Quick Answer

Yes, Cargill does hire people with felonies in 2025. As one of America's largest food production and agriculture companies, Cargill evaluates candidates individually based on conviction type, time passed, and job requirements. Production and warehouse positions pay $16-$24 per hour and are highly accessible. Plant workers, maintenance technicians, and material handlers face minimal barriers related to criminal backgrounds. Cargill operates meat processing plants, grain facilities, and industrial operations where reliable workers are valued more than perfect records, making them an excellent option for people with various felony convictions.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Cargill

3. Does Cargill Hire People with Felonies?

4. Available Jobs at Cargill

5. Best entry point

6. Background Check Process

7. Application Tips

8. Frequently Asked Questions

9. Similar Felon-Friendly Companies

10. Final Thoughts

About Cargill

Cargill is a massive global corporation and one of the largest privately held companies in the United States. They operate in food production, agriculture, industrial products, and financial services. In the U.S., Cargill runs meat processing plants, grain elevators, vegetable oil facilities, animal feed operations, and various industrial manufacturing sites. They employ over 150,000 people worldwide, with tens of thousands working in U.S. production facilities.

For people with felonies, Cargill presents outstanding opportunities. Their production plants need workers constantly due to the physical nature of the work and industry turnover. These are real manufacturing jobs with union representation at many facilities, offering good wages, health benefits, and retirement plans.

Cargill has made public commitments to fair chance hiring and actively participates in second-chance employment initiatives. Many of their facilities partner with local workforce development programs that specifically help people with criminal backgrounds find employment. The company understands that good workers come from diverse backgrounds and that past mistakes don't define future potential.

Does Cargill Hire People with Felonies?

Cargill does not have a blanket policy against hiring people with felony convictions. They evaluate each applicant individually based on the nature of the offense, time since conviction, the position applied for, and the applicant's overall qualifications and work history.

In practice, Cargill regularly hires people with various types of criminal backgrounds, especially for production, warehouse, and maintenance positions. The company follows EEOC guidelines and ban-the-box principles, meaning they can't automatically reject you based on old convictions that don't relate to the job.

The type of conviction affects your chances somewhat, but less than you might expect. Drug convictions are extremely common among Cargill employees and rarely prevent hiring, especially if you can pass a drug test now. Many people in recovery have found stable employment at Cargill facilities. The company understands substance abuse issues and focuses more on your current reliability than past mistakes.

Violent felonies are evaluated on a case-by-case basis but don't automatically disqualify you. Production plant work involves physical labor with machinery rather than vulnerable populations, which reduces concerns. If your violent conviction was several years ago and you've maintained clean records since, most Cargill facilities will give you a strong chance.

Theft convictions are less of an issue at Cargill than in retail environments. You're working with raw materials, meat products, or grains rather than finished consumer goods or cash. Many people with theft backgrounds work successfully in Cargill plants.

Time since conviction matters significantly. Convictions older than 7 years often don't appear on standard background checks in many states. Even if they do appear, old convictions carry much less weight. Clean records for 3-5 years since your last conviction demonstrate positive change and significantly improve your chances.

The position you apply for is important. Production workers, material handlers, and warehouse positions have the most flexible hiring standards. These roles focus on physical ability, reliability, and willingness to work hard. Maintenance technician positions value trade skills over criminal history. Sanitation crew positions are often very accessible. Quality assurance and administrative roles may face slightly more scrutiny but are still possible.

Location affects your opportunities. Cargill facilities in rural areas often have difficulty finding workers and may be particularly flexible about backgrounds. Plants in states with ban-the-box laws must follow fair chance hiring procedures. Facilities with union representation often have structured hiring processes that protect against discrimination.

The bottom line is that Cargill needs reliable workers more than they need perfect backgrounds. If you can show up consistently, work hard, follow safety rules, and be a team player, you have strong chances regardless of your criminal history.

Available Jobs at Cargill

Cargill offers numerous production and industrial positions suitable for people with felony convictions:

Production Worker

($16-$22/hour)

You'll work on processing lines in meat plants or other production facilities, operating equipment, monitoring quality, and maintaining workflow. Physical work in cold environments (for meat plants) or industrial settings. Requires ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 50 pounds. This is the most common entry position and very accessible for people with felonies. Plants need reliable workers constantly.

