Quick Answer

Yes, IDEXX Laboratories hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions. As a global leader in veterinary diagnostics and water testing technology with approximately 11,000 employees worldwide, IDEXX is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity and adheres to strict EEOC guidelines. A felony conviction is not an automatic disqualifier, and the company conducts individualized assessments as required by federal law.

The law prohibits employers from having blanket policies excluding all felons. IDEXX must conduct individualized assessments considering the Green Factors: nature of the offense, time elapsed, and job-relatedness. Maine's Ban the Box law (effective October 2021) provides additional protections by prohibiting criminal history questions on initial applications.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to fraud and financial crimes (due to access to proprietary technology and financial data), intellectual property theft or corporate espionage (given IDEXX's valuable diagnostic technology), and drug-related offenses (due to handling of biological and chemical materials). Recent offenses within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny.

The best opportunities exist in Manufacturing and Production, Warehouse Operations, and Laboratory Support positions. These roles offer high-volume hiring opportunities with competitive pay ($16-$23/hr) and excellent benefits including day-one health coverage and 401(k) matching. IDEXX's manufacturing facilities in Westbrook, Scarborough, and Roswell provide consistent entry points.

The company's commitment to enhancing the health of pets, people, and livestock creates a meaningful work environment. Manufacturing facilities are described as safe, bright, clean, and well-maintained with consistent schedules and typically no weekend work. Cross-training across multiple work centers builds diverse skills and supports career advancement.

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: IDEXX cannot automatically exclude you solely for being a felon. EEOC guidelines require individualized assessment considering the Green Factors (nature of crime, time elapsed, job-relatedness).

  
  

• Maine Ban the Box: Maine's Fair Chance in Employment law prohibits criminal history questions on initial applications. IDEXX can only inquire about criminal history during an interview or after determining you're otherwise qualified.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass pre-employment drug screening. IDEXX handles biological and chemical materials requiring drug-free workplace compliance. Maine requires employer drug policies to be approved by the Department of Labor.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked. Dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier and will be discovered during the comprehensive background check.

  
  

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

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Manufacturing and warehouse positions may require standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in laboratory or production environments.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in employment is essential. IDEXX Laboratories operates primarily in Maine, which has strong fair chance hiring protections for private employers. The company must comply with federal EEOC guidelines nationwide while adhering to Maine's specific Ban the Box requirements at its headquarters and manufacturing facilities.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse applicants due to criminal records. Employers must conduct individualized assessments 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. Any decision based on criminal history must be justified by job-relatedness and business necessity.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, IDEXX must comply with 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. Maine follows FCRA's 7-year limit for non-conviction records.

State-Specific Considerations

Maine enacted LD 1167 'An Act Relating to Fair Chance in Employment' effective October 18, 2021. This law prohibits employers from requesting criminal history on initial applications and from stating that individuals with criminal records may not apply. Employers may inquire during interviews or after determining the applicant is otherwise qualified. Maine employers must give applicants the opportunity to explain circumstances and provide rehabilitation evidence before final decisions. Violations can result in fines of $100-$500 per occurrence.

Diagnostics Industry-Specific Considerations

The veterinary diagnostics and water testing industry involves proprietary technology, biological materials, and regulated products. Intellectual property protection is paramount—IDEXX's diagnostic technology represents significant competitive advantage, creating barriers for applicants with corporate espionage, hacking, or trade secret convictions. Some diagnostic products may fall under FDA or other regulatory oversight, potentially requiring OIG/SAM exclusion verification for certain positions. Manufacturing positions involving chemical or biological materials require heightened workplace safety considerations.

Company Overview

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a global leader in pet healthcare innovation and a member of the S&P 500 (NASDAQ: IDXX). Founded in 1983 by David Evans Shaw, the company develops, manufactures, and distributes products and services for veterinary diagnostics, water testing, livestock and poultry health, and dairy testing. IDEXX is headquartered in Westbrook, Maine, with approximately 11,000 employees worldwide serving customers in over 175 countries. The company operates through more than 70 locations around the world.

