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Quick Answer


Yes, Nissan North America hires individuals with felony convictions. The Smyrna, Tennessee Vehicle Assembly Plant one of Nissan largest manufacturing facilities in North America with capacity to produce over 640,000 vehicles annually employs thousands of production technicians, maintenance workers, and support staff. Nissan background check typically uses 7-year lookback with individualized assessment based on EEOC requirements evaluating nature of offense, time elapsed, and job relevance.


CRITICAL BARRIER: Nissan operates as drug-free/tobacco-free workplace with mandatory pre-employment drug screening. Failed test is automatic disqualification. Opened in 1983, the Smyrna plant produces popular vehicles including Nissan Altima, LEAF (electric), Pathfinder, Rogue, Maxima, and Infiniti QX60. Company also operates North America headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee and powertrain plant in Decherd, Tennessee.


Best entry points: Production Technician ($18-$24/hr), Material Handler ($17-$21/hr), Quality Inspection where manufacturing skills and reliability valued. Nissan committed to diversity and inclusion with Business Synergy Teams supporting employees from all backgrounds. Employment conditional upon passing drug test, background check, and physical assessment.

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

  13. Conclusion

  14. Disclaimer


Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Factor

Rating

Details

Overall Accessibility

★★★☆☆

Moderate. EEOC individualized assessment; Drug-free workplace strict; Large employer.

Background Check Depth

Standard Manufacturing

7-year lookback typical; Drug testing mandatory; Employment verification; Physical assessment.

Lookback Period

7 years

Standard 7-year criminal history review; Old convictions evaluated favorably; Tennessee expungement available.

Integrity Focus

High

Global brand reputation; Theft/inventory concerns; Quality critical to vehicle safety.

Safety Concern

High

Heavy manufacturing equipment; Safety-sensitive positions; Drug-free/tobacco-free workplace.

Best Entry Point

Production Technician

Starting $18-$24/hr; Assembly operations; Training provided; High-volume hiring

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying to Nissan, assess these critical requirements:

  • Pass Mandatory Drug Screening: Nissan operates as drug-free/tobacco-free workplace. Pre-employment drug screening mandatory and non-negotiable for all positions. Testing typically includes urine drug test for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP. Failed drug test = automatic disqualification regardless of qualifications. If currently using any substances, do not apply until completely clean.

  • Assess 7-Year Criminal History: Nissan typically reviews 7 years of criminal history. Calculate years since conviction/release. Convictions older than 7 years generally not reported under FCRA for positions under $75K. Old convictions (10+ years) with clean record evaluated most favorably.

  • No Recent Violence or Theft: Manufacturing environment prioritizes workplace safety and asset protection. Recent violent crimes (assault, battery, weapons) and theft/property crimes within 7 years more scrutinized. Old convictions with rehabilitation evidence evaluated individually.

  • Physical Capability Required: Production positions require passing physical assessment. Manufacturing work involves standing for 10-12 hour shifts, repetitive assembly motions, hand dexterity, moderate lifting. Must demonstrate capability for production work.

  • Consider Tennessee Expungement: Tennessee allows expungement of certain criminal records. Expunged records can be legally omitted from disclosure and should not appear on background checks. Pursue expungement before applying if eligible.

  • Understand Individualized Assessment: Nissan must conduct EEOC individualized assessment considering nature of offense, time elapsed, and job relevance. Cannot implement blanket exclusions—each case evaluated on circumstances.


Critical Regulatory Information

IMPORTANT: Nissan policy adheres to both federal EEOC guidance and Tennessee state law. Understanding these requirements helps Second Chance applicants navigate the hiring process.


Drug-Free/Tobacco-Free Workplace Policy

  • Nissan operates explicitly as drug-free AND tobacco-free workplace.

  • Pre-employment drug screening mandatory for all positions with zero tolerance for positive results.

  • Testing typically includes urine drug screen for marijuana (THC), cocaine, opiates (heroin, morphine, codeine), amphetamines (methamphetamine, MDMA), PCP, and potentially alcohol.

  • Tobacco-free policy extends to all Nissan facilitiesno smoking or tobacco use on company property.

  • Manufacturing environment with heavy equipment, precision assembly, and vehicle safety requires complete sobriety from all workers.

  • Failed drug test = automatic disqualification with no exceptions. Random testing may occur post-hire.


