Quick Answer

Yes, Sysco Foods Denver is likely to hire individuals with felony convictions for warehouse and support positions. Sysco Corporation is the world's largest broadline food distributor, headquartered in Houston, Texas, with approximately 76,000 employees operating 340 distribution facilities worldwide serving over 730,000 customer locations. The Denver division (US0059 Sysco Denver) serves the Colorado foodservice industry from its distribution center, along with specialty operations including FreshPoint Denver and Buckhead Meat of Denver.

Employment decisions are conditional upon passing a criminal background check and drug screen after a conditional offer of employment. Sysco follows Fair Chance Hiring principles and EEOC guidelines, conducting individualized assessments rather than blanket exclusions.

The law prohibits companies from having a blanket policy excluding all felons. Instead, they must conduct an individualized assessment of the conviction to determine if it is job-related and consistent with business necessity. Colorado's Chance to Compete Act provides additional protections by delaying criminal history inquiries until after a conditional offer.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to driving safety violations (DUI within five years disqualifies CDL positions), theft, fraud, or embezzlement (high-value inventory handling responsibilities), and violent crimes (safety-sensitive warehouse operations). Recent offenses within the past 3-5 years face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Entry-level Warehouse Order Selector, Warehouse Associate, and Utility positions offer the most accessible opportunities for Second Chance applicants due to high-volume hiring needs, on-the-job training programs, and lower regulatory barriers compared to CDL driving positions.

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, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• Conditional Offer Process: Must be aware that employment offers are contingent upon successfully completing all pre-employment requirements, including criminal background check and drug screening after conditional offer.

  
  

• Colorado Ban the Box: Must understand that Sysco cannot ask about criminal history on the initial application. Criminal history inquiry occurs only after a conditional job offer is extended.

  
  

• CDL Driving Eligibility: Must NOT have a DUI conviction within the last five years for CDL positions. Other driving violations are reviewed case-by-case. Must hold valid CDL-A license for driver positions.

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Must be able to perform physically demanding work including lifting 10-75 lbs frequently (up to 100 lbs occasionally), standing/walking for extended periods, working in temperature extremes (freezer/cooler areas down to -20°F).

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass a mandatory pre-employment drug test. CDL positions require DOT drug testing including marijuana regardless of state legalization.

  
  

• Honesty is Paramount: Must be completely honest during the hiring process. Submission of inaccurate or false information is grounds for immediate denial or termination.

  
  

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

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in Colorado is essential for Second Chance applicants. Colorado's Chance to Compete Act provides strong fair chance protections by delaying criminal history inquiries until after a conditional job offer. Federal protections under the EEOC and FCRA still apply, requiring employers to conduct individualized assessments and follow adverse action procedures.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse to consider an applicant because of a criminal record. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment considering the Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of the offense;

(2) Time elapsed since the offense and/or completion of sentence; (3) Nature of the job sought and its relationship to the offense. Blanket policies excluding all felons are prohibited.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, Sysco must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

(1) Provide pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report and summary of FCRA rights;

(2) Allow reasonable time to dispute inaccuracies; (3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands after review.

State-Specific Considerations

Colorado's Chance to Compete Act (effective September 1, 2019 for employers with 11+ employees, September 1, 2021 for all employers) prohibits employers from:

(1) Stating in an advertisement that persons with criminal histories may not apply;

(2) Inquiring about criminal history on an initial job application;

(3) Requiring disclosure of criminal history on an initial application. Employers may run background checks after a conditional offer. First violation results in warning and 30-day compliance period. Second violation carries $1,000 fine. Subsequent violations carry $2,500 fine.

Food Distribution-Specific Considerations

As a foodservice distributor, Sysco must comply with food safety regulations but faces no industry-specific criminal record barriers like those in healthcare or finance. CDL driver positions are regulated by DOT/FMCSA requirements, which impose specific disqualifiers: using a commercial motor vehicle (CMV) in commission of a felony results in lifetime disqualification; DUI/DWI convictions result in 1-year minimum disqualification (3 years if hauling hazmat); leaving the scene of an accident results in 1-year minimum disqualification. The FMCSA Drug & Alcohol Clearinghouse tracks all DOT drug/alcohol violations for CDL holders.

