Quick Answer

Yes, Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center considers candidates with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. As a facility owned by the Municipality of Anchorage and managed by ASM Global, the center follows both municipal hiring practices and private sector policies aligned with EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment. This 200,000-square-foot convention center, Alaska's largest, employs approximately 50-150 workers (varying by event season) across operations, security, housekeeping, food service, and event support roles. Employment decisions are conditional upon passing a background check and are subject to Fair Chance Hiring principles and EEOC guidelines.

The law prohibits companies from having a blanket policy excluding all felons. Instead, they must conduct an individualized assessment of the conviction to determine if it is job-related and consistent with business necessity.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to theft, fraud, or embezzlement (cash handling and inventory responsibilities), violent crimes (public safety concerns in high-traffic venue), and drug trafficking or distribution (safety-sensitive operations). Recent offenses within the past 3-5 years face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Entry-level Housekeeping, Janitorial, and Food Service positions (often through third-party vendors) offer the most accessible opportunities for Second Chance applicants due to high turnover, event-driven staffing needs, and less direct security or cash-handling responsibilities.

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:

• Job Relevance: Must NOT have a conviction that is directly related to the core duties of the position (e.g., a theft conviction for a cash-handling role, violence for security positions).

  
  

• Recent Violence/Dishonesty: Must NOT have a recent (within 5-7 years) conviction for violence or severe dishonesty that would compromise public trust required in a civic center setting.

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to perform physically demanding work including standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in various event environments.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must be prepared for potential pre-employment drug testing. ASM Global and third-party vendors may require drug screening for safety-sensitive positions.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked (after conditional offer). Lying is an automatic disqualifier.

  
  

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

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the regulatory framework for employment at the Dena'ina Center is essential for Second Chance applicants. As a municipal-owned facility managed by a private company (ASM Global), hiring practices blend public sector standards with private sector flexibility while complying with federal employment laws.

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 a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, Dena'ina Center/ASM Global 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 does not have a statewide Ban the Box law for private employers. However, Anchorage has a local ordinance (Anchorage Municipal Code 5.20, effective 2017) that prohibits city employers and contractors from inquiring about convictions before a conditional offer. As a Municipality of Anchorage-owned facility, the Dena'ina Center likely follows this practice. Alaska allows reporting of felony and misdemeanor convictions indefinitely on background checks. Alaska has extremely limited expungement options only records based on mistaken identity or false accusation can be sealed.

Convention Center-Specific Considerations

The Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center is a high-traffic public venue that maintains strict security and safety protocols without federal regulatory requirements like airports. Key considerations include:

(1) Security/Crowd Control strict requirements for past convictions involving violence, drug distribution, or weapons to ensure public safety;

(2) Access to Facilities employees are granted access to sensitive areas including loading docks, equipment rooms, and offices, so convictions for burglary or unauthorized access are highly scrutinized;

(3) Third-Party Vendors—many positions (food service, security, maintenance) may be managed by third-party contractors with their own background check requirements.

Company Overview

The Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center is Alaska's largest convention center, a $111 million, 200,000-square-foot facility located in downtown Anchorage. Opened in September 2008, the center increased Anchorage's civic and convention capacity by 300 percent. The facility is owned by the Municipality of Anchorage and managed by ASM Global, one of the world's leading venue management companies. The center hosts national and international conventions, trade shows, meetings, banquets, and special events, generating substantial economic benefits for the city.

The facility features the Idlughet (Eklutna) Exhibit Hall—nearly 50,000 square feet and the largest room of its kind in Alaska—along with multiple configurable meeting rooms and spaces named with Athabascan names honoring the Dena'ina people. The center works in conjunction with the William A. Egan Civic & Convention Center and the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts as part of Anchorage Convention Centers.