EEOC Individualized Assessment Requirement

  • Under Title VII of Civil Rights Act, Nissan must ensure denial of employment based on criminal history does not create unlawful disparate impact on protected groups. EEOC requires individualized assessment using Green Factors: (1) Nature and gravity of offense; (2) Time elapsed since conviction or sentence completion; (3) Nature of job sought and relationship between offense and position duties. Nissan cannot implement blanket exclusions for all applicants with criminal records—must evaluate each case individually considering circumstances, rehabilitation, and job relevance. This federal requirement creates genuine opportunity for qualified candidates.


FCRA Adverse Action Process

  • If conditional job offer withdrawn based on background check results, Fair Credit Reporting Act requires specific process: (1) Pre-adverse action notice providing copy of background report and summary of FCRA rights; (2) Minimum 5 business days for applicant to review report and dispute inaccuracies or provide additional information; (3) Final adverse action notice if ultimately denying employment. This process provides opportunity to challenge errors, explain circumstances, and submit rehabilitation documentation before final decision.


Tennessee Employment Law

  • Tennessee does not have ban-the-box law for private employers—Nissan can ask about criminal history on applications. However, FCRA limits reporting of non-conviction information (arrests without conviction) to 7 years. Tennessee allows expungement of certain criminal records under specific conditions. Expunged records can be legally omitted from disclosure and should not appear on background checks conducted by consumer reporting agencies. If eligible for Tennessee expungement, complete process before applying for cleanest background result.


Company Overview

Nissan North America, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., one of world largest automotive manufacturers headquartered in Yokohama, Japan. Founded in 1933, Nissan has grown into a global automotive leader with operations spanning over 170 countries. Nissan employs thousands of workers across multiple Tennessee facilities, making the company one of the largest private employers in the state and a cornerstone of Middle Tennessee economy. The Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant, opened in 1983 as Nissan first manufacturing facility in the United States, stands as one of Nissan largest and most productive manufacturing facilities in North America with capacity to produce over 640,000 vehicles annually across multiple production lines. The Smyrna plant represents over $6 billion in cumulative investment and produces some of Nissan most popular vehicles including the Altima sedan (one of America best-selling midsize sedans), LEAF electric vehicle (pioneering mass-market EV since 2010), Pathfinder SUV, Rogue crossover (Nissan best-selling vehicle in North America), Maxima flagship sedan, and Infiniti QX60 luxury SUV.

Nissan North America headquarters relocated to Franklin, Tennessee (Nashville metro area) in 2006, consolidating U.S. operations and bringing thousands of corporate, engineering, and administrative jobs to Middle Tennessee.


The modern Franklin campus houses marketing, sales, finance, engineering, and corporate functions supporting all North American operations. Additional Tennessee manufacturing operations include the Decherd Powertrain Assembly Plant producing high-quality engines and other drivetrain components for vehicles assembled throughout North America. Combined Tennessee employment across Smyrna manufacturing, Franklin headquarters, and Decherd powertrain operations represents massive economic impact, with Nissan consistently ranking among Tennessee largest private employers. Company explicitly committed to "creating a culture where everyone belongs" with over 10 Business Synergy Teams (BSTs) connecting employees across U.S. and Canada based on shared characteristics or interests to "build allies and foster company culture where all employees feel supported and included." This inclusive culture supports Second Chance hiring within EEOC compliance framework.


Nissan part of Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, one of world largest automotive groups. Company investing heavily in electric vehicle technology with expanded LEAF production and new battery manufacturing partnerships. Adjacent AESC gigafactory in Smyrna produces electric vehicle batteries retooled in 2025 for energy storage systems. Nissan global manufacturing transformation positioning Smyrna plant at forefront of automotive industry evolution.


Company Fast Facts

  • Smyrna Plant Location: 983 Nissan Drive, Smyrna, TN 37167;

  • HQ: Franklin, Tennessee (Nashville metro);

  • Parent: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Japan);

  • Smyrna Plant Opened: 1983; Production Capacity: 640,000+ vehicles annually;

  • Vehicles Produced: Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, Rogue, Maxima, Infiniti QX60;

  • Tennessee Employees: Thousands across Smyrna plant, Franklin HQ, Decherd powertrain;

  • Workplace: Drug-free and tobacco-free; Alliance: Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi.

Hiring Policy Analysis

Nissan hiring process combines federal EEOC compliance with company commitment to diversity and inclusion. Criminal history evaluated through individualized assessment considering nature of offense, time elapsed, and job relevance not blanket exclusions. Drug-free/tobacco-free workplace policy strictly enforced with mandatory pre-employment screening. Physical assessment required for production positions ensuring capability for manufacturing work. Company values stability, safety consciousness, punctuality, and teamwork.


