Quick Answer

Yes, International Paper does hire people with felonies in 2025. As one of the world's largest paper and packaging manufacturers, International Paper evaluates candidates individually based on conviction type, time passed, and job requirements. Production worker and warehouse positions pay $18-$26 per hour with excellent benefits and are highly accessible.

Manufacturing facilities need reliable workers constantly, and the company values work ethic, safety, and attendance over perfect backgrounds. International Paper offers union jobs at many plants, competitive wages, and clear advancement paths, making them an outstanding option for people with various criminal backgrounds seeking stable manufacturing careers.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About International Paper

3. Does International Paper Hire People with Felonies?

4. Available Jobs at International Paper

5. Background Check Process

6. Application Tips

7. Frequently Asked Questions

8. Similar Felon-Friendly Companies

9. Final Thoughts

About International Paper

International Paper is one of the world's leading producers of renewable fiber-based packaging, pulp, and paper products. They operate over 350 facilities globally, with dozens of major manufacturing plants, mills, and distribution centers across the United States. The company employs tens of thousands of workers in production, maintenance, warehouse, and operations roles.

For people with felonies, International Paper presents exceptional opportunities. Their manufacturing plants and mills need workers constantly due to 24/7 operations and industry turnover. These are real industrial jobs with strong wages ($18-$26/hour for production workers), comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, and union representation at many facilities.

International Paper has made commitments to workforce diversity and fair chance hiring practices. They partner with workforce development programs and actively recruit through initiatives designed to reduce barriers for people with criminal backgrounds. The company understands that manufacturing excellence requires reliable workers who follow safety protocols and show up consistently—not perfect backgrounds.

The industrial nature of paper and packaging manufacturing means the work environment is very different from retail or office settings. This works in your favor—the focus is on operating equipment safely, meeting production standards, and working as a team, not on customer interaction or accessing sensitive information.

Does International Paper Hire People with Felonies?

International Paper does not have a blanket policy against hiring people with felony convictions. They evaluate each applicant individually based on the nature of the offense, time since conviction, the position applied for, and overall qualifications. This case-by-case approach gives you real chances.

In practice, International Paper regularly hires people with various types of criminal backgrounds, especially for production, warehouse, and maintenance positions. The company follows EEOC guidelines, ban-the-box principles, and actively practices fair chance hiring as part of their diversity commitments.

The type of conviction affects chances somewhat, but less than you might expect in manufacturing environments. Drug convictions are extremely common among International Paper employees and rarely prevent hiring if you can pass drug tests now. Many people in recovery have found stable, well-paying employment at International Paper facilities. The company understands substance abuse issues and focuses on current reliability rather than past mistakes.

Violent felonies are evaluated case-by-case but don't automatically disqualify you. Manufacturing work involves physical labor with machinery and materials rather than vulnerable populations, reducing concerns compared to customer-facing industries. If your violent conviction was several years ago and you've maintained clean records since, most International Paper facilities will give you strong chances.

Theft convictions are less problematic at International Paper than in retail environments. You're working with raw materials, pulp, paper products, or packaging materials rather than finished consumer goods or cash. Many people with theft backgrounds work successfully in International Paper facilities.

Sexual offenses are evaluated carefully but don't automatically disqualify you from all positions. Manufacturing environments are different from customer-facing roles. However, facilities may have specific policies depending on location and circumstances. Be honest and let them evaluate your specific situation.

Time since conviction matters significantly. Convictions older than 7 years often don't appear on standard background checks in many states. Even if they appear, old convictions carry much less weight. Clean records for 3-5 years since your last conviction demonstrate positive change and significantly improve chances.

The position you apply for is important. Production workers, material handlers, and warehouse positions have the most flexible hiring standards—focusing on physical ability, reliability, and willingness to work hard. Maintenance technician positions value trade skills over criminal history. Utility workers and machine operators are quite accessible. Quality control positions may face slightly more scrutiny but are still possible.

Location affects opportunities. International Paper facilities in rural areas often have difficulty finding workers and may be particularly flexible about backgrounds. Plants in states with ban-the-box laws must follow fair chance hiring procedures. Facilities with union representation often have structured hiring processes protecting against discrimination.

The bottom line is that International Paper needs reliable workers more than perfect backgrounds. If you can show up consistently, work hard, follow safety rules, and be a team player, you have strong chances regardless of criminal history.

