Quick Answer

Yes, Hyatt Hotels Corporation hires individuals with felony convictions for many positions. As a global hospitality leader with over 80,000 associates worldwide and 1,400+ hotels across 79 countries, Hyatt operates under EEOC guidelines and Illinois Ban the Box laws at its Chicago headquarters. Employment decisions are conditional upon passing a background check and are subject to Fair Chance Hiring principles.

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 larceny (due to access to guest rooms, assets, and cash handling), violent crimes or assault (guest and staff safety concerns), and sexual offenses (working in close proximity to guests). Recent offenses within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Best entry points include Housekeeping, Dishwasher/Steward, Laundry Attendant, and Facilities/Maintenance positions. These high-volume roles offer consistent hiring opportunities and the chance to demonstrate reliability before advancing to positions with greater guest interaction.

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 Hyatt 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: Many positions require standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in fast-paced environments. Housekeeping requires physical stamina for room cleaning.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Drug testing policies vary by location. Some properties conduct pre-employment urine drug screens; others do not. Marijuana testing policies vary by state and property.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked (after conditional offer in Illinois). 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.

  
  

• Flexible Availability: Hotels operate 24/7/365. Willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays significantly increases hiring chances.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Hyatt Hotels Corporation is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, which has comprehensive fair chance hiring laws covering private employers. The company operates in all 50 states with varying fair chance protections.

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, Hyatt 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

Illinois has strong Fair Chance protections under the Job Opportunities for Qualified Applicants Act. Private employers with 15+ employees cannot inquire about criminal history until after the applicant is selected for interview or receives a conditional offer. Employers must conduct individualized assessments considering substantial relationship to the job and rehabilitation evidence. Fifteen states extend fair chance laws to private employers, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington. Many cities have additional local ordinances.

Hospitality-Specific Considerations

The hospitality industry presents unique considerations due to direct guest contact, access to private spaces, and cash handling responsibilities. Employees work in guest rooms, handle valuables, and operate with minimal supervision. This creates elevated scrutiny for theft-related offenses, crimes of violence, and sexual offenses. However, hotels also experience high turnover and constant hiring needs, making them more accessible to second chance candidates in support roles. Federal programs like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) and Federal Bonding Program (FBP) provide incentives for hiring justice-involved individuals.

Company Overview

Hyatt Hotels Corporation is a leading global hospitality company guided by its purpose to care for people so they can be their best. Founded in 1957 when Jay Pritzker purchased the Hyatt House motel near Los Angeles International Airport, the company grew under Pritzker family leadership into a worldwide hospitality leader. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, Hyatt operates, manages, and franchises a portfolio of over 1,400 hotels and all-inclusive properties across 79 countries on six continents.

The company's portfolio includes over 30 brands spanning five distinct portfolios: Luxury (Park Hyatt, Grand Hyatt), Lifestyle (Thompson Hotels, Andaz, Alila), Inclusive (Hyatt Ziva, Hyatt Zilara, Secrets Resorts), Classics (Hyatt Regency), and Essentials (Hyatt Place, Hyatt House). Hyatt employs approximately 80,000 associates globally with significant operations in every major U.S. market.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1957 (Los Angeles, California)

• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois

• Employees: Approximately 80,000 globally

• Properties: 1,400+ hotels and resorts in 79 countries

• Stock Exchange: NYSE: H

• CEO: Mark S. Hoplamazian

• Executive Chairman: Thomas Pritzker

• Revenue: $6.65 billion (2024)

Hiring Policy Analysis

Hyatt Hotels Corporation operates as an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and adheres to fair chance hiring principles. The company conducts individualized assessments as required by EEOC guidelines and complies with Illinois Ban the Box laws at its headquarters. Background checks are conducted after conditional offers of employment, giving applicants the opportunity to demonstrate their qualifications first. The company may utilize federal hiring incentives including WOTC for eligible ex-felons and Federal Bonding Program coverage. Hyatt's hiring process typically includes online application, phone screening, in-person interview(s), conditional offer, background check, and orientation.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by guest contact, access to valuables, cash handling responsibilities, and supervision levels.

Available Positions and Pay

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

Career Path Examples

Hyatt emphasizes internal advancement with career development programs. Many supervisory and management positions are filled through internal promotion. The company offers training programs and cross-departmental opportunities.

Culinary Track: Dishwasher ($15-18/hr) → Cook ($16-19/hr) → Line Cook/Prep Cook ($17-20/hr) → Sous Chef ($40K-55K/yr) → Executive Chef ($60K-85K/yr). Requires culinary skills development and food safety certifications.

Rooms Operations Track: Housekeeping ($17-18/hr) → Housekeeping Supervisor ($20-24/hr) → Executive Housekeeper ($45K-60K/yr) → Rooms Director ($65K-85K/yr). Demonstrates progression from entry-level to management.

Engineering Track: Maintenance Technician ($19-24/hr) → Engineering Supervisor ($22-28/hr) → Chief Engineer ($50K-83K/yr). Technical certifications (HVAC, electrical) accelerate advancement.