Large automotive manufacturer creates substantial ongoing hiring needs across Tennessee facilities. Production of multiple vehicle models (Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, Rogue, Maxima, Infiniti QX60) across multiple shifts at Smyrna plant requires thousands of production technicians, maintenance workers, quality inspectors, and support staff. Automotive manufacturing industry experiences typical turnover rates creating regular openings for new team members. Nissan specifically states commitment to "building a team as diverse as the world we serve" and values "procuring innovative goods and services, retailing products and communicating from diverse perspective." This explicit diversity commitment, combined with federal EEOC individualized assessment requirements, creates genuine opportunity for Second Chance candidates who can demonstrate relevant manufacturing skills, reliability, safety consciousness, and evidence of rehabilitation from past offenses.


Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier Level

Position Types

Key Considerations

Lower Barriers

Production Technician, Assembly, Material Handler

Entry-level production; Training provided; Drug test critical; Old records acceptable

Moderate Barriers

Quality Inspector, Forklift Operator, Logistics

Additional responsibility; Equipment operation; Theft/safety scrutinized

Higher Barriers

Maintenance Technician, Tool and Die, HVAC Tech

Technical skills; Equipment responsibility; Experience required; Higher scrutiny

Highest Barriers

Supervisor, Engineering, IT, Finance

Leadership or specialized roles; Comprehensive review; Trust positions


Available Positions and Pay

Pay data from 2024-2025 Glassdoor, Indeed, ZipRecruiter for Nissan Smyrna and Tennessee operations. Ranges vary by position, shift, and experience.

Position

Pay Range

Barrier

Notes

Production Technician

$18-$24/hr

Lower

Assembly operations; Training provided; Direct hire; Most accessible entry

Material Handler

$17-$21/hr

Lower

Parts movement; Forklift operation; Physical work; All shifts

Quality Inspector

$19-$25/hr

Moderate

Vehicle inspection; Quality standards; Detail-oriented; Safety critical

Logistics/Warehouse

$17-$22/hr

Moderate

Parts supply; Inventory management; JIT delivery support

Parts Sorting Technician

$16-$20/hr

Lower

Component sorting; Quality verification; Entry accessible

Maintenance Technician

$25-$35/hr

Higher

Equipment repair; Electrical/mechanical; Experience required

Tool and Die Technician

$28-$38/hr

Higher

Stamping die maintenance; Specialized skills; CNC experience helpful

HVAC Maintenance Tech

$25-$32/hr

Higher

Climate systems; Industrial HVAC; Certification required

Team Leader/Supervisor

$55K-$75K/yr

Higher

Production oversight; Internal advancement; Leadership skills


Career Path Examples


Production Track: Production Technician ($18-$24/hr starting) → Senior Production Technician ($22-$28/hr, 2-3 years, demonstrated expertise and reliability) → Team Leader ($55K-$75K annually, 4-6 years, line supervision and team coordination) → Production Supervisor ($70K-$90K, department oversight, quality and efficiency responsibility) → Group Leader/Area Manager ($90K-$120K, multiple production areas).


Timeline: 4-8 years for leadership progression depending on performance, openings, and demonstrated capabilities. Nissan provides continuous learning opportunities, comprehensive training programs, tuition reimbursement for relevant education, and both domestic and international advancement opportunities for high performers. Manufacturing culture rewards reliability, safety consciousness, and commitment to continuous improvement.


Technical Track: Production Technician → Maintenance Technician ($25-$35/hr, requires developing electrical and mechanical skills, PLC programming, troubleshooting expertise) → Senior Maintenance Technician ($30-$40/hr, specialized systems expertise) → Tool and Die Technician ($28-$38/hr, stamping die maintenance, CNC machining, precision metalwork) → Maintenance

Supervisor/Manager.


Timeline: 5-10 years for technical career progression. Requires developing skills in electrical systems, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), mechanical repair, hydraulics, pneumatics, robotics, and manufacturing equipment troubleshooting. Company provides technical training, tuition reimbursement, and certification support. Specialized roles like HVAC Technician, Industrial Electrician, and Boiler House Technician offer additional technical paths with competitive compensation.

