Quick Answer

Conditional. Northrim Bank may hire individuals with felony convictions, but opportunities are significantly limited by federal banking regulations. As Alaska's second-largest bank with approximately 516 employees across 20 branches statewide, Northrim Bank operates as an FDIC-insured institution and is strictly regulated by Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act (FDIA).

Section 19 prohibits FDIC-insured banks from employing individuals convicted of dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering offenses without FDIC consent. The Fair Hiring in Banking Act (2022) and FDIC Final Rule (October 2024) significantly narrowed these restrictions, creating pathways for individuals with older convictions or certain offense types.

The greatest barriers remain for felonies involving fraud (direct conflict with financial trust), embezzlement or theft (breach of fiduciary duty), and forgery or identity crimes (core dishonesty offenses). Convictions within the past 7 years face the highest scrutiny, while older offenses may now be excluded from Section 19 requirements entirely.

Best opportunities exist for applicants whose convictions do not involve dishonesty or breach of trust, those with offenses older than 7 years, individuals released from incarceration more than 5 years ago, or those with expunged/sealed records. Entry-level positions offer starting wages of $19.50/hr with comprehensive benefits.

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, assess whether you meet these requirements:

• Section 19 Status: Must determine if your conviction falls under Section 19 prohibitions (dishonesty, breach of trust, money laundering). If so, evaluate whether exclusions apply based on time elapsed or offense type.

  
  

• Time Elapsed: Convictions older than 7 years from offense date, or 5+ years since release from incarceration, may be excluded from Section 19 requirements under the Fair Hiring in Banking Act.

  
  

• De Minimis Offenses: Certain lesser offenses (shoplifting, trespassing, fake ID, fare evasion, driving with expired license) are excluded if 1+ year has passed since conviction.

  
  

• Drug Offenses: Simple drug possession and possession with intent to distribute are now excluded from Section 19 prohibitions per the 2024 FDIC Final Rule.

  
  

• Expungement/Sealing: Convictions that have been expunged, sealed, or dismissed by court order are excluded from Section 19 requirements.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. Northrim Bank maintains a drug-free workplace policy.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest about your criminal record when asked. Lying is an automatic disqualifier and violates FDIC compliance requirements.

  
  

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

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding federal banking regulations is essential for applicants with criminal records. Section 19 of the FDIA creates the primary legal framework, while the Fair Hiring in Banking Act (2022) and FDIC regulations have created significant new pathways.

EEOC Guidelines

The EEOC advises employers not to automatically refuse applicants due to criminal records. Employers must conduct individualized assessment using the Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of offense;

(2) Time elapsed since offense/sentence completion;

(3) Nature of job sought and its relationship to offense. In banking, Section 19 creates specific categorical restrictions that interact with EEOC guidelines.

FCRA Requirements

If denied based on a third-party background report, Northrim Bank must comply with FCRA adverse action procedures:

(1) Provide pre-adverse action notice with report copy and FCRA rights summary; (2) Allow time to dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands.

State-Specific Considerations

Alaska has no general ban-the-box law for private employers. Northrim Bank can inquire about criminal history at any point in the hiring process, but must comply with federal EEOC guidelines. Governor Mike Dunleavy proclaimed April 2024 as "Second Chance Month," signaling state support for reentry employment.

Banking-Specific Considerations

Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act is the primary regulatory barrier for felons in banking. The law prohibits FDIC-insured institutions from employing individuals convicted of offenses involving dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering without prior written FDIC consent.

The Fair Hiring in Banking Act (December 2022) and FDIC Final Rule (October 1, 2024) created important exclusions:

Time-Based Exclusions: Offenses older than 7 years from the date of offense, or 5+ years since release from incarceration, are excluded from Section 19 requirements (except for certain serious Title 18 offenses with 10-year minimums).

Youth Offender Exclusion: Offenses committed before age 21 are excluded if 30+ months have passed since sentencing.

De Minimis Offenses: Lesser offenses punishable by 3 years or less, including shoplifting, trespassing, fake ID, fare evasion, and driving with expired license, are excluded if 1+ year has passed.

