Quick Answer
Yes, Cinemark Theatres does hire people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. As one of the largest movie theater chains in the United States with over 500 theaters nationwide, Cinemark evaluates each applicant individually rather than automatic rejection. Cinemark offers opportunities in concessionist ($10-13/hour), usher ($10-12/hour), box office cashier ($10-13/hour), kitchen crew ($10-13/hour), and management positions starting at $13-17/hour.
Your best chances are in usher and kitchen crew roles where cleaning and food prep skills matter more than spotless backgrounds. Evening and weekend availability is essential since theaters operate busiest during these times.
Last Verified: October 2025
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About Cinemark Theatres
Cinemark is one of the three largest movie theater chains in the United States, operating over 500 theaters with thousands of screens across the country and internationally. The company employs tens of thousands of people in theater operations, food service, customer service, and entertainment roles.
Cinemark theaters need reliable employees who can provide excellent customer service, prepare and sell concessions efficiently, maintain clean facilities, operate ticketing systems, and ensure moviegoers have positive experiences. Theaters operate primarily evenings and weekends, with peak traffic during major movie releases and holiday periods.
For people with records, Cinemark matters because movie theaters offer entry-level retail and food service opportunities with flexible evening/weekend scheduling that some people prefer, employee benefits including free movies, and genuine advancement possibilities within the entertainment industry. The combination of customer service and behind-the-scenes roles creates multiple entry points.
Does Cinemark Hire People with Felonies?
Yes. Cinemark's official policy is case-by-case evaluation.
Official Policy
Cinemark doesn't automatically reject applicants with criminal records. Each application receives individual review considering the type of offense, time since conviction, position requirements, rehabilitation efforts, and individual circumstances.
As a major entertainment company serving families and the general public, Cinemark conducts standard retail-level background checks but maintains individualized assessment practices for hiring decisions.
Real-World Practice
Crew members, ushers, concessionists, and kitchen staff with felony records get hired regularly at Cinemark theaters nationwide. Movie theaters need employees willing to work evenings (theaters open mid-day and close around midnight), weekends (busiest times), and during holiday periods when entertainment is in highest demand.
Less desirable evening and weekend hours actually create more hiring flexibility for people with backgrounds, since these shifts are harder to fill with traditional applicants. If you're available when theaters are busiest, your employment chances improve significantly.
What Affects Hiring Decisions
Time since conviction: 2-3 years helps significantly. 5+ years is better for supervisory positions or roles with more responsibility.
Type of offense: Theft can be problematic for positions handling cash (box office) or high-value inventory (concessions with expensive snacks/drinks). Violent offenses get evaluated based on customer safety considerations in public entertainment settings. Drug offenses and other non-violent felonies are typically viewed more favorably.
Position applied for: Usher and cleaning crew positions have the highest acceptance rates (minimal cash handling, focus on facility maintenance). Kitchen crew roles are very accessible (food prep with limited customer interaction). Concessionist positions are accessible (high turnover creates constant need). Box office faces moderate scrutiny (cash handling responsibilities). Management requires proven track record.
Schedule availability: Willingness to work evenings (4pm-midnight), weekends (Friday-Sunday), and holidays (when movies are most popular) significantly improves hiring chances since these are theaters' busiest and hardest-to-staff times.
Theater location: Urban theaters in competitive labor markets may be more flexible with hiring. Suburban theaters might have more applicants but also recognize the value of reliable workers for evening shifts.
What Cinemark Looks For
Cinemark wants employees who enhance the moviegoing experience and work reliably during peak times. They value:
Reliability and consistent attendance (especially for evening/weekend shifts)
Positive, friendly attitude creating welcoming atmosphere
Customer service skills (most positions interact with moviegoers)
Ability to work efficiently during rushes (movies starting simultaneously creates traffic surges)
Team player mentality in fast-paced environment
Flexibility with scheduling around movie release schedules
Attention to cleanliness and facility appearance
The company cares more about your current ability to provide great customer experiences during busy movie times than your criminal record from years ago. If you can demonstrate reliability, positive attitude, and willingness to work when theaters need you most, your hiring chances improve significantly.
Available Jobs at Cinemark
Cinemark offers several positions suitable for people with felony records. Here are the most common roles:
1. Usher / Theater Attendant
Pay: $10-12/hour
What you do: Check tickets at theater entrances, direct customers to correct auditoriums, clean theaters between showings, maintain restrooms and lobby, assist customers with questions, ensure safe environment.
Requirements: Customer service skills, physical capability for frequent cleaning, attention to detail, friendly demeanor
Why it works: Most accessible entry position. Heavy cleaning focus means less constant cash handling than other roles. Straightforward responsibilities. Physical work keeps you moving. Essential role for theater operations.