Background Check Process


Nissan Screening Process: Application submission through Nissan careers website (Tennessee allows criminal history questions—be prepared for disclosure); Initial phone screening; In-person interview and assessment (emphasis on stability, safety consciousness, punctuality, teamwork, manufacturing aptitude); Conditional offer extended; Drug screening (mandatory, typically urine test, must complete immediately—usually within 24-48 hours of conditional offer);


Background check conducted through third-party consumer reporting agency (7-year criminal history lookback, employment verification confirming work history, education verification); Physical assessment for production positions (strength, stamina, range of motion, ability to perform repetitive manufacturing tasks). Criminal history evaluated individually using EEOC Green Factors if convictions identified—nature of offense, time elapsed, job relevance all considered. FCRA adverse action process applies if conditional offer may be withdrawn based on background check results, providing pre-adverse action notice with copy of report and minimum 5 business days to dispute or provide additional information before final decision.


Timeline: 1-3 weeks from initial interview to start date depending on verification completion and position availability.


Disqualifying Factors


  • Automatic Disqualification: Failed drug test (any positive result); Dishonesty during application process.


  • High Risk: Recent violent crimes (within 7 years)—workplace safety priority; Theft, burglary, embezzlement—inventory and vehicle concerns; Drug trafficking or manufacturing; DUI for positions involving vehicle operation.


  • Evaluated Individually: Old convictions (7+ years) with clean record; Non-violent property crimes with rehabilitation; Drug possession (not trafficking) with demonstrated sobriety; Single incidents with strong rehabilitation evidence. Tennessee-expunged records protected from disclosure.


Your Rights as Applicant


  • EEOC: Individualized assessment required; Cannot deny solely on conviction without job-relatedness analysis using Green Factors.


  • FCRA: Written consent before check; Pre-adverse action notice with report copy; 5 business days to dispute; Final adverse action notice if denied.


  • Tennessee: No ban-the-box for private employers; Expungement available for certain records; Expunged records legally omittable.

  • Adverse Action Right: Utilize adverse action period to submit rehabilitation documentation, stable employment history, character references before final decision. Application submission through Nissan careers website (Tennessee allows criminal history questions be prepared for disclosure); Initial phone screening; In-person interview and assessment (emphasis on stability, safety consciousness, punctuality, teamwork, manufacturing aptitude); Conditional offer extended; Drug screening (mandatory, typically urine test, must complete immediately usually within 24-48 hours of conditional offer); Background check conducted through third-party consumer reporting agency (7-year criminal history lookback, employment verification confirming work history, education verification); Physical assessment for production positions (strength, stamina, range of motion, ability to perform repetitive manufacturing tasks). Criminal history evaluated individually using EEOC Green Factors if convictions identified nature of offense, time elapsed, job relevance all considered. FCRA adverse action process applies if conditional offer may be withdrawn based on background check results, providing pre-adverse action notice with copy of report and minimum 5 business days to dispute or provide additional information before final decision.


  • Timeline: 1-3 weeks from initial interview to start date depending on verification completion and position availability.


Disqualifying Factors


  • Automatic Disqualification: Failed drug test (any positive result); Dishonesty during application process.


  • High Risk: Recent violent crimes (within 7 years)—workplace safety priority; Theft, burglary, embezzlement—inventory and vehicle concerns; Drug trafficking or manufacturing; DUI for positions involving vehicle operation.


  • Evaluated Individually: Old convictions (7+ years) with clean record; Non-violent property crimes with rehabilitation; Drug possession (not trafficking) with demonstrated sobriety; Single incidents with strong rehabilitation evidence. Tennessee-expunged records protected from disclosure.


Your Rights as Applicant


  • EEOC: Individualized assessment required; Cannot deny solely on conviction without job-relatedness analysis using Green Factors.


  • FCRA: Written consent before check; Pre-adverse action notice with report copy; 5 business days to dispute; Final adverse action notice if denied.


  • Tennessee: No ban-the-box for private employers; Expungement available for certain records; Expunged records legally omittable.


  • Adverse Action Right: Utilize adverse action period to submit rehabilitation documentation, stable employment history, character references before final decision.

Application Strategy


  1. Completely Drug-Free: Pre-employment drug screening mandatory with zero tolerance. Drug-free AND tobacco-free workplace. If currently using any substances, wait until completely clean before applying.


  2. Focus on Stability and Safety: In interview, emphasize commitment to safety procedures, punctuality, reliable attendance, teamwork. Manufacturing culture prioritizes safety and stability. Demonstrate consistent work ethic.