Available Jobs at International Paper

International Paper offers numerous production and industrial positions suitable for people with felony convictions:

Production Worker/Operator

($18-$25/hour)

You'll work on paper or packaging production lines, operate machinery, monitor quality, maintain equipment, and ensure production flow. Requires ability to work rotating shifts and follow safety protocols strictly. This is the most common entry position and very accessible for people with felonies. Plants need reliable workers constantly. Many facilities are union shops with excellent benefits including healthcare, retirement, and overtime opportunities.

Material Handler/Warehouse Worker

($17-$23/hour)

You'll move raw materials, operate forklifts, load trucks, maintain inventory systems, and supply production lines. Physical work requiring forklift certification (often provided during training). These positions are highly accessible for people with records—straightforward work where reliability and safety matter most.

Utility Worker

($17-$23/hour)

You'll support production operations, move materials, assist various departments, perform general labor tasks, and help wherever needed. Entry-level position providing exposure to different plant areas. Very accessible for people with backgrounds and often a good starting point to learn the facility.

Machine Operator

($19-$27/hour)

You'll operate specific production machinery, monitor equipment performance, make adjustments, ensure quality standards, and troubleshoot issues. Requires mechanical aptitude and attention to detail. Good position for people with felonies who demonstrate reliability and willingness to learn technical skills. Pays better than general production work.

Maintenance Technician

($24-$35/hour)

You'll repair production equipment, perform preventive maintenance, troubleshoot mechanical and electrical issues, and ensure plant operations. Requires technical training or experience in industrial maintenance. If you have these skills, criminal backgrounds rarely matter—skilled trades workers are in extremely high demand and International Paper will hire qualified technicians regardless of past convictions.

Forklift Operator

($18-$24/hour)

You'll move materials, supply machines, organize warehouse space, load trucks, and maintain equipment. Requires forklift certification. Once certified, these positions pay well and having felonies rarely matters if you're safe and responsible with equipment.

Warehouse Associate

($17-$22/hour)

You'll receive shipments, organize inventory, prepare orders, and maintain warehouse operations. Physical work with some administrative components. Very accessible for people with criminal backgrounds.

Quality Control Technician

($19-$26/hour)

You'll inspect products, conduct tests, measure specifications, document results, and ensure manufacturing standards. Requires attention to detail and basic computer skills. Slightly more competitive than line worker positions but still accessible with right attitude and work history.

Sanitation Worker

($18-$24/hour)

You'll clean production equipment, maintain facility hygiene, ensure safety and food-grade standards. Physical work often on night shifts using specialized cleaning equipment and chemicals. These positions have particularly high acceptance rates for people with felonies because they're essential but hard to fill.

Best entry point

Production Worker or Utility Worker positions offer quickest paths to employment. They constantly need workers, have turnover, and International Paper prioritizes filling these positions. Once you prove reliability, moving to better-paying positions like machine operator or maintenance is very realistic.

Background Check Process

Understanding International Paper's background check process helps you prepare appropriately and navigate hiring successfully.

International Paper conducts background checks after making conditional job offers. This means they interview you, decide they want to hire you, and then run background checks. This approach allows you to demonstrate qualifications and work ethic before criminal records are reviewed.

The standard background check looks back seven years for criminal history. This is typical for production and warehouse positions. Some positions, particularly management or those requiring security clearances, may have more extensive checks. International Paper uses professional screening companies checking federal, state, and county criminal records. They also verify employment history.

The process typically takes 5-10 business days. During this waiting period, you'll also complete drug screens. International Paper requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions without exception. Given the safety-sensitive nature of production work with heavy machinery and equipment, this is non-negotiable. Random drug testing after hire is also standard at most facilities.

If something appears on background checks that concerns International Paper, federal law requires them to send pre-adverse action notices before making final decisions. You have 5-10 days to review reports, provide context, or dispute errors. This is your opportunity to explain circumstances or correct inaccuracies. Take this seriously and respond promptly.

Geographic variations matter. In ban-the-box states and cities, International Paper cannot ask about criminal history on initial applications. Some jurisdictions have even stricter regulations about what convictions can be considered. International Paper follows all local laws regarding fair chance hiring.

Union facilities may have additional protections. At unionized International Paper plants, collective bargaining agreements may include provisions about hiring practices and protections against discrimination. These contracts often support second-chance hiring and provide appeal processes if initially rejected.

The manufacturing environment creates some considerations. International Paper must comply with OSHA and other safety regulations for industrial facilities. However, these regulations primarily affect positions with specific safety responsibilities rather than general production workers. Your criminal background is evaluated in context of specific job duties.

Application Tips

1. Apply online at internationalpaper.com/careers and search for facilities in your area. Create complete profiles and apply to multiple positions to increase chances.