Company Fast Facts

• Opened: September 2008

• Location: 600 W. Seventh Avenue, Anchorage, Alaska 99501

• Employees: ~50-150 (varies by event season; includes third-party vendor staff)

• Facility Size: 200,000 square feet

• Owner: Municipality of Anchorage

• Management: ASM Global

• Industry: Convention Center / Event Venue Management

• Capacity: Up to 5,000 attendees

Hiring Policy Analysis

The Dena'ina Center's hiring policy reflects its dual nature as a municipally-owned facility managed by a private company (ASM Global). ASM Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer that encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and protected Veterans to apply. The company must comply with EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment of criminal records rather than blanket exclusions. Due to the Anchorage municipal ordinance (AMC 5.20), criminal history inquiries are likely delayed until after a conditional job offer for direct municipal positions. For positions managed by ASM Global or third-party vendors, practices may vary but still must comply with federal EEOC and FCRA requirements.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by the degree of public interaction, security responsibility, access to money or sensitive equipment, and whether the position is managed directly or through a third-party vendor.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Indeed, Glassdoor, ASM Global postings, and Alaska wage data. Actual compensation varies by position, experience, and whether employed directly or through a third-party vendor. Alaska minimum wage is $11.91/hr as of 2025.

Career Path Examples

ASM Global and convention center operations offer career advancement opportunities for employees who demonstrate reliability, skills development, and strong performance.

Housekeeping/Operations Track: Housekeeper ($16-$20/hr) → Lead Housekeeper ($18-$22/hr) → Housekeeping Supervisor ($22-$28/hr) → Building Services Manager. Advancement based on reliability, leadership skills, and typically 1-2 years at each level.

Food Service Track: Dishwasher/Prep ($15-$17/hr) → Food Service Worker ($16-$20/hr) → Banquet Captain ($20-$25/hr) → Catering Supervisor ($25-$32/hr). Often through third-party vendors with their own advancement structures.

Event Operations Track: Event Setup Crew ($17-$22/hr) → Event Technician ($20-$26/hr) → Event Coordinator ($22-$32/hr) → Event Manager ($35-$50/hr). Requires demonstrated organizational skills and client management ability.

Background Check Process

Understanding the background check process helps you prepare for what to expect. As a municipally-owned facility, the Dena'ina Center likely follows Anchorage's fair chance hiring practices, meaning criminal history inquiries occur after a conditional job offer.

What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at state and potentially federal levels; Identity verification through SSN trace and address history; Employment history verification; Drug screening for certain positions.

Lookback Period: Alaska allows reporting of felony and misdemeanor convictions indefinitely. FCRA limits reporting of non-conviction records (arrests not leading to conviction) to 7 years. However, EEOC guidelines require employers to consider time elapsed as a mitigating factor in individualized assessments.

Timeline: Background checks typically take 3-10 business days. The hiring process from application to start date generally ranges from 1-3 weeks depending on position type and event scheduling needs.

Process Flow: Application submitted → Interview conducted → Conditional offer extended → Background check authorization signed → Background check conducted → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Final hiring decision made → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Violence, assault, or weapons offenses (public safety in high-traffic venue); Theft, embezzlement, burglary, or fraud (cash handling and equipment access); Recent drug distribution or trafficking; Breaking and entering or unauthorized access (facility security concerns); Sex offenses (vulnerable population access).

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent offenses older than 7 years with demonstrated rehabilitation; Drug possession (non-distribution) with documented recovery; Minor property crimes from the distant past; Offenses clearly unrelated to event operations, security, or fiduciary responsibilities. All subject to individualized assessment considering job duties and rehabilitation evidence.

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.

Application Strategy

1. Target Entry-Level Support Positions: Focus on Housekeeping, Janitorial, Dishwasher, and Kitchen Prep positions which have the lowest barriers and highest turnover. Avoid Security, A/V, and Finance positions initially if your record is recent or includes relevant offenses.

   
   

2. Research Third-Party Vendors: Many positions at convention centers are managed by third-party companies (catering, security, cleaning services). Research vendors like Sodexo, Aramark, or local contractors who may have their own Second Chance hiring practices.

   
   

3. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit applications through anchorageconventioncenters.com or ASM Global's career portal. Also check for positions on Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn.

   
   

4. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your work ethic, reliability, and ability to work in fast-paced event environments. Research the facility and its events. Emphasize flexibility, customer service orientation, and willingness to work varied schedules.

   
   

5. Be Completely Honest: Never lie about your criminal history. Dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier and can result in termination if discovered later. Wait until asked or until the appropriate stage (after conditional offer) to discuss your record.

   
   

6. 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, personal growth, and stability. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds).

   
   

7. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes since your conviction: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, vocational training, stable housing, community involvement, and references from employers, probation officers, or community members.

