Quick Answer

Yes, Bridgestone Americas hires individuals with felony convictions. As the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation (world largest tire and rubber company), Bridgestone Americas employs approximately 55,000 workers across 50+ production facilities throughout the Americas, with headquarters in Nashville, Tennessee. Company hiring based on individualized assessment considering nature of offense, time elapsed, and job relevance—not blanket exclusions. However, Bridgestone maintains strict Drug Free Workplace Policy with mandatory pre-employment drug and alcohol testing. Tennessee manufacturing facilities include La Vergne (passenger/light truck tires), Warren County/Morrison (truck and bus tires, 1,400+ employees), and Clarksville (Bridgestone Metalpha steel cord production).

Best entry points: Production Technician/Operator ($18-$25/hr), Material Handler ($17-$21/hr), Maintenance Technician ($25-$35/hr) where manufacturing skills and reliability valued. Company decision on conviction hinges on nature, recency, and direct relationship to job duties. EEOC individualized assessment required under Title VII. Employment conditional upon passing drug test, background check, and physical assessment for production positions.

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

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying to Bridgestone Americas, assess these critical requirements:

1. Pass Mandatory Drug and Alcohol Testing: Bridgestone maintains Drug Free Workplace Policy. Pre-employment drug screening mandatory and non-negotiable for all positions. Testing typically includes urine drug test for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol. Manufacturing environment with heavy equipment and safety hazards requires complete sobriety. If currently using any substances, do not apply until completely clean.

   
   

2. Assess Criminal History Against Job Duties: Bridgestone evaluates convictions based on direct relationship to job. Manufacturing positions focused on: theft (inventory, materials, finished products); violence (workplace safety); drug offenses (drug-free workplace); fraud (financial positions). Offenses unrelated to manufacturing duties evaluated more favorably.

   
   

3. Calculate Time Since Conviction: Standard 7-10 year lookback typical for manufacturing. Convictions older than 10 years with clean record since generally favorable. Recent convictions (within 5-7 years) for job-related offenses more scrutinized. Time elapsed demonstrates rehabilitation.

   
   

4. Physical Capability Required: Production positions require passing physical assessment. Manufacturing work involves standing for extended periods, repetitive motions, lifting (35-50 lbs typical), exposure to noise, heat, and manufacturing environment. Medical conditions may require accommodation evaluation.

   
   

5. Consider Tennessee Expungement: Tennessee allows expungement of certain criminal records. Expunged records can be legally omitted from disclosure. Pursue expungement before applying if eligible—creates cleanest background check result.

   
   

6. Understand EEOC Protections: Bridgestone must conduct individualized assessment under Title VII. Cannot deny based solely on conviction without considering Green Factors: nature/gravity, time elapsed, job relevance. This federal requirement creates genuine opportunity.

Critical Regulatory Information

IMPORTANT: Bridgestone Americas operates under federal safety regulations and maintains comprehensive workplace policies reflecting global brand standards.

Drug Free Workplace Policy - Mandatory Testing

Bridgestone maintains strict Drug Free Workplace Policy across all facilities. Pre-employment drug and alcohol testing mandatory for all positions—no exceptions. Testing typically includes urine drug screen for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine), amphetamines (methamphetamine, MDMA), PCP, and alcohol. Manufacturing environment with heavy machinery, chemical exposure, and safety-critical operations requires complete sobriety from all workers. Failed drug test = automatic disqualification. Random testing may occur post-hire. Prescription medications must be disclosed with valid documentation.

EEOC Individualized Assessment Requirement

Under Title VII of Civil Rights Act, Bridgestone must ensure hiring policies do not create disparate impact on protected groups. EEOC requires individualized assessment when criminal history identified using Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of offense or conduct;

(2) Time elapsed since conviction/completion of sentence;

(3) Nature of job held or sought (e.g., handling inventory, operating machinery, financial responsibilities). Company cannot implement blanket exclusions for all people with criminal records must evaluate each case individually considering circumstances and job relevance.

