Quick Answer

Yes, Homeland Stores hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions. As Oklahoma's largest locally-owned grocery chain with approximately 3,000-4,000 employees across 80 stores in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, and Georgia, Homeland operates as a 100% employee-owned company (ESOP) since 2011. Employment decisions are conditional upon passing a background check and are subject to EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment.

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 (due to cash handling and inventory access), violent crimes (customer and staff safety), and drug offenses (pharmacy and controlled substances). Recent offenses within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Entry-level positions such as Cashier, Stocker, and Deli Clerk offer the best opportunities for applicants with records. The company's employee-ownership structure and UFCW Local 1000 union representation create a supportive environment with fair hiring practices and job protections.

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 the company is not allowed to automatically exclude you solely for being a felon. EEOC guidelines require individualized assessment.

  
  

• 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, lift up to 25-50 pounds depending on position, and work in refrigerated environments for some roles.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. Homeland maintains a drug-free workplace policy.

  
  

• 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.

  
  

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 16 years old for most positions; 18 for pharmacy, deli operations involving slicers, and positions serving alcohol.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Homeland Stores operates primarily in Oklahoma, with additional locations in Texas, Kansas, and Georgia. Oklahoma's Ban the Box law (Executive Order 2016-1023) applies only to public employers, meaning private employers like Homeland are not covered by state fair chance protections. However, EEOC guidelines apply nationwide.

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, Homeland Stores 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

Oklahoma has limited fair chance protections for private employers. Executive Order 2016-1023 prohibits public employers from asking about criminal history on initial applications, but private companies like Homeland are not covered. Texas, Kansas, and Georgia similarly have no statewide Ban the Box laws for private employers. This means Homeland may inquire about criminal history at any point in the hiring process, though they typically conduct background checks after a conditional offer is made.

Retail Grocery-Specific Considerations

The retail grocery industry involves significant cash handling, inventory management, and customer interaction, which creates specific regulatory considerations. Positions handling cash or managing inventory face higher scrutiny for theft-related offenses. Pharmacy positions require additional background checks and may be subject to State Board of Pharmacy regulations. Positions involving alcohol sales require employees to be 21 in most states and may have restrictions on alcohol-related convictions. The employee-owned structure and union representation at Homeland provide additional job protections and fair treatment standards.

Company Overview

Homeland Stores is the flagship banner of HAC, Inc. (Homeland Acquisition Corporation), Oklahoma's largest locally-owned grocery chain. The company traces its roots to 1916 when the first United Supermarket was opened in Sayre, Oklahoma by H.D. Snell. Homeland was formerly the Oklahoma division of Safeway before being spun off in 1987. The company became 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 2011, partnering with UFCW Local 1000 in the transition.

HAC operates approximately 80 grocery stores across four states under multiple banners including Homeland, United, Cash Saver, Country Mart, Food World, and Piggly Wiggly. Homeland is the largest banner with approximately 36 stores in Oklahoma. The company headquarters is located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. HAC became a founding member of the Certified EO organization in 2017, which promotes employee ownership.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1916 (United Supermarket, Sayre, Oklahoma)

• Headquarters: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

• Employees: Approximately 3,000-4,000 across all locations

• Stores: ~80 stores in Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, and Georgia

• Ownership: 100% Employee-Owned (ESOP) since 2011

• CEO: Marc Jones

• Union Representation: UFCW Local 1000

• Revenue: ~$395.8 million annually

• Business Model: Regional grocery retail with pharmacies and fuel centers

Hiring Policy Analysis

Homeland Stores conducts individualized assessments as required by EEOC guidelines for all applicants with criminal records. As an employee-owned company with union representation, Homeland emphasizes fair treatment and career development for all employees. Background checks are typically conducted after a conditional offer is made, giving applicants the opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications before their record is reviewed. The UFCW Local 1000 contract provides additional job protections and ensures consistent application of hiring policies.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by cash handling responsibilities, customer interaction, inventory access, and regulatory requirements for specific departments.

Available Positions and Pay

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

Career Path Examples

Homeland emphasizes internal advancement and offers training programs through union-negotiated career development. Many management positions are filled through internal promotion.

Front End Track: Courtesy Clerk ($9.75-$12/hr) → Cashier ($11-$14/hr) → Assistant Front End Manager ($14/hr) → Front End Manager ($16.50/hr) → Assistant Store Manager ($35-$45/hr). Requires demonstrated reliability and cash handling accuracy.

Grocery Track: Stocker ($9.75-$14/hr) → Specialty Clerk ($14/hr) → Assistant Grocery Manager ($15/hr) → Grocery Manager ($14.70/hr) → Store Management. Requires inventory management skills and availability for overnight shifts.

Meat Department Track: Meat Wrapper ($14.25/hr) → Meat Cutter ($17.50/hr) → Meat Department Manager → Store Management. Requires food safety certification and specialized cutting skills.

Background Check Process

Understanding Homeland's background check process helps you prepare mentally and practically for what to expect. The company conducts background checks after extending a conditional offer, which means you'll have the opportunity to demonstrate your qualifications during the interview process.