Material Handler/Warehouse Worker

($15-$20/hour)

You'll move raw materials, operate forklifts, load trucks, and maintain inventory systems. Physical work requiring forklift certification (often provided during training). These positions are highly accessible for people with records because the work is straightforward and reliability matters most.

Sanitation Worker

($16-$21/hour)

You'll clean production equipment, maintain facility hygiene, and ensure food safety standards. Physical work often on night shifts using cleaning chemicals and equipment. These positions have particularly high acceptance rates for people with felonies because they're hard to fill and essential to operations.

Maintenance Technician

($20-$30/hour)

You'll repair production equipment, perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues. Requires technical training or experience in industrial maintenance. If you have these skills, criminal backgrounds rarely matter—skilled trades workers are in high demand and Cargill will hire qualified technicians regardless of past convictions.

Machine Operator

($17-$24/hour)

You'll operate specific production machinery, monitor equipment performance, make adjustments, and ensure quality standards. Requires mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. Good position for people with felonies who can demonstrate reliability and willingness to learn technical skills.

Packager/Packer

($15-$19/hour)

You'll package finished products, label items, prepare shipments, and maintain packing area cleanliness. Repetitive physical work requiring attention to detail. Entry-level position with high acceptance for people with backgrounds.

Quality Assurance Technician

($17-$23/hour)

You'll inspect products, conduct tests, document results, and ensure food safety compliance. Requires attention to detail and basic computer skills. Slightly more competitive than line worker positions but still accessible with the right attitude and work history.

Best entry point

Production Worker or Sanitation Worker positions offer the quickest path to employment. They constantly need workers, have high turnover, and Cargill prioritizes filling these positions. Once you prove yourself reliable, moving to better-paying positions within the company is very realistic.

Background Check Process

Understanding Cargill's background check process helps you prepare and know what to expect throughout your hiring journey.

Cargill conducts background checks after making conditional job offers. This means they interview you, decide they want to hire you, and then run the background check. This approach allows you to demonstrate your qualifications and personality before your criminal record is reviewed.

The standard background check looks back seven years for criminal history. This is typical for production and warehouse positions. Some positions, particularly management or administrative roles, may have more extensive checks. Cargill uses professional screening companies that check federal, state, and county criminal records. They also verify employment history.

The process typically takes 5-10 business days. During this waiting period, you'll also complete a drug screen. Cargill requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions without exception. Given the safety-sensitive nature of production work with machinery and equipment, this is non-negotiable. Random drug testing after hire is also common at most facilities.

If something appears on your background check that concerns Cargill, federal law requires them to send you a pre-adverse action notice before making a final decision. You have 5-10 days to review the report, provide context, or dispute errors. This is your opportunity to explain circumstances or correct inaccuracies. Take this seriously and respond promptly if you receive this notice.

Geographic variations matter. In ban-the-box states and cities, Cargill cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. Some jurisdictions have even stricter regulations about what convictions can be considered. Cargill follows all local laws regarding fair chance hiring.

Union facilities may have additional protections. At unionized Cargill plants, the collective bargaining agreement may include provisions about hiring practices and protections against discrimination. These contracts often support second-chance hiring and provide appeal processes if you're initially rejected.

The food safety environment creates some additional considerations. Cargill must comply with USDA and FDA regulations for food production facilities. However, these regulations primarily affect positions with direct food safety responsibilities rather than general production workers. Your criminal background is evaluated in the context of the specific job duties.

Application Tips

1. Apply online at cargill.com/careers and search for production facilities in your area. Create a complete profile and apply to multiple positions to increase your chances.

   
   

2. Target production worker, warehouse, and sanitation positions first. These roles have the most flexible hiring standards and constant openings due to turnover.

   
   

3. Don't mention your felony on the application if you're in a ban-the-box jurisdiction. Answer questions honestly if asked, but don't volunteer unnecessary information upfront.

   
   

4. Visit Cargill facilities in person after applying online. Many plants have HR offices where you can inquire about your application status and express strong interest. Making a personal connection helps.

   
   

5. Be completely honest about your background when asked directly. Prepare a brief explanation that takes responsibility, explains what you learned, and emphasizes your commitment to reliable work. Practice until it sounds confident and natural.

