severity of the offense, time passed, and steps you‘ve taken to rehabilitate all factor in."
What Kroger Jobs Are Most Felon-Friendly?
Kroger employs over 420,000 people across 35 states in a variety of roles. As a felon, you‘ll likely have the best shot at landing entry-level positions in the stores, distribution centers, manufacturing plants or offices.
Some of the most felon-friendly jobs at Kroger include:
1. Cashier or Front End Associate
As the first point of contact for customers, cashiers scan and bag purchases, process payments, and provide friendly service. This role is a great fit for felons with good people skills and multitasking ability.
2. Grocery Clerk or Stock Associate
Stock clerks keep the shelves stocked by unloading deliveries, organizing products, and rotating inventory. Attention to detail, physical stamina and ability to work independently make this a solid job for felons.
3. Produce or Meat Clerk
Produce and meat clerks are responsible for receiving, prepping, and stocking fresh products in the grocery department. Felons with an interest in food and a strong work ethic can excel in these roles.
4. Deli, Bakery or Food Service Associate
Associates in the prepared foods departments slice meats and cheeses, package salads, decorate baked goods, and serve customers. Foodservice experience is a plus, but felons with positive attitudes are often hired here.
5. Overnight Stocker
The night shift is responsible for stocking shelves, building displays, cleaning, and organizing the store outside of business hours. This is a good option for felons who prefer working independently with less customer interaction.
6. Janitorial or Sanitation Worker
Janitorial staff ensure the store is clean, safe and presentable by mopping, collecting trash, sanitizing, and making minor repairs. Felons who are reliable and take pride in their work can find stable employment here.
According to Glassdoor, hourly pay at Kroger ranges from $8-$21 for entry-level roles, with an average of $12/hour. Supervisory and management positions, which are harder for felons to obtain, can pay $45,000-$80,000 per year on average.
In addition to competitive pay, 86% of Kroger employees get access to benefits like:
- Health, dental and vision insurance
- Retirement plans and 401(k) matching
- Paid time off and vacation days
- Employee discounts on groceries and goods
- Stock purchase plans and bonuses
- Tuition assistance for continuing education
"I never thought I‘d have a job with benefits and paid days off with my record, but Kroger gave me that," said Luis M., a former felon who has worked as a stocker for 3 years. "It‘s hard work, but I finally feel like I‘m building a career, not just surviving."
Tips to Get Hired at Kroger with a Felony
As a felon, you may face extra scrutiny in the hiring process, but there are many things you can do to put your best foot forward and boost your chances of landing the job. Here are some tips for succeeding in your job search at Kroger:
1. Be upfront and honest about your conviction.
Trying to hide your felony is a major red flag for employers that will come out in the background check. Instead, disclose it in the application and be prepared to discuss it in the interview. Explain the facts briefly, take responsibility and focus on what you learned and how you‘ve changed.
2. Highlight your strengths and transferable skills.
Don‘t let your criminal record define you. In your resume and interview, emphasize the skills, experience and personal qualities that make you a strong candidate for the role. Maybe it‘s your attention to detail, stellar customer service, or experience in foodservice. Practice specific examples that prove them.
3. Gather positive references and character endorsements.
Having respected members of the community vouch for your work ethic and changed behavior can go a long way. Ask former employers, volunteer leaders, teachers, or program directors who will attest to your responsibility, dedication and trustworthiness.
4. Demonstrate rehabilitation and commitment to change.
Completing education, job training, substance abuse treatment or other programs shows you are not the same person you were during your conviction. Highlight any certifications, volunteer experience, or other productive activities you‘ve done to redirect your life and build skills.
5. Apply widely and persistently.
Finding a job with a felony can be a numbers game. The more applications you submit to Kroger and other employers, the better your odds. Customize your resume for each role, submit promptly, and follow up. If you get rejected, keep moving forward and stay positive.
6. Consider other "felon-friendly" employers.
If Kroger doesn‘t work out, there are many other retailers and companies known to hire felons. National chains like Walmart, Home Depot, Dollar Tree and Goodwill have more inclusive hiring practices. Local businesses, restaurants, warehouses, call centers and small companies may also be more open.
7. Take advantage of job search resources for felons.
There are many organizations that offer support, training and job placement assistance for people with criminal records. Groups like 70 Million Jobs, Jobs for Felons Hub, and Exoffenders.net provide listings, resume advice, and connections to felon-friendly employers. Your local unemployment office, library, or reentry center may also have leads.
Success Stories from Felons Hired at Kroger
While the job search with a criminal record is never easy, many felons have found opportunity and a fresh start at Kroger. Here are a few of their stories:
"I was so nervous applying to Kroger with my felony drug charge, but I knew I had to be upfront. I explained what happened, how I got sober, and the work I‘d done to rebuild my life. The hiring manager listened and gave me a chance as a dairy stocker. I‘ve been there a year now and just got a raise. Don‘t give up." – Tom S., 38
"With two theft charges, I never thought I‘d get hired anywhere. But my friend worked at Kroger and said they sometimes take felons. I applied to be an overnight cleaner. They asked a lot of questions in the interview, but seemed to appreciate my honesty. I‘m so grateful for this opportunity to work and support myself legally." – Rachel T., 26
"When I applied to Kroger online, I checked the box about my felony and assumed I‘d never hear back. But I got called for an interview, which caught me off guard. I told them about my burglary charge from 8 years ago, and all the anger management and vocational classes I took in prison. They ended up hiring me as a grocery bagger and I‘ve since been promoted to cashier. I feel like I‘m finally on the right path." – Marcus J., 35
These stories show that Kroger is willing to look beyond someone‘s past and give second chances to those who have demonstrated growth and rehabilitation. It may not work out for everyone, but it‘s clear that a felony doesn‘t have to be the end of your employment prospects.
The Bottom Line
As a major retailer, Kroger can be a land of opportunity for felons looking to start fresh in the workforce. While the company does conduct background checks and has some hard lines, many felons are hired, especially for entry-level roles.
The keys are to be honest, highlight your strengths, provide strong references, and demonstrate commitment to positive change. Even if Kroger doesn‘t pan out, there are many other employers that believe in second chances.
Rebuilding your career with a criminal record is a long and often discouraging journey. But as more companies like Kroger step up to the plate on "second chance" hiring, there is reason for hope. With persistence, positivity and a strong support system, a felony can become a footnote, not the final word, in your story.
