Quick Answer

Yes, ArcelorMittal hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions on a case-by-case basis. As the world's second-largest steel producer with approximately 125,000 employees globally, ArcelorMittal operates steel-making facilities in 15 countries. In North America, the company's primary U.S. operation is ArcelorMittal Calvert in Alabama, one of the most advanced steel finishing facilities in the world.

Employment decisions are conditional upon passing a background check and drug screening, and are subject to EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment.

The law prohibits companies from having a blanket policy excluding all felons. Instead, ArcelorMittal conducts an individualized assessment of each conviction to determine if it is job-related and consistent with business necessity.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to violence or weapons (critical safety concerns in heavy industrial environments), theft, fraud, or embezzlement (due to valuable metal commodities and inventory), and drug or alcohol offenses (strict drug-free workplace policies). Recent offenses within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Best entry points include Production Operator, Laborer, Shift Technician, and Maintenance Helper positions at the Calvert facility, which have consistent hiring needs and provide pathways to advancement. Entry-level production roles start around $25-$30/hr with overtime opportunities.

Table of Content

1. Quick Answer

2. Felon-Friendly Scorecard

3. Eligibility Checklist

4. Critical Regulatory Information

5. Company Overview

6. Hiring Policy Analysis

7. Background Check Process

8. Application Strategy

9. Tips for Applicants with Records

10. Benefits Overview

11. Frequently Asked Questions

12. Alternative Second Chance Employers

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• No Blanket Exclusion: Must be aware that ArcelorMittal is not allowed to automatically exclude you solely for being a felon. EEOC guidelines require individualized assessment considering the Green Factors.

  
  

• Job-Related Assessment: Must be prepared for the company to evaluate whether your felony is related to the job duties using the Green Factors (nature of crime, time elapsed, nature of job).

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to perform physically demanding work in a heavy industrial environment. Requires lifting up to 50 pounds, standing for extended periods, working in extreme temperatures (hot/cold), and climbing stairs and ladders.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. ArcelorMittal maintains a strict drug-free workplace policy. Testing is typically a 10-panel urine screening. Random testing may occur during employment for safety-sensitive roles.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked (after conditional offer). Lying is an automatic disqualifier and can result in termination if discovered later.

  
  

• Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and able to provide required I-9 documentation.

  
  

• Shift Flexibility: Must be willing to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Steel production operates 24/7, and most entry-level positions require shift work.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. ArcelorMittal's primary U.S. operation at Calvert, Alabama operates in a state with limited fair chance protections for private employers. However, the company must comply with federal EEOC guidelines nationwide and follows individualized assessment practices consistent with best employment practices.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse to consider an applicant because of a criminal record. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment considering the Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of the offense;

(2) Time elapsed since the offense and/or completion of sentence;

(3) Nature of the job sought and its relationship to the offense. Blanket policies excluding all felons are prohibited as they may have a disparate impact on protected classes.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, ArcelorMittal must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

(1) Provide pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and summary of FCRA rights;

(2) Allow reasonable time (typically 5 business days) to dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands after review.

State-Specific Considerations

Alabama has limited fair chance protections for private employers. The state does not have a statewide Ban-the-Box law covering private sector employment, meaning ArcelorMittal Calvert can inquire about criminal history at any point in the hiring process. However, the City of Birmingham has a local ordinance for public employment. Alabama follows federal FCRA requirements for background checks. The state does not have specific lookback limitations for criminal record reporting beyond federal guidelines. Applicants should be prepared for criminal history questions on the application or during the initial interview process.

Steel Manufacturing-Specific Considerations

The steel manufacturing industry involves heavy industrial operations with significant safety hazards, including molten metal, heavy machinery, extreme temperatures, and hazardous materials. This creates heightened scrutiny for certain offense types. Violence-related offenses face the most significant barriers due to co-worker safety concerns in dangerous environments. Theft and fraud convictions receive critical attention due to the high commodity value of steel, scrap metal, and industrial equipment. Drug and alcohol offenses are particularly problematic given strict drug-free workplace requirements for safety-sensitive positions. OSHA regulations and company safety protocols require a workforce that can be trusted to follow strict safety procedures.

