Quick Answer
Yes, Aerotek does hire people with felonies on a case-by-case basis. As a staffing agency, Aerotek evaluates candidates individually and places workers in various industries. Your chances depend on the type of conviction, how long ago it occurred, the specific position, and the requirements of the client company where you would work. Pay depends on role and location; check the posting. Industrial and warehouse roles are common starting points for people with records.
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About Aerotek
Aerotek is one of the largest staffing and recruiting companies in North America. They operate in all 50 states and Canada, with over 250 offices nationwide. Aerotek specializes in placing workers in skilled trades, light industrial, administrative, and professional positions.
For people with felonies, a staffing agency like Aerotek can be a useful route. It works with many client employers, and recruiters can help match you with clients whose requirements fit your background. Each client sets its own background check rules, so options vary by placement.
Does Aerotek Hire People with Felonies?
Aerotek does not have a blanket ban on hiring people with criminal records. Their policy is to evaluate each candidate based on the specific job requirements and their client company's policies. This is actually good news because it means you have a real chance.
Here's how it works in practice. When you apply through Aerotek, they first screen you for their database. If you're honest about your background, they'll look for positions that match your skills where the client employer accepts workers with records. Aerotek has relationships with many second-chance employers, especially in manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics.
Several factors affect your chances. Time since conviction matters a lot. If your conviction was more than seven years ago, many client companies won't even see it on background checks due to state laws. The type of offense matters too. Theft convictions can disqualify you from retail or cash-handling positions, but you might be perfect for manufacturing. Violent offenses may limit some options but won't eliminate all opportunities.
The position you're applying for is crucial. Entry-level warehouse, production, and general labor positions have the highest acceptance rates for people with records. These roles focus more on your ability to show up, work hard, and follow safety rules than on your past.
Aerotek looks for candidates who are honest, reliable, and motivated to work. If you can demonstrate these qualities and your conviction doesn't directly conflict with the job duties, you have a strong chance of placement.
Available Jobs at Aerotek
Aerotek places workers in a wide variety of positions. Here are the most accessible roles for people with felony convictions:
Warehouse Associate
($15-$19/hour)
You'll pick orders, pack boxes, load trucks, and maintain inventory. Most positions require standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 pounds. No previous experience is typically needed. These roles have high placement rates for people with records because they focus on physical ability and reliability rather than background.
Production Worker
($14-$20/hour)
You'll work on assembly lines, operate machinery, or package products in manufacturing facilities. Basic math skills and the ability to follow instructions are important. Manufacturing clients often have more flexible background requirements than other industries, so this is often the easiest entry point.
General Laborer
($14-$18/hour)
You'll perform various tasks like cleaning, moving materials, and assisting skilled workers. Physical stamina is required. No special skills needed. This role works well for people with records because it's entry-level and focused on work ethic.
Forklift Operator
($16-$22/hour)
You'll move materials using forklifts and other equipment. You need forklift certification, which Aerotek sometimes helps you get. Once certified, these positions pay better and having a felony rarely matters if you're safe and responsible.
Machine Operator
($15-$21/hour)
You'll run production equipment, monitor quality, and perform basic maintenance. Some mechanical aptitude helps. Many manufacturing clients hire people with records for these roles, especially if you can work various shifts.
Quality Inspector
($16-$20/hour)
You'll check products for defects and ensure standards are met. Attention to detail is crucial. This role requires less physical work and can be a good fit if you have an eye for detail, regardless of your background.
Maintenance Technician
($18-$28/hour)
You'll repair equipment and perform preventive maintenance. You need technical skills or trade school experience. If you have the qualifications, a felony conviction often doesn't matter in these skilled positions.
Best entry point
Production Worker or General Laborer roles offer the quickest path to employment. They usually require no experience and are filled throughout the year, and Aerotek's clients often need workers quickly.
Background Check Process
Aerotek conducts background checks, but the timing and depth vary based on the client company's requirements. Understanding this process helps you prepare and know what to expect.
The background check typically happens after Aerotek interviews you and identifies a potential placement. They don't run checks on everyone who applies, only on candidates being considered for specific positions. This saves you from unnecessary background checks that could affect your chances elsewhere.