   
   

8. Understand Alaska's Limited Expungement: Alaska has extremely limited expungement options—only records based on mistaken identity or false accusation can be sealed. Courts may set aside certain convictions after successful probation (SIS), but records remain visible. Focus on demonstrating rehabilitation rather than record clearing.

   
   

9. 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. Event Industry Has Seasonal Hiring Needs: Convention centers experience significant staffing fluctuations based on event schedules. Peak seasons (summer, conference seasons) create more opportunities. Be persistent—rejection today doesn't mean rejection tomorrow.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers begin in housekeeping and food service positions. Prove reliability by showing up on time, working hard, and being a team player. Advancement comes with demonstrated trustworthiness.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check First: Know what will appear before the employer sees it. Order your own criminal background check from a consumer reporting agency. Dispute any errors or outdated information in advance.

   
   

4. Industry-Specific Preparation: Convention center work requires flexibility for event-driven schedules, customer service skills, and the ability to work as part of a team. Emphasize any hospitality experience and willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays when events are scheduled.

   
   

5. Address Substance Issues: If you have substance issues, address them before applying. Drug testing may be required. While marijuana is legal in Alaska, employers can still maintain drug-free workplace policies. Failed tests are typically automatic disqualifiers.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation, and any consistent work history—even informal work shows you can be counted on. Event employers especially value attendance and dependability.

   
   

7. Network in the Industry: Convention center staff often move between venues and vendors. Building relationships can lead to referrals. Connect with Alaska Job Center Network or Partners for Progress for additional support.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Shifts and Positions: Willingness to work any shift, including early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays, significantly increases your chances. Event work is inherently flexible and those who can adapt thrive.

Benefits Overview

Benefits vary significantly based on employment status (full-time vs. part-time/on-call) and whether employed directly by ASM Global or through a third-party vendor.

Compensation: Entry-level positions start at $15-$18/hr, competitive for Anchorage. Skilled positions range from $20-$35/hr. Alaska minimum wage is $11.91/hr as of 2025.

Health Benefits: Full-time ASM Global employees typically have access to medical, dental, and vision insurance. Part-time and on-call staff may have limited or no health benefits.

Retirement: 401(k) or similar retirement plans may be available for full-time employees. Municipal employees may have access to public employee retirement systems.

Time Off: Paid time off and holiday pay for eligible full-time employees. Part-time and event-based staff typically receive pay only for hours worked.

Additional Benefits: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), life insurance, and disability coverage may be available. Event staff may receive meals during shifts and parking accommodations.

Employee Perspectives

Pros: Interesting work environment with variety; opportunity to work major events; team atmosphere; flexible scheduling for some positions; exposure to hospitality industry.

Cons: Irregular hours based on event schedule; physically demanding work; limited hours during slow periods; part-time positions may lack benefits; high-pressure environment during large events.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center hire people with felonies?

   Yes, the Dena'ina Center considers individuals with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. As a municipally-owned facility managed by ASM Global, it follows EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment rather than blanket exclusions. Best opportunities are in housekeeping, food service, and event setup positions. Non-violent offenses, older convictions (5-7+ years), and demonstrated rehabilitation improve chances significantly. Security and finance positions face higher scrutiny.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center?

   Background checks are conducted after extending a conditional job offer, consistent with Anchorage's fair chance hiring ordinance. The process includes criminal history verification at state and potentially federal levels, identity verification via SSN trace, and employment verification. Drug screening may be required for certain positions. 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 Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center—what is the lookback period?

   Alaska allows reporting of felony and misdemeanor convictions indefinitely—there is no statutory time limit. Non-conviction records (arrests without conviction) are limited to 7 years under FCRA. However, EEOC guidelines require employers to consider time elapsed as a mitigating factor in their individualized assessment. Older offenses are generally viewed more favorably than recent ones.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center?

   Highest barriers: Violence, assault, and weapons offenses (public safety in high-traffic venue); Theft, embezzlement, burglary, and fraud (cash handling and equipment access); Drug distribution or trafficking; Breaking and entering or unauthorized access; Sex offenses. Recency significantly impacts all assessments—offenses within 3-5 years face the highest scrutiny. The nature of the offense must be evaluated against the specific job duties.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center for applicants with a record?

