Quick Answer

Yes, Carlile Transportation considers individuals with felony convictions for employment on a case-by-case basis, though CDL positions face significant federal restrictions. As one of Alaska's largest trucking and logistics companies with over 350 tractors and 40+ years of service, the company employs approximately 450 workers across Alaska (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kenai, Kodiak, Prudhoe Bay, Seward), plus Tacoma WA, Houston TX, and Edmonton AB. Employment decisions are conditional upon passing a background check and, for CDL positions, compliance with DOT/FMCSA regulations.

The law prohibits companies from having a blanket policy excluding all felons. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment considering the Green Factors: nature of offense, time elapsed, and job relevance.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to vehicular-related felonies (DOT/FMCSA regulations governing CDL drivers), theft and cargo-related offenses (high-value freight and cargo handling responsibilities), and drug trafficking and substance-related felonies (DOT drug testing requirements and safety-sensitive operations). Recent offenses within the past 3-5 years face the highest scrutiny.

Entry-level warehouse, dock worker, yard worker, and facility maintenance positions offer the most accessible opportunities for Second Chance applicants due to less federal DOT scrutiny, high turnover in Alaska's remote locations, and volume hiring needs.

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 Chance Employers

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• DOT/CDL Eligibility (Driving Roles): Must NOT be disqualified under FMCSA rules for CDL holders (e.g., using a CMV in commission of a felony, causing fatality through negligent operation). Check FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse status.

  
  

• Driving Record (CDL Roles): Must have a relatively clean Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) for the past 3-5 years. Vehicular offenses are highly scrutinized.

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to perform physically demanding work including lifting up to 50-75 lbs, standing/walking for extended periods, working in extreme weather conditions (-40°F in Prudhoe Bay/Deadhorse to varied Alaska conditions).

  
  

• Drug Screen: CDL positions require mandatory DOT pre-employment drug testing. Non-CDL positions may also require screening. Failed tests are automatic disqualifiers.

  
  

• Honesty is Mandatory: Must be completely honest about your criminal record. Carlile's application asks about convictions. Lying is an automatic disqualifier since DOT and criminal records will be verified.

  
  

• Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and able to provide required I-9 documentation.

Critical Regulatory Information

Transportation and logistics is among the most heavily regulated industries for hiring due to federal DOT oversight. Understanding these regulations is essential for Second Chance applicants because CDL-required positions face significantly higher barriers than warehouse/dock positions. The distinction between DOT-regulated and non-regulated positions is critical to your job search strategy.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse to consider an applicant because of a criminal record. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment considering the Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of the offense;

(2) Time elapsed since the offense and/or completion of sentence;

(3) Nature of the job sought and its relationship to the offense. Blanket policies excluding all felons are prohibited.

FCRA Requirements

If denied employment based on a background check report, Carlile Transportation must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

(1) Provide pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and summary of FCRA rights;

(2) Allow reasonable time to dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands after review.

State-Specific Considerations

Alaska has no statewide Ban the Box law for private employers, meaning Carlile may inquire about criminal history on applications. Alaska also has an indefinite lookback period for criminal convictions—there is no automatic time limit after which convictions cannot be considered. Alaska's expungement options are extremely limited, available only for cases of mistaken identity or false accusation. However, applicants still have EEOC protections requiring individualized assessment.

Transportation-Specific Considerations

FMCSA regulations govern all CDL holders. Specific disqualifications include: using a CMV in the commission of a felony (lifetime ban), causing a fatality through negligent operation (1-year minimum, lifetime for second offense), DUI/DWI convictions (1-year minimum, 3 years if hauling hazmat). The FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse tracks all DOT drug/alcohol violations for CDL holders. TSA background checks are required for HazMat endorsements, with specific felonies (terrorism, explosives, treason) resulting in permanent disqualification, and other felonies (firearms, dishonesty, robbery) resulting in 7-year interim disqualification.

