Quick Answer

Yes, Buffalo Wild Wings hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With over 1,200 sports bar and restaurant locations across the U.S., pay averaging $13–$17/ hour plus tips for servers (total earnings often reaching $20–$35/ hour during major sporting events), and a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, Buffalo Wild Wings offers accessible employment for individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

About Buffalo Wild Wings

Buffalo Wild Wings (often called “B-Dubs”) is a popular sports bar and restaurant chain founded in 1982. It operates more than 1,200 locations nationwide, employing over 80,000 people in both corporate-owned and franchised restaurants. The company is known for its chicken wings, wide beer selection, and lively atmosphere centered around televised sports.

For job seekers with criminal records, Buffalo Wild Wings offers several advantages. The company’s high-volume environment creates ongoing staffing needs, particularly during sports seasons. Many locations are franchises, meaning local managers have flexibility in hiring decisions. The casual sports bar atmosphere emphasizes energy, teamwork, and reliability—qualities that often matter more than one’s past.

Employees who perform well during busy periods like NFL Sundays or March Madness often find opportunities to advance into leadership positions. With a culture that values hard work and enthusiasm over perfection, Buffalo Wild Wings can be an excellent entry point for individuals looking to rejoin the workforce.

Does Buffalo Wild Wings Hire People with Felonies?

Yes, Buffalo Wild Wings hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. Each applicant is evaluated individually, considering the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and its relevance to the position.

Since many restaurants are franchised, hiring decisions are typically made at the store level, giving applicants an opportunity to make a personal impression. Reports from employees indicate that people with felony convictions have been successfully hired across the company’s locations.

Buffalo Wild Wings considers the following factors when reviewing applicants:

• The type of job being applied for (kitchen vs. customer service roles)

• Time elapsed since the conviction

• Evidence of rehabilitation and good behavior

• Immediate staffing needs during peak sports seasons

• The seriousness and relevance of the conviction

Available Jobs at Buffalo Wild Wings

Server

($2.13–$5/ hour base + tips; total earnings $20–$35/ hour)

Takes food and drink orders, serves guests, and handles payments during busy sports events. Great entry-level role with strong tip potential, especially during major games.

Bartender

($2.13–$5/ hour base + tips; total earnings $25–$40/ hour)

Prepares and serves drinks, manages tabs, and delivers excellent customer service during events. Typically promoted from server roles and offers high earning potential.

Cook

($14–$19/ hour)P

repares menu items such as wings, burgers, and fries during peak rushes. Ideal for individuals who prefer behind-the-scenes work and want stable hours.

Expeditor

($13–$17/ hour)

Coordinates between the kitchen and serving staff to ensure meals are accurate and timely. A good role for multitaskers who thrive under pressure.

Dishwasher

($12–$16/ hour)

Operates dish machines, maintains cleanliness, and supports the kitchen team. Entry-level position with minimal public interaction and opportunities for advancement.

Host/Hostess

($12–$15/ hour)

Greets and seats guests, manages waitlists, and maintains a friendly, organized front-of-house. Provides a pathway into server roles.

Shift Manager

($17–$22/ hour)

Supervises daily restaurant operations and assists the team during peak hours. Typically promoted from within after showing leadership ability.

Assistant General Manager / General Manager

($22–$38/ hour equivalent)

Oversees restaurant operations, manages staff, and ensures profitability. Many general managers began as hourly employees.

Background Check Process

Buffalo Wild Wings conducts background checks after a conditional job offer. These checks generally review the past seven years of criminal history.

Typical Steps:

1. Submit an online or in-person application.

2. Interview with the hiring manager.

3. Receive a conditional offer.

4. Authorize the background check.

5. Wait 5–7 days for results.

6. Receive final hiring decision.

7. Complete training and orientation.

What’s Checked:

• Criminal background (7-year lookback)

• Sex offender registry

• Social Security and identity verification

• Occasionally employment history

Drug Testing:Drug testing varies by location and is generally only conducted after a conditional offer.

Application Tips

1. Apply before sports seasons. Hiring surges before NFL and March Madness seasons, so apply in late August or February.

   
   

2. Show sports enthusiasm. Managers value employees who understand and enjoy the sports bar environment.

   
   

3. Highlight high-volume skills. Emphasize your ability to work efficiently during busy game-day rushes.

   
   

4. Target server roles. These have the highest hiring volume and tip potential.

   
   

5. Apply to multiple locations. Each franchise makes independent hiring decisions, so apply to several nearby restaurants.

   
   

6. Be available evenings and weekends. Game days and nights are the busiest and most in-demand times.

   
   

7. Be honest about your record. Keep answers short and focus on your rehabilitation and work ethic.

   
   

8. Follow up professionally. Check back about a week after applying to show persistence and interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Buffalo Wild Wings automatically reject applicants with felonies?

No. The company reviews each applicant individually and many people with records have been hired.

When is the best time to apply?

Before the NFL season (late August–September) or before March Madness (February–March).

Can I work while on probation or parole?

Yes, as long as your conditions allow employment.

How much can I earn as a server?

Servers usually earn $20–$35/ hour with tips, especially during major games.

Does Buffalo Wild Wings drug test?

Some locations do, usually after a conditional job offer.

Can I advance with a felony record?

Yes. Many managers started in entry-level positions and worked their way up.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Denny’s – 1,500+ locations; 24-hour diner; hires case-by-case.

• Waffle House – 1,900+ locations; open 24/7; known for second-chance hiring.

• Perkins – 300+ restaurants; breakfast focus; franchise flexibility in hiring.

• Village Inn – 200+ restaurants; breakfast/lunch chain; case-by-case review.

• Cracker Barrel – 660+ locations; family dining; generally open to second-chance hiring.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Wild Wings offers steady, energetic work for people rebuilding after incarceration. With over 1,200 locations, high-volume staffing needs, flexible local hiring, and strong earning potential—especially for servers and bartenders—it’s a practical choice for anyone looking to re-enter the workforce.

If you’re ready to apply, visit BuffaloWildWings.com/careers to explore open positions and apply before the next sports season begins.