Background Check Process

Understanding Hyatt's background check process helps you prepare mentally and practically for what to expect. The company conducts background checks after a conditional offer of employment is extended, which means you'll have the opportunity to demonstrate your qualifications first.

• 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 (varies by location and position); driving record for positions requiring vehicle operation; credit check for management and financial positions.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Standard 7-year criminal lookback in most jurisdictions. Employment verification typically extends 7-10 years. Serious violent and sexual offenses may be reviewed indefinitely. Some states have shorter mandatory limitations (California limits most criminal reporting to 7 years).

  
  

• Timeline: The hiring process averages approximately 1-3 weeks from application to hire based on employee reports. Background checks typically take 1-2 weeks to complete after conditional offer. Some properties move faster due to high-volume hiring needs.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → Interview(s) conducted → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test authorization signed (if applicable) → Background check conducted → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Final hiring decision made → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Theft, fraud, embezzlement, larceny (guest valuables and cash handling concerns); violent crimes including assault, battery, weapons offenses (guest and staff safety); sexual offenses of any kind (guest protection); recent drug offenses especially distribution/manufacturing; identity theft or financial crimes.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent property crimes more than 7 years old; traffic-related offenses (unless driving required); first-time offenses with clear rehabilitation evidence; offenses unrelated to hospitality duties. All subject to individualized assessment considering rehabilitation documentation.

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 of the report 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 and provide context.

  
  

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

  
  

• Ban the Box: In Illinois and other states with fair chance laws, employers cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. Criminal history inquiry occurs after conditional offer.

  
  

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

Application Strategy

1. Target Support Positions: Focus on Dishwasher/Steward, Laundry Attendant, Housekeeping, and Maintenance roles which have the lowest barriers and highest volume hiring needs. These offer the best opportunity to get your foot in the door. Avoid front desk and cash-handling positions initially if your record includes integrity-related offenses.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through careers.hyatt.com. Hyatt posts positions on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Check the careers page regularly as hospitality positions are posted frequently. Apply to multiple properties and brands to maximize opportunities.

   
   

3. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your hospitality knowledge, customer service orientation, and teamwork abilities. Research Hyatt's brands and values. Emphasize reliability, flexibility, and willingness to work various shifts.

   
   

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 in Illinois) 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 in your state. Illinois offers expungement for certain offenses. Contact local legal aid organizations for assistance. Sealed records cannot be reported on background checks.

   
   

8. Leverage Federal Programs: If you were convicted or released within the past year, you may qualify for WOTC which provides tax credits to employers. The Federal Bonding Program provides free fidelity bonds. These programs incentivize employers to hire justice-involved individuals.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Hotels Have Constant Hiring Needs: The hospitality industry experiences high turnover, particularly in housekeeping and food service. Hyatt operates 1,400+ properties with continuous hiring. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections—keep applying to different properties.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers at Hyatt begin in entry-level support roles. Prove reliability by showing up on time, working hard, and being a team player. Internal advancement is common and respected.

   
   

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. Hospitality-Specific Preparation: Hotels require attention to detail, customer service orientation, and professionalism. Demonstrate understanding of guest service standards. Consider obtaining ServSafe or hospitality certifications to stand out.

   
   

5. Address Substance Issues Completely: If you have substance issues, address them before applying. Drug testing policies vary by location but maintaining sobriety demonstrates commitment to your recovery and career.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation, and consistent work history—even informal work shows you can be counted on. Hospitality employers value reliability above almost everything else.

   
   

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

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Scheduling: Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and variable shifts increases your chances significantly. Hotels operate 24/7/365 and need staff at all hours. Demonstrate flexibility from the start.

Benefits Overview

Hyatt offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Benefits eligibility and specifics may vary by property and employment status.

• Compensation: Competitive hourly wages ranging from $15-24/hr for entry-level positions. Tipped positions (bartender, server) earn base plus gratuities.

  Management salaries range $45K-95K+ depending on role and property.

  
  

• 401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) retirement plan with company match. Hyatt matches 100% on the first 3% of base salary contributed. Roth 401(k) option available.

  
  

• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance available. Multiple plan options based on needs. Healthcare free or low-cost for line-level associates at many properties. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health support.

  
  

• Time Off: Paid time off varies by tenure and position, typically starting at 10 days. Paid holidays. Sick time available.

  
  

• Hyatt-Specific Perks: 12 complimentary room nights per year (full-time), 6 (part-time). Discounted rates at Hyatt properties worldwide. 50% off food at hotel restaurants. Employee discounts on spa and gift shop purchases. Free parking at many locations.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: Life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, tuition reimbursement, career development programs, employee recognition programs.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Pros: Free hotel stays, generous employee discounts, good benefits, opportunities for advancement, diverse work environment, global career opportunities.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Cons: Variable scheduling, physically demanding work in some roles, high-pressure guest service expectations, career advancement can be slow at some properties.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Hyatt hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Hyatt Hotels Corporation hires individuals with felony convictions for many positions. As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer headquartered in Illinois, Hyatt follows Ban the Box and fair chance hiring principles. The company conducts individualized assessments rather than blanket exclusions. Best opportunities exist in support roles like housekeeping, dishwasher/steward, laundry, and maintenance. Factors improving your chances include time elapsed since conviction, evidence of rehabilitation, and offenses unrelated to hospitality duties.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Hyatt?