Drug Offenses: Simple possession and possession with intent to distribute are now excluded from Section 19 prohibitions.

Expunged/Sealed Records: Convictions expunged, sealed, or dismissed by court order or operation of law are excluded.

Company Overview

Northrim Bank is a full-service community bank founded in 1990, headquartered in Anchorage, Alaska. As the largest locally-owned financial institution and second-largest bank in Alaska, Northrim operates as a subsidiary of Northrim BanCorp, Inc. (NASDAQ: NRIM). The bank provides comprehensive financial services through Community Banking and Home Mortgage Lending segments, serving businesses, professionals, and individuals statewide.

Recognized as one of the Best Workplaces in Alaska by the Alaska Journal of Commerce for the third consecutive year in 2024, Northrim actively promotes internal advancement. The company offers comprehensive benefits and employee development through the Management Training Academy.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1990 (Anchorage, Alaska)

• Headquarters: Anchorage, Alaska

• Employees: Approximately 516 across Alaska

• Locations: 20 branches from Nome to Ketchikan

• Stock Exchange: NASDAQ: NRIM

• CEO: Mike Huston (President, CEO, and Chairman)

• Assets: Over $1.5 billion

• FDIC Status: Insured; Satisfactory CRA rating (May 2023)

• Recognition: Best Workplaces in Alaska (2022, 2023, 2024); Top 49ers; SBA Alaska 504 Third Party Lender of the Year (3 consecutive years)

Hiring Policy Analysis

As an FDIC-insured institution, Northrim Bank must conduct a "reasonable, documented inquiry" to verify applicants' criminal history for Section 19 compliance. While this creates barriers for applicants with certain convictions, the Fair Hiring in Banking Act has expanded opportunities. The bank emphasizes internal promotion and conducts background checks after conditional offer. Northrim is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by access to customer funds, sensitive data, and fiduciary responsibilities. All positions require Section 19 compliance verification.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Northrim Bank job postings, Glassdoor, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and position level.

Career Path Examples

Northrim Bank emphasizes internal advancement with training programs. Employee reviews highlight promotion opportunities. The Management Training Academy prepares high-performers for leadership.

Branch Operations Track: Teller ($19.50-$24/hr) → Universal Banker I ($22-$26/hr) → Universal Banker II ($24-$28/hr) → Assistant Branch Manager ($45K-$55K/yr) → Branch Manager ($55K-$85K/yr). Requires consistent performance, sales goal achievement, and completion of internal training.

Lending Track: Financial Services Trainee ($19.50/hr) → Loan Administrative Assistant ($20-$26/hr) → Loan Servicing Specialist ($20.79-$26.47/hr) → Commercial Banker Trainee → Loan Officer ($65K-$120K/yr). Requires demonstrated integrity, credit knowledge, and often relevant education.

Support Services Track: Call Center Specialist ($20.25/hr) → Call Center Senior Specialist ($24-$28/hr) → Operations Analyst → Department Supervisor. Phone-based roles offer pathway for those preferring non-customer-facing positions.

Background Check Process

As an FDIC-insured institution, Northrim Bank must conduct "reasonable, documented inquiry" to verify no applicant with a covered Section 19 offense is hired without FDIC consent. Background checks typically occur after conditional offer.

What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace and address history; employment history verification; education verification for positions requiring specific credentials; credit history for positions with financial responsibilities; drug screening (mandatory for all positions); Section 19 compliance verification.

Lookback Period: Per the Fair Hiring in Banking Act: 7 years from date of offense for most covered offenses; 5 years from release for incarcerated individuals; 30 months from sentencing for offenses committed before age 21; 10 years minimum for certain serious Title 18 offenses; unlimited for unsealed dishonesty/breach of trust convictions not meeting exclusion criteria.

Timeline: The hiring process typically takes 2-4 weeks from application to hire based on employee reports. Background checks usually take 1-2 weeks to complete after conditional offer. Complex criminal history reviews or FDIC waiver requests may extend timelines significantly.

Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → Interview(s) conducted → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test authorization → Background check conducted → Section 19 compliance review → Results reviewed → Final hiring decision → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

Automatic Disqualification (without FDIC waiver): Convictions within lookback period for: bank fraud, embezzlement, forgery, identity theft, money laundering, tax evasion, bribery, securities fraud, computer fraud involving financial systems, or any offense where dishonesty/breach of trust is a statutory element.

High Risk for Disqualification: Recent convictions (within 7 years) for any theft, fraud, or dishonesty-related offenses; robbery or burglary convictions; cries against customers or employers; multiple convictions suggesting pattern.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-dishonesty felonies older than 7 years; drug possession (excluded from Section 19); de minimis offenses (shoplifting, trespassing, fake ID with 1+ year passed); violence not directed at customers/employers; DUI/traffic offenses.

Your Rights as Applicant

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

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final decision based on background check, you must receive notice with report copy and rights summary.

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited (though Section 19 creates specific categorical requirements).

  
  

• Section 19 Process: If your conviction is subject to Section 19 and no exclusion applies, the bank may choose to sponsor an FDIC waiver application on your behalf. Individual waiver applications are also possible but rare for entry-level positions.

Application Strategy

1. Determine Your Section 19 Status First: Before applying, honestly assess whether your conviction involves dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering. If so, determine whether time-based exclusions (7+ years, 5+ years post-incarceration, or 30+ months if under 21) apply. Consult the FDIC Section 19 guidance or a legal professional if uncertain.

   
   

2. Target Entry-Level Positions: Focus on Financial Services Trainee, Teller, or Call Center Specialist positions which have the highest hiring volume and provide supervised environments. These roles offer the best opportunity to demonstrate reliability and build toward advancement.

   
   

3. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit applications through Northrim Bank's official careers page at northrim.com/careers. The bank also posts positions on Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, and AlaskaJobs.alaska.gov. Check regularly as positions are posted frequently across 20 branch locations.

   
   

4. Prepare for the Interview: Research Northrim Bank's community focus, Alaska roots, and commitment to customer service. Be prepared to discuss your customer service skills, cash handling experience, and commitment to accuracy and integrity.

   
   

5. Be Completely Honest: Never lie about your criminal history. Dishonesty violates FDIC compliance requirements and is an automatic disqualifier. Banks must conduct documented inquiries; misrepresentation will be discovered.

   
   

6. Prepare Your Narrative: Have a brief, honest explanation ready: acknowledge the offense without making excuses, describe what you learned, and explain how you've changed. Focus on rehabilitation, stability, and your commitment to integrity. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds).

   
   

7. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes: completion of programs, educational certificates, stable employment history, community involvement, and character references. If seeking an FDIC waiver, extensive rehabilitation documentation is essential.

   
   

8. Check Expungement Eligibility: Expunged or sealed records are excluded from Section 19 requirements. Research Alaska expungement laws or contact Alaska Legal Services for assistance. This can completely remove the Section 19 barrier.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Understand the Fair Hiring in Banking Act Changes: The 2022 law and 2024 FDIC Final Rule significantly expanded opportunities. If your offense is older than 7 years, or you've been released from incarceration for 5+ years, or you were under 21 and 30+ months have passed since sentencing, you may be excluded from Section 19 requirements entirely.

   
   

2. Non-Dishonesty Convictions Have Better Chances: If your conviction does not involve dishonesty, fraud, breach of trust, or money laundering, Section 19 may not apply at all. Simple assault, drug possession, DUI, and many other offenses fall outside Section 19's scope.

   
   

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

   
   

4. Consider Legal Consultation: Section 19 law is complex. Contact Alaska Legal Services or consult with an employment attorney to confirm whether your specific conviction is covered and whether exclusions apply. This investment can save considerable time.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: Northrim Bank requires pre-employment drug screening for all positions. Address any substance issues completely before applying. Alaska has not legalized recreational marijuana for employment purposes.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation, and consistent work history. Banking employers value dependability and attention to detail.