   Best entry-level positions: Housekeeping/Janitorial ($16-$20/hr) for facility cleaning; Dishwasher/Kitchen Prep ($15-$17/hr) through catering vendors; Event Setup Crew ($17-$22/hr) for physical labor; Food Service Worker ($16-$20/hr) for catering support. These positions have lower barriers, higher turnover, and provide opportunities to demonstrate reliability before advancing to positions with greater responsibility.

   
   

6. Does Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Drug testing practices vary by position and employer (ASM Global vs. third-party vendors). Safety-sensitive positions and security roles commonly require pre-employment drug testing. Testing is typically urine-based. While marijuana is legal in Alaska for recreational use, employers can maintain drug-free workplace policies. Failed tests are generally automatic disqualifiers. If you have substance issues, address them before applying.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center ask about criminal history?

   Under Anchorage Municipal Code 5.20, city employers and contractors are prohibited from inquiring about convictions before a conditional job offer. As a Municipality of Anchorage-owned facility, the Dena'ina Center likely follows this practice. Criminal history inquiries occur after the conditional offer, giving you the opportunity to interview and demonstrate qualifications first. Never volunteer criminal history before asked.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center if they have a felony?

   Yes, advancement to management is possible but involves increased scrutiny. Supervisory and management roles typically require more comprehensive background verification, especially for positions with financial or security oversight. Strategy: Build a strong track record of reliability (1-2 years), demonstrate leadership skills, and develop relationships with supervisors who can advocate for your advancement. Many event industry managers started in entry-level positions.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center?

   Background checks typically take 3-10 business days. The overall hiring process from application to start date generally ranges from 1-3 weeks, though event-driven hiring may be faster during peak seasons. Factors affecting timeline include position type, event schedule urgency, and background check complexity. Hiring for major events may be expedited to meet staffing needs.

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center?

    Key strategies:

    (1) Target entry-level support positions initially (housekeeping, food service);

    (2) Research third-party vendors who may have their own hiring practices;

    (3) Be completely honest about your record—dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier;

    (4) Prepare a brief, professional narrative about rehabilitation;

    (5) Gather documentation (certificates, references, treatment completion);

    (6) Emphasize flexibility for event-based scheduling;

    (7) Highlight any hospitality or customer service experience;

    (8) Network through Alaska Job Center or Partners for Progress;

    (9) Apply during peak hiring seasons;

    (10) Follow up professionally after applying.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If the Dena'ina Center doesn't work out, consider these employers in Anchorage and Alaska known for fair chance hiring practices:

Conclusion

The Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center offers realistic opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in entry-level housekeeping, food service, and event support positions. As Alaska's largest convention center with event-driven staffing needs, the facility provides pathways to stable employment in the hospitality and event industry. The center's status as a municipally-owned facility managed by ASM Global means hiring practices blend public sector fair chance principles with private sector flexibility.

The work varies from physical labor (setup, cleaning) to customer service (food service, event support), often with irregular hours based on event schedules. Compensation is competitive for Anchorage, starting at $15-$18/hr for entry-level positions and reaching $25-$35/hr for skilled roles. Third-party vendors managing food service, security, and cleaning may offer additional employment pathways with their own hiring practices.

Key Success Factors: Target entry-level support positions initially. Be completely honest about your record. Prepare a brief narrative about rehabilitation. Demonstrate reliability through consistent attendance. Be flexible on event-driven scheduling. Consider applying to third-party vendors as well as direct positions. Take advantage of Alaska Job Center and reentry support services.

Biggest Barriers: Violence, theft, fraud, and drug trafficking create the greatest challenges due to public safety concerns and cash/equipment handling responsibilities. Security, finance, and management positions face higher scrutiny than entry-level support roles. However, individualized assessment means your specific circumstances matter—time elapsed, rehabilitation evidence, and the relationship between your offense and job duties all factor into decisions.

For those ready to commit to reliable work in an event-driven environment, the Dena'ina Center can be a stepping stone to a career in the hospitality and convention industry. Start with housekeeping, food service, or event setup positions, prove your dependability, and use internal advancement opportunities to grow your career.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and individual circumstances. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including company websites, job postings, employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed), and official government resources, employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with the Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center, ASM Global, or relevant third-party vendors.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, expungement procedures, and fair chance hiring requirements vary by state and locality and should be confirmed with legal professionals. Alaska has extremely limited expungement options, and convictions can be reported indefinitely. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://anchorageconventioncenters.com