   
   

6. Emphasize any manufacturing, warehouse, or physical labor experience. Even informal work like construction, farming, or loading trucks demonstrates relevant work ethic and physical capability.

   
   

7. Highlight your reliability and attendance record. Cargill production facilities run on tight schedules and need workers who show up consistently. Give specific examples of your dependability from any context.

   
   

8. Be flexible with shift work. Most Cargill production plants run multiple shifts, including nights and weekends. Willingness to work any shift dramatically increases your chances of being hired.

   
   

9. Get forklift certification before applying if possible. This certification is inexpensive (often free through workforce programs) and immediately makes you more valuable for material handler and warehouse positions.

   
   

10. Check if your local American Job Center or workforce development program has relationships with Cargill. Many facilities actively partner with these programs specifically to recruit people with criminal backgrounds and provide job placement assistance.

    
    

11. Dress appropriately for your interview. While the work is industrial, showing up clean and neat demonstrates professionalism. You don't need a suit, but clean pants and a collared shirt make a good impression.

    
    

12. Bring steel-toed boots to your interview or orientation if you have them. This shows you're prepared for the job and understand the industrial environment. Many facilities require safety boots, and having them ready demonstrates initiative.

    
    

13. Bring references from anyone who can vouch for your work ethic. Former employers, supervisors from volunteer work, instructors from training programs, or even probation officers can provide valuable character references.

    
    

14. Research the specific Cargill facility you're applying to. Understanding whether it's a meat processing plant, grain facility, or other operation shows genuine interest. Ask intelligent questions about the work during your interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my drug conviction prevent me from working at Cargill?

Drug convictions, including felonies, are very common among Cargill employees and rarely prevent hiring. The company understands that substance abuse affects many capable workers. However, you must be able to pass a drug test now and remain clean while employed. Cargill tests pre-employment and conducts random testing due to the safety-sensitive nature of production work. If your conviction was for distribution rather than possession, be prepared to discuss it honestly. Time since conviction helps significantly—if you've been clean for 2+ years, most hiring managers view this very positively. Focus on your current sobriety and commitment to staying clean rather than dwelling on past mistakes.

Does Cargill do drug testing?

Yes, Cargill requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions without exception. Production facilities involve heavy machinery, knives, fast-moving equipment, and other safety hazards, making drug testing mandatory. You'll be tested after receiving a conditional job offer but before starting work. Tests typically screen for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Most facilities also conduct random drug testing throughout your employment. If you're in recovery and taking prescribed medications that might appear on the test, bring proper documentation to the testing facility. Some facilities may have different marijuana policies in states where it's legal, but don't assume this—be prepared to pass a full drug screen.

How long should I wait after my conviction before applying to Cargill?

You can apply to Cargill immediately after your conviction. The company doesn't require specific waiting periods before considering applicants with criminal backgrounds. However, your chances do improve with time. If your conviction is less than a year old, focus on entry-level production or sanitation positions. After 3 years of clean records, your options expand considerably. After 7 years, many convictions won't appear on standard background checks in most states. The key is demonstrating stability since your conviction—consistent work history, stable housing, and staying out of trouble. Don't wait unnecessarily if you need work now. Apply and let Cargill make the decision.

Can I work at Cargill while on probation or parole?

Yes, absolutely. Many Cargill employees work while on probation or parole. Having employment helps satisfy supervision requirements and demonstrates your commitment to rehabilitation. Be upfront with your hiring manager about any restrictions, such as curfews, travel limits, or required check-ins. Cargill's shift work usually accommodates these requirements—if you need to check in with your probation officer on certain days, shifts can often be adjusted. Some facilities even coordinate with probation officers to confirm employment. Your probation officer will likely be very supportive of Cargill employment since these are stable, well-paying jobs.

Will violent felonies disqualify me from Cargill?

Violent felonies don't automatically disqualify you from Cargill employment. The company evaluates the specific circumstances, how long ago the incident occurred, and your record since then. Production work involves equipment and machinery rather than vulnerable populations, which reduces concerns compared to customer-facing industries. If your violent conviction was 5+ years ago and you've maintained clean records since, most Cargill facilities will give you a strong opportunity. Be prepared to discuss what happened honestly, show evidence of positive change, and emphasize your commitment to workplace safety. Many people with violent felonies work successfully at Cargill plants.