FCRA Adverse Action Process

If conditional job offer withdrawn based on background check results, Fair Credit Reporting Act requires specific process:

(1) Pre-adverse action notice providing copy of background report and summary of FCRA rights;

(2) Minimum 5 business days for applicant to review report and dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Final adverse action notice if ultimately denying employment. This process allows challenging errors and providing rehabilitation documentation before final decision.

Tennessee Employment Law

Tennessee does not have ban-the-box law for private employers—Bridgestone can ask about criminal history on applications. Tennessee allows expungement of certain records under specific conditions. FCRA 7-year limit applies to consumer reporting agency reports for non-conviction information. Expunged records can be legally omitted from disclosure and should not appear on background checks.

Company Overview

Bridgestone Americas, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation, the world largest tire and rubber company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 1931 in Japan, Bridgestone has grown into a global leader in mobility solutions. Nashville, Tennessee-based Bridgestone Americas employs approximately 55,000 workers across more than 50 production facilities throughout the Americas, spanning from Canada to Argentina. Company develops, manufactures, and markets a diverse portfolio of Bridgestone, Firestone, and associated brand tires serving consumers, commercial vehicle operators, agricultural equipment manufacturers, construction and mining operations, and professional motorsports. The company motto "To Help Ensure a Future Where People Can Pursue Their Dreams" reflects commitment to safe, sustainable mobility solutions. Bridgestone products include passenger car tires, light truck tires, commercial truck and bus tires, agricultural tires, off-the-road tires for mining and construction, aircraft tires, and racing tires for NASCAR, IndyCar, and other motorsports series.

Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations (BATO) employs approximately 24,000 people throughout North America operating seven U.S. tire manufacturing facilities strategically located across the country: Aiken County, South Carolina (1,700+ employees, passenger and light truck tire production in 2.7 million square foot facility—one of largest Bridgestone plants globally); Akron, Ohio (Advanced Tire Production Center opened 2022, manufacturing Firestone Firehawk racing tires for IndyCar series, continuing 120+ year tire manufacturing legacy in Akron);

Bloomington/Normal, Illinois (off-the-road tires for mining and construction since 1965); Des Moines, Iowa (agricultural tires since 1945, Firestone brand leader in farm market); La Vergne, Tennessee (passenger and light truck tires near Nashville headquarters); Warren County/Morrison, Tennessee (1,400+ employees, truck and bus radial tires, major recent expansion adding 380 jobs and 850,000 square feet); Wilson, North Carolina.

Additional tire manufacturing in Joliette, Quebec, Canada through Bridgestone Canada Inc. Clarksville, Tennessee hosts Bridgestone Metalpha, ranked as global leader in steel cord production—critical tire reinforcement material.

Company traces rich history to Firestone Tire & Rubber Company founded August 3, 1900, in Akron, Ohio by Harvey S. Firestone. Firestone became major supplier to early American automobile industry, providing tires for Henry Ford first mass-produced vehicles. Company pioneered interstate highway advocacy and "Ship by Truck" campaigns that transformed American commerce. Bridgestone Corporation, founded in Japan in 1931, acquired Firestone in 1988 for $2.6 billion—creating the world largest tire and rubber company. Combined heritage spans over 120 years of tire manufacturing excellence. Today business units include: Bridgestone Retail Operations (world largest automotive service center network including over 2,200 Firestone Complete Auto Care locations); Bandag (global leader in commercial tire retreading, founded 1957, acquired 2007); Firestone Building Products (commercial roofing and building envelope solutions); Firestone Industrial Products (air springs for vehicle suspension applications). Corporate social responsibility commitment "Our Way to Serve" guides sustainability initiatives including natural rubber sustainability, circular economy tire recycling, and carbon neutrality goals.

Company Fast Facts

• Employees: ~55,000 across Americas; ~24,000 in BATO (North America tire operations);

• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee; Parent: Bridgestone Corporation (Tokyo, Japan);

• Global Rank: World largest tire and rubber company;

• US Plants: 7 tire manufacturing facilities + support operations;

• Tennessee Locations: Nashville (HQ), La Vergne (plant), Warren County/Morrison (plant), Clarksville (Metalpha);

• Brands: Bridgestone, Firestone, Dayton; Products: Consumer, commercial, agricultural, OTR, racing tires; air springs; building products.