   
   

2. Target production worker, utility worker, and warehouse positions first. These roles have the most flexible hiring standards and constant openings due to turnover.

   
   

3. Don't mention your felony on applications in ban-the-box jurisdictions. Answer questions honestly if asked, but don't volunteer unnecessary information upfront.

   
   

4. Visit International Paper facilities in person after applying online. Many plants have HR offices or guardhouses where you can inquire about your application and express strong interest. Making personal connections helps.

   
   

5. Be completely honest about backgrounds when asked directly. Prepare brief explanations that take responsibility, explain lessons learned, and emphasize commitment to reliable work. Practice until confident and natural.

   
   

6. Emphasize any manufacturing, warehouse, or physical labor experience. Even informal work like construction, farming, factory work, or loading trucks demonstrates relevant work ethic and physical capability.

   
   

7. Highlight your reliability and attendance record. International Paper production facilities run on tight schedules with 24/7 operations. They need workers who show up consistently. Give specific dependability examples from any context.

   
   

8. Be flexible with shift work. Most International Paper plants run multiple shifts including nights, weekends, and rotating schedules. Willingness to work any shift dramatically increases hiring chances. Night shift positions often have premium pay.

   
   

9. Get forklift certification before applying if possible. This certification is inexpensive (often free through workforce programs) and immediately makes you more valuable for material handler and warehouse positions.

   
   

10. Check if your local American Job Center or workforce development program has relationships with International Paper. Many facilities actively partner with these programs specifically to recruit people with criminal backgrounds and provide job placement assistance.

    
    

11. Dress appropriately for interviews. While work is industrial, showing up clean and neat demonstrates professionalism. Business casual is fine—clean pants and collared shirts make good impressions.

    
    

12. Bring steel-toed boots to interviews or orientations if you have them. This shows you're prepared for jobs and understand industrial environments. Most facilities require safety boots, and having them ready demonstrates initiative.

    
    

13. Bring references from anyone who can vouch for work ethic. Former employers, supervisors from volunteer work, instructors from training programs, or even probation officers provide valuable character references.

    
    

14. Research the specific International Paper facility you're applying to. Understanding whether it's a paper mill, corrugated plant, or packaging facility shows genuine interest. Ask intelligent questions about work during interviews.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my drug conviction prevent me from working at International Paper?

Drug convictions, including felonies, are very common among International Paper employees and rarely prevent hiring. The company understands that substance abuse affects many capable workers. However, you must be able to pass drug tests now and remain clean while employed. International Paper tests pre-employment and conducts random testing due to safety-sensitive production work. If your conviction was for distribution rather than possession, be prepared to discuss it honestly. Time since conviction helps significantly—if you've been clean for 2+ years, most hiring managers view this very positively. Focus on current sobriety and commitment to staying clean. Production positions are particularly accessible even with drug felony histories.

Does International Paper do drug testing?

Yes, International Paper requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions without exception. Production facilities involve heavy machinery, chemicals, moving equipment, and other safety hazards, making drug testing mandatory. You'll be tested after receiving conditional job offers but before starting work. Tests typically screen for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and PCP. Most facilities also conduct random drug testing throughout employment. If you're in recovery and taking prescribed medications that might appear on tests, bring proper documentation to testing facilities. This is absolutely non-negotiable—be prepared to pass full drug screens.

How long should I wait after my conviction before applying to International Paper?

You can apply to International Paper immediately after conviction. The company doesn't require specific waiting periods before considering applicants with criminal backgrounds. However, chances improve with time. If conviction is less than a year old, focus on entry-level production or utility positions. After 3 years of clean records, options expand considerably. After 7 years, many convictions won't appear on standard background checks in most states. The key is demonstrating stability since conviction—consistent work history, stable housing, staying out of trouble. Don't wait unnecessarily if you need work now. Apply and let International Paper decide.

Can I work at International Paper while on probation or parole?

Yes, absolutely. Many International Paper employees work while on probation or parole. Having employment helps satisfy supervision requirements and demonstrates commitment to rehabilitation. Be upfront with hiring managers about restrictions such as curfews, travel limits, or required check-ins. International Paper shift work usually accommodates these requirements—if you need to check in with probation officers on certain days, shifts can often be adjusted. Some facilities even coordinate with probation officers to confirm employment. Your probation officer will likely be very supportive of International Paper employment since these are stable, well-paying manufacturing jobs with benefits.

Will violent felonies disqualify me from International Paper?