• What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace and address history; employment history verification; drug screening (mandatory for all positions); E-Verify work authorization.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Standard 7-year criminal lookback under FCRA guidelines. Employment verification typically extends 5-7 years. Serious violent felonies and sex offenses may be considered indefinitely regardless of when they occurred.

  
  

• Timeline: The hiring process typically takes 1-2 weeks from application to hire based on employee reports. Background checks are usually completed within 3-5 business days after authorization is signed.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening or in-store interview → Interview conducted → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test 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 → Orientation and training.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Recent theft, fraud, or embezzlement (direct conflict with cash handling duties); recent violent crimes such as assault, battery, or weapons offenses (customer and staff safety); drug manufacturing or trafficking (controlled substances access); sex offenses (vulnerable population contact); dishonesty during application process (automatic disqualifier).

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-recent property crimes (7+ years old); non-violent drug possession; traffic violations; old misdemeanors unrelated to retail operations. 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.

  
  

• 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 to respond.

  
  

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

  
  

• Union Protection: UFCW Local 1000 representation ensures fair application of hiring policies and provides grievance procedures if you believe you were treated unfairly.

  
  

• Dispute Rights: You can dispute inaccurate information on background reports with the reporting agency. Check your own records beforehand.

Application Strategy

1. Target Entry-Level Non-Cash Positions: Focus on Stocker, Courtesy Clerk, and Deli/Bakery Clerk positions which have lower barriers and high-volume hiring needs. These roles offer the best opportunity to get your foot in the door. Avoid Cashier positions initially if your record includes theft-related offenses.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through the HAC careers website at jobs.certifiedeo.com or apply in-person at your local Homeland store. Check the careers page regularly as positions are posted frequently. Consider applying to multiple locations to maximize opportunities.

   
   

3. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your customer service skills and reliability. Research the company's employee-ownership model and community focus. Emphasize flexibility, teamwork, and willingness to learn.

   
   

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 conditional offer) 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).

   
   

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 under Oklahoma law (ORC § 2953.32 equivalent). Contact legal aid organizations like Oklahoma Lawyers for America or Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma for assistance.

   
   

8. Follow Up Professionally: After applying, follow up with the store manager if you don't hear back within one week. If you receive a pre-adverse action notice, respond promptly with rehabilitation documentation. Persistence and professionalism demonstrate the qualities employers value.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Grocery Retail Has Constant Hiring Needs: Homeland operates 80 stores with significant turnover in entry-level positions. The company is frequently hiring across all locations. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections—keep applying to different stores and positions.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers at Homeland begin with Stocker or Courtesy Clerk positions. Prove reliability by showing up on time, working hard, and being a team player. Union contracts provide clear advancement pathways and wage increases.

   
   

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. Employee Ownership Creates Opportunity: As an employee-owned company, Homeland invests in its workforce. Employee-owners have a stake in the company's success and benefit from profit-sharing. This creates a culture of mutual investment and second chances.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: If you have substance issues, address them completely before applying. Homeland requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions. Oklahoma allows medical marijuana but employers can still prohibit its use—abstain to be safe.

   
   

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

   
   

7. Network and Use Employee Referrals: Current Homeland employees can provide referrals. Employee referrals often receive priority consideration. Network through local workforce development programs or reentry organizations to connect with current employees.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Schedule: Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays increases your chances significantly. Overnight stocking shifts are often easier to secure for applicants with records. Flexibility demonstrates commitment.

Benefits Overview

Homeland Stores offers a comprehensive benefits package negotiated through UFCW Local 1000. As an employee-owned company, benefits include ownership stakes through the ESOP. Benefits eligibility varies by full-time or part-time status.

• Compensation: Entry-level positions start at $9.75-$14/hr depending on role and location. Union wage scales provide automatic increases based on tenure. Overtime pay at 1.5x for hours over 40 per week.

  
  

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): As an employee-owner, you receive shares in the company based on compensation and tenure. ESOP contributions are made by the company at no cost to employees. Vesting schedule applies.

  
  

• 401(k) Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan available for eligible employees.

  
  

• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance available. Union-negotiated rates are often affordable. Coverage begins after eligibility period (typically 60-90 days for full-time employees).

  
  

• Time Off: Paid time off (PTO) and sick leave available. Vacation accrual based on tenure. Holiday pay for hours worked on recognized holidays.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: Life insurance; AFLAC supplemental insurance options; flexible spending accounts; career development and training opportunities; employee discount on store purchases.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Pros: Flexible scheduling for work-life balance; family-oriented atmosphere; employee ownership culture; union job protections; affordable union medical benefits; opportunities for advancement; supportive coworkers.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Cons: Pay below some competitors; limited full-time positions at some stores; physical demands of retail work; holiday and weekend availability required; some locations understaffed.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Homeland Stores hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Homeland Stores does hire individuals with felony convictions for certain positions. As an employee-owned company with union representation, Homeland follows EEOC guidelines requiring individualized assessment of each applicant. Entry-level positions like Stocker, Courtesy Clerk, and Deli Clerk offer the best opportunities. Recent theft-related or violent felonies face the highest scrutiny. Factors improving your chances include time since conviction, demonstrated rehabilitation, offense unrelated to job duties, and honest disclosure.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Homeland Stores?