Company Overview

Carlile Transportation is one of Alaska's largest trucking and logistics companies, operating over 350 tractors and providing full-service multimodal transportation solutions including air, ground, ocean, and rail. Headquartered in Anchorage, Alaska, the company specializes in transporting freight to remote Alaska locations, including the Prudhoe Bay oil field via the Dalton Highway, serving industries including oil and gas, mining, construction, retail, healthcare, and military. The company employs approximately ~450 workers across 9 terminals: Alaska (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kenai, Kodiak, Prudhoe Bay, Seward), Tacoma WA, Houston TX, Edmonton AB.

Carlile was featured on The History Channel's Ice Road Truckers from 2009-2012, hauling approximately 30% of all loads bound for Prudhoe Bay during that time. The company emphasizes a strong HSSE (Health, Safety, Security, and Environment) culture and values of honesty, integrity, respect, and perseverance. Carlile is proud to employ veterans and maintains a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1980 (Anchorage, Alaska)

• Headquarters: Anchorage, Alaska

• Employees: ~450

• Industry Position: One of Alaska's largest trucking companies

• Operations: 9 terminals: Alaska (Anchorage, Fairbanks, Kenai, Kodiak, Prudhoe Bay, Seward), Tacoma WA, Houston TX, Edmonton AB

• Parent Company: Saltchuk (acquired 2013)

• CEO/President: Harry McDonald (Co-founder)

• Business Model: Full-service trucking, logistics, and multimodal transportation

• Recognition: Featured on Ice Road Truckers (2009-2012); serves oil/gas, mining, military industries

Hiring Policy Analysis

Carlile Transportation follows a strong HSSE (Health, Safety, Security, and Environment) culture that shapes all hiring decisions, particularly for positions involving driving or cargo handling. The company considers former felons on a case-by-case basis through individualized assessment. For CDL positions, Carlile must comply with all DOT/FMCSA requirements, including mandatory background checks, MVR reviews, and Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse queries. For non-CDL positions, Carlile has more flexibility but still emphasizes safety and integrity. Based on industry patterns, the company is most likely to consider applicants whose non-vehicular offenses are over 7-10 years old, with demonstrated rehabilitation and stable work history. Honesty on the application is mandatory, as DOT records and criminal history will be checked comprehensively.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by DOT/FMCSA requirements, cargo handling responsibilities, safety sensitivity, and federal licensing requirements.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Indeed, Glassdoor, and current Carlile job postings. Actual compensation varies by location (remote Alaska sites often pay more), shift, and experience (DOE = Depending on Experience).

Career Path Examples

Carlile offers career advancement opportunities with training programs, tuition reimbursement, and internal transfers across their 9 terminal locations.

Warehouse/Dock Track: Lumper ($16-$24/hr) → Dock Worker ($20-$31/hr) → Lead Dock Worker ($24-$35/hr) → Warehouse Supervisor. Advancement based on reliability, safety record, and leadership skills.

Maintenance/Mechanic Track: Facility Custodian ($18-$27/hr) → Tire Technician → Trailer Mechanic ($23-$51/hr) → Truck Mechanic ($20-$52/hr) → Shop Supervisor. Company offers driver development and training programs.

Driving (CDL Required) Track: Obtain CDL-A → Local Driver ($25-$30/hr) → Line Driver ($28-$42/hr) → Driver Trainer/Supervisor. Note: Felony record scrutiny increases significantly for driving advancement. HazMat endorsement requires TSA background check.

Background Check Process

Understanding Carlile Transportation's background check process helps you prepare for what to expect. The level of scrutiny varies significantly between CDL and non-CDL positions due to federal DOT requirements.

What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) for past 3-5 years (CDL positions); DOT Safety Performance History from previous employers (CDL positions); FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse query (CDL positions); TSA Security Background Check (HazMat endorsement); Pre-employment DOT drug screening (CDL positions); Standard drug screening (may apply to non-CDL positions).

Lookback Period: Alaska has no statutory limit on criminal lookback period. CDL-related driving violations can be permanently disqualifying under FMCSA regulations. Non-driving felonies typically require 7-10+ years separation for realistic consideration. Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse violations remain for 5 years minimum.