The company's primary focus is companion animal health, providing in-clinic diagnostic tests, laboratory analyzers, reference laboratory services, telemedicine consultation, and practice management software to veterinary practices globally. Key products include the Catalyst Dx Chemistry Analyzer, ProCyte Dx Hematology Analyzer, SNAP Pro analyzer, and the Cornerstone practice management software. IDEXX is also the global leader in water microbiology, ensuring safe drinking water for over 2.5 billion people worldwide.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1983 (Delaware corporation)

• Headquarters: One IDEXX Drive, Westbrook, Maine 04092

• Employees: Approximately 11,000 globally

• CEO: Jonathan J. Mazelsky

• Stock Exchange: NASDAQ (IDXX), S&P 500 member

• Annual Revenue: Approximately $4.17 billion (TTM)

• Market Cap: Approximately $50 billion

• Key Facilities: Manufacturing in Westbrook ME, Scarborough ME, Roswell GA; Distribution in Memphis TN

Hiring Policy Analysis

IDEXX Laboratories is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer committed to hiring based on merit and qualification. The company complies with Maine's Ban the Box law by not requesting criminal history on initial applications. Background checks are conducted after conditional offers, giving applicants the opportunity to be evaluated on qualifications first. IDEXX follows EEOC individualized assessment guidelines, and any criminal history-based decision must be justified by job-relatedness and business necessity.

The company operates manufacturing facilities that emphasize cross-training, safety, and continuous improvement. Each product line has different work centers, and employees are cross-trained across all work centers in their area. This approach creates advancement opportunities while reducing injury risk by limiting repetitive tasks. Employee reviews consistently cite strong benefits, day-one health coverage, and 401(k) matching as positives. IDEXX invests in employee development through training programs and advancement opportunities.

Manufacturing environments are described as safe, bright, clean, and well-maintained with consistent schedules and typically no weekend work. The company provides training, tools, resources, and support for employees to do their jobs safely. Helping employees develop into careers they want is a priority for leadership. Many employees report starting as temporary workers and advancing into permanent positions with leadership responsibilities.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by access to proprietary technology, financial systems, sensitive data, and biological/chemical materials.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Indeed, Glassdoor, PayScale, and job postings. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and shift. Average hourly pay at IDEXX is approximately $22-$29/hr across all positions. Employees rate compensation and benefits 3.6-3.7/5 stars.

Career Path Examples

IDEXX emphasizes internal development and cross-training. The company offers tuition reimbursement for job-related education and certifications. Employee testimonials highlight advancement from temporary positions to leadership roles.

Manufacturing Track: Production Specialist ($18-$23/hr) → Team Lead ($22-$28/hr) → Operations Supervisor ($70K-$80K/yr) → Production Manager. Cross-training in multiple work centers supports advancement.

Laboratory Track: Specimen Processor ($18-$19/hr) → Lab Assistant ($19-$22/hr) → Lab Technician ($21-$26/hr) → Medical Lab Technician ($22-$32/hr) → Labs Manager. Requires progressive certification and experience.

Warehouse Track: Warehouse Associate ($16-$20/hr) → Inventory Control Specialist ($18-$24/hr) → Supply Chain Team Lead ($50K-$60K/yr) → Warehouse Manager. Materials handling and logistics experience valued.

Background Check Process

Understanding IDEXX's background check process helps you prepare for what to expect. The company conducts comprehensive screening after conditional offers, complying with Maine's Ban the Box law and FCRA requirements. Employee reports indicate the interview process typically takes about two weeks.

• What They Check: National criminal database search; county and state criminal records; SSN verification and address history; employment history verification; education verification for positions requiring specific credentials; drug screening; potentially OIG/SAM exclusion checks for diagnostic-related positions.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Maine follows FCRA's 7-year limit for non-conviction records. Convictions may be reported indefinitely unless sealed or expunged. Employment verification typically extends 5-7 years. Individualized assessment considers recency and relevance of all criminal history.

  
  

• Timeline: The interview process typically takes approximately two weeks based on employee reports. Background checks generally complete within 1-2 weeks after conditional offer. Some positions may take longer depending on verification requirements.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Initial screening (no criminal history questions) → Interview(s) → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test authorization → Background check conducted → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Final hiring decision → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Intellectual property theft, corporate espionage, or hacking convictions (proprietary technology access); fraud, embezzlement, or financial crimes (especially for positions with financial access); drug manufacturing or distribution (biological/chemical materials handling); recent violent felonies; sexual offenses.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent property crimes (older offenses); simple drug possession; DUI/DWI (non-driving positions); minor theft (older offenses). All subject to individualized assessment considering rehabilitation, time elapsed, and job-relatedness.

Your Rights as Applicant

• Maine Ban the Box: No criminal history questions on initial applications. Employers must wait until interview stage or after determining qualification to inquire. Opportunity to explain circumstances before final decision.

  
  

• FCRA Protections: You must receive written notice and provide consent before background check. If denied based on the report, you're entitled to a copy and right to dispute inaccuracies.

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before final decision, you must receive notice with copy of report and summary of your rights. Reasonable time to respond and provide rehabilitation evidence.

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited. Decisions must be job-related and consistent with business necessity.

