Quick Answer
Yes, Hilton hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis.
With over 7,000 properties worldwide across brands like Hilton Hotels, DoubleTree, Hampton Inn, Embassy Suites, and Hilton Garden Inn, the company provides many behind-the-scenes and customer service opportunities.
Entry-level roles such as housekeeping ($13–$17/hour) and laundry attendants are the most accessible, while career paths can lead to supervisory and management positions.
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About Hilton
Hilton operates more than 7,000 hotels across brands including Hilton Hotels & Resorts, DoubleTree, Hampton Inn, Embassy Suites, Hilton Garden Inn, Homewood Suites, and Tru by Hilton. The company employs roughly 450,000 people globally.
For job seekers with criminal records, Hilton’s property-level approach offers accessible entry points similar to Marriott:
Housekeeping is the most accessible department.
Most hiring happens directly at each hotel.
Behind-the-scenes roles are easier to obtain.
7,000+ locations provide wide opportunity.
Clear paths for advancement within hospitality.
Hilton Hiring Policy
Hilton reviews each applicant individually through a case-by-case process. Decisions often depend on the property manager’s discretion and the type of position.
What Hilton Considers
Nature and timing of conviction
Relevance to hotel position
Level of guest interaction
Type of property (limited-service vs. full-service)
Time elapsed and rehabilitation
Available Jobs at Hilton for People with Records
Room Attendant (Housekeeper)
($13–$17/hour)
Cleans guest rooms; most accessible role; steady year-round hiring.
Laundry Attendant
($13–$16/hour)
Operates washers, dryers, and folding equipment for hotel linens.
Dishwasher / Steward
($13–$16/hour)
Maintains kitchen cleanliness and assists in back-of-house operations.
Breakfast Attendant
($13–$16/hour)
Prepares and replenishes breakfast items for hotel guests.
Maintenance Technician
($15–$22/hour)
Performs hotel repairs, HVAC, and general maintenance work.
Night Auditor
($14–$18/hour)
Handles overnight front desk duties, reports, and guest service.
Food & Beverage Server
($13–$16/hour + tips; total $18–$25/hour)
Provides restaurant or lounge service with strong tip potential.
Housekeeping Supervisor
($35,000–$50,000/year → $17–$24/hour equivalent)
Supervises room attendants and coordinates daily operations.
Executive Housekeeper
($40,000–$65,000/year → $19–$31/hour equivalent)
Manages the housekeeping department; promoted internally.
Career Path Example: Room Attendant → Housekeeping Supervisor → Executive Housekeeper (5–8 years).
Hilton Benefits: Health insurance, 401(k), employee hotel discounts through Hilton Honors, and travel perks.
Background Check
7-year criminal history review.
Case-by-case evaluation at the property level.
Drug testing varies by hotel brand and management.
Application Tips
Apply to at least 5–10 Hilton properties.
Target housekeeping or laundry roles first.
Visit hotels in person and meet department managers.
Emphasize reliability and attention to detail.
Highlight weekend and flexible availability.
Apply to Marriott, Hyatt, and Holiday Inn too.
Focus on select-service brands like Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn.
Be prepared to discuss your rehabilitation positively.
Maintain professional appearance when visiting hotels.
Follow up politely after submitting your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Hilton automatically reject applicants with felonies?
No. Hilton reviews each case individually, especially at the property level.
What is the most accessible position for someone with a record?
Housekeeping and laundry roles are typically the easiest entry points.
How does Hilton compare to Marriott or Hyatt?
All three have similar accessibility and case-by-case hiring policies.
Do I need prior hotel experience?
No, Hilton trains new employees for most entry-level jobs.
Can I apply while on probation or parole?
Yes, if you meet job eligibility and local requirements.
Does Hilton drug test applicants?
It depends on the hotel brand and local management policy.
Can I move up to management?
Yes, Hilton promotes internally, especially in housekeeping and operations.
Are employee discounts available?
Yes, Hilton team members receive major discounts through the Hilton Honors program.
Do I apply to each hotel separately?
Yes, most hiring happens locally, so apply to multiple properties.
How soon after release can I apply?
As soon as you are legally eligible to work; demonstrate stability and reliability.
Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies
Marriott – 8,000+ hotels worldwide; nearly identical accessibility.
Hyatt – 1,000+ properties; strong entry-level hospitality roles.
IHG (Holiday Inn) – 6,000+ hotels; similar case-by-case approach.
Best Western – 4,000+ hotels; smaller scale but local hiring flexibility.
Final Thoughts
Hilton is one of the most accessible hotel employers for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration. With over 7,000 global properties, steady hiring for housekeeping ($13–$17/hour), and advancement to executive housekeeper ($40k–$65k/year), Hilton offers stability and growth. The company’s property-level discretion means your attitude, reliability, and presentation can make a strong difference.
Key Points:
Case-by-case evaluation.
7,000+ global Hilton properties.
Housekeeping most accessible.
Apply to 5–10 Hilton hotels directly.
Similar to Marriott, Hyatt, and Holiday Inn.
Start here: Visit hilton.com/en/corporate/careers or stop by your local Hilton, Hampton Inn, or DoubleTree to apply in person.

Does Hilton Hotels Hire Felons in 2026?
Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: January 2026
Dena'ina Civic & Convention Center
Industry:
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Pay:
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Location:
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