Timeline: The hiring process typically takes 1-2 weeks from application to offer. New hires undergo orientation and a 90-day probationary period. Background checks for CDL positions may take longer due to DOT requirements and Clearinghouse queries.

Process Flow: Application submitted → Interview conducted → Conditional offer extended → Background check authorization signed → Background check conducted (including DOT requirements for CDL positions) → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Final hiring decision made → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Orientation and 90-day probation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Using a CMV to commit a felony (permanent CDL disqualification); DUI/DWI within past 5-10 years; leaving the scene of an accident; drug trafficking/distribution; recent theft, cargo theft, or embezzlement; violent felonies; any felony resulting in CDL suspension/revocation.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent, non-vehicular offenses over 10 years old; misdemeanors unrelated to driving, theft, or violence; offenses with documented rehabilitation. All subject to individualized assessment considering job duties and demonstrated changes.

Your Rights as Applicant

• FCRA Protections: You must receive written notice and provide consent before a background check. If denied based on the report, you're entitled to a copy and the right to dispute inaccuracies.

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final decision, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and a summary of your rights, with reasonable time to respond.

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to an individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited.

  
  

• Dispute Rights: You can dispute inaccurate information on background reports with the reporting agency. For DOT-related denials, you can also access your Clearinghouse record.

Application Strategy

1. Target Non-CDL Positions First: Focus on Lumper, Facility Custodian, Yard Worker, or Dock Worker positions which don't require DOT oversight and have lower barriers. Avoid CDL driving positions, HazMat routes, and supervisory roles initially if your record is recent or includes relevant offenses.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through https://www.carlile.biz/career-job-openings/. Carlile also posts positions on Indeed and other job boards. Their job board links to UltiPro for applications. Consider applying to multiple terminal locations including remote Alaska sites (Prudhoe Bay, Fairbanks) where hiring needs may be greatest.

   
   

3. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your ability to work in extreme weather conditions, follow HSSE safety protocols, and demonstrate reliability in remote Alaska locations. Research Carlile's HSSE culture and values. Emphasize stability, reliability, and commitment to safety.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest: Never lie about your criminal history. Carlile's application asks about convictions, and DOT records and criminal history will be verified. Dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier.

   
   

5. Prepare Your Narrative: Have a brief, honest explanation ready: acknowledge the offense without making excuses, describe what you learned, and explain how you've changed. Focus on rehabilitation, stability, and your commitment to safety. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds).

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, vocational training, stable housing, employment history, and references from employers, probation officers, or community members.

   
   

7. Consider Remote Locations: Alaska has extremely limited expungement options—only available for mistaken identity or false accusations. Focus instead on rehabilitation documentation and letters of support. Remote Alaska locations like Prudhoe Bay and Fairbanks may have higher hiring needs due to challenging conditions and turnover.'

   
   

8. Follow Up Professionally: After applying, follow up with HR if you don't hear back within 1-2 weeks. If you receive a pre-adverse action notice, respond promptly with rehabilitation documentation.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Alaska's Extreme Conditions Create Opportunities: Alaska trucking and logistics has significant turnover, especially in remote locations. Workers who can handle temperatures down to -40°F and commit long-term become valuable. This creates opportunities others won't pursue.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Begin in dock worker, yard worker, and facility support roles. Prove reliability by showing up on time, working safely, and being a team player. According to employee reviews, workers who demonstrate reliability can move up positions within months with company training support.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check First: Know what will appear before the employer sees it. Order your own criminal background check. If pursuing CDL positions, check your FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse status. Dispute any errors in advance.

   
   

4. Industry-Specific Preparation: Alaska's extreme conditions (temperatures down to -40°F in Prudhoe Bay, remote locations, challenging driving conditions) create high turnover, which opens opportunities. If you can handle the conditions and commit long-term, you become valuable. Carlile values workers who embrace their safety culture.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: If you have substance issues, address them before applying. DOT pre-employment urinalysis is mandatory for all CDL positions and tests for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Non-CDL positions may also require drug screening.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation (particularly important in Alaska), and any consistent work history. Carlile values attendance and dependability.