Violent felonies don't automatically disqualify you from International Paper employment. The company evaluates specific circumstances, how long ago incidents occurred, and records since then. Production work involves equipment and machinery rather than vulnerable populations, reducing concerns compared to customer-facing industries. If your violent conviction was 5+ years ago and you've maintained clean records since, most International Paper facilities will give you strong opportunities. Be prepared to discuss what happened honestly, show evidence of positive change, and emphasize commitment to workplace safety. Many people with violent felonies work successfully at International Paper plants.

What if I have theft or fraud convictions?

Theft and fraud convictions are less problematic at International Paper than in retail or financial industries. Production work involves raw materials, machinery, and industrial products rather than cash or finished consumer goods. Many people with theft backgrounds work successfully in International Paper facilities. Be honest about convictions if asked, take responsibility, and explain how you've changed. If you've had stable employment since without problems, emphasize this. Time matters—10-year-old theft convictions carry minimal weight. Production supervisor and material handler positions remain quite accessible even with theft in backgrounds.

Can I work in paper mills with a felony?

Yes, many people with felonies work in International Paper mills and manufacturing facilities. These plants need reliable workers constantly and evaluate candidates individually. The industrial nature of manufacturing work and mill environments mean criminal backgrounds are less barriers than in other industries. Be prepared for physically demanding work in varying conditions—mills can be hot, loud, humid, and require constant safety attention. Violent convictions are evaluated but don't automatically disqualify you. Theft, drug, and other felonies are commonly represented among manufacturing workers. If you can handle physical demands and show up reliably, you have strong chances.

Are certain International Paper facilities better for hiring people with felonies?

All International Paper production facilities hire people with felonies regularly, but some factors make certain locations potentially easier. Rural facilities often have more difficulty finding workers and may be particularly flexible. Unionized plants have structured hiring processes protecting against discrimination. Facilities in ban-the-box states must follow fair chance hiring laws. Utility and sanitation positions at any facility tend to have highest acceptance rates. The best strategy is applying to multiple International Paper facilities within reasonable distance and seeing which respond positively.

What should I do if my background check shows incorrect information?

Take immediate action if background checks contain errors. Federal law requires International Paper to send pre-adverse action notices before making final decisions based on background check results. You typically have 5-10 business days to dispute inaccuracies. Contact both International Paper's HR department and background screening companies to file formal disputes. Gather documentation proving errors—court records, certificates of disposition, or documents showing dismissed or expunged charges. Follow up every 2-3 days to ensure dispute processing. Don't miss these windows—they could mean differences between getting hired and losing opportunities.

Does International Paper offer training and advancement for people with felonies?

Yes, International Paper offers extensive training and clear advancement paths regardless of backgrounds. Once hired and proving reliability, criminal records become much less relevant. Production workers can move to machine operators, lead positions, and supervisory roles based on performance. Utility workers can advance to specialized positions. Maintenance helpers can become full technicians. The company provides on-the-job training, safety certifications, and sometimes tuition assistance for additional education. Many people with felonies have built long careers at International Paper, moving from entry-level production to leadership positions over time. Your work records with International Paper matter much more than criminal records for internal advancement.

Similar Felon-Friendly Companies

If International Paper doesn't work out or you want to explore similar opportunities in manufacturing, consider these companies:

Georgia-Pacific: Major competitor in paper and building products manufacturing. They actively hire people with felonies for production positions with similar pay scales and opportunities.

WestRock: Packaging solutions company operating paper mills and corrugated plants. They hire people with felonies regularly for production work.

Packaging Corporation of America: Containerboard and corrugated products manufacturer hiring people with various felony backgrounds for production positions.

Domtar: Paper products manufacturer with mills across North America. They hire people with criminal backgrounds for production and maintenance positions.

Smurfit Kappa: Paper-based packaging manufacturer that hires people with felonies for production and warehouse positions.

Final Thoughts

International Paper offers outstanding opportunities for people with felony convictions. Their production facilities need reliable workers constantly, and the company evaluates candidates fairly rather than using blanket bans on criminal backgrounds. The combination of strong pay ($18-$26/hour), excellent benefits, union representation at many facilities, and advancement opportunities makes International Paper one of the best options for people with records seeking stable manufacturing careers.

Take action today by applying at internationalpaper.com/careers to every facility within reasonable commuting distance. Focus on production worker, utility worker, and warehouse positions for quickest entry. Check with your local workforce development program about International Paper partnerships.

Be honest about backgrounds, emphasize reliability and physical capability, and show willingness to work any shift. Thousands of people with criminal backgrounds have built solid careers at International Paper—with the right approach, you can too.