Quick Answer

Yes, Big Lots hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With more than 1,400 closeout discount stores across the U.S., Big Lots provides steady retail employment opportunities for individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

Starting pay ranges ($12–$16/ hour) for most store positions, with advancement to management roles earning ($24–$36/ hour equivalent). The company’s large-format stores, warehouse-style operations, and high turnover create consistent openings in both customer-facing and physical labor roles.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Big Lots

3. Hiring Policy

4. Available Jobs

5. Background Check

6. Application Tips

7. Frequently Asked Questions

8. Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

9. Final Thoughts

About Big Lots

Big Lots, founded in 1967 and headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, operates over 1,400 closeout retail stores in 47 states. The company buys manufacturer closeouts, seasonal excess inventory, and overruns to sell brand-name merchandise at 20–40% discounts.

Stores are larger than typical dollar stores—averaging 25,000–30,000 square feet—and feature furniture, home décor, food, toys, electronics, and seasonal items. Big Lots employs more than 30,000 people and remains one of the largest closeout retailers in the U.S.

For people with felony convictions, Big Lots offers promising access to stable employment because:

1. Discount retail tends to be more open to second-chance hiring.

2. Large stores need more employees per location.

3. Furniture and warehouse areas provide physical, behind-the-scenes roles.

4. Seasonal and transitional hiring periods increase openings.

5. Hiring decisions are handled case-by-case by store managers.

Hiring Policy

Big Lots reviews each applicant individually rather than enforcing blanket bans against felony convictions. The company’s local hiring managers often have discretion, making decisions based on the nature of the conviction, time elapsed, and the applicant’s work readiness.

What They Consider

• Nature of conviction and whether it relates to retail work.

• Time since conviction and rehabilitation progress.

• Immediate staffing needs at the store.

• Position type, such as warehouse vs. sales floor.

• Reliability and attitude shown during the application process.

Overall, Big Lots maintains a reputation for accessibility in hiring, especially for stock and warehouse positions.

Available Jobs

Sales Associate

($12–$15/ hour)

Provides customer service, operates registers, and assists on the sales floor. Ideal for applicants who enjoy working with customers.

Stock/Warehouse Associate

($12–$16/ hour)

Unloads shipments, assembles furniture, organizes stockrooms, and assists with inventory. This is one of the most accessible positions for individuals with a record.

Furniture Sales Associate

($12–$16/ hour + commission)

Focuses on furniture sales and customer service with added earning potential from commissions.

Department Lead

($14–$18/ hour)

Oversees specific departments such as furniture, décor, or seasonal goods. Often promoted from Sales or Stock roles.

Assistant Store Manager

($18–$25/ hour equivalent)

Supports store management with staffing, training, and store operations. Typically requires prior retail experience.

Store Manager

($24–$36/ hour equivalent)

Leads the entire store, including hiring, scheduling, inventory control, and sales goals. Internal promotion is common.

Career Path:Stock/Warehouse Associate → Department Lead → Assistant Manager → Store Manager

Background Check

• Covers approximately the past 7 years of criminal history.

• Conducted case-by-case, depending on the position.

• Background checks usually complete within 5–7 days.

• Drug testing may be required for warehouse or management roles.

Applicants are encouraged to disclose honestly if asked; Big Lots values transparency and effort toward rehabilitation.

Application Tips

1. Apply for stock or warehouse roles – These positions are most accessible and emphasize physical work over background.

   
   

2. Highlight physical ability – Mention comfort with lifting, stocking, or furniture assembly.

   
   

3. Apply to multiple stores – Submit applications to 5–10 nearby Big Lots locations for higher success.

   
   

4. Target seasonal hiring – Best times are October–December (holidays) and July–August (back-to-school).

   
   

5. Visit stores in person – Introduce yourself politely to managers during slower hours.

   
   

6. Show reliability – Emphasize transportation, attendance, and willingness to work any shift.

   
   

7. List warehouse or moving experience – Even informal experience is valuable.

   
   

8. Stay positive – Managers value a friendly attitude and eagerness to learn.

   
   

9. Check job boards frequently – Openings are updated weekly on Big Lots’ career site.

   
   

10. Follow up after 3–5 days – A short, polite inquiry helps you stand out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Big Lots automatically reject me if I have a felony?

No. Hiring is handled case-by-case, and many stores have hired people with records based on reliability and effort.

What position is most accessible?

Stock or Warehouse Associate roles are ideal for applicants seeking less public-facing work.

Does Big Lots drug test?

Some locations do, especially for warehouse and managerial positions.

How long does the background check take?

Typically 5–7 business days after a conditional job offer.

Can I apply while on probation or parole?

Yes. Many applicants have been hired under supervision as long as scheduling requirements are met.

How much does Big Lots pay compared to dollar stores?

Slightly higher, averaging $12–$16/hour versus $11–$14/hour at dollar stores.

Do I need furniture or retail experience?

No, training is provided. Showing physical ability and reliability is more important.

Is Big Lots more accessible than Walmart or Target?

Yes, generally. Discount retailers like Big Lots tend to have more flexible hiring standards.

When does Big Lots hire most?

Peak seasons are during holiday (October–December) and back-to-school (July–August).

Can I move up to management?

Yes. Many managers began as associates and were promoted based on performance and reliability.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• TJ Maxx / Marshalls / HomeGoods – Off-price retailers offering accessible entry-level roles.

• Burlington – Department store chain with second-chance opportunities.

• Ross Dress for Less – Discount apparel retailer known for fair-chance hiring.

• At Home – Large home décor superstore with warehouse and stocking roles.

Final Thoughts

Big Lots provides fair-chance employment for individuals seeking to reenter the workforce through accessible retail and warehouse positions. With more than 1,400 stores nationwide, pay between $12–$16/ hour, and clear advancement paths to management, Big Lots remains one of the more open national retailers for second-chance applicants.

Start your application at BigLots.com/careers and apply to several nearby stores to increase your chances of being hired.