Company Overview

ArcelorMittal is a Luxembourg-based multinational steel manufacturing corporation and the world's second-largest steel producer, behind only Baowu of China. The company was formed in 2006 through the merger of Arcelor and Mittal Steel. Headquartered in Luxembourg City, ArcelorMittal has steel-making operations in 15 countries, including 37 integrated and mini-mill steel-making facilities. The company produces approximately 58 million metric tonnes of crude steel annually and employs approximately 125,416 people worldwide.

In North America, ArcelorMittal's primary U.S. operation is ArcelorMittal Calvert in Alabama, located approximately 35 miles north of Mobile. This facility is recognized as one of the most advanced steel finishing facilities in the world, with capacity to process 5.3 million tons of high-value steel grades annually. The facility includes a river terminal, hot strip mill, cold rolling mill, three hot-dip galvanizing lines, a rail yard, and supporting infrastructure. In 2024, ArcelorMittal Calvert expanded with a new state-of-the-art Steelmaking facility featuring an Electric Arc Furnace. Note: In December 2020, ArcelorMittal sold most of its former U.S. integrated steel operations (including Indiana Harbor and Burns Harbor) to Cleveland-Cliffs.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 2006 (Luxembourg) via merger of Arcelor and Mittal Steel

• Headquarters: Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

• North America HQ: Schererville, Indiana

• Employees: 125,416 globally (2024)

• Industry Rank: 2nd largest steel producer worldwide

• Primary U.S. Facility: ArcelorMittal Calvert, Calvert, Alabama

• Stock Exchange: NYSE: MT, Amsterdam, Paris, Luxembourg

• CEO: Aditya Mittal

• Revenue: $61.1 billion (TTM 2025)

Hiring Policy Analysis

ArcelorMittal conducts individualized assessments as required by EEOC guidelines. According to employee reports and company responses, having a felony conviction does not automatically preclude employment, but decisions are made on a case-by-case basis considering the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and job relevance. The company conducts background checks after extending a conditional offer, giving applicants the opportunity to present their qualifications first. The hiring process typically includes application review, phone screening, in-person interview, skills assessment, conditional offer, background check, drug test, and final offer. Some positions at ArcelorMittal Calvert may be covered by collective bargaining agreements with the United Steelworkers union.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by safety requirements, access to valuable materials, and supervisory responsibilities.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and company job postings. Actual compensation varies by location, shift, experience, and overtime.

Career Path Examples

ArcelorMittal emphasizes internal advancement and offers in-house training on technical skills and leadership competencies. Many supervisory and management positions are filled through internal promotion.

Production Track: Production Operator ($25-$30/hr) → Senior Operator ($30-$34/hr) → Shift Lead ($35-$40/hr) → Production Supervisor ($65K-$85K/yr). Advancement based on performance, reliability, and additional certifications.

Maintenance Track: Maintenance Helper ($24-$28/hr) → Maintenance Technician ($29-$35/hr) → Senior Technician ($35-$42/hr) → Maintenance Supervisor ($70K-$95K/yr). Technical certifications and training completion accelerate advancement.

Skilled Trades Track: Apprentice ($22-$26/hr) → Journeyman Electrician/Mechanic ($32-$42/hr) → Master Tradesperson ($40-$48/hr) → Trades Supervisor ($80K-$110K/yr). Requires completion of apprenticeship program and certifications.

Background Check Process

Understanding ArcelorMittal's background check process helps you prepare mentally and practically for what to expect. The company conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer, which means you'll have the opportunity to demonstrate your qualifications and make an impression before your record is reviewed.

What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace and address history; employment history verification (5-10 years); education verification for positions requiring specific credentials; drug screening (mandatory 10-panel urine test for all operational positions); reference checks for professional positions.

Lookback Period: Standard 7-year criminal lookback for most positions. Employment verification typically extends 5-10 years. Serious violent felonies may be considered indefinitely. No state-mandated lookback limitations in Alabama for private employers.

Timeline: The hiring process averages approximately 2-4 weeks from application to hire based on employee reports. Background checks typically take 5-10 business days to complete after conditional offer. Drug test results usually available within 2-3 days. Some positions may take longer depending on verification requirements.

Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → In-person interview(s) → Skills assessment (if applicable) → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test authorization signed → Background check conducted → Drug test administered → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Final hiring decision made → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed → Orientation and safety training.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Violent felonies (assault, battery, weapons charges) due to co-worker safety in dangerous industrial environment; theft, fraud, or embezzlement involving significant amounts due to valuable inventory; drug manufacturing or distribution charges; any felony within the past 2-3 years; dishonesty during the application process (automatic disqualifier).

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent property crimes older than 7 years; drug possession charges (non-distribution) with documented rehabilitation; DUI/DWI with clean record since and completion of treatment; white-collar offenses unrelated to the position. All subject to individualized assessment considering rehabilitation evidence and time elapsed.

Your Rights as Applicant

• FCRA Protections: You must receive written notice and provide consent before a background check. If denied based on the report, you're entitled to a copy and the right to dispute inaccuracies within a reasonable timeframe.

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final decision, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and a summary of your rights. You'll have reasonable time (typically 5 business days) to respond with additional information or dispute errors.

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to an individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited. The employer must consider the Green Factors before making a final decision.

  
  

• Dispute Rights: You can dispute inaccurate information on background reports with the reporting agency. Check your own records beforehand through free annual credit reports and state criminal record requests.

Application Strategy

1. Target Entry-Level Production Positions: Focus on Production Operator, Shift Technician, and Material Handler positions at ArcelorMittal Calvert, which have the lowest barriers and highest volume hiring needs. These roles offer the best opportunity to get your foot in the door and demonstrate reliability before seeking advancement.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through najobs.arcelormittal.com/calvert. ArcelorMittal posts positions on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Check the careers page regularly as production positions are posted frequently due to continuous operations.

   
   

3. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your commitment to safety in industrial environments. Research the company's products and operations. Emphasize reliability, willingness to work rotating shifts, and ability to follow strict safety protocols. ArcelorMittal values safety as its most important core value.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest: Never lie about your criminal history. Dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier and can result in termination even after hire if discovered later. Wait until asked or until the appropriate stage to discuss your record.

   
   

5. Prepare Your Narrative: Have a brief, honest explanation ready: acknowledge the offense without making excuses, describe what you learned, and explain how you've changed. Focus on rehabilitation, personal growth, and stability. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds).

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes since your conviction: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, vocational training (especially industrial or manufacturing related), stable housing, employment history, community involvement, and character references.

   
   

7. Check Expungement Eligibility: Research whether your offense qualifies for sealing or expungement under Alabama law. Alabama has limited expungement options but does allow for certain non-violent offenses after waiting periods. Contact local legal aid organizations for assistance.

   
   

8. Follow Up Professionally: After applying, follow up with HR if you don't hear back within 2 weeks. If you receive a pre-adverse action notice, respond promptly with rehabilitation documentation. Persistence and professionalism demonstrate the qualities employers value.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Steel Manufacturing Has Consistent Hiring Needs: The steel industry operates 24/7 with continuous production schedules. ArcelorMittal Calvert processes 5.3 million tons annually, requiring a substantial workforce. Entry-level production roles experience regular turnover. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections—keep applying.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers at ArcelorMittal begin in entry-level production positions. Prove reliability through consistent attendance, safety compliance, and quality work. The company offers in-house training and tuition reimbursement for advancement into higher-paying skilled trades and supervisory positions.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check First: Know what will appear before the employer sees it. Order your own criminal background check from a consumer reporting agency. Dispute any errors or outdated information in advance. Many states allow free annual criminal record requests.

   
   

4. Industrial Safety Training Helps: Steel manufacturing requires strict safety compliance. Consider obtaining OSHA 10 or OSHA 30 certification, forklift certification, or other industrial safety credentials before applying. These demonstrate your commitment to workplace safety and give you an edge over other applicants.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: If you have substance issues, address them completely before applying. ArcelorMittal requires a pre-employment 10-panel drug screen and may conduct random testing for safety-sensitive positions. Testing is strictly enforced in heavy industrial environments.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation, and any consistent work history—even informal work shows you can be counted on. Steel manufacturing employers especially value dependability given 24/7 operations and team-based production schedules.