Company Overview

Sysco Corporation is the world's largest broadline food distributor, selling, marketing, and distributing food products to restaurants, healthcare and educational facilities, lodging establishments, sports stadiums, and other venues that prepare meals away from home. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company operates 340 distribution facilities in 10 countries, serving approximately 730,000 customer locations with a fleet of over 13,000 vehicles. Sysco employs approximately 76,000 colleagues globally.

The Denver operation (US0059 Sysco Denver, Division of USA I) serves the Colorado foodservice industry along with specialty divisions including FreshPoint Denver (fresh produce), Buckhead Meat of Denver (protein products), and SYGMA Network (chain restaurant supply). Sysco has been ranked on the Fortune 500 and is recognized as a leader in the foodservice distribution industry.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1969 (Houston, Texas)

• Headquarters: Houston, Texas

• Employees: ~76,000 globally

• Industry Rank: World's largest broadline food distributor

• Operations: 340 distribution facilities in 10 countries

• Stock Symbol: NYSE: SYY

• CEO: Kevin Hourican

  
  

Business Model: Foodservice distribution to restaurants, healthcare, education, lodging, and other food-away-from-home venues

Recognition: Fortune 500; Forbes Best Employers for Diversity; recognized for Colleague Resource Groups and DEI initiatives

Hiring Policy Analysis

Sysco follows a fair chance hiring philosophy aligned with EEOC guidelines and Colorado's Chance to Compete Act. As an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, Sysco evaluates applicants with criminal records through an individualized assessment process rather than blanket exclusions. The company's EEO statement explicitly notes that qualified applicants will be considered without regard to arrest or conviction records in a manner consistent with applicable law.

The hiring process involves:

(1) Online application submission;

(2) Interview(s) with hiring manager;

(3) Conditional job offer;

(4) Background check and drug screen;

(5) Final hiring decision using individualized assessment;

(6) Onboarding and training. For warehouse positions, Sysco emphasizes that no college degree or previous warehouse experience is required, making these roles highly accessible for Second Chance applicants.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by safety risk, DOT/FMCSA regulations, access to high-value inventory, and supervisory responsibilities.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, ZipRecruiter, and current Sysco job postings. Actual compensation varies by location, shift, experience, and incentive performance.

Career Path Examples

Sysco emphasizes internal promotion and career development. The company offers tuition reimbursement, leadership development training, and on-the-job skill development. Many supervisors and managers started in entry-level warehouse positions.

Warehouse Operations Track: Warehouse Order Selector ($23-$28/hr) → Warehouse Lead ($26-$32/hr) → Warehouse Supervisor ($50K-$65K/yr) → Operations Manager ($70K-$95K/yr). Advancement requires demonstrated reliability, production performance, and leadership skills.

Driver Track: Non-DOT Driver ($20-$28/hr) → CDL-A Local Driver ($28-$40/hr) → Driver Trainer → Transportation Supervisor ($55K-$75K/yr). Requires obtaining CDL-A and maintaining clean driving record.

Maintenance Track: Utility Worker ($18-$22/hr) → Facility Technician ($22-$30/hr) → Diesel Fleet Mechanic ($25-$35/hr) → Maintenance Supervisor. Technical certifications enhance advancement opportunities.

Background Check Process

Understanding Sysco's background check process helps you prepare mentally and practically for what to expect. Due to Colorado's Chance to Compete Act, the company conducts background checks only after extending a conditional job offer, which means you'll have the opportunity to interview and demonstrate your qualifications before your criminal history is reviewed.

What They Check: Criminal history (felonies and misdemeanors) at county, state, and federal levels; identity verification through SSN trace; employment history verification; drug screening (standard panel or DOT panel for CDL positions); MVR (Motor Vehicle Record) for driver positions.

Lookback Period: Standard 7-year lookback for criminal convictions. CDL positions have specific DOT restrictions including no DUI within 5 years. Individualized assessment considers time elapsed as a mitigating factor regardless of lookback period.

Timeline: Background checks typically take 3-7 business days to complete after conditional offer. The entire hiring process from application to start date generally ranges from 1-3 weeks depending on position and background check complexity.

