Quick Answer

Yes, Burlington hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With over 1,000 off-price retail stores nationwide, starting pay of ($12–$15/ hour), constant hiring due to turnover, and advancement opportunities to management earning $45,000–$70,000+/year (about $22–$34/ hour), Burlington offers highly accessible retail employment for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

About Burlington

Burlington (formerly Burlington Coat Factory), founded in 1972, operates over 1,000 off-price department stores across the United States. The company sells discounted brand-name apparel, home goods, and accessories, employing over 50,000 workers.

Burlington’s off-price model—buying overstock merchandise and reselling at discounts—creates a fast-paced, high-volume retail environment. For individuals with criminal records, Burlington is considered one of the most accessible employers because of:

• High turnover and continuous hiring

• Case-by-case background evaluations

• Store-level discretion in hiring

• Nationwide store availability

• Focus on reliability and energy over formal background

Burlington’s Hiring Policy for People with Felonies

Burlington reviews each applicant individually and considers multiple factors before making a hiring decision.

What Burlington Considers

• Nature and context of the conviction

• Time passed since conviction

• Relevance to the position

• Evidence of rehabilitation

• Store staffing needs (often immediate)

Key Policy Notes

• Case-by-case evaluation process

• Store managers have discretion

• High-volume turnover drives frequent hiring

• Off-price retail jobs generally more accessible than traditional department stores

Available Jobs

Sales Associate

($12–$15/ hour)

Assists customers, maintains merchandise, and ensures excellent service on the sales floor.

Stock Associate

($12–$16/ hour)

Handles receiving, stocking, and warehouse duties. Most accessible position with frequent openings.

Cashier

($12–$15/ hour)

Operates the register and handles transactions at the front end.

Fitting Room Associate

($12–$15/ hour)

Manages fitting rooms, organizes items, and assists customers with product trials.

Loss Prevention Associate

($13–$17/ hour)

Monitors security and prevents theft. Often requires a cleaner record or related experience.

Seasonal Associate

($12–$15/ hour)

Temporary staff hired during peak shopping periods, especially October–December.

Department Supervisor

($32,000–$45,000/ year → $15–$22/ hour)

Oversees department operations and supports team members.

Store Manager

($50,000–$75,000/ year → $24–$36/ hour)

Manages full store operations, sales goals, and staffing.

Career Path: Stock or Sales → Lead Associate → Supervisor → Manager

Background Check Process

• 7-year criminal history lookback

• Case-by-case evaluation

• Average processing time: 5–7 business days

• Drug testing varies by location

Application Tips

1. Apply broadly. Submit applications to 10–15 Burlington stores to increase your chances.

   
   

2. Target stock positions. These are behind-the-scenes roles with less public interaction and higher accessibility.

   
   

3. Show enthusiasm. Off-price retail values energy, effort, and reliability more than background.

   
   

4. Highlight physical ability. Emphasize that you can lift, move, and stay active during long shifts.

   
   

5. Be flexible with scheduling. Availability for evenings and weekends boosts your odds.

   
   

6. Apply online and in person. Walk-ins are welcome and can make a strong impression.

   
   

7. Mention reliability. Say “I’m dependable, on time, and ready to work hard.”

   
   

8. Apply during seasonal hiring. The October–December period offers many temporary-to-permanent opportunities.

   
   

9. Dress neatly when applying. First impressions matter even in fast-paced retail.

   
   

10. Follow up after applying. A polite in-person visit shows initiative and commitment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Burlington hire felons?

Yes. Burlington hires on a case-by-case basis depending on offense type, time passed, and role applied for.

Is Burlington easier to get hired at than other department stores?

Generally, yes. Off-price retailers like Burlington have higher turnover and fewer barriers.

What is the easiest job to get at Burlington?

Stock Associate — it’s behind the scenes, less customer-facing, and in high demand.

Does Burlington drug test?

It varies by store and state. Some locations do, others don’t.

How long does the background check take?

Usually 5–7 days, depending on location and hiring volume.

Can I work while on probation or parole?

Yes, as long as your probation officer approves and your schedule allows it.

What should I wear to the interview?

Dress neatly and modestly — casual but professional.

Does Burlington promote from within?

Yes. Many managers started as sales or stock associates.

Are there seasonal jobs?

Yes. Burlington hires heavily during the holidays (October–December).

What if I was denied before?

You can reapply after 6–12 months, especially if your circumstances have improved.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Ross Dress for Less – 1,900+ stores; off-price retail chain; known for frequent hiring and accessibility.

• TJ Maxx / Marshalls / HomeGoods – 2,500+ stores under TJX Companies; strong Ban-the-Box supporter.

• DD’s Discounts – 300+ stores; owned by Ross; highly accessible off-price environment.

• Nordstrom Rack – 350+ stores; off-price arm of Nordstrom; slightly stricter but still open to case-by-case review.

• Burlington’s Warehouse Division – Regional distribution centers; frequent openings for logistics and stock roles.

Final Thoughts

Burlington is one of the most felony-friendly retail employers in the U.S., emphasizing work ethic and reliability over background. With 1,000+ stores, high turnover creating constant openings, and accessible pay starting at ($12–$15/ hour), it’s an excellent place to restart a retail career.

If you’re rebuilding after incarceration, focus on stock or seasonal roles to get in the door and work your way up.

Next Step: Apply directly at Burlington.com/careers and visit multiple stores in person to maximize your hiring chances.