What if I have theft or fraud convictions?

Theft and fraud convictions are less problematic at Cargill than in retail or financial industries. Production work involves raw materials, machinery, and industrial products rather than cash or finished consumer goods. Many people with theft backgrounds work successfully in Cargill facilities. Be honest about your conviction if asked, take responsibility, and explain how you've changed. If you've had stable employment since without problems, emphasize this. Time matters—a 10-year-old theft conviction carries minimal weight. Production supervisor and material handler positions remain quite accessible even with theft in your background.

Can I work in meat processing with a felony?

Yes, many people with felonies work in Cargill meat processing plants. These facilities need reliable workers constantly and evaluate candidates individually. The physical nature of meat processing work and the industrial environment mean criminal backgrounds are less of a barrier than in other industries. Be prepared for physically demanding work in cold temperatures using knives and equipment. Violent convictions are evaluated but don't automatically disqualify you. Theft, drug, and other felonies are commonly represented among meat processing workers. If you can handle the physical demands and show up reliably, you have strong chances.

Are certain Cargill facilities better for hiring people with felonies?

All Cargill production facilities hire people with felonies regularly, but some factors make certain locations potentially easier. Rural facilities often have more difficulty finding workers and may be particularly flexible. Unionized plants have structured hiring processes that protect against discrimination. Facilities in ban-the-box states must follow fair chance hiring laws. Sanitation positions at any facility tend to have the highest acceptance rates because they're hardest to fill. The best strategy is applying to multiple Cargill facilities within reasonable distance and seeing which ones respond positively.

What should I do if my background check shows incorrect information?

Take immediate action if your background check contains errors. Federal law requires Cargill to send you a pre-adverse action notice before making a final decision based on background check results. You typically have 5-10 business days to dispute inaccuracies. Contact both Cargill's HR department and the background screening company to file a formal dispute. Gather documentation proving the errors—court records, certificates of disposition, or documents showing charges were dismissed or expunged. Follow up every 2-3 days to ensure your dispute is processed. Don't miss this window—it could mean the difference between getting hired and losing the opportunity.

Does Cargill offer training and advancement for people with felonies?

Yes, Cargill offers extensive training and clear advancement paths regardless of your background. Once you're hired and prove yourself reliable, your criminal record becomes much less relevant. Production workers can move to machine operators, lead positions, and supervisory roles based on performance. Maintenance helpers can advance to full technicians. The company provides on-the-job training, safety certifications, and sometimes tuition assistance for additional education. Many people with felonies have built long careers at Cargill, moving from entry-level production to leadership positions over time. Your work record with Cargill matters much more than your criminal record for internal advancement.

Similar Felon-Friendly Companies

If Cargill doesn't work out or you want to explore similar opportunities in food production and manufacturing, consider these companies:

Tyson Foods: Major competitor to Cargill in meat processing. They actively hire people with felonies for production positions and have similar pay scales and opportunities.

JBS USA: Another large meat processing company with plants nationwide. Known for hiring people with criminal backgrounds and offering good production jobs.

Perdue Farms: Poultry processing company with facilities primarily in the Southeast. They hire people with felonies regularly for production and processing positions.

Smithfield Foods: Pork processing company with plants across the country. They hire people with various criminal backgrounds for production work.

Georgia-Pacific: Manufacturing company producing paper and building products. They hire people with felonies for production and warehouse positions at industrial facilities.

Final Thoughts

Cargill offers excellent opportunities for people with felony convictions. Their production facilities need reliable workers constantly, and the company evaluates candidates fairly rather than using blanket bans on criminal backgrounds.

The combination of good pay, benefits, union representation at many facilities, and advancement opportunities makes Cargill one of the best options for people with records seeking stable manufacturing careers.

Take action today by applying at cargill.com/careers to every facility within reasonable commuting distance. Focus on production worker, warehouse, and sanitation positions for the quickest entry. Check with your local workforce development program about Cargill partnerships. Be honest about your background, emphasize your reliability, and show willingness to work hard. Thousands of people with criminal backgrounds have built solid careers at Cargill—with the right approach, you can too.