   Hyatt conducts background checks after extending a conditional offer of employment. The check includes criminal history at county, state, and federal levels, identity verification through SSN trace, employment history verification, and possibly drug screening (varies by property). Management positions may include credit checks. You must provide written consent before the check is conducted. If issues arise, you'll receive a pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and opportunity to respond before final decisions are made.

   
   

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

   Standard criminal background checks go back 7 years in most jurisdictions. Some states have shorter limitations (California limits most reporting to 7 years). Employment verification typically extends 7-10 years. Serious violent crimes and sexual offenses may be reviewed beyond standard lookback periods. Always check your state's specific limitations as they vary significantly.

   
   

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

   The most challenging convictions include: theft, fraud, embezzlement, and larceny (due to guest valuables and cash handling); violent crimes including assault and weapons offenses (guest and staff safety concerns); sexual offenses (guest protection); and recent drug manufacturing or distribution. These create the highest barriers because they directly relate to hospitality job duties. Non-violent offenses older than 7 years with rehabilitation evidence have better outcomes.

   
   

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

   Best entry points include: Dishwasher/Steward ($15-18/hr) - kitchen support with minimal guest contact; Laundry Attendant ($15-17/hr) - linen processing and distribution; Housekeeping ($17-18/hr) - guest room cleaning; and Maintenance Technician ($19-24/hr) - building repairs and facilities support. These positions have high-volume hiring needs, lower barriers, and provide pathways to advancement once you demonstrate reliability.

   
   

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

   Drug testing policies vary by Hyatt property and location. Some properties conduct pre-employment urine drug screens, while others do not test at all. Post-incident testing may occur following workplace accidents regardless of property policy. Marijuana testing policies vary by state and property—some locations do not test for marijuana while others maintain zero-tolerance policies. Ask specifically about the property where you're applying.

   
   

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

   In Illinois (Hyatt headquarters) and other Ban the Box states, criminal history questions cannot be asked until after you're selected for an interview or receive a conditional offer. Applications do not include criminal history checkboxes. The background check authorization and inquiry occurs after a conditional offer is extended, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your qualifications first.

   
   

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

   Yes, advancement to management is possible though it may involve additional scrutiny. Management positions often include credit checks and higher-level background reviews. Success factors include: time elapsed since conviction, demonstrated reliability in entry-level roles, positive performance reviews, clean record during employment, and completion of management training programs. Many Hyatt managers started in entry-level positions. Build a track record first.

   
   

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

   The total process typically takes 1-3 weeks from application to start date. After applying online, phone screening may occur within a few days. In-person interviews follow within a week. Conditional offers are extended quickly for most positions. Background checks typically take 1-2 weeks. High-volume hiring periods (summer, holidays) may move faster due to urgent staffing needs.

   
   

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

    Key strategies:

    (1) Target back-of-house support positions initially;

    (2) Apply to multiple properties and brands;

    (3) Demonstrate scheduling flexibility for nights, weekends, and holidays;

    (4) Prepare a brief, honest explanation of your background focusing on rehabilitation;

    (5) Document evidence of positive changes (certificates, stable employment, community involvement);

    (6) Run your own background check first to know what appears;

    (7) Check expungement eligibility in your state;

    (8) Obtain hospitality certifications (ServSafe, TIPS) to stand out;

    (9) Network with current employees for referrals;

    (10) Maintain professional appearance and positive attitude throughout the process.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Hyatt doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in hospitality and related industries:

Conclusion

Hyatt Hotels Corporation offers genuine opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in support roles like housekeeping, food service, laundry, and maintenance. As a global hospitality leader with over 80,000 associates and continuous hiring needs, the company provides realistic pathways to stable employment with competitive benefits. Hyatt's Chicago headquarters operates under Illinois Ban the Box laws, and the company follows EEOC individualized assessment guidelines.

The work can be physically demanding with variable scheduling, but compensation is competitive with industry standards ($15-24/hr for entry-level positions). The benefits package includes healthcare, 401(k) with matching, and unique perks like free hotel stays. Career advancement is possible—many managers started in entry-level positions—though it requires demonstrated reliability and time.

Key Success Factors: Target back-of-house support positions initially; demonstrate scheduling flexibility; prepare honest narrative about your background; document rehabilitation efforts; apply to multiple properties; maintain reliability and professionalism consistently.

Biggest Barriers: Theft, fraud, and dishonesty-related offenses face highest scrutiny due to guest valuables and cash handling; violent crimes create safety concerns; recent offenses within 7 years receive more scrutiny than older convictions.

The hospitality industry's high turnover and constant staffing needs work in favor of second chance candidates. Hyatt's purpose of caring for people extends to giving qualified applicants fair consideration regardless of background. Start in a support role, prove your reliability, and build your career from there.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by property, 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 Hyatt.

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://careers.hyatt.com