Hiring Policy Analysis

Bridgestone Americas hiring influenced by commitment to safety, quality, and compliance with federal regulations. Company conducts individualized assessment of criminal history considering offense nature, time elapsed, and relationship to job duties. Drug Free Workplace Policy requires mandatory pre-employment testing with zero tolerance for positive results. Physical assessment required for production positions. Company values diverse workforce and considers candidates based on qualifications, skills, and demonstrated reliability.

Large manufacturing employer creates ongoing hiring needs across facilities throughout the Americas. Tire production operates continuously across multiple shifts (typically three shifts covering 24-hour production), requiring substantial workforce at each manufacturing location. Production roles experience typical manufacturing industry turnover rates, creating regular openings for new team members. Company specifically states it believes "people can only provide superior service and quality to others when they are allowed to bring their whole selves to work and know they are supported" and is "building a team as diverse as the world we serve." This diversity commitment, combined with EEOC individualized assessment requirements, creates genuine opportunity for candidates with criminal records who can demonstrate relevant skills, reliability, and rehabilitation. Company provides formal training, competitive compensation and performance incentives, paid vacation and holidays, healthcare packages for full-time and part-time employees, 401(k) retirement plans, and clear career advancement opportunities.

Position-Specific Barriers

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data from 2024-2025 Glassdoor, Indeed, company postings for Bridgestone Americas Tennessee facilities. Ranges vary by location, experience, shift.

Career Path Examples

Production Track: Production Technician/Operator ($18-$25/hr starting) → Senior Production Technician ($22-$28/hr, 2-3 years, demonstrated expertise and reliability) → Team Leader ($55K-$75K annually, 4-6 years, line supervision responsibility) → Production Supervisor ($70K-$90K, department oversight) → Area Manager/Operations Manager ($90K-$120K, plant area responsibility).

Timeline: 4-8 years for leadership advancement depending on performance, openings, and demonstrated capabilities. Company provides formal training programs, skill development opportunities, and clear advancement paths. Manufacturing culture values reliability, safety consciousness, and continuous improvement—qualities that candidates with records can demonstrate through consistent performance.

Technical Track: Production Technician → Multi-Craft Maintenance Technician ($25-$35/hr, requires developing electrical and mechanical skills) → Senior Maintenance Technician ($30-$40/hr, specialized expertise) → Maintenance Supervisor ($70K-$90K, team leadership) → Maintenance Manager → Engineering roles.

Timeline: 5-10 years for technical progression. Requires developing skills in electrical systems, PLC programming, mechanical repair, hydraulics, pneumatics, and manufacturing equipment troubleshooting. Company provides formal training, tuition reimbursement for relevant education, and skill certification support. Multi-Craft Maintenance Technicians are highly valued and well-compensated given critical role in keeping production equipment operational.

Background Check Process

Bridgestone Screening Process: Application submission (Tennessee allows criminal history questions—be prepared for disclosure); Initial screening and interview (emphasize manufacturing skills, safety consciousness, reliability); Conditional offer extended; Drug and alcohol testing (mandatory, typically urine test, must be completed promptly—usually within 24-48 hours); Background check conducted through third-party consumer reporting agency (criminal history typically 7-10 year lookback, employment verification, education verification); Physical assessment for production positions (strength, stamina, range of motion testing). Criminal history evaluated individually using EEOC Green Factors if convictions identified. FCRA adverse action process applies if conditional offer may be withdrawn based on background check results providing pre-adverse action notice with copy of background report, minimum 5 business days to dispute inaccuracies or provide additional information, then final adverse action notice if ultimately denied. This process creates opportunity to address concerns before final decision.

Timeline: Typically 1-3 weeks from interview to start depending on verification completion and position complexity.

