Quick Answer

Yes, Franz Family Bakeries hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions. As one of the Pacific Northwest's largest privately-owned bakeries with approximately 4,000 employees across 11 bakeries in 9 states, Franz operates extensive production facilities and distribution networks throughout Oregon, Washington, Idaho, California, Montana, Utah, Wyoming, and Alaska. 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 (due to food inventory and cash handling), violence (due to workplace safety concerns), and driving offenses (for route sales and delivery positions requiring clean MVR). Recent offenses within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Employee reviews confirm Franz hires individuals with criminal backgrounds, particularly for production and warehouse positions. Entry-level roles in bakery production, packaging, and merchandising offer the most accessible pathways, while route sales positions require clean driving records and face additional scrutiny.

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:

• No Blanket Exclusion: Must be aware that Franz is not allowed to automatically exclude you solely for being a felon. EEOC guidelines require individualized assessment considering the nature of the offense, time elapsed, and job relevance.

  
  

• Job-Related Assessment: Must be prepared for the company to evaluate whether your felony is related to the job duties using the Green Factors (nature of crime, time elapsed, nature of job).

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to stand for extended periods (8-12 hours), work in hot environments (90-110°F in production areas), lift up to 40-50 pounds regularly, and perform repetitive bending, stooping, and reaching motions.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. Franz maintains a drug-free workplace policy. Testing includes THC/marijuana even in states where recreational use is legal.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked (after conditional offer). Lying is an automatic disqualifier and can result in termination if discovered later.

  
  

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

  
  

• Union Membership: Must join the union (typically Teamsters) within 30 days of hire for production and route sales positions.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Franz Family Bakeries operates primarily in Oregon and Washington, both states with robust fair chance hiring laws. As a food manufacturer with distribution operations, Franz must balance EEOC compliance with DOT regulations for commercial drivers and food safety requirements.

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 and can constitute disparate impact discrimination under Title VII.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, Franz must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

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

(2) Allow reasonable time to dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands. Under FCRA, most criminal records cannot be reported beyond 7 years for positions paying under $75,000.

State-Specific Considerations

Oregon has strong Fair Chance protections. The statewide Ban the Box law (ORS 659A.360) prohibits employers from asking about criminal history until after the initial interview. In Portland, employers must wait until after a conditional job offer.

Washington enacted the Fair Chance Act in 2018, prohibiting criminal history inquiries until after determining the applicant is otherwise qualified. Effective July 2026, amendments require individualized written assessments and prohibit adverse actions based on arrest records or juvenile convictions. Seattle and Spokane have additional local protections.

Food Manufacturing-Specific Considerations

The food manufacturing industry involves SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification requirements. While there are no federal licensing restrictions for felons in food production, employers scrutinize offenses involving contamination or tampering. Route sales positions require DOT compliance for commercial drivers, including MVR checks. Felony DUI convictions typically disqualify candidates from driving positions.

Company Overview

Franz Family Bakeries, legally known as United States Bakery, is a fifth-generation family-owned bread and pastry manufacturer founded in 1906 in Portland, Oregon. The company operates 11 production facilities across 9 states, producing bread, buns, bagels, English muffins, donuts, rolls, cookies, and pastries. Franz employs approximately 4,000 employees with estimated annual revenue of $750 million. The company operates union facilities with Teamsters representation and promotes internal advancement opportunities.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1906 (Portland, Oregon)

• Employees: Approximately 4,000 across 9 states

• Major Operations: Portland, Seattle, Spokane, Eugene, Springfield, Nampa, Billings

• Ownership: Privately held, family-owned (fifth generation)

• CEO: Kim Nisbet

• Revenue: Approximately $750 million annually

Hiring Policy Analysis

Franz Family Bakeries operates as a fair chance employer, with employee reviews confirming the company hires individuals with criminal backgrounds. The company conducts individualized assessments as required by EEOC guidelines and complies with state-specific Ban the Box laws in Oregon and Washington where major facilities are located. Background checks are conducted after the initial interview (Oregon) or after determining the applicant is otherwise qualified (Washington), giving applicants the opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications before criminal history is considered. The hiring process typically includes online application, phone screening, in-person interview with facility tour, conditional offer, background check/drug screen, and union membership within 30 days of hire.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by customer contact, cash handling responsibilities, driving requirements, and access to inventory.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and company job postings. Actual compensation varies by location, shift, experience, and union contract.