   Homeland conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer. The process includes criminal history search at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace; employment history verification; and mandatory drug screening. You must authorize the check in writing. Results are reviewed using individualized assessment per EEOC guidelines. If concerns arise, you'll receive a pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and opportunity to respond before a final decision.

   
   

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

   Homeland's background check uses a standard 7-year lookback period for criminal history under FCRA guidelines. Employment verification typically extends 5-7 years. However, serious violent felonies, sex offenses, and crimes involving children may be considered indefinitely regardless of when they occurred. Sealed or expunged records generally cannot be reported.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Homeland Stores?

   Convictions creating the highest barriers include: theft, fraud, embezzlement, or shoplifting (direct conflict with retail duties); violent crimes such as assault or battery (customer and staff safety); drug manufacturing or trafficking (controlled substances access); sex offenses (vulnerable population contact); and any offense involving dishonesty. Lower barriers exist for non-recent property crimes, non-violent drug possession, traffic violations, and offenses unrelated to retail operations.

   
   

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

   The best entry points are Stocker ($9.75-$14/hr) for overnight or day shift stocking with limited customer interaction; Courtesy Clerk ($9.75-$12/hr) for bagging and cart retrieval; Deli/Bakery Clerk ($9.75-$14/hr) for food preparation. These roles have lower barriers because they involve minimal cash handling. Avoid Cashier positions initially if your record includes theft-related offenses. Once employed, you can demonstrate reliability and advance to higher positions.

   
   

6. Does Homeland Stores drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, Homeland requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions. The test is typically a urine screening conducted at a designated testing facility. The drug panel tests for marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, opioids, and PCP. Oklahoma allows medical marijuana, but employers can still prohibit its use—a positive marijuana test may disqualify you even with a medical card. Random and post-accident testing may occur during employment.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Homeland Stores ask about criminal history?

   Oklahoma's Ban the Box law only applies to public employers, so private employers like Homeland are not legally required to delay criminal history questions. However, Homeland typically conducts background checks after extending a conditional offer. The application may not include a criminal history question, but be prepared to discuss your record during the interview or after receiving a conditional offer. Always be honest when asked.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Homeland Stores if they have a felony?

   Yes, advancement to management is possible but faces increased scrutiny. Management positions involve cash accountability, safe access, and supervisory responsibility, which means background requirements are higher. The key is building a track record of reliability and integrity in entry-level positions. Union contracts provide clear advancement pathways. Department Manager and Front End Manager positions are achievable; Store Manager positions face the highest barriers. Time since conviction and demonstrated rehabilitation matter.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Homeland Stores?

   The hiring process typically takes 1-2 weeks from application to start date for hourly positions. After applying, you may receive a call within a few days to schedule an interview. The interview is usually conducted by the store manager or department manager. If selected, a conditional offer is extended, followed by background check authorization and drug test. Background checks typically complete within 3-5 business days. Orientation and training begin shortly after clearance.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Homeland Stores?

    Key strategies include:

    (1) Target entry-level non-cash positions like Stocker or Deli Clerk;

    (2) Apply at multiple locations to increase opportunities;

    (3) Demonstrate flexibility on scheduling including nights, weekends, and holidays; (4) Prepare a brief, honest narrative about your conviction and rehabilitation;

    (5) Gather documentation of rehabilitation such as certificates, references, and stable employment;

    (6) Check your own background first and dispute any errors;

    (7) Research expungement eligibility;

    (8) Follow up professionally after applying;

    (9) Emphasize stability, reliability, and teamwork in interviews;

    (10) Consider using workforce development programs for referrals and support.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Homeland Stores doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in grocery retail and related industries:

Conclusion

Homeland Stores offers genuine opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in entry-level positions like Stocker, Courtesy Clerk, and Deli Clerk. As Oklahoma's largest locally-owned grocery chain with 100% employee ownership since 2011, the company provides a supportive pathway to stable employment with union protections through UFCW Local 1000.

The work involves physical demands typical of grocery retail—standing, lifting, and fast-paced customer service. However, the compensation includes not just hourly wages ($9.75-$17.50/hr depending on position) but also ESOP ownership shares, union-negotiated benefits, and clear advancement pathways. The benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance at affordable union rates, plus paid time off and retirement savings options.

Key Success Factors: Target non-cash handling positions initially; demonstrate reliability and punctuality; be flexible on scheduling; prepare honest narrative about rehabilitation; document positive changes since conviction; use workforce development programs for support.

Biggest Barriers: Recent theft or fraud convictions (direct conflict with retail duties); violent felonies within past 7 years; pharmacy positions have highest restrictions due to controlled substances; failed drug test or dishonesty during application.

With persistence, honesty, and a demonstrated commitment to reliability, Homeland Stores can provide a meaningful second chance. The employee-ownership culture means the company has a vested interest in developing its workforce, and union representation ensures fair treatment throughout your employment. Start at the entry level, prove yourself, and advancement opportunities will follow.

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 salary databases (PayScale, ZipRecruiter), employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Homeland Stores.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, 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://jobs.certifiedeo.com/jobs?employer_id=819060