Quick Answer

Yes, Starbucks hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With over 16,000 stores across the U.S., starting pay of ($15–$19/ hour), comprehensive benefits for part-time employees, free college tuition through Arizona State University, stock options (Bean Stock), and advancement to store manager roles earning $55,000–$80,000+ per year, Starbucks is one of the most progressive large employers offering genuine second-chance opportunities.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About Starbucks

3. Starbucks Hiring Policy

4. Available Jobs

5. Background Check

6. Application Tips

7. Frequently Asked Questions

8. Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

9. Final Thoughts

About Starbucks

Starbucks, founded in 1971 in Seattle, operates more than 16,000 company-owned stores in the United States, employing over 200,000 people nationwide.

Known for premium coffee, ethical sourcing, and a strong culture of inclusion, Starbucks has publicly pledged to support Fair Chance Hiring—meaning individuals with criminal records are considered for employment based on individual circumstances.

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.

The company’s partnership with Arizona State University offers employees the chance to earn a free 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)

• Public commitment to hiring people with criminal records

• Follows Ban-the-Box and Fair Chance guidelines

• 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

Starbucks has publicly stated it believes in removing 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. Starbucks promotes many store managers internally from hourly positions.

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 7-year criminal history check but evaluates each case individually. 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

Starbucks does not typically drug test for barista positions, which makes it more accessible than other employers in food service. Management roles may require screening.

Application Tips

1. Apply to 10–15 stores. Each store hires independently; multiple applications increase your chances.

   
   

2. Emphasize Starbucks values. Express alignment with warmth, belonging, and community.

   
   

3. Show customer service passion. Mention creating memorable experiences for guests.

   
   

4. Target part-time roles first. Working 20+ hours qualifies for full benefits and tuition coverage.

   
   

5. Highlight second-chance awareness. Acknowledge Starbucks’ Fair Chance commitment positively.

   
   

6. Be honest if asked. Provide a short, forward-looking answer about your record.

   
   

7. Show long-term interest. Mention growth goals like leadership or completing a degree.

   
   

8. Demonstrate reliability. Consistent availability and punctuality are highly valued.

   
   

9. Mention early-morning availability. Opening shifts (4–5 a.m.) often have hiring needs.

   
   

10. Follow up respectfully. After one week, call or visit to express continued interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Starbucks hire people with felonies?

Yes. Starbucks follows Fair Chance Hiring and evaluates each applicant individually. Many partners (employees) have records.

Does Starbucks offer free college?

Yes. Starbucks covers 100% tuition for bachelor’s degrees through Arizona State University Online for employees working 20+ hours per week.

Do part-time employees get benefits?

Yes. Starbucks provides medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, 401(k) matching, stock grants, and tuition assistance for part-time workers.

Does Starbucks drug test?

Typically no for barista positions. Some management roles may require testing.

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?

Yes. Many Starbucks managers and district leaders started as baristas with prior convictions.

Is Starbucks more accessible than Dunkin’?

Generally yes—Starbucks’ corporate Fair Chance policy applies consistently, while Dunkin’ stores vary by franchise owner.

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; second-chance hiring initiative.

• 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—offering Fair Chance Hiring, competitive pay ($15–$19/ hour), and industry-leading benefits even for part-time partners.

The combination of free college education, stock ownership, inclusive culture, and nationwide accessibility 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—because Starbucks truly believes in second chances.