   
   

7. Leverage Alaska's Second Chance Resources: Connect with Partners for Progress in Anchorage, the Alaska Reentry Partnership, or Goodwill Alaska for employment assistance. The Alaska Job Center Network provides resume help and interview coaching.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Location: Northrim Bank has 20 branches across Alaska. Willingness to work at less popular locations may increase chances. Consider branches in Fairbanks, Juneau, Homer, Nome, or Kodiak.

Benefits Overview

Northrim Bank offers a comprehensive benefits package recognized among Alaska's best. The company enhanced its 401(k) match and added new health insurance options in 2024.

Compensation: Competitive wages starting at $19.50/hr for entry-level positions, with pay increases based on experience and promotion. Alaska wages typically exceed national averages.

401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) retirement plan with generous employer match (reported as 5% by employees). Match was enhanced in 2024.

Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance with multiple plan options including a new zero-premium option added in 2024. FSA (Flex Spending Account) available. Employee Assistance Program for mental health support. Noom platform access for wellness goals.

Time Off: PTO starts at 18 days per year (per employee reports). Select paid holidays. Paid parental leave for all employees. Enhanced sick leave policy implemented in 2024.

Additional Benefits: Education assistance matching IRS limits; voluntary short-term disability; access to The Dome athletic facility; annual State of Alaska Park passes; employee wellness program; Management Training Academy for advancement.

Employee Perspectives

Pros: Great benefits package; strong training programs; promotion from within culture; supportive team environment; community involvement opportunities; work-life balance; Alaskan-owned company pride.

Cons: Some managers described as micromanagers; monthly goals pressure in sales positions; steep learning curve; limited to Alaska locations; pay could be higher in some roles; management quality varies by branch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Northrim Bank hire people with felonies?

   Conditionally yes. As an FDIC-insured bank, Northrim is bound by Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act, which prohibits hiring individuals convicted of offenses involving dishonesty, breach of trust, or money laundering without FDIC consent. However, the Fair Hiring in Banking Act (2022) created significant exclusions: convictions older than 7 years, releases from incarceration 5+ years ago, offenses before age 21 with 30+ months since sentencing, drug possession offenses, and de minimis offenses are now excluded. Non-dishonesty convictions (assault, DUI, most drug offenses) fall outside Section 19's scope entirely. Best chances exist for applicants with older non-dishonesty convictions targeting entry-level positions.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Northrim Bank?

   Northrim Bank conducts comprehensive background checks after extending a conditional offer of employment. The check includes criminal history at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification; employment history; education verification for credentialed positions; drug screening; and Section 19 compliance review. Results are reviewed using individualized assessment principles. The process typically takes 1-2 weeks, though complex history reviews may take longer. FCRA procedures apply, including pre-adverse action notice if negative decisions are being considered.

   
   

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

   Per the Fair Hiring in Banking Act and FDIC Final Rule effective October 2024: most Section 19 covered offenses are excluded after 7 years from the date of offense (not conviction). If incarcerated, exclusion applies 5 years after release. For offenses committed before age 21, exclusion applies 30 months after sentencing. However, certain serious Title 18 offenses carry a 10-year minimum prohibition. Unsealed convictions for dishonesty/breach of trust that don't meet exclusion criteria can be considered indefinitely. Employment verification typically extends 5-7 years.

   
   

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

   Most difficult: bank fraud, embezzlement, forgery, identity theft, money laundering, tax evasion, and any offense with dishonesty or breach of trust as statutory elements—these require FDIC waiver if within lookback period. Moderately difficult: recent theft, robbery, burglary, or crimes against employers. Less difficult: non-dishonesty felonies older than 7 years, assault, domestic violence, DUI, drug possession (now excluded from Section 19), traffic offenses, and de minimis offenses like shoplifting or trespassing (if 1+ year passed).