Disqualifying Factors

• Automatic Disqualification: Failed drug or alcohol test (any positive result); Dishonesty during application process.

  
  

• High Risk: Recent theft, burglary, embezzlement (within 7 years)—inventory and finished product concerns; Recent violent crimes—workplace safety; Drug trafficking or manufacturing; DUI for positions involving driving.

  
  

• Evaluated Individually: Old convictions (10+ years) with clean record; Non-violent property crimes with rehabilitation; Drug possession (not trafficking) with demonstrated sobriety; Single incidents with strong rehabilitation evidence. Tennessee-expunged records protected from disclosure.

Your Rights as Applicant

1. EEOC: Individualized assessment required; Cannot deny solely on conviction without job-relatedness analysis using Green Factors.

   
   

2. FCRA: Written consent before check; Pre-adverse action notice with report; 5 days to dispute; Adverse action notice if denied.

   
   

3. Tennessee: No ban-the-box for private employers; Expungement available for certain records; Expunged records legally omittable.

   
   

4. Adverse Action Right: If denied based on background check, utilize adverse action period to submit rehabilitation documentation, character references, explanation before final decision.

Application Strategy

1. Be Completely Drug-Free: Pre-employment drug and alcohol testing mandatory with zero tolerance. If currently using any substances, do not apply until completely clean. Failed test wastes opportunity and creates record.

   
   

2. Focus on Safety and Compliance: In interview, emphasize strong work ethic, reliable attendance, safety consciousness, ability to follow procedures. Manufacturing culture prioritizes safety. Demonstrate understanding of workplace safety importance.

   
   

3. Be Truthful About History: Tennessee allows employers to ask about criminal history. Do not lie or omit—dishonesty discovered creates worse outcome than actual conviction. Prepare honest, concise explanation if asked.

   
   

4. Pursue Tennessee Expungement: If eligible for expungement, complete process before applying. Expunged records legally omittable and should not appear on background checks.

   
   

5. Document Rehabilitation: If conviction found and concerning, utilize adverse action period to provide: rehabilitation evidence, stable employment history, education/certifications, character references, concise explanation of circumstances and changes since offense.

   
   

6. Emphasize Manufacturing Skills: Highlight any previous manufacturing, production, warehouse, mechanical experience. Military service demonstrates discipline. Mechanical aptitude valuable for tire production.

   
   

7. Target Entry-Level Production: Production Technician, Material Handler positions most accessible. Training provided. Prove reliability then advance internally.

   
   

8. 8. Consider Multiple Facilities: Bridgestone has multiple Tennessee locations (La Vergne, Morrison, Clarksville) plus Nashville corporate. Different facilities may have different immediate needs.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Drug Test is Non-Negotiable: Unlike criminal history which receives individualized assessment, failed drug test is automatic disqualification. Sobriety must be established before applying.

   
   

2. Global Brand Standards: Bridgestone as world largest tire company maintains high standards but also provides individualized assessment. Company values diverse workforce and considers rehabilitation.

   
   

3. Good Benefits Package: Formal training, competitive incentives, paid vacation/holidays, healthcare for full-time and part-time, 401(k). Worth navigating screening process for quality employment.

   
   

4. Safety-Critical Products: Tires are safety-critical products—lives depend on quality. Manufacturing culture emphasizes precision, quality control, reliability. Demonstrate these values throughout application.

   
   

5. Multiple Tennessee Locations: If one facility not hiring or not good fit, consider other Bridgestone locations in region. Similar jobs, policies, benefits across facilities.

Benefits Overview

• Compensation: $16-$35/hour production/technical; Competitive performance incentives; Shift differentials; Overtime opportunities.

• Health Insurance: Healthcare packages for full-time AND part-time employees; Medical, dental, vision; Health Savings Account; Flexible Spending Accounts.

• Retirement: 401(k) retirement plan with company match; Quarterly profit sharing (some facilities); Long-term savings options.

• Paid Time Off: Paid vacation; Paid holidays; Sick leave; Personal days.

