Quick Answer

Yes, Peet’s Coffee hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With over 200 coffeehouses mainly in California and major metro areas, Peet’s offers opportunities starting at ($15–$18/ hour).

Known for its craft coffee focus, smaller artisanal atmosphere, and growth paths into management, Peet’s provides accessible specialty coffee employment for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

About Peet’s Coffee

Peet’s Coffee, founded in 1966 in Berkeley, California, operates more than 200 coffeehouses across the West Coast and select major metropolitan areas. Known as the “grandfather of specialty coffee,” Peet’s inspired the founders of Starbucks and remains focused on fresh-roasted beans, craftsmanship, and quality.

The company employs about 3,000 people and maintains a strong presence in California, where Ban-the-Box laws limit when employers can ask about criminal history.

For applicants with felony convictions, Peet’s smaller, craft-focused environment and individualized hiring process make it one of the more approachable coffee employers in the U.S.

Peet’s Coffee Hiring Policy

Peet’s reviews all applications on a case-by-case basis, with emphasis on personality, dependability, and coffee enthusiasm rather than background alone.

Approach:

• Case-by-case evaluation

• Compliance with California’s Ban-the-Box laws

• Craft coffee culture and customer interaction valued

• Smaller store network allows for personal interviews

• Reports of successful hires with records

What Peet’s Considers:

• Coffee passion and learning potential

• Nature and age of conviction

• Customer service and reliability

• Fit within the brand’s artisanal culture

Available Jobs

Barista

($15–$18/ hour)

Prepares handcrafted drinks, greets customers, and maintains the Peet’s service standard. (Most accessible entry-level role.)

Shift Supervisor

($17–$21/ hour)

Leads daily operations, trains new baristas, and ensures smooth store flow.

Assistant Store Manager

($19–$26/ hour)

Supports store manager with scheduling, training, and performance oversight.

Store Manager

($24–$34/ hour)

Oversees full store operations, sales goals, and staff development.

Career Path: Barista → Shift Supervisor → Assistant Manager → Store Manager

Background Check

Peet’s conducts a background check during the hiring process, typically looking back seven years.

• 7-year criminal history lookback

• Case-by-case review in line with state law

• California Ban-the-Box compliance

• Drug testing may be required depending on role and location

Application Tips

1. Show coffee passion. Express enthusiasm for craft coffee and Peet’s heritage.

   
   

2. Leverage California laws. Ban-the-Box protections improve fair consideration.

   
   

3. Apply broadly. Submit applications to 5–10 Peet’s locations to improve chances.

   
   

4. Highlight customer service. Experience with friendly, fast-paced environments helps.

   
   

5. Mention artisanal fit. Smaller chain values authenticity and skill growth.

   
   

6. Demonstrate reliability. Emphasize punctuality and teamwork.

   
   

7. Learn basic coffee terms. Familiarity with espresso and brewing can stand out.

   
   

8. Prepare for interviews. Practice confident, friendly interactions.

   
   

9. Stay honest. Be upfront if asked about your record.

   
   

10. Follow up politely. A quick thank-you can leave a strong impression.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Peet’s automatically reject applicants with felonies?

No. Peet’s evaluates applicants individually, taking into account the nature and age of the conviction.

Where are most Peet’s Coffee locations?

Primarily in California, with additional stores in Oregon, Washington, Illinois, and select East Coast cities.

What is Ban-the-Box?

A California law preventing employers from asking about criminal history early in the hiring process.

What’s the most accessible job?

The Barista role is the best entry-level position with hands-on training.

How much does Peet’s pay compared to Starbucks?

Peet’s pay rates are comparable — typically ($15–$18/ hour) depending on region and experience.

Can I advance from Barista to Manager?

Yes. Peet’s promotes internally, offering a clear growth path to management.

Does Peet’s offer benefits?

Full-time employees may receive health insurance, paid time off, and product discounts.

How long is the background check process?

Usually completed within 5–7 business days after the interview.

Does Peet’s drug test?

Some locations do; testing policies vary by state and store.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Starbucks – 16,000+ stores; major chain with strong benefits and community initiatives.

• Blue Bottle Coffee – Specialty coffee brand known for craftsmanship and fair-chance hiring.

• Philz Coffee – San Francisco-based chain emphasizing friendly service and inclusion.

• Local Specialty Cafés – Smaller roasters and independent shops often hire case-by-case.

Final Thoughts

Peet’s Coffee provides meaningful employment in a supportive, craft-driven environment for individuals rebuilding after incarceration. With over 200 stores and a focus on quality, community, and fair consideration, it’s an excellent option for those who enjoy customer service and coffee culture.

For current openings and application details, visit the official Peet’s Coffee careers page at Peets.com/careers.