Application Strategy

1. Target Manufacturing/Operations Positions: Focus on Production Specialist, Warehouse Associate, and Specimen Processor roles at Westbrook, Scarborough, or Roswell facilities. These positions have lower barriers and high-volume hiring needs.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit applications through careers.idexx.com. IDEXX also posts positions on Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Check the Manufacturing page specifically for production opportunities.

   
   

3. Leverage Maine's Ban the Box: You will not be asked about criminal history on the initial application. Focus your application entirely on qualifications, skills, and experience. Criminal history discussion comes later.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest When Asked: When criminal history questions arise during interview or after qualification determination, be truthful. Dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier and will be discovered.

   
   

5. Prepare Your Narrative: Have a brief, honest explanation ready: acknowledge the offense without excuses, describe lessons learned, and explain rehabilitation. Focus on reliability, attention to detail, and commitment to quality.

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes: treatment completion, educational achievements, stable employment history, community involvement, and character references.

   
   

7. Emphasize Manufacturing Strengths: Highlight experience with production work, attention to quality, ability to follow protocols, physical capability, and reliability. IDEXX values employees who can work in clean, structured environments.

   
   

8. Consider Temporary Positions: IDEXX hires through staffing agencies for temporary positions that can convert to permanent. Many employees started as temps and advanced into full-time careers.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Manufacturing Has Consistent Hiring: IDEXX's production facilities have ongoing hiring needs. Manufacturing environments are safe, clean, and well-maintained with consistent schedules and typically no weekend work.

   
   

2. Day-One Benefits Are Real: Health insurance starts on day one. 401(k) enrollment is automatic with 100% match on first 3% and 50% match on next 2%. This benefit package is highly valued by employees.

   
   

3. Cross-Training Creates Opportunity: IDEXX cross-trains employees across multiple work centers. This variety reduces injury risk, builds diverse skills, and creates advancement opportunities.

   
   

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

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: IDEXX handles biological and chemical materials. Drug-free workplace compliance is mandatory. Maine requires employer drug policies to be approved by Department of Labor.

   
   

6. Demonstrate Quality Focus: IDEXX produces diagnostic products where quality is critical. Emphasize attention to detail, ability to follow procedures precisely, and commitment to doing things right.

   
   

7. Animal Health Mission Appeals: If you genuinely care about animal health, this can be compelling. IDEXX's purpose is enhancing the health of pets, people, and livestock. Authentic connection to this mission resonates.

   
   

8. Use Tuition Reimbursement: IDEXX offers excellent tuition reimbursement for job-related education. Once employed, use this benefit to build credentials that support advancement.

Benefits Overview

IDEXX offers a comprehensive benefits package that employees consistently rate highly (80/100 on Comparably, 3.6-3.7/5 on Glassdoor). Benefits begin on day one of employment for eligible employees, which is relatively rare in the manufacturing sector and represents significant value. Full-time and part-time employees with 60+ hours biweekly are eligible for PTO and comprehensive benefits.

• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision coverage available from day one. Self-funded medical and dental plans mean IDEXX pays claims directly, creating incentives for healthy employees. Pet health insurance available at below-market rates for cats, dogs, birds, and exotic animals—fitting for a company dedicated to animal health.

  
  

• Retirement: 401(k) with automatic enrollment for employees age 18 and older. IDEXX matches 100% on first 3% of pay and 50% on next 2% of pay, providing up to 4% total employer contribution. Contributions begin with second paycheck after one month of employment. This match is competitive and provides significant retirement value.

  
  

• Time Off: Flexible PTO policy with accrual (10-20 days reported). 10 paid holidays annually (7 designated + 3 floating). Employees with 10 years receive additional month paid time off. Part-time employees receive prorated holiday pay.

  
  

• Education: Excellent tuition reimbursement program covering full costs for job-related college degrees and certificates. Career development programs and cross-training opportunities.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: Life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance program, maternity support program, 24/7 counseling services, career planning, leadership development programs, onboarding support.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Pros: Day-one benefits; 5% 401k matching; generous PTO; 10-year sabbatical; good health insurance; clean work environments; animal health mission; tuition reimbursement; innovative company.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Cons: Some report pay below market for certain roles; advancement can be difficult; high production expectations in some labs; management varies by location; corporate changes with leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does IDEXX Laboratories hire people with felonies?

   Yes, IDEXX hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions. A felony conviction is not an automatic disqualifier. The company conducts individualized assessments as required by EEOC guidelines. Best opportunities are in Manufacturing, Production, and Warehouse positions at Maine and Georgia facilities. Barriers are highest for positions involving proprietary technology access, financial systems, or IT security.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at IDEXX Laboratories?