• Career Development: Formal training programs; Tuition reimbursement; Skill certification support; Internal advancement opportunities; Manufacturing career paths.

• Additional: Life insurance; Disability coverage; Employee assistance program; Teammate discounts on tires and services.

Employee Perspectives

Pros: World largest tire company (job stability); Benefits for part-time employees; 401(k) with match; Formal training provided; Career advancement opportunities; Multiple Tennessee locations; Global brand experience; Profit sharing at some facilities.

Cons: Mandatory drug testing with zero tolerance; Physical demands of manufacturing; Shift work; Repetitive tasks; Hot manufacturing environment; Strict safety requirements; Thorough screening process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Bridgestone Americas hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Bridgestone Americas hires individuals with felony convictions using individualized assessment. Company evaluates each case considering nature of offense, time elapsed, and relationship to job duties per EEOC requirements. Old convictions (10+ years) with clean record generally acceptable. Critical barrier is mandatory drug testing—failed test is automatic disqualification regardless of criminal history. Tennessee-expunged records can be legally omitted from disclosure.

   
   

2. What is the background check process?

   Bridgestone conducts: drug and alcohol testing (mandatory, urine test); criminal background check (typically 7-10 year lookback); employment verification; education verification; physical assessment for production positions. Tennessee allows criminal history questions on application. FCRA adverse action process applies if offer withdrawn based on background check, providing opportunity to dispute or provide rehabilitation documentation.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go?

   Typically 7-10 years for criminal history review. FCRA limits reporting of non-conviction information (arrests without conviction) to 7 years. Criminal convictions may be reported indefinitely, but company conducts individualized assessment—older convictions evaluated more favorably. Tennessee-expunged records should not appear on background reports.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring difficult?

   Most challenging: Recent theft, burglary, embezzlement (inventory concerns); Recent violent crimes (workplace safety); Drug trafficking or manufacturing (drug-free workplace); DUI for driving positions. Individual review: Old convictions with rehabilitation; Non-violent property crimes; Drug possession with sobriety; Single incidents. Automatic bar: Failed drug test.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles for applicants with records?

   Production Technician/Operator ($18-$25/hr) most accessible—tire manufacturing operations with training provided. Material Handler ($17-$21/hr) raw materials and finished goods movement. Warehouse Associate ($16-$20/hr) distribution operations. All require passing drug test and physical assessment. Focus on demonstrating reliability and manufacturing aptitude.

   
   

6. Does Bridgestone drug test?

   Yes, mandatory Drug Free Workplace Policy with zero tolerance. Pre-employment urine drug test required for all positions. Tests for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP, alcohol. Failed test = automatic disqualification with no exceptions. Random testing may occur post-hire.

   Manufacturing environment with heavy equipment requires complete sobriety.

   
   

7. When does Bridgestone ask about criminal history?

   Tennessee does not have ban-the-box law for private employers. Bridgestone may ask about criminal history on application. Company conducts individualized assessment if convictions disclosed or discovered, considering EEOC Green Factors. FCRA adverse action process applies if background check leads to potential denial.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to supervisor or technical roles with a felony?

   Yes, internal advancement possible. Path: Production Technician → Senior Technician → Team Leader → Supervisor. Technical path to Multi-Craft Maintenance Technician also available. Key factors: proven reliability post-hire, clean record since employment, skills development, performance. Internal candidates with established positive track record advantaged. Company provides tuition reimbursement supporting skill development.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring process take?

   Total process typically 1-3 weeks: Application → Interview → Conditional offer → Drug test (immediate) → Background check (5-10 days) → Physical assessment → Final decision → Onboarding. Timeline depends on verification completion and position complexity. Drug test must be passed before background check typically proceeds.

10. What can applicants do to improve chances?

    Be completely drug-free before applying (mandatory testing); Pursue Tennessee expungement if eligible; Be truthful about criminal history; Emphasize manufacturing skills and safety consciousness; Document rehabilitation evidence; Utilize adverse action period if needed to provide additional information; Consider multiple Bridgestone facilities in region; Focus on entry-level production positions initially.