2. Concessionist / Concession Stand Worker
Pay: $10-13/hour
What you do: Prepare and sell popcorn, candy, drinks, nachos, hot dogs, and other movie snacks. Operate cash register and payment systems, maintain concession stand cleanliness, restock supplies quickly during rushes, upsell premium items.
Requirements: Customer service skills, cash handling, ability to work very quickly during pre-movie rushes, basic food prep, multitasking
Why it works: High-volume position with constant openings due to turnover. Fast-paced work during movie start times keeps shifts interesting. Concessions are major theater revenue source, making this a valued role. Training provided.
3. Kitchen Crew / Hot Foods Preparer
Pay: $10-13/hour
What you do: Prepare hot food items including pizza, hot dogs, pretzels, chicken tenders, and other hot concessions. Maintain kitchen equipment, follow food safety procedures, stock kitchen supplies, coordinate with concession stand.
Requirements: Food prep ability, attention to food safety and sanitation, ability to work quickly during busy periods, comfortable with hot equipment
Why it works: Back-of-house focus with minimal direct customer interaction. Food service skills transferable to restaurant industry. Important support role for concession operations. Clear procedures to follow.
4. Box Office Cashier / Ticket Sales Associate
Pay: $10-13/hour
What you do: Sell movie tickets in person and via phone, process payments and refunds, explain showtimes and theater locations, handle customer questions about movies and showtimes, maintain box office area, operate ticketing computer systems.
Requirements: Customer service excellence, cash handling accuracy, computer literacy, knowledge of current movies, friendly and patient demeanor, ability to handle lines during busy times
Why it works: First point of contact creating positive theater experience. Direct customer interaction for those with good people skills. Important customer service role. However, faces more background scrutiny due to cash handling.
5. Maintenance / Cleaning Crew
Pay: $10-12/hour
What you do: Deep clean theaters and facilities, maintain restrooms to high standards, handle trash removal and recycling, clean lobby and common areas, perform minor maintenance tasks, work early morning or late night deep cleaning shifts.
Requirements: Physical capability, attention to cleanliness and detail, ability to work independently, willingness to work early morning (before opening) or late night (after closing) shifts, stamina for physically demanding work
Why it works: Behind-the-scenes work with minimal customer interaction. Less desirable early morning or late night hours often easier to secure. Essential facility maintenance role. Clear, structured responsibilities. Good for people who prefer working independently.
6. Projectionist / Booth Technician
Pay: $12-15/hour
What you do: Operate projection equipment (increasingly digital/automated), troubleshoot technical issues, build and break down film (rare now), maintain projection booth.
Requirements: Technical aptitude, attention to detail, ability to work somewhat independently
Why it works: Skilled technical position. Limited customer interaction. However, many theaters have automated systems reducing projectionist needs.
7. Shift Leader / Assistant Manager
Pay: $13-17/hour
What you do: Supervise crew during shifts, handle customer issues, manage opening/closing procedures, oversee concessions and box office, train new employees.
Requirements: Theater experience typically required, leadership ability, customer service excellence, reliability
Why it works: Advancement opportunity demonstrating company values performance. Promotion path from crew positions.
Best entry point: Start as Concessionist or Usher, demonstrate reliability and positive attitude, learn theater operations, show flexibility with scheduling, then advance to Shift Leader or specialize in area of interest (projection, kitchen, etc.).
Background Check Process at Cinemark
Understanding the background check helps you prepare:
When It Happens
Cinemark conducts background checks after interviews, typically before final offers. Managers interview candidates to assess fit before background screening.
What They Check
Standard 7-year background checks covering:
Criminal records: Felonies and misdemeanors
Employment history: Verification of previous jobs (sometimes)
Identity verification: Confirming accuracy
How Long It Takes
Background checks typically take 5-10 business days. Delays happen if you've lived in multiple states or records are difficult to access.
What Happens If Issues Arise
If something concerning appears:
Cinemark's hiring team reviews findings
You may be contacted for explanation or clarification
The hiring manager provides input based on interview impressions
Final decision made considering position requirements and circumstances
Managers who were impressed during interviews can advocate for candidates despite background issues, especially for back-of-house positions.
Application Tips for Cinemark
Maximize your chances with these strategies:
1. Apply Online
Visit cinemark.com/careers to search positions at theaters near you. Complete applications thoroughly and honestly.
2. Visit Theater in Person After Applying
After online application, visit during slower times (weekday afternoons). Ask to speak with hiring manager, introduce yourself professionally, express interest in employment.
