Quick Answer

Yes, Jimmy John’s hires people with felony convictions. Verified by GEO Reentry Connect as a second-chance employer, Jimmy John’s operates over 2,800 sandwich shops nationwide. Because 99% of its locations are independently owned franchises, hiring decisions are made locally by franchise owners who often prioritize reliability and speed over criminal background.

With starting pay of $11–$15/hour (plus tips for delivery drivers), a “freaky fast” culture, and clear advancement paths, Jimmy John’s provides realistic employment opportunities for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Jimmy John’s

3. Does Jimmy John’s Hire People with Felonies?

4. Available Jobs at Jimmy John’s

5. Frequently Asked Questions

6. Application Tips

7. Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

8. Final Thoughts

About Jimmy John’s

Founded in 1983, Jimmy John’s is known for its “freaky fast” sandwiches, fresh-baked bread, and simple, high-speed menu. The chain employs tens of thousands of people across the U.S., emphasizing efficiency and reliability in every role.

For job seekers with criminal records, Jimmy John’s verification by GEO Reentry Connect as a second-chance employer confirms the company’s commitment to inclusive hiring. The franchise-based structure—where nearly all locations are independently owned—gives managers flexibility to make their own hiring decisions.

This independence, combined with the company’s fast-paced operations, makes Jimmy John’s especially accessible to applicants with backgrounds. Franchise owners typically care more about your work ethic and ability to keep up with the pace than what’s on your record.

Does Jimmy John’s Hire People with Felonies?

Yes. Jimmy John’s has been verified as a second-chance employer and many franchises hire individuals with felony convictions regularly.

Key Points About Jimmy John’s Hiring

• ✓ Verified by GEO Reentry Connect as a second-chance employer

• Franchise owners make all hiring decisions (99% of locations)

• Minimal or no background checks at many shops

• Speed, reliability, and attitude matter most

• Driving record matters mainly for delivery positions

  
  

Convictions Commonly Accepted

• Drug-related offenses (possession or distribution)

• Theft or property crimes (especially older cases)

• Assault or fighting (isolated incidents)

• Probation or parole violations

  
  

Convictions That May Be Challenging

• DUI or reckless driving (for delivery jobs)

• Sexual offenses involving minors

• Food safety violations

• Active warrants or recent violent history

  
  

Most people with criminal records can find an in-shop position at Jimmy John’s, and delivery roles depend mainly on driving history.

Available Jobs at Jimmy John’s

In-Shop Team Member

($11–$14/hour)

Duties include making sandwiches, slicing meats and vegetables, baking bread, operating registers, and cleaning.Accessible because no experience is required and hiring is constant due to high turnover.

Delivery Driver

($15–$25/hour including tips)

Responsible for delivering orders, customer service, and light prep work. Requires a valid license, insurance, and a clean driving record. Criminal history is less important than driving history.

Shift Manager / Person in Charge

($13–$17/hour)

Supervises crew during shifts, manages cash, and handles customer service. Typically promoted from within after 6–12 months.

Assistant Manager

($30,000–$42,000/year)

Supports the general manager with scheduling, training, and operations. Usually requires 1–2 years of experience and proven reliability.

General Manager

($35,000–$55,000/year)

Oversees shop operations, hiring, scheduling, and profitability. Many general managers started as in-shop workers, including those with records.

Career Path at Jimmy John’s

• 0–6 months: In-Shop or Delivery Driver ($11–15/hour)

• 6–18 months: Shift Manager ($13–17/hour)

• 1–3 years: Assistant Manager ($30,000–42,000/year)

• 2–4 years: General Manager ($35,000–55,000/year)

• 4+ years: Multi-unit management or franchise ownership

Background Check Process

Jimmy John’s background check policies vary by franchise.

Typical Hiring Steps:

1. Apply online at jimmyjohns.com/careers or in person.

2. Interview with manager or owner.

3. Receive a conditional offer (often same day).

4. Background check (if required) and driving record check for delivery.

5. Begin work within 1–3 days.

   
   

Notes:

• Many franchises conduct minimal checks.

• Driving roles include motor vehicle record screening.

• Processing time is usually 3–7 business days.

• Drug testing is uncommon for in-shop positions but may occur for management or drivers.

  
  

Application Tips

1. Apply in person. Walk into multiple locations and ask for the manager during off-peak hours (2–4 p.m.).

   
   

2. Be upfront about your availability. Emphasize your willingness to work lunch and dinner rushes.

   
   

3. Highlight your energy. Show that you can keep up with a fast-paced, high-energy environment.

   
   

4. If you have driving issues, apply in-shop. Delivery requires a clean driving record, but in-shop work doesn’t.

   
   

5. Be honest if asked. Keep it short, own your past, and focus on your reliability and motivation.

   
   

6. Apply to multiple franchises. Each owner has different standards, so casting a wide net improves your chances.

   
   

7. Show reliability. Stress punctuality and consistent attendance—key qualities for franchise owners.

   
   

8. Be ready to start right away. Have your identification and paperwork ready to begin quickly.

   
   

9. Follow up. Return or call within a few days to show genuine interest.

   
   

10. Stay positive. Confidence and energy go a long way in fast-paced environments like Jimmy John’s.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Jimmy John’s automatically reject me for a felony?

No. Jimmy John’s is a verified second-chance employer, and most franchises regularly hire people with records.

Can I be a delivery driver with a felony?

Yes, if your driving record is clean and your conviction isn’t driving-related.

Does a DUI disqualify me?

Only for delivery jobs. You can still work in-shop without issue.

Does Jimmy John’s drug test?

Most franchises don’t test for entry-level positions. Some may test drivers or managers.

Can I move up in the company with a felony?

Yes. Advancement is based on performance and reliability, not background.

Why is Jimmy John’s considered felon-friendly?

Because franchise owners have flexibility, need fast workers, and value speed and dependability over background.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Subway – $10–$14/hour; 20,000+ U.S. locations; highly accessible.

• Jersey Mike’s Subs – $11–$15/hour; 2,200+ locations; franchise-dependent hiring.

• Firehouse Subs – $11–$14/hour; 1,200+ locations; franchise model.

• Chipotle – $13–$18/hour; explicit Second Chance Initiative; excellent growth potential.

• Panera Bread – $12–$16/hour; confirmed second-chance employer.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Jimmy John’s is a strong second-chance employer verified by GEO Reentry Connect. With more than 2,800 franchise locations, quick hiring processes, and flexible opportunities in both in-shop and delivery roles, it’s a great choice for individuals rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today at jimmyjohns.com/careers or visit your nearest Jimmy John’s location to ask about open positions.