Alternative Second

Conclusion

Bridgestone Americas offers legitimate Second Chance opportunity in tire manufacturing with competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and career advancement potential. As the U.S. subsidiary of world largest tire and rubber company, Bridgestone Americas employs approximately 55,000 workers across 50+ facilities in the Americas, with significant Tennessee presence including headquarters in Nashville and manufacturing facilities in La Vergne, Morrison/Warren County (1,400+ employees), and Clarksville.

Critical first step: Be completely drug-free before applying. Bridgestone maintains strict Drug Free Workplace Policy with mandatory pre-employment testing and zero tolerance for positive results. Manufacturing environment involves operating heavy machinery, working with industrial chemicals and materials, and producing safety-critical products where impairment creates serious risks. Failed drug test is automatic disqualification regardless of qualifications, experience, or criminal history status. If currently using any substances including marijuana (even if legal in some states), wait until completely clean before applying. Drug test cannot be rescheduled or delayed once process begins.

Best path for Second Chance applicants: Production Technician/Operator ($18-$25/hr starting) offers most accessible entry point with comprehensive training provided. Tire manufacturing involves operating specialized equipment including tire building machines, curing presses, inspection equipment, and material handling systems. Material Handler ($17-$21/hr) positions involve moving raw materials (rubber compounds, steel cord, fabric) and finished tires throughout facility using forklifts and other equipment. Warehouse Associate ($16-$20/hr) positions in distribution operations handle inventory, shipping, and receiving. All production positions require passing mandatory drug test and physical assessment demonstrating capability for manufacturing work. Company provides formal training for new team members, making previous tire manufacturing experience helpful but not required. Focus on demonstrating reliability, willingness to learn, safety consciousness, and ability to work effectively in team environment.

Key success factors: Pass mandatory drug test (sobriety is absolute prerequisite—no exceptions); Be truthful about criminal history when asked (Tennessee allows employers to inquire—dishonesty discovered creates worse outcome than actual conviction); Pursue Tennessee expungement if eligible before applying (expunged records legally omittable and should not appear on background reports); Emphasize manufacturing skills, mechanical aptitude, and safety consciousness throughout application process; If background check raises concerns, utilize FCRA adverse action period by providing rehabilitation documentation, stable employment history since offense, education or certifications obtained, character references from employers or community leaders, and concise written explanation of circumstances and changes since conviction; Focus on entry-level Production Technician or Material Handler positions initially then advance internally where criminal history already known and positive employment record established.

Understanding individualized assessment: Bridgestone must evaluate criminal history using EEOC Green Factors rather than implementing blanket exclusions that would violate Title VII. Company considers: (1) nature and gravity of offense—violent crimes affecting workplace safety weighed more heavily than minor offenses; (2) time elapsed since conviction or sentence completion—older convictions demonstrate sustained rehabilitation; (3) nature of job sought and direct relationship between offense and position duties—theft concerns for inventory positions, violence for positions involving teamwork, drug offenses for drug-free workplace compliance. Old convictions (10+ years) with clean record evaluated favorably in most cases. Recent theft, violence, drug trafficking more scrutinized given manufacturing environment with valuable inventory, team-based work, and safety-critical operations. However, global brand standards combined with federal EEOC requirements and company diversity commitment create genuine opportunity for candidates demonstrating rehabilitation, relevant skills, and reliability in pursuing manufacturing careers.

Apply Now at bridgestoneamericas.com/en/our-team or bridgestone.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Bridgestone Americas specific policies may vary by facility and position. Drug testing policies strictly enforced with zero tolerance. Tennessee expungement eligibility complex—consult attorney for case-specific guidance. Salary data from 2024-2025 job postings and reports may vary by location, position, experience, shift. Physical assessment requirements vary by position. Individual outcomes depend on criminal history specifics, drug test results, qualifications, position availability. Bridgestone Americas name used for informational purposes. FelonFriendlyJobsNow.com makes no warranties about employment outcomes.