3. Emphasize Evening/Weekend Availability
Theaters are busiest evenings, weekends, and during major releases. Stress your availability: "I'm specifically interested in evening and weekend shifts when theaters are busiest. I understand that's when you need reliable employees most."
4. Target Concessionist or Usher Positions
These entry-level positions have highest acceptance rates and constant turnover creating regular openings.
5. Highlight Customer Service Skills
Any customer service or retail experience helps. Movie theaters value friendly, helpful employees who create positive experiences.
6. Be Ready for the Background Question
When asked about your record, be honest but brief: "I have a [type] conviction from [year]. I've completed my sentence, stayed out of trouble, and I'm looking for stable employment. I'm reliable and I enjoy the entertainment industry atmosphere."
7. Show Enthusiasm for Movies/Entertainment
Genuine interest in movies and entertainment helps: "I love movies and the theater experience. I want to work in an environment I'm passionate about and help create positive experiences for moviegoers."
8. Demonstrate Reliability
Theaters depend on employees showing up for scheduled shifts, especially during busy releases. Emphasize your dependability and understanding of entertainment industry demands.
9. Be Flexible About Positions
Express willingness to work various positions: "I'm interested in learning all aspects of theater operations—concessions, ushering, box office—whatever you need most."
10. Dress Casually but Neat
Clean, presentable casual clothing for interview. Movie theaters are casual entertainment environments. Look put-together but not overly formal.
11. Apply During Major Release Seasons
Theaters hire more staff before summer blockbuster season and holiday releases. Timing applications before these periods improves chances.
12. Follow Up
Call or visit 3-5 days after applying to check status. Shows genuine interest and initiative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my theft conviction prevent me from working at Cinemark?
A: Not automatically, but theft makes box office and concessions positions more challenging since you handle cash and inventory. Focus on usher or cleaning positions with less financial responsibility. Emphasize time since conviction and rehabilitation.
Q: Does Cinemark do drug testing?
A: Policies vary by location. Some theaters drug test, others don't. It's more common for management positions. Ask during interview if concerned.
Q: Can I work evenings while on probation?
A: Likely yes, as long as evening work doesn't conflict with probation requirements. Many Cinemark employees work evenings and weekends while managing probation obligations. Be upfront about any scheduling limitations.
Q: How long after my conviction should I wait?
A: There's no official waiting period, but 2-3 years helps significantly. Even recent convictions receive case-by-case consideration, especially for back-of-house positions.
Q: Do I need movie theater experience?
A: No. Cinemark provides training. Customer service or retail experience helps, but theater-specific experience isn't required.
Q: Can I advance to management with a felony?
A: Yes. Cinemark promotes from within based on performance. If you prove yourself reliable, provide excellent customer service, and demonstrate leadership, advancement to shift leader or assistant manager is possible.
Q: Will Cinemark see arrests without convictions?
A: Depends on your state. Some states prohibit considering arrests without convictions. If they appear, briefly explain: "That charge was dismissed."
Q: Are there free movie benefits?
A: Yes, typically. Most theater chains offer free or heavily discounted movie tickets to employees. This is a common employment perk in the industry.
Similar Felon-Friendly Entertainment & Retail Companies
If Cinemark doesn't work out:
AMC Theatres – Large theater chain with similar case-by-case hiring practices.
Regal Cinemas – Major theater chain with standard retail hiring approaches.
Alamo Drafthouse – Dine-in theater chain with restaurant and theater positions.
Local independent theaters – Often more flexible with backgrounds and personalized hiring.
Entertainment venues – Bowling alleys, arcades, mini golf, etc., with similar customer service needs.
Retail positions – General retail offers similar entry-level opportunities with flexible schedules.
Apply to multiple entertainment and retail employers simultaneously to maximize chances.
Final Thoughts
Cinemark offers realistic opportunities for people with felony records in movie theater operations. Your criminal history doesn't automatically disqualify you, especially if you can demonstrate customer service skills, reliability, and availability for evening/weekend shifts.
Be honest about your background, emphasize your enthusiasm for the entertainment industry, and target concessionist or usher positions to start. Many people with felonies have built stable employment at Cinemark, enjoying the entertainment atmosphere and flexible scheduling that evening/weekend work provides.
Start here: Visit cinemark.com/careers to apply for positions at theaters near you, then visit in person to introduce yourself and express genuine interest in working in the movie theater industry.
Does Cinemark Theatres Hire Felons in 2026?
Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: January 2026
Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center
Industry:
Food & Hospitality
Pay:
$15.00 – $35.00/hour
Location:
Alaska
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