Most Aerotek background checks go back seven years for criminal history. This follows the standard practice for most states. Some positions, especially in healthcare or government contracting, may require more extensive checks going back ten years or more. The recruiter will tell you upfront if the position requires a deeper check.
The check usually takes 2-5 business days. During this time, Aerotek verifies your employment history, criminal record, and sometimes education. Some client companies also require drug screening, which happens at the same time. Your recruiter will explain exactly what the specific employer requires.
If something comes up on your background check, Aerotek must give you a chance to review it before making a final decision. This is federal law. You can dispute errors or provide context about your conviction. Being honest from the start helps tremendously during this stage.
Geographic variations matter. Some states like California and New York have "ban the box" laws that limit when and how employers can ask about criminal history. Aerotek follows all state laws, which may work in your favor depending on where you live.
Application Tips
Be completely honest about your criminal record from your first conversation.
Aerotek recruiters can't help you if they don't know the truth. They've heard it all and can work with most situations if you're upfront.
Apply directly through Aerotek's website or visit an office in person.
In-person visits often work better because you can explain your situation directly to a recruiter. Find your nearest office at aerotek.com.
Tell your recruiter you're interested in warehouse, production, or labor roles.
These have the highest success rates for people with records.
Emphasize any work history since your conviction.
Even if it was informal work, temp jobs, or day labor, it shows you've been trying to stay employed and productive.
Be flexible with shift times and locations.
Night shifts and positions farther from major cities often have fewer applicants and more openings for people with backgrounds.
Get any relevant certifications before applying.
A forklift license, OSHA 10 safety card, or manufacturing certification makes you more valuable and gives recruiters more options for placement.
Prepare a brief, honest explanation of your conviction.
Keep it to 2-3 sentences. Take responsibility, explain what you learned, and focus on moving forward. Practice this before your interview.
Ask your recruiter which of their client companies are second-chance employers.
Good recruiters know which companies are more flexible and will steer you toward those opportunities.
Follow up consistently but not excessively.
Check in with your recruiter once a week if you haven't heard anything. This shows you're serious without being annoying.
Be ready to start immediately.
Many Aerotek placements need workers fast. If you can start tomorrow or Monday, say so. This flexibility makes you more attractive.
Dress professionally for your Aerotek interview.
Even though the jobs might be manual labor, showing up neat and clean demonstrates you're serious about working.
Bring references who can speak to your work ethic.
Former employers, supervisors from volunteer work, or even parole officers can vouch for your reliability and character.
Be open to temp-to-hire positions.
These let you prove yourself before the company commits to hiring you permanently. Once you show your value, the felony matters less.
Ask about skills training programs.
Aerotek partners with some clients to provide training. Getting trained in a specific skill while employed increases your value and career options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my drug conviction disqualify me from working through Aerotek?
Not automatically. Drug convictions are common, and many Aerotek clients hire people with drug-related offenses, especially for warehouse and manufacturing positions. However, you'll likely need to pass a drug test and stay clean. If your conviction was recent (within 1-2 years), some employers may hesitate, but positions are still available. Be honest about it, emphasize your sobriety if applicable, and show you're committed to staying clean.
Does Aerotek do drug testing?
Aerotek itself doesn't require drug tests, but their client companies often do. Whether you'll be tested depends entirely on which employer you're being placed with. Most manufacturing, warehouse, and logistics companies require pre-employment drug screens and random testing. Your recruiter will tell you upfront if the position requires testing. Some positions test for all substances, while others only test for hard drugs and not marijuana, depending on state laws.
How long should I wait after my conviction before applying to Aerotek?
There's no set waiting period you need to meet before applying, but your options generally grow as more time passes since your conviction. With a very recent conviction you'll likely have fewer options. How far back a background check can report depends on the type of record and state law, so older convictions may still appear. If you need work now, it's reasonable to apply and talk with a recruiter about what's available.
Can I work through Aerotek while on probation or parole?