Career Path Examples

Franz emphasizes internal advancement and offers development programs. Many supervisory and management positions are filled through internal promotion based on performance and tenure.

Production Track: Production Worker ($23-29/hr) → Line Lead ($28-32/hr) → Production Supervisor ($55K-70K/yr) → Production Manager ($75K-95K/yr). Advancement based on reliability, SQF knowledge, and leadership.

Sales Track: Merchandiser ($14-17/hr) → Full-Time Merchandiser ($17-20/hr) → Route Sales Rep ($75K-95K/yr) → Sales Supervisor ($85K-110K/yr). Requires clean MVR for route positions.

Maintenance Track: Entry Maintenance ($24-28/hr) → Maintenance Mechanic ($28-34/hr) → Maintenance Engineer Lead ($35-40/hr) → Maintenance Supervisor ($70K-90K/yr). Trade certifications beneficial.

Background Check Process

Understanding Franz's background check process helps you prepare for what to expect. The company conducts background checks after the initial interview (Oregon) or after determining the applicant is otherwise qualified (Washington), giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your qualifications before criminal history is reviewed.

• What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace; employment history verification (5-10 years); drug screening (mandatory); MVR check for driving positions.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Standard 7-year criminal lookback under FCRA for most positions. Misdemeanors disclosed for the past 7 years per employee reports. Employment verification typically extends 5-10 years. No time limitation for serious violent offenses in some circumstances.

  
  

• Timeline: The hiring process averages approximately 1-14 days from application to hire based on employee reports, with production positions often moving faster (1-2 days) and route sales taking longer (1-2 weeks). Background checks typically take 3-7 business days to complete after conditional offer.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → Interview with facility tour → Conditional offer → Background check and drug test → Results reviewed → Final decision → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed → Union membership within 30 days → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Recent theft, fraud, or embezzlement offenses (due to inventory and cash handling); violent offenses including assault, battery, or weapons charges (workplace safety); felony DUI or serious driving offenses (for driving positions); drug manufacturing or distribution (food safety concerns); any offense within the past 1-2 years.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent drug possession older than 3 years; property crimes unrelated to theft with demonstrated rehabilitation; offenses older than 7 years with documented stability. All subject to individualized assessment considering 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 with the reporting agency.

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final decision, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and a summary of your rights. You have reasonable time (typically 5 business days) to respond and provide context or dispute errors.

  
  

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

  
  

• Ban the Box: In Oregon and Washington, employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. In Oregon, inquiry occurs after the initial interview. In Portland and Washington, inquiry occurs after conditional offer.

  
  

• Dispute Rights: You can dispute inaccurate information on background reports with the reporting agency. Check your own records beforehand through the Oregon or Washington State Patrol.

Application Strategy

1. Target Entry-Level Production Positions: Focus on Bakery Production Worker and Packaging Specialist roles which have the lowest barriers and highest volume hiring needs. These union positions offer the best opportunity to get your foot in the door with strong pay and benefits. Avoid route sales positions initially if your MVR has issues or your record includes driving offenses.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through franzbakery.com/careers. Franz also posts positions on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Check the careers page regularly as production positions are posted frequently. Consider applying to multiple locations (Portland, Seattle, Spokane, Eugene, Nampa, Billings) to maximize opportunities.

   
   

3. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your ability to work in hot environments, handle physical demands, and work any shift including nights, weekends, and holidays. Research the company's brands and products. Emphasize reliability, teamwork, and willingness to learn. Expect a facility tour and potentially a math test.

   
   

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

   
   

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, personal growth, and stability. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds). Emphasize what you'll bring to Franz.

   
   

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

   
   

7. Check Expungement Eligibility: Research whether your offense qualifies for sealing or expungement. Oregon allows expungement of certain offenses after waiting periods. Washington has similar provisions. Contact Oregon Law Center or Northwest Justice Project for free legal assistance. Sealed records cannot be reported on background checks.