   
   

7. Network and Use Employee Referrals: Current ArcelorMittal employees can provide referrals. Employee referrals often receive priority consideration. Network through LinkedIn or local workforce development programs to connect with current employees.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Shifts: Willingness to work rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays significantly increases your chances. Steel production runs continuously, and schedule flexibility demonstrates commitment. Many positions offer shift differentials for nights and weekends.

Benefits Overview

ArcelorMittal offers a comprehensive benefits package for both salaried and represented employees. Benefits eligibility typically begins after 90 days for full-time employees.

Compensation: Entry-level production roles start at $25-$32/hr. Overtime available given 24/7 operations. Annual raises based on performance. 91% of employees report receiving overtime pay.

401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) savings plan with employer match up to 6% (company matches 6% of the first 5% contributed according to employee reports). Fidelity manages the plan. Some represented positions may include pension benefits.

Health Benefits: Medical insurance options including PPO plans with HSA contributions. Dental and vision coverage. Short-term and long-term disability insurance. Life insurance. Coverage begins after eligibility period.

Time Off: 13 days paid vacation starting, increasing with tenure. 10 paid holidays annually. Bereavement leave. Parental leave available. Employees report receiving 10-20 days of total PTO.

Additional Benefits: Tuition reimbursement program for continuing education. In-house training on professional and technical skills. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for counseling services. On-site convenience markets at Calvert facility. Safety bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities. Wellness programs and health initiatives.

Employee Perspectives

Pros: Good pay for the industry. Career growth opportunities. Strong safety culture. Stable employment. Overtime available. Nice people to work with. Vast experience gained.

Cons: Rotating shift schedules challenging for work-life balance. Healthcare costs for non-union employees. Management-union relations at some facilities. Physically demanding work. Hot working conditions in summer months.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does ArcelorMittal hire people with felonies?

   Yes, ArcelorMittal does hire individuals with felony convictions, but decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. According to company representatives, "having a felony conviction does not automatically preclude you from being employed." Employee reports confirm that the company hires individuals with records, particularly for entry-level production positions. The key factors are the nature of the offense, time elapsed, rehabilitation evidence, and relevance to the specific job. Violence-related offenses and recent theft convictions face the most scrutiny due to safety and integrity concerns in heavy industrial environments.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at ArcelorMittal?

   ArcelorMittal conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer. The check includes criminal history at federal, state, and county levels, SSN verification, employment history verification (5-10 years), and education verification for positions requiring credentials. A mandatory drug screen is also required. Results are reviewed using individualized assessment considering EEOC Green Factors. If issues arise, you'll receive a pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and time to respond before a final decision.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go at ArcelorMittal—what is the lookback period?

   ArcelorMittal's standard criminal background lookback is 7-10 years for convictions. Employment verification typically extends 5-10 years. Alabama does not have state-mandated lookback limitations for private employers, so the company has discretion on older offenses. Serious violent felonies may be considered indefinitely. Federal convictions have no lookback limitations. Offenses more than 7 years old generally receive less weight in hiring decisions, especially if you can demonstrate rehabilitation.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at ArcelorMittal?

   Violent felonies (assault, weapons charges) create the highest barriers due to co-worker safety concerns in dangerous industrial environments with heavy machinery and extreme temperatures. Theft, fraud, and embezzlement face critical scrutiny due to valuable steel commodities and equipment. Drug manufacturing or distribution charges are problematic given strict drug-free workplace requirements. Any felony within the past 2-3 years faces heightened review. Sexual offenses encounter significant barriers. Non-violent property crimes and older drug possession charges (with rehabilitation evidence) have better chances.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at ArcelorMittal for applicants with a record?

   The best opportunities are at ArcelorMittal Calvert in Alabama: Production Operator ($25-$30/hr) involves operating production line equipment and monitoring quality; Shift Technician ($26-$32/hr) supports production operations and equipment monitoring; Material Handler ($24-$28/hr) manages material movement and inventory; Laborer positions assist with various production tasks. These entry-level roles have higher turnover and more consistent hiring needs. They provide pathways to advancement into higher-paying skilled trades and supervisory positions.

