Quick Answer
Yes, Starbucks hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With more than 16,000 stores across the U.S., starting pay of ($15–$19/ hour), benefits for eligible part-time employees, 100% tuition coverage for a first bachelor's degree through Arizona State University Online, stock awards (Bean Stock), and advancement to store manager roles earning $55,000–$80,000+ per year, Starbucks is a large employer that signed the White House Fair Chance Business Pledge in 2016.
Table of Contents
About Starbucks
Starbucks, founded in 1971 in Seattle, operates more than 16,000 stores in the United States (about 10,000 company-operated and 6,800 licensed as of fiscal 2025) and employs about 223,000 people in the U.S.
Known for premium coffee, ethical sourcing, and a strong culture of inclusion, Starbucks was one of the first companies to sign the White House Fair Chance Business Pledge in 2016, a commitment to reduce barriers to employment for people with criminal records.
For people with felony convictions, Starbucks provides a highly accessible opportunity because of its vast footprint, competitive pay, part-time benefits, and stated second-chance commitment.
Through the Starbucks College Achievement Plan with Arizona State University, eligible employees can get 100% upfront tuition coverage toward a first bachelor's degree online, setting Starbucks apart as one of the few employers offering both immediate work and long-term education benefits.
Starbucks Hiring Policy
Starbucks evaluates applicants case-by-case and follows Fair Chance principles rather than automatic disqualification.
Approach
Case-by-case evaluation (no automatic rejection)
Signed the 2016 White House Fair Chance Business Pledge
Follows local Ban-the-Box and Fair Chance laws
Focus on rehabilitation, reliability, and cultural alignment
Individual assessment of background relevance
What Starbucks Considers
Nature and severity of the offense
Time passed since conviction
Relevance to customer-facing work
Employment or rehabilitation since conviction
Fit with Starbucks’ mission and values
By signing the Fair Chance Business Pledge, Starbucks committed to reducing barriers to employment for people rebuilding their lives.
Available Jobs
Barista
($15–$19/ hour)
Prepares coffee, espresso, and tea beverages; provides friendly customer service; maintains store cleanliness; handles cash; and upholds Starbucks’ service standards. This is the most common entry-level position with extensive training and strong advancement potential.
Shift Supervisor
($17–$23/ hour)
Supervises baristas, ensures smooth shift operations, opens and closes the store, and provides leadership support. Typically promoted internally from barista after 6–12 months of strong performance.
Assistant Store Manager
($22–$30/ hour equivalent; $45,000–$62,000/year)
Supports the store manager in staff supervision, scheduling, and store performance. Promoted from Shift Supervisor or external hires with retail management experience.
Store Manager
($26–$38/ hour equivalent; $55,000–$80,000/year)
Oversees full store operations including staffing, inventory, financials, and customer experience. Store managers may be promoted from hourly positions or hired externally.
District Manager
($38–$58/ hour equivalent; $80,000–$120,000+/year)
Manages 8–10 stores within a geographic district, focusing on performance, leadership development, and community engagement.
Background Check
Starbucks conducts a criminal background check but evaluates each case individually. How far back a check can report depends on the type of record and state law. The process typically takes 5–7 business days.
What’s Included:
County and state criminal record review
Social Security verification
Employment verification
Sex offender registry check
Barista applicants generally report no pre-employment drug test, but Starbucks doesn't publish a drug-testing policy, and some roles may require screening.
Application Tips
Apply to 10–15 stores. Each store hires independently; multiple applications increase your chances.
Emphasize Starbucks values. Express alignment with warmth, belonging, and community.
Show customer service passion. Mention creating memorable experiences for guests.
Target part-time roles first. Part-time partners who meet Starbucks' hours requirement can qualify for benefits and tuition coverage.
Highlight second-chance awareness. Acknowledge Starbucks' Fair Chance Business Pledge commitment positively.
Be honest if asked. Provide a short, forward-looking answer about your record.
Show long-term interest. Mention growth goals like leadership or completing a degree.
Demonstrate reliability. Consistent availability and punctuality are highly valued.
Mention early-morning availability. Opening shifts (4–5 a.m.) often have hiring needs.
Follow up respectfully. After one week, call or visit to express continued interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Starbucks hire people with felonies?
Yes. Starbucks signed the White House Fair Chance Business Pledge in 2016 and evaluates applicants individually. Your offense, the time passed, and the role all matter.
Does Starbucks offer free college?
Yes. Through the Starbucks College Achievement Plan, eligible partners get 100% upfront tuition coverage toward a first bachelor's degree through Arizona State University Online.
Do part-time employees get benefits?
Yes. Benefits-eligible part-time partners can get medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, 401(k) matching, Bean Stock grants, and tuition coverage.
Does Starbucks drug test?
Barista applicants generally report no pre-employment drug test, but Starbucks doesn't publish a drug-testing policy, and some roles may require screening.
What position is best to start with a record?
The Barista role is the most accessible starting point, offering training, benefits, and advancement opportunities.
Can I be hired while on probation or parole?
Yes, if your probation terms allow employment and scheduling requirements are met.
Will theft or drug convictions disqualify me?
Not automatically. Starbucks looks at the time since conviction, rehabilitation, and context.
How long does the hiring process take?
Usually 1–2 weeks, including interview and background check results.
Can I advance with a criminal record?
Possibly. Promotions depend on your performance and the requirements of the role, and leadership positions may involve additional review.
Is Starbucks more accessible than Dunkin’?
It can be. Most Starbucks U.S. stores are company-operated, so hiring follows company policy, while Dunkin' stores are franchised and hiring varies by owner. Licensed Starbucks stores (inside grocery stores, airports, and similar locations) are staffed by the host company.
Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies
Dunkin’ – 9,000+ U.S. locations; franchise-based; case-by-case hiring common.
Dutch Bros – 800+ locations; energetic culture; case-by-case consideration.
Peet’s Coffee – 200+ stores; craft coffee focus; progressive culture.
Tim Hortons – 600+ U.S. sites; franchise-dependent; case-by-case hiring.
Chipotle – Over 3,000 restaurants; many entry-level crew roles.
Target – National retailer with Ban-the-Box practices.
Amazon – Warehouse and delivery roles; case-by-case evaluation.
Final Thoughts
Starbucks provides one of the strongest employment opportunities for people with criminal records—as a Fair Chance Business Pledge signer, with competitive pay ($15–$19/ hour) and industry-leading benefits even for eligible part-time partners.
The combination of tuition coverage, Bean Stock, inclusive culture, and nationwide presence makes Starbucks an outstanding choice for those rebuilding their lives.
If you’re ready to take the next step, apply through the official career page:👉 Starbucks.com/careers
Focus on aligning with Starbucks' values, demonstrating reliability, and showing enthusiasm for customer service and growth. Records are reviewed case by case, so apply to several stores.
Does Starbucks Hire Felons in 2026?
Everything You Need to Know
Last Updated: November 2026
Recommended Companies
Companies under the same industry
Table of Contents