   
   

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. Persistence and professionalism demonstrate the qualities Franz values.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Food Manufacturing Has Constant Hiring Needs: The baking industry has consistent turnover, especially in production roles. Franz operates 24/7 facilities and is frequently hiring. Employee reviews note high turnover, which creates ongoing opportunities. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections—keep applying.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers at Franz begin as Production Workers. Prove reliability by showing up on time, working safely, and being flexible with scheduling. Union seniority system provides structured advancement opportunities into higher-paying positions and supervisory roles.

   
   

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 or through Oregon/Washington State Patrol. Dispute any errors or outdated information in advance.

   
   

4. Prepare for the Physical Environment: Franz bakeries are hot (90-110°F), fast-paced, and physically demanding. You'll be on your feet for 8-12+ hour shifts. Demonstrate you understand and can handle these conditions. Consider whether you have any physical limitations that might affect your ability to perform the work.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: If you have substance issues, address them completely before applying. Franz tests for all controlled substances including THC/marijuana, even in states where recreational use is legal. Testing is typically urine-based. Prescription medications should be documented with a doctor's note.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation (essential for early morning shifts starting 1-4 AM), and any consistent work history—even informal work shows you can be counted on. Food manufacturing employers especially value attendance and punctuality.

   
   

7. Network and Use Employee Referrals: Current Franz employees can provide referrals, and employee referrals often receive priority consideration. Employee reviews mention this as a common path to getting hired. Network through LinkedIn or local workforce development programs to connect with current employees.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Schedule: Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime increases your chances significantly. New employees are assigned shifts based on production needs before earning seniority to bid on preferred schedules. Positions start as early as 1-2 AM and may run 10-16 hours during busy periods.

Benefits Overview

Franz Family Bakeries offers a comprehensive benefits package that employees consistently rate highly. Benefits begin after the waiting period (typically 90-120 days) for eligible full-time employees. Union positions have negotiated benefits that are among the best in the industry.

• Compensation: Production workers start at $23-29/hr depending on location. Weekly paychecks. Overtime after 8 hours daily (time-and-a-half). Significant overtime available (50-60+ hour weeks common during peak periods).

  
  

• Pension and Retirement: Company-funded pension plan (approximately $5.50/hour contribution). 401(k) with company match. Profit sharing contributions for eligible employees.

  
  

• Health Benefits: Full medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% premiums paid for employee, spouse, and children. Kaiser or Regence medical options depending on location. Coverage begins after waiting period. Employee reviews consistently praise health benefits as excellent.

  
  

• Time Off: Paid holidays (approximately 6-8 per year). Vacation accrual based on tenure. No vacation during first year at some locations. Sick leave per state requirements.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: 50% discount on Franz products. Union representation (Teamsters) with grievance procedures. Life insurance. Employee recognition events. Growth and development opportunities.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Pros: Outstanding health insurance paid 100% for family; strong pension plan; good hourly pay; overtime availability; job security; union protection; product discounts; advancement opportunities.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Cons: Long hours (10-16 hour days common); hot working conditions; split days off (often Wed/Sun); early start times (1-4 AM); limited work-life balance; physically demanding; management challenges at some locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Franz Family Bakeries hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Franz hires individuals with felony convictions. Employee reviews confirm the company employs workers with criminal backgrounds, particularly in production and warehouse roles. Like all employers, Franz must conduct individualized assessments under EEOC guidelines rather than applying blanket exclusions. The best opportunities are in Production Worker, Packaging, and Sanitation positions. Driving positions have higher barriers due to MVR requirements and cash handling.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Franz Family Bakeries?

   Franz conducts background checks after the initial interview (Oregon) or after determining the applicant is otherwise qualified (Washington), complying with state Ban the Box laws. The check includes criminal history at county, state, and federal levels, employment verification, and drug screening. For driving positions, an MVR check is also conducted. You must provide written consent before the check. If adverse information is found, you'll receive a pre-adverse action notice with an opportunity to respond.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go at Franz Family Bakeries—what is the lookback period?

   The standard lookback period is 7 years for criminal history under FCRA guidelines for positions paying under $75,000 annually. Employee reports indicate misdemeanors are disclosed for the past 7 years. Employment verification typically covers 5-10 years. There may be no time limitation for certain serious violent offenses. Oregon's 7-year limitation applies to most criminal records reported by consumer reporting agencies.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Franz Family Bakeries?

