Quick Answer

Yes, Red Robin hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With over 500 casual dining restaurants nationwide specializing in gourmet burgers, Red Robin offers accessible employment opportunities for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

Pay ranges from $13–$17/ hour plus tips for servers (totaling about $20–$32/ hour). The company’s family-friendly atmosphere, consistent customer traffic, and supportive culture make it a realistic option for individuals seeking stable restaurant work.

About Red Robin

Red Robin, founded in 1969, operates more than 500 full-service restaurants across the United States. Known for its gourmet burgers, bottomless fries, and upbeat dining atmosphere, the chain employs over 35,000 people at both corporate and franchise locations.

The company’s position between fast-casual and upscale dining creates strong opportunities for employees. Red Robin pays better than quick-service restaurants while offering a more relaxed environment than fine dining. Servers can earn substantial tips from steady family traffic, while kitchen staff receive consistent hourly pay.

For people with criminal records, Red Robin’s culture of “Unbridled Acts” — meaning enthusiasm, hospitality, and going above and beyond — creates an inclusive environment. Managers focus on attitude, teamwork, and dependability rather than background. Many employees with past convictions have built long-term restaurant careers through Red Robin’s internal promotion programs.

Does Red Robin Hire People with Felonies?

Yes. Red Robin evaluates applicants with criminal records individually, without automatic disqualification. Hiring managers consider several factors such as the nature of the conviction, time passed, relevance to the position, and evidence of rehabilitation.

What Red Robin Considers

• Type of conviction: Violent, sexual, or theft-related offenses may receive closer review.

• Time since conviction: Older or non-recent convictions are more likely to be accepted.

• Rehabilitation: Consistent employment or personal growth increases hiring chances.

• Job relevance: Most restaurant roles are unrelated to prior offenses.

• Attitude and presentation: A positive, customer-focused mindset carries strong weight.

Convictions Commonly Accepted

Drug-related, property, and assault charges are often accepted depending on context. Older convictions, especially those unrelated to food service, are less likely to affect eligibility.

Convictions Requiring More Review

Sexual offenses involving minors, food tampering, and recent violent crimes may be disqualifying due to Red Robin’s family-oriented environment and safety requirements.

Available Jobs at Red Robin for People with Records

Server

($2.13–$5 base + tips, total $20–$32/ hour)

Takes orders, serves meals, handles payments, and provides guest service. Servers earn significant tips from steady family dining traffic.

Busser

($11–$14/ hour + tip-out, total $14–$19/ hour)

Clears and resets tables, supports servers, and helps maintain a clean dining area. This is a good entry-level back-of-house role with advancement opportunities.

Host/Hostess

($12–$15/ hour)

Greets guests, manages the waitlist, and coordinates seating. Great option for applicants with strong communication and customer service skills.

Line Cook

($14–$19/ hour)

Prepares burgers, fries, and menu items on the grill and fry stations. This behind-the-scenes job suits applicants who prefer kitchen work over customer interaction.

Prep Cook

($13–$17/ hour)

Prepares ingredients and portions items for the kitchen. Ideal for individuals seeking quieter, routine-oriented roles with structured shifts.

Dishwasher

($12–$16/ hour)

Operates dish machines and supports kitchen staff. Entry-level position frequently available at most locations.

Bartender

($2.13–$5 base + tips, total $22–$35/ hour)

Serves drinks and food at the bar. Usually requires prior server experience, but offers excellent earning potential.

To-Go Specialist

($12–$16/ hour)

Handles online and takeout orders, ensuring accuracy and speed. Good hybrid role with less pressure than table service.

Shift Supervisor

($16–$22/ hour)

Oversees restaurant operations during shifts. Typically promoted internally from server or cook positions.

Kitchen Manager / General Manager

($24–$38/ hour equivalent)

Manages staff, operations, and profitability. Many managers started in entry-level roles, proving advancement is achievable with time and dedication.

Background Check Process

Red Robin conducts background checks after a conditional offer. The process typically takes 5–7 business days and includes:

• Criminal history (usually 7-year lookback)

• Sex offender registry search

• Social Security verification

• Employment verification (for higher positions)

Some locations may require drug testing, particularly for management roles. Local franchise policies can vary.

Application Tips

1. Show alignment with “Unbridled Acts.” Emphasize enthusiasm, teamwork, and guest focus in your interview.

   
   

2. Target high-volume positions. Servers and line cooks are hired frequently across most Red Robin restaurants.

   
   

3. Apply to multiple locations. Each restaurant has its own management team and hiring flexibility.

   
   

4. Visit in person. Dress neatly, ask for the manager, and express interest face-to-face.

   
   

5. Be honest about your record. If asked, briefly acknowledge your past and focus on your goals.

   
   

6. Highlight reliability. Mention punctuality, teamwork, or past employment success.

   
   

7. Demonstrate hospitality. Smile, show patience, and use positive language that reflects Red Robin’s values.

   
   

8. Follow up professionally. Check back after a week to reaffirm your interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Red Robin automatically reject applicants with felonies?

No. The company reviews each application individually.

Can I work while on probation or parole?

Yes, as long as your schedule and travel permissions allow.

Does Red Robin drug test?

Some locations do, but it varies by franchise and position.

Are theft convictions disqualifying?

Not necessarily. Older or one-time theft convictions are often accepted with context and honesty.

Can I move up in the company with a record?

Yes. Many employees advance from entry-level to management through internal promotion programs.

How much can I earn as a server?

Typically between $20–$32/ hour including tips, depending on traffic and shift type.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Chili’s – 1,600+ locations; casual dining chain that hires people with records based on job type and rehabilitation evidence.

• Applebee’s – 1,600+ locations; neighborhood grill that evaluates applicants case-by-case and offers similar front- and back-of-house roles.

• TGI Friday’s – 300+ locations; known for a relaxed bar-and-grill atmosphere, hiring people with non-violent offenses.

• Outback Steakhouse – 700+ locations; casual steakhouse that considers applicants individually, focusing on customer service and dependability.

• Texas Roadhouse – 600+ locations; family-friendly steakhouse with high-volume hiring and accessible kitchen and service jobs.

Final Thoughts

Red Robin provides one of the most accessible casual dining opportunities for people with felony convictions, emphasizing attitude, consistency, and teamwork over background. With 500+ locations nationwide, a supportive culture, and clear advancement paths, the company offers a meaningful chance to build a restaurant career.

You can explore current openings and apply directly through Red Robin’s official career page at www.redrobin.com/careers.