   
   

7. Network Through Current Employees: Carlile offers an Employee Referral Bonus program. Connecting with current employees for referrals can strengthen your application.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Shifts and Locations: Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, or less desirable shifts increases your chances. Swing shift positions offer an additional $2/hr differential. Night, weekend, and holiday availability increases your chances significantly.

Benefits Overview

Carlile Transportation offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees. Carlile offers a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees.

Compensation: Hourly wages range from $16.44/hr for entry-level lumper positions to $52.00+/hr for experienced mechanics. CDL drivers earn $25-$42+/hr depending on route type. Employee referral bonuses and performance incentives available.

401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) plan with company match up to 4% of eligible compensation after 2 years of service.

Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance. Health Savings Account (HSA) option. Critical illness insurance and disability coverage (short and long-term). Airmed coverage for select work groups working in remote Alaska locations.

Time Off: Paid vacation (employees report 10-20 days), sick leave, and paid holidays.

Additional Benefits: Basic life and AD&D insurance; buy-up life insurance options; accident insurance; MetLife legal plans; pet insurance; identity fraud protection; free credit monitoring; Employee Assistance Program (EAP); Business Travel Assistance Program.

Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement program; Driver Development Program for those pursuing CDL careers; company-sponsored training and certification opportunities.

Employee Perspectives

Pros: According to employee reviews: great coworkers and team environment; strong safety culture; opportunity to see beautiful Alaska; training and learning opportunities; competitive pay for Alaska; good benefits package; company values safety.

Cons: According to employee reviews: extreme working conditions especially in Prudhoe Bay (temperatures to -40°F); limited raises reported; some management communication issues; equipment can be outdated; remote locations can be isolating; high stress environment in some terminals.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Carlile Transportation hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Carlile Transportation considers individuals with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. However, CDL positions face significant federal restrictions under DOT/FMCSA regulations. Non-CDL positions (dock worker, yard worker, facility custodian, lumper) offer better opportunities for Second Chance applicants. Best chances are for applicants with non-vehicular offenses that are 7-10+ years old with documented rehabilitation.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Carlile Transportation?

   Carlile conducts comprehensive background checks after extending a conditional offer. For CDL positions, this includes: criminal history check, Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) review for 3-5 years, DOT Safety Performance History from previous employers, FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse query, and pre-employment DOT drug test. For non-CDL positions, standard criminal background checks apply. You must provide written consent, and FCRA adverse action procedures apply if denied based on results.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go at Carlile Transportation—what is the lookback period?

   Alaska has no statutory limit on lookback periods, meaning convictions can be considered indefinitely. For CDL positions, certain driving violations (DUI, leaving accident scene, using CMV in felony) can be permanently disqualifying under FMCSA rules. For non-CDL positions, practical consideration typically focuses on the past 7-10 years, with older offenses viewed more favorably.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Carlile Transportation?

   Highest risk: any vehicular-related felonies (DUI, vehicular manslaughter, leaving accident scene); using a commercial vehicle in commission of a felony (permanent CDL bar); drug trafficking or distribution; theft, cargo theft, embezzlement, or fraud (due to cargo handling); violent felonies. Recency significantly impacts all assessments—offenses within 3-5 years face the highest scrutiny.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Carlile Transportation for applicants with a record?

   Best entry-level positions for applicants with records: Lumper ($16.44-$23.84/hr) for loading/unloading; Facility Custodian ($18.50-$26.90/hr) for maintenance; Yard Worker ($20.50-$30.80/hr) for trailer movement. These positions don't require CDL or DOT oversight, offering lower barriers. Remote Alaska locations (Prudhoe Bay, Fairbanks) may have higher hiring needs.