Often, yes. A steady job can help you meet probation or parole requirements. Tell your recruiter about any restrictions, like curfews, travel limits, or required check-ins, so they can look for positions that fit your schedule. Whether a particular client will accept someone under supervision depends on that client and the role.
Will violent felonies prevent me from getting placed?
Not necessarily, but they do limit your options more than other convictions. Positions involving public contact, working with vulnerable populations, or certain healthcare roles will likely be off-limits. However, manufacturing, warehouse, and construction positions remain accessible. Be prepared to discuss what happened honestly and what you've done to change. If significant time has passed (5+ years) and you've stayed out of trouble, many employers will give you a chance.
Does Aerotek hire people with theft or fraud convictions?
Yes, but these convictions can be challenging for certain positions. You'll likely be excluded from roles involving cash handling, access to expensive inventory, or financial responsibilities. However, production, general labor, and many warehouse positions remain open to you. Manufacturing facilities where you're working with raw materials or assembly often don't care about theft convictions. Be honest about it, and your recruiter can steer you toward appropriate opportunities.
What if I have multiple felonies?
Multiple felonies make placement more challenging but not impossible. Aerotek evaluates the overall pattern—were they all from one period of your life, or are they spread over many years? Recent good behavior and employment history help significantly. Focus on positions with the lowest barriers: general labor, production work, and basic warehouse roles. You may need to be more patient and flexible, but Aerotek places people with complex backgrounds regularly.
Can I work in a different state through Aerotek?
Yes, Aerotek operates nationwide. If you're willing to relocate, this can actually help you. Some states and cities have more second-chance employers than others. Your recruiter can search their national database for positions. Some manufacturing areas have labor shortages and are very open to hiring people with records. Be aware that you'll need to pass background checks following that state's laws.
How quickly can Aerotek place me in a job?
If you're qualified and flexible, placement can happen within a few days to two weeks. The process includes your initial interview with Aerotek, matching you with client openings, the client interview (sometimes), background check (2-5 days), and then start date. Some urgent positions start even faster. The more flexible you are with shift times, location, and job type, the faster you'll get placed. Having any needed certifications ready speeds things up significantly.
What should I do if the background check reveals wrong information?
Federal law requires Aerotek to give you a pre-adverse action notice before denying you based on background check results. This gives you time to dispute errors. Act immediately—contact your recruiter and the background check company to file a dispute. Gather documentation proving the error, such as court records showing charges were dismissed or expunged. Aerotek must wait until the dispute is resolved before making a final decision. This process typically takes another 5-10 business days, but it can save your opportunity.
Similar Felon-Friendly Companies
If Aerotek doesn't work out or you want additional options, consider these similar staffing and placement agencies:
Labor Ready/TrueBlue: Specializes in same-day pay for general labor and light industrial work. Very flexible about backgrounds and you can start working immediately in many locations.
PeopleReady: Offers on-demand work in construction, warehousing, and hospitality. Known for giving chances to people with various convictions and offering daily pay.
Trillium Staffing: Another large staffing agency with manufacturing and industrial focus. They work with many second-chance employers and have offices across multiple states.
Manpower: International staffing company placing workers in industrial, clerical, and technical positions. They evaluate candidates individually rather than using blanket policies.
Adecco: Large staffing firm with diverse client base. While requirements vary by client, they work with many employers open to hiring people with felonies.
Final Thoughts
Aerotek offers real opportunities for people with felony convictions who want to work. Their staffing model means they have connections to hundreds of employers, many of whom practice second-chance hiring. Your best strategy is being honest, targeting industrial and warehouse positions, and staying flexible about shifts and locations.
The key is taking action. Visit Aerotek's website at aerotek.com to find your nearest office and apply online, or walk into an office and talk to a recruiter face-to-face. Bring your resume, any certifications, and be ready to discuss your background honestly. Records are reviewed case by case, and the role, the offense, and time passed all matter.
Does Aerotek Hire Felons in 2026?
Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: November 2026
Arkansas Blue Cross Blue Shield
Industry:
Banking Finance & Corporate
Pay:
$16.00 – $77.00/hour
Location:
Arkansas
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