  3. Be Truthful About History: Tennessee allows employers to ask about criminal history. Do not lie or omit—dishonesty discovered creates worse outcome than actual conviction. Prepare honest, concise explanation.


  4. Pursue Tennessee Expungement: If eligible for expungement, complete process before applying. Expunged records legally omittable and should not appear on background checks.


  5. Document Rehabilitation: If conviction found and concerning, utilize FCRA adverse action period to provide: rehabilitation evidence, stable employment since offense, education/certifications, character references, explanation of changes.


  6. Emphasize Manufacturing Experience: Highlight previous manufacturing, assembly, warehouse, automotive, or mechanical experience. Military service demonstrates discipline. Teamwork and reliability valued.


  7. Target Production Technician: Entry-level Production Technician positions most accessible with training provided. Prove reliability then advance internally where record already known.


  8. Apply for Night Shift: Night shift positions often have more openings and may offer shift differential. Flexibility improves hiring chances.

Tips for Applicants with Records


  1. Drug Test is Non-Negotiable: Unlike criminal history which receives individualized assessment, failed drug test is automatic disqualification. Sobriety must be established first.


  2. Major Employer Benefits: Nissan as large automotive manufacturer offers competitive wages, comprehensive benefits, career growth opportunities, tuition reimbursement, domestic and international opportunities.


  3. Diversity Commitment: Company explicitly committed to "building team as diverse as the world we serve" with Business Synergy Teams supporting inclusion. This commitment supports Second Chance hiring.


  4. Vehicle Quality Critical: Vehicles are safety-critical products—lives depend on quality. Manufacturing culture emphasizes precision, quality control, reliability. Demonstrate these values.


  5. Multiple Tennessee Locations: If Smyrna plant not hiring or not good fit, consider Franklin headquarters, Decherd powertrain plant, or dealership positions.

Benefits Overview


  • Compensation: $16-$38/hour production/technical positions; Competitive automotive industry pay; Shift differentials; Overtime opportunities.


  • Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, vision coverage; Health savings account options; Prescription drug coverage.


  • Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match; Long-term savings options; Financial planning resources.


  • Paid Time Off: Paid vacation; Paid holidays; Sick leave; Personal days; Competitive PTO package.


  • Career Development: Continuous learning opportunities; Training programs; Tuition reimbursement; Domestic and international advancement opportunities; Skill certification support.


  • Additional: Life insurance; Disability coverage; Employee vehicle purchase/lease programs; Employee assistance program; Business Synergy Teams for inclusion support.


Employee Perspectives


Pros: Major automotive employer (job stability); Competitive wages; Comprehensive benefits; Tuition reimbursement; Career advancement opportunities; Modern manufacturing facility; Electric vehicle production (future skills); Diversity commitment; Multiple Tennessee locations.


Cons: Mandatory drug testing with zero tolerance; Tobacco-free campus; Physical demands of production work; Shift work (nights, weekends); Fast-paced environment; Repetitive tasks; Strict safety requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions


  1. Does Nissan hire people with felonies?

    Yes, Nissan hires individuals with felony convictions using EEOC-required individualized assessment. Company evaluates each case considering nature of offense, time elapsed, and relationship to job duties rather than blanket exclusions. Standard 7-year lookback for criminal history. Old convictions (7+ years) with clean record generally acceptable. Critical barrier is mandatory drug testing—failed test is automatic disqualification regardless of criminal history status. Tennessee-expunged records can be legally omitted.


  2. What is the background check process?

    Nissan conducts: drug screening (mandatory, urine test, zero tolerance); criminal background check (7-year lookback typical); employment verification; education verification; physical assessment for production positions. Tennessee allows criminal history questions on application. FCRA adverse action process applies if offer may be withdrawn based on background check, providing opportunity to dispute or submit additional information.


  3. How far back does the background check go?

    Typically 7 years for criminal history review. FCRA limits reporting of non-conviction information (arrests without conviction) to 7 years. Criminal convictions may be reported longer, but Nissan conducts individualized assessment—older convictions evaluated more favorably. Tennessee-expunged records should not appear on background reports.


  4. What types of convictions make hiring difficult?

    Most challenging: Recent violent crimes (assault, battery, weapons)—workplace safety priority; Theft, burglary, embezzlement—vehicle and inventory concerns; Drug trafficking or manufacturing; DUI for driving positions. Individual review: Old convictions with rehabilitation; Non-violent property crimes; Drug possession with sobriety. Automatic bar: Failed drug test.