   
   

6. Does Carlile Transportation drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, Carlile drug tests. All CDL positions require mandatory DOT pre-employment urinalysis testing for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. CDL drivers are also subject to random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing. Non-CDL positions may also require drug screening depending on the role. Failed tests are automatic disqualifiers.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Carlile Transportation ask about criminal history?

   Carlile's application asks about prior convictions, accidents, and moving violations. Alaska has no Ban the Box law for private employers, so criminal history questions may appear on the initial application. However, detailed background checks occur after conditional offer. The company emphasizes honesty—lying about your record is an automatic disqualifier since DOT and criminal records will be verified.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Carlile Transportation if they have a felony?

   Yes, advancement is possible but faces increased scrutiny. Moving into supervisory or CDL positions with a felony record requires demonstrating extended trustworthiness. Employee reviews indicate advancement opportunities exist for those who prove reliability. However, positions requiring HazMat endorsements face additional TSA background checks with specific disqualifying offenses.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Carlile Transportation?

   According to employee reports, the hiring process takes about 1 week from application to hire. After hire, expect a new hire orientation followed by a 90-day probationary period. Background check timelines vary; CDL positions may take longer due to DOT requirements, Clearinghouse queries, and previous employer verification.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Carlile Transportation?

    Key strategies:

    (1) Target non-CDL positions initially (dock worker, yard worker, lumper);

    (2) Be 100% honest about your record—lying is an automatic disqualifier;

    (3) Emphasize stability, reliability, and ability to work in extreme Alaska conditions;

    (4) Prepare a brief rehabilitation narrative;

    (5) Gather documentation of positive changes;

    (6) Consider remote locations like Prudhoe Bay where hiring needs are greatest; (7) Highlight any safety training or certifications; (8) Be flexible on shifts—swing shift offers $2/hr premium; (9) Leverage employee referrals if possible.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Carlile Transportation doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in trucking and logistics:

Conclusion

Carlile Transportation offers potential opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in non-CDL warehouse, dock, and facility support roles. As one of Alaska's largest trucking companies with 450 employees across 9 terminals, the company provides pathways to employment, though CDL positions face significant federal restrictions. The trucking and logistics industry has significant turnover, particularly in Alaska's remote and extreme-weather locations. This creates opportunities for reliable workers.

The work is physically demanding and often performed in extreme Alaska weather conditions (temperatures reaching -40°F in northern locations). However, the compensation is competitive for Alaska, with entry-level positions starting at $16-$20/hr and experienced mechanics/drivers earning $40-$52+/hr. The benefits package includes 401(k) with 4% match, medical/dental/vision, tuition reimbursement, and comprehensive insurance options. Employee reviews indicate advancement is possible with demonstrated reliability, though CDL progression faces higher scrutiny.

Key Success Factors: Target non-CDL positions initially if your record includes relevant offenses or is recent. Be completely honest about your record. Prepare a brief rehabilitation narrative. Demonstrate reliability through consistent attendance. Be flexible on shifts and locations—remote Alaska sites may have higher hiring needs. Take advantage of Carlile's tuition reimbursement and Driver Development Program if pursuing CDL career goals.

Biggest Barriers: Vehicular felonies, DUI/DWI, drug trafficking, theft/cargo theft, and violent offenses create the greatest challenges due to DOT/FMCSA regulations for CDL positions and cargo handling responsibilities requiring high integrity. CDL driving positions, HazMat routes, and supervisory roles face higher scrutiny than entry-level roles. However, individualized assessment means your specific circumstances matter.

For those ready to commit to hard work in challenging conditions, Carlile Transportation can be a pathway to stable employment. Start with dock worker, yard worker, or facility support positions, prove your reliability, and explore advancement opportunities as you establish your track record.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and individual circumstances. Information compiled from publicly available sources including company websites, job postings (Indeed, Glassdoor), employee reviews, and official DOT/FMCSA/TSA regulations. Employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Carlile Transportation.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, DOT regulations, expungement procedures, and fair chance hiring requirements vary by state and should be confirmed with legal professionals. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://www.carlile.biz/career-job-openings/