   IDEXX conducts comprehensive background checks after conditional offers, complying with Maine's Ban the Box law. Checks include national criminal database search, employment verification, education verification, and drug screening. Criminal history is not requested on initial applications. The company uses individualized assessment considering job-relatedness and business necessity.

   
   

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

   Maine follows FCRA's 7-year limit for non-conviction records. Convictions may be reported indefinitely unless sealed or expunged by law. Employment verification typically extends 5-7 years. Decisions are based on individualized assessment considering recency, nature of offense, and job-relatedness rather than blanket time limits.

   
   

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

   Highest barriers: intellectual property theft, corporate espionage, hacking, fraud, embezzlement (due to proprietary technology value); drug manufacturing/distribution (biological materials handling); violent felonies; sexual offenses. Lower barriers: non-violent property crimes (older), simple drug possession, DUI (non-driving roles). All subject to individualized assessment.

   
   

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

   Production Specialist ($18-$23/hr), Warehouse Associate ($16-$20/hr), and Specimen Processor ($18-$19/hr) offer the best entry points. These positions are in manufacturing facilities in Westbrook ME, Scarborough ME, and Roswell GA. High-volume hiring, consistent schedules, typically no weekend work, and clean environments characterize these roles.

   
   

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

   Yes, IDEXX requires pre-employment drug screening. The company handles biological and chemical materials requiring drug-free workplace compliance. Maine requires employer drug policies to be approved by the Department of Labor. Maine's Medical Use of Marijuana Act protects qualified patients from discrimination, but federal workplace safety requirements still apply.

   
   

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

   Under Maine's Ban the Box law (effective October 2021), IDEXX cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. Criminal history inquiries can occur during an interview or after the employer determines the applicant is otherwise qualified. Applicants must be given opportunity to explain circumstances before final decisions.

   
   

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

   Yes, advancement is possible. IDEXX emphasizes internal development and cross-training. Employee testimonials confirm advancement from temporary and entry-level positions to Team Lead and supervisory roles. Operations Supervisor positions ($70K-$80K) are achievable through demonstrated reliability, quality focus, and tenure. Higher-level positions involving proprietary technology may face additional scrutiny.

   
   

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

   The interview process typically takes approximately two weeks based on employee reports. Background checks generally complete within 1-2 weeks after conditional offer. Manufacturing positions with high-volume hiring may have faster turnaround. Total process from application to start date averages 3-4 weeks.

   
   

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

    (1) Target Manufacturing/Production positions at Maine or Georgia facilities;

    (2) Apply through careers.idexx.com;

    (3) Focus application entirely on qualifications (no criminal history required initially);

    (4) Be completely honest when criminal history questions arise;

    (5) Prepare rehabilitation documentation;

    (6) Demonstrate attention to detail and quality focus;

    (7) Pass drug screening;

    (8) Consider temporary positions that convert to permanent;

    (9) Express genuine interest in animal health mission;

    (10) Follow up professionally.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If IDEXX Laboratories doesn't work out, consider these employers in Maine and related industries:

Conclusion

IDEXX Laboratories offers genuine second chance opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in Manufacturing, Production, and Warehouse positions. As a global leader in veterinary diagnostics with approximately 11,000 employees, the company has consistent hiring needs at its Maine and Georgia facilities. Maine's strong Ban the Box law provides additional protections by prohibiting criminal history questions on initial applications, allowing candidates to be evaluated on qualifications first.

The company's excellent benefits package—including day-one health coverage, 401(k) matching up to 5%, generous PTO, and tuition reimbursement—makes IDEXX an attractive employer. The 10-year sabbatical program providing an additional month of paid time off demonstrates the company's commitment to long-term employee retention. Manufacturing environments are clean, safe, and well-maintained with consistent schedules and typically no weekend work. Cross-training opportunities support skill development and advancement potential.

The work carries meaning beyond a paycheck—helping enhance the health of pets, people, and livestock resonates with many employees. This mission-driven culture can provide a sense of purpose that supports rehabilitation and career stability. For individuals seeking a second chance in a professional environment with strong benefits and growth potential, IDEXX represents a viable pathway.

Key Success Factors: Target production/warehouse positions; apply through careers.idexx.com; leverage Maine's Ban the Box protections; be completely honest when asked about criminal history; prepare rehabilitation documentation; demonstrate quality focus and reliability; pass drug screening; express genuine interest in animal health mission.

Biggest Barriers: Intellectual property or corporate espionage convictions (proprietary technology access); fraud and financial crimes; drug manufacturing/distribution; recent violent felonies. R&D, finance, and IT positions have highest barriers due to proprietary data sensitivity.

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), employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with IDEXX Laboratories.

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.idexx.com