  5. What are the best entry-level roles for applicants with records?

    Production Technician ($18-$24/hr) most accessible—assembly operations with training provided. Material Handler ($17-$21/hr) parts movement and logistics. Parts Sorting Technician ($16-$20/hr) quality verification. All require passing drug test and physical assessment. Focus on demonstrating reliability, punctuality, and safety consciousness.


  6. Does Nissan drug test?

    Yes, mandatory drug screening with zero tolerance. Nissan operates as drug-free AND tobacco-free workplace. Pre-employment urine drug test required for all positions. Tests for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, PCP. Failed test = automatic disqualification. Random testing may occur post-hire. Tobacco products prohibited on all Nissan property.


  7. When does Nissan ask about criminal history?

    Tennessee does not have ban-the-box law for private employers. Nissan may ask about criminal history on application. Company conducts individualized assessment if convictions disclosed or discovered, considering EEOC Green Factors. FCRA adverse action process applies if background check leads to potential denial.


  8. Can someone advance to supervisor or technical roles with a felony?

    Yes, internal advancement possible. Path: Production Technician → Senior Technician → Team Leader → Supervisor. Technical path to Maintenance Technician also available. Key factors: proven reliability post-hire, clean record since employment, skills development, consistent performance. Nissan provides tuition reimbursement and training programs supporting career growth.


  9. How long does the hiring process take?

    Total process typically 1-3 weeks: Application → Interview → Conditional offer → Drug test (immediate) → Background check (5-10 days) → Physical assessment → Final decision → Onboarding. Timeline depends on verification completion. Drug test must be passed before background check typically proceeds.


  10. What can applicants do to improve chances?

    Be completely drug-free before applying (mandatory testing, zero tolerance); Pursue Tennessee expungement if eligible; Be truthful about criminal history; Emphasize stability, safety consciousness, reliability, punctuality; Document rehabilitation evidence; Utilize adverse action period if needed; Consider multiple Tennessee Nissan locations; Focus on Production Technician entry then advance internally.

Alternative Second

Employer

Industry

Notes

General Motors (Spring Hill)

Automotive Manufacturing

Similar manufacturing environment; Production positions; Middle TN

Bridgestone Americas

Tire Manufacturing

Multiple TN facilities; Nashville HQ; Manufacturing positions

Volkswagen Chattanooga

Automotive Manufacturing

Only VW US plant; Good pay; Hair follicle drug test

Amazon Fulfillment

Warehouse/Logistics

Multiple TN locations; High-volume hiring; Mouth swab drug test

Denso Manufacturing

Auto Parts

Maryville TN; Japanese company; Manufacturing positions

Nissan Suppliers

Auto Parts Manufacturing

Multiple suppliers near Smyrna; Similar work; Varied policies

Tractor Supply Distribution

Distribution

Murfreesboro area; Warehouse positions; Second Chance friendly

Nissan Dealerships

Automotive Retail/Service

Service technician, sales, detail positions; Different screening

Conclusion

Nissan North America offers legitimate Second Chance opportunity in automotive manufacturing with competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and career advancement potential. The Smyrna Vehicle Assembly Plant—one of Nissan largest facilities with capacity exceeding 640,000 vehicles annually—employs thousands of workers producing popular vehicles including Altima, LEAF, Pathfinder, Rogue, and Maxima. Company EEOC compliance requires individualized assessment of criminal history rather than blanket exclusions, creating genuine opportunity for qualified candidates.


Critical first step: Be completely drug-free before applying. Nissan operates as drug-free AND tobacco-free workplace with mandatory pre-employment screening and zero tolerance policy. Manufacturing environment involving heavy equipment operation, precision vehicle assembly, and safety-critical vehicle production requires complete sobriety from all workers. Failed drug test is automatic disqualification regardless of qualifications, experience, or criminal history status. If currently using any substances including marijuana (even if legal in some states), wait until completely clean before applying. Drug test cannot be rescheduled or delayed once conditional offer made—timing critical.