   
   

6. Does ArcelorMittal drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, ArcelorMittal requires mandatory pre-employment drug testing for all operational and production positions. The company uses a standard 10-panel urine drug screen testing for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, methadone, propoxyphene, and methaqualone. Testing is conducted after conditional offer but before final hire. Random drug testing may occur during employment for safety-sensitive positions. The company maintains a strict drug-free workplace policy, and positive tests typically result in offer withdrawal or termination.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will ArcelorMittal ask about criminal history?

   Alabama does not have statewide Ban-the-Box legislation for private employers, so ArcelorMittal may inquire about criminal history at any point in the process—potentially on the application or during the interview. However, the company's practice appears to conduct thorough background checks after extending conditional offers, allowing candidates to demonstrate qualifications first. Regardless of when asked, you should be prepared to discuss your record honestly. Never lie—dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at ArcelorMittal if they have a felony?

   Yes, advancement to supervisory and management positions is possible, though more scrutiny applies. ArcelorMittal emphasizes internal advancement and provides training for career development. The key factors are time since offense, clean work history at the company, demonstrated reliability and leadership, and the nature of the original conviction. Violent offenses and recent integrity-related crimes present the highest barriers to advancement. Building a track record of safety compliance, quality work, and reliability at ArcelorMittal is the best path to promotion opportunities.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take?

   The total hiring process at ArcelorMittal typically takes 2-4 weeks from application to start date. After submitting your application, phone screening usually occurs within 1-2 weeks if selected. In-person interviews follow, sometimes including skills assessments. Once a conditional offer is made, the background check takes approximately 5-10 business days, and drug test results are available within 2-3 days. Processing times may be longer for positions requiring additional verifications or during high-volume hiring periods.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at ArcelorMittal?

    Focus on entry-level production positions at ArcelorMittal Calvert which have lower barriers. Obtain industrial safety certifications (OSHA 10/30, forklift) before applying. Be completely honest about your record—dishonesty is automatic disqualification. Prepare a brief, positive narrative about your offense and rehabilitation. Document all evidence of change: completed programs, education, stable employment, community involvement. Run your own background check first to know what will appear. Demonstrate flexibility on shifts and willingness to work nights/weekends/holidays. Follow up professionally after applying and respond promptly to any pre-adverse action notices.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If ArcelorMittal doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in steel manufacturing, heavy industry, and related fields:

Conclusion

ArcelorMittal offers conditional opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in entry-level production and maintenance positions at ArcelorMittal Calvert. As the world's second-largest steel producer with advanced manufacturing facilities, the company provides a pathway to stable employment with competitive wages and comprehensive benefits. The company conducts individualized assessments as required by EEOC guidelines, meaning a felony conviction does not automatically disqualify you from employment.

The work is physically demanding and requires commitment to strict safety protocols in a heavy industrial environment. However, the compensation is competitive for the region ($25-$32/hr for entry-level positions plus overtime), and the benefits package includes health insurance, 401(k) with employer match, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement. Career advancement is achievable through demonstrated reliability and company-provided training—many supervisory positions are filled through internal promotion.

Key Success Factors: Target entry-level production positions at Calvert; be completely honest about your record; prepare rehabilitation documentation; obtain industrial safety certifications; demonstrate flexibility on shifts; emphasize commitment to safety and reliability.

Biggest Barriers: Recent violent offenses (safety concerns in dangerous industrial environment); theft or fraud convictions (valuable commodities); drug manufacturing charges (strict drug-free workplace); any felony within past 2-3 years; dishonesty during application process.

If you have a non-violent record, especially if several years have passed and you can demonstrate rehabilitation, ArcelorMittal Calvert is worth pursuing. Focus on entry-level positions to establish a track record, embrace the safety culture, and take advantage of the company's internal advancement opportunities to build a long-term career in steel manufacturing.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and individual circumstances. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including company websites, job postings, employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed), and salary databases (PayScale, ZipRecruiter), employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with ArcelorMittal.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, expungement procedures, and fair chance hiring requirements vary by state and should be confirmed with legal professionals. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://najobs.arcelormittal.com/calvert/