   
   

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

   Financial Services Trainee ($19.50/hr) offers a 6-month training program with pathway to permanent positions—ideal for demonstrating reliability. Teller positions ($19.50-$24/hr) have high hiring volume across 20 branches. Call Center Specialist ($20.25/hr) provides customer service without in-person cash handling. All positions require Section 19 compliance, but supervised entry-level roles offer the best opportunity to prove yourself and advance internally.

   
   

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

   Yes, Northrim Bank requires pre-employment drug screening for all positions as part of its drug-free workplace policy. Testing typically occurs after conditional offer alongside the background check. Standard panel testing is used. Alaska has not legalized recreational marijuana for employment purposes, so cannabis use may disqualify applicants regardless of state law. Medical marijuana users should consult legal counsel regarding accommodations.

   
   

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

   Alaska has no state ban-the-box law for private employers, so Northrim Bank is not legally restricted from asking about criminal history at any point in the hiring process. In practice, most employers conduct formal background checks after extending a conditional offer. The application or interview may include questions about criminal history. Be prepared to discuss honestly if asked, but also know you can decline to elaborate until after a conditional offer under EEOC best practices.

   
   

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

   Potentially yes. If you're hired into an entry-level position (meaning your conviction either doesn't fall under Section 19 or meets an exclusion), advancement is based on performance, not criminal history. Northrim Bank emphasizes internal promotion and career development. Management positions involve increased fiduciary responsibility, so Section 19 compliance review would apply. However, if you're already employed and compliant, internal promotion doesn't trigger new Section 19 review. Employee reviews highlight strong promotion-from-within culture.

   
   

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

   The typical hiring process takes 2-4 weeks from application to start date based on employee reports. Background checks usually complete within 1-2 weeks after conditional offer. Factors affecting timeline include position type, location, criminal history complexity, and whether Section 19 compliance questions arise. FDIC waiver applications, if required, can take 30+ days and significantly extend the timeline.

   
   

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

    Key strategies:

    (1) Determine Section 19 status before applying—consult FDIC guidance or legal counsel;

    (2) Pursue expungement or sealing if eligible—this removes Section 19 barrier; (3) Target entry-level positions with high hiring volume;

    (4) Document rehabilitation extensively;

    (5) Be completely honest—misrepresentation is automatic disqualification; (6) Prepare concise narrative about your offense and growth;

    (7) Highlight customer service skills, attention to detail, and reliability;

    (8) Apply to multiple branch locations;

    (9) Connect with Alaska reentry resources for support; (10) Follow up professionally and persistently.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Northrim Bank doesn't work out due to Section 19 restrictions, consider these employers in Alaska. Credit unions have similar requirements under Section 205(d), also amended by the Fair Hiring in Banking Act.

Conclusion

Northrim Bank offers conditional opportunities for individuals with criminal records, significantly improved by the Fair Hiring in Banking Act of 2022 and FDIC Final Rule of 2024. With 516 employees across 20 branches, the organization provides competitive wages starting at $19.50/hr, excellent benefits including 5% 401(k) match and comprehensive health coverage, and strong internal advancement pathways.

Key Success Factors: Determine Section 19 status before applying; pursue expungement if eligible; target entry-level positions; document rehabilitation; be completely honest; emphasize customer service skills; apply to multiple branches; connect with Alaska reentry resources.

Biggest Barriers: Section 19 restrictions for dishonesty/breach of trust convictions within lookback period; comprehensive background checks; federal regulatory compliance; credit history review for financial positions.

If your conviction is older than 7 years, involves non-dishonesty offenses, or has been expunged, Northrim Bank represents a genuine pathway to stable employment with excellent benefits. Your past does not have to define your future—preparation, honesty, and persistence are your best tools for success.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and circumstances. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including company websites, job postings, employee reviews, salary databases, FDIC regulations, and government resources, information may change without notice. Section 19 law is complex—verify your specific status with legal counsel or the FDIC.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, expungement procedures, and fair chance hiring requirements vary by jurisdiction. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://www.northrim.com/About-Northrim/About-Us/Careers