Best path for Second Chance applicants: Production Technician ($18-$24/hr starting) offers most accessible entry point with comprehensive on-the-job training provided. Assembly operations involve using variety of air and/or battery power tools, hand tools, and precision equipment to assemble automobiles and automotive parts. Work includes component installation, quality verification, and contributing to continuous improvement of manufacturing processes. Material Handler ($17-$21/hr) positions involve moving parts and materials throughout facility using forklifts, tuggers, and other equipment to support just-in-time production. Parts Sorting Technician ($16-$20/hr) positions focus on quality verification and component organization. All positions require passing mandatory drug test and physical assessment demonstrating capability for manufacturing work.


Key success factors: Pass mandatory drug screening (zero tolerance drug-free AND tobacco-free workplace—complete sobriety required before applying); Be truthful about criminal history (Tennessee allows employer inquiry—dishonesty discovered creates worse outcome than actual conviction); Pursue Tennessee expungement if eligible before applying (expunged records legally omittable and should not appear on background reports); Emphasize stability, safety consciousness, punctuality, reliable attendance, and manufacturing experience throughout application process; If background check raises concerns, utilize FCRA adverse action period by providing rehabilitation documentation including stable employment history since offense, education or certifications obtained, character references from employers or community leaders, and concise written explanation of circumstances and positive changes since conviction; Consider multiple Tennessee Nissan locations including Smyrna plant, Franklin headquarters, or Decherd powertrain if one facility not immediate fit; Focus on entry-level Production Technician positions initially then advance internally where criminal history already known and positive employment record established.


Understanding the opportunity: Nissan explicit commitment to diversity and inclusion—stating company is "building team as diverse as the world we serve" and "mirroring diversity of customer base and communities"—combined with EEOC individualized assessment requirements creates genuine opportunity for Second Chance candidates. Over 10 Business Synergy Teams (BSTs) across U.S. and Canada connect employees to "build allies and foster company culture where all employees feel supported and included." Company values employees who demonstrate reliability, safety consciousness, punctuality, and commitment to quality regardless of background. Old convictions (7+ years) with clean record evaluated favorably during individualized assessment. Internal advancement through Team Leader, Supervisor, and technical roles available for employees who establish positive track records. Nissan massive investment in electric vehicle production and manufacturing transformation positions Smyrna plant at forefront of automotive industry evolution, offering employees opportunity to develop skills for future of mobility.


Apply Now at nissanmotor.jobs/americas/manufacturing or nissan-jobs.com

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Nissan North America specific policies may vary by facility and position. Drug-free/tobacco-free workplace policies strictly enforced with zero tolerance. Tennessee expungement eligibility complex consult attorney for case-specific guidance. Salary data from 2024-2025 job postings and reports may vary by position, shift, experience. Physical assessment requirements vary by position. Individual outcomes depend on criminal history specifics, drug test results, qualifications, position availability. Nissan and Nissan North America names used for informational purposes. FelonFriendlyJobsNow.com makes no warranties about employment outcomes.

handshaking between a felon with work and the company recruiter

Does Nissan North America Hire Felons in 2026?
Everything You Need to Know

Last Updated: January 2026

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Ford Motor Company

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$21.00 – $45.00/hour

Location:

All States

GE Aerospace

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$15.00 – $47.00/hour

Location:

All States

GE Appliances

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$17.00 – $32.00/hour

Location:

All States

General Dynamics Electric Boat

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$23.00 – $46.00/hour

Location:

Connecticut

General Motors

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$17.00 – $50.00/hour

Location:

All States

Georgia Pacific

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $32.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Goodyear Tire

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$15.00 – $32.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Graphic Packaging

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $38.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Harley-Davidson

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$17.00 – $38.00/hour

Location:

All States

Honda

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$17.00 – $36.00/hour

Location:

All States

International Paper

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$17.00 – $35.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

JBS USA

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $28.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

John Deere

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$17.00 – $35.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Koch Foods

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$14.00 – $22.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Mountaire Farms

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$14.00 – $33.65/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Ocean Beauty Seafoods

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $36.00/hour

Location:

Alaska

Ok Foods

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $38.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Pratt & Whitney

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$19.00 – $45.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

SeaCon Phoenix, Inc.

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $75.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Smithfield Foods

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$15.00 – $32.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

SpaceX

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $82.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Steel Dynamics

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$18.00 – $45.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Sysco

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$17.00 – $32.00/hour

Location:

All States

Sysco Foods Denver

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$18.00 – $86.54/hour

Location:

Colorado

Trident Seafoods

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $35.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Tyson Foods

Industry:

Manufacturing & Production

Pay:

$16.00 – $28.00/hour

Location:

Multiple States

Recommended Companies

Companies under the same industry

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