   The most challenging convictions are: theft, fraud, or embezzlement (due to inventory and cash handling); violent offenses including assault (workplace safety concerns); felony DUI or serious driving offenses (disqualifying for driving positions); drug manufacturing or distribution. Recent offenses within 1-3 years face the highest scrutiny. Older, non-violent offenses with demonstrated rehabilitation have better outcomes. All cases receive individualized assessment.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Franz Family Bakeries for applicants with a record?

   The best entry points are: Bakery Production Worker ($23-29/hr) with union benefits, limited customer contact, and no cash handling; Packaging Specialist ($23-28/hr) in production environment; Sanitation Worker ($18-22/hr) cleaning facilities and equipment. Part-time Merchandiser positions ($14-17/hr) offer flexible schedules but involve some customer contact. All production roles include full health benefits paid 100% for family members.

   
   

6. Does Franz Family Bakeries drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, Franz conducts mandatory pre-employment drug screening for all production and driving positions. Employee reports confirm they test for THC/marijuana even in states where recreational use is legal. Testing is typically urine-based. The drug test is conducted after a conditional job offer. Franz maintains a drug-free workplace policy. Random testing may occur for safety-sensitive positions.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Franz Family Bakeries ask about criminal history?

   Under Oregon's Ban the Box law, Franz cannot ask about criminal history until after the initial interview. In Portland, the company must wait until after extending a conditional job offer. In Washington, inquiry occurs after determining the applicant is otherwise qualified for the position. The application does not include criminal history questions. You will not be asked about your record during the initial screening or interview until the legally appropriate time.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Franz Family Bakeries if they have a felony?

   Yes, advancement is possible. Employee reviews indicate many supervisory positions are filled through internal promotion based on performance and tenure. The union seniority system provides structured advancement. However, management positions may involve additional background scrutiny, particularly roles with financial responsibility or access to sensitive information. Building a strong work history at Franz and demonstrating reliability significantly improves advancement prospects.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Franz Family Bakeries?

   The overall hiring process averages 1-14 days depending on position and location. Production positions often move quickly (1-2 days from interview to offer). Route sales positions take longer (1-2 weeks). Background checks typically take 3-7 business days to complete after conditional offer. Employee reviews describe the interview process as easy and straightforward, with about 78% rating their experience positive.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Franz Family Bakeries?

    Key strategies include:

    (1) Target production positions which have the lowest barriers;

    (2) Be flexible on schedule—willingness to work nights, weekends, and overtime is highly valued;

    (3) Prepare for physical demands and hot environment;

    (4) Pass the drug test including THC;

    (5) Be completely honest about your record when asked;

    (6) Prepare a brief rehabilitation narrative;

    (7) Gather documentation of stability and positive changes;

    (8) Apply to multiple locations;

    (9) Consider employee referrals;

    (10) Follow up professionally after applying.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Franz Family Bakeries doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in food manufacturing and related industries in the Pacific Northwest:

Conclusion

Franz Family Bakeries offers genuine opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in production, packaging, and warehouse positions. As one of the Pacific Northwest's largest employers with approximately 4,000 workers, the organization provides a pathway to stable employment with exceptional benefits under Oregon and Washington's robust fair chance hiring laws.

The work is physically demanding with hot environments, long hours, and early morning shifts. However, compensation is competitive starting at $23-29/hr with weekly paychecks. Benefits include 100% paid medical, dental, and vision for employees and families, plus pension contributions. Career advancement is available through the union seniority system.

Key Success Factors: Target production positions; be flexible on schedule including nights, weekends, and overtime; prepare for physical demands and hot environment; pass drug test including THC; be completely honest about your record; document rehabilitation; consider multiple locations.

Biggest Barriers: Recent theft or fraud offenses; violent crimes; DUI or driving offenses (for driver positions); failed drug test; dishonesty during application process.

If you're willing to work hard in a demanding environment and can pass a drug test, Franz Family Bakeries represents one of the better second chance opportunities in the Pacific Northwest. The combination of fair chance hiring practices, union representation, and strong benefits makes it worth pursuing.

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, and employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed), employment information may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Franz Family Bakeries.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws and fair chance hiring requirements vary by state. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization such as Oregon Law Center or Northwest Justice Project for specific legal advice.

Apply Now: https://franzbakery.com/HTML/careers