Process Flow: Application submitted → Interview conducted → Conditional offer extended → Background check and drug test authorization signed → Background check conducted → Results reviewed using individualized assessment → Final hiring decision made → Pre-adverse or adverse action notice if applicable → Start date confirmed.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: DUI within past 5 years (CDL positions); using commercial vehicle in commission of felony (lifetime CDL disqualification); recent theft, fraud, or embezzlement (inventory handling concerns); violent felonies (workplace safety); drug trafficking or distribution; leaving scene of accident (driving positions).

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent offenses older than 7 years; drug possession (non-distribution) with demonstrated recovery; offenses unrelated to job duties; completed probation with no new arrests. All subject to individualized assessment considering rehabilitation evidence.

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, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and a summary of your rights, with reasonable time to respond.

  
  

• EEOC Protection: You have the right to an individualized assessment. Blanket exclusions based solely on criminal record are prohibited.

  
  

• Colorado Chance to Compete: You cannot be asked about criminal history on initial application or until after conditional offer. File complaints with Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.

Application Strategy

1. Target Entry-Level Warehouse Positions: Focus on Warehouse Order Selector, Warehouse Associate, and Utility positions which have the highest volume hiring, paid training, and lowest barriers. Avoid CDL driver positions initially if your record includes DUI or vehicular offenses within the past 5 years.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through careers.sysco.com or the Workday application portal. Sysco warns against fake job postings never pay fees for applications. Check for job fairs and hiring events in the Denver area.

   
   

3. Prepare for the Interview: Be ready to discuss your work ethic, reliability, physical capability, and ability to work in temperature extremes (freezer/cooler). Research the company beforehand. Emphasize stability, commitment, and willingness to work various shifts.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest: Never lie about your criminal history when asked (after conditional offer). Sysco views inaccurate information as grounds for immediate denial or termination. Wait until the appropriate stage to discuss your record.

   
   

5. 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, personal growth, and stability. Keep it concise (30-60 seconds).

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of positive changes since your conviction: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, vocational training, stable housing, employment history, and references from employers, probation officers, or community members.

   
   

7. Check Record Sealing Eligibility: Colorado allows sealing of certain criminal records. Contact Colorado Legal Services or a criminal defense attorney to assess eligibility. Sealed records cannot be reported on background checks and need not be disclosed.

   
   

8. Follow Up Professionally: After applying, follow up with HR if you don't hear back within 1-2 weeks. If you receive a pre-adverse action notice, respond promptly with rehabilitation documentation. Persistence and professionalism show qualities employers value.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. High-Volume Hiring Creates Opportunities: Sysco operates 340 distribution facilities with 76,000 employees and constant hiring needs. The foodservice industry has significant turnover in warehouse roles. Don't be discouraged by individual rejections—keep applying.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level, Advance Within: Many successful careers at Sysco begin in Warehouse Order Selector positions. Prove reliability by showing up on time, meeting production goals, and being a team player. Sysco promotes from within and offers leadership development training.

   
   

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

   
   

4. Industry-Specific Preparation: Warehouse work is physically demanding—prepare by building stamina. You'll work in temperature extremes (freezer areas down to -20°F). Demonstrate understanding of food safety and workplace safety. OSHA certifications or forklift experience are valuable.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: If you have substance issues, address them before applying. Sysco requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions. CDL positions require DOT drug testing which includes marijuana regardless of state legalization. Failed tests are automatic disqualifiers.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation, and any consistent work history—even informal work shows you can be counted on. Sysco especially values attendance and production performance.

   
   

7. Network Through Current Employees: Sysco offers employee referral bonuses. Networking with current Sysco employees can significantly improve your chances. Connect through LinkedIn or local workforce development programs.

   
   

8. Be Flexible on Shifts: Willingness to work nights, weekends, and overtime increases your chances significantly. Many warehouse positions are night shifts (start times 6:00 PM or later) with four 10-hour shifts. Flexibility on scheduling significantly increases hiring chances.

Benefits Overview

Sysco offers a comprehensive benefits package that employees consistently rate highly. Benefits are available to full-time colleagues after meeting eligibility requirements.

Compensation: Entry-level warehouse positions start at $23-$28/hr with incentive pay that can push annual earnings to $75,000-$80,000. CDL drivers average $74,000-$90,000/yr. Regular overtime available (most drivers work full 70 DOT hours). Annual raises based on performance.

401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) plan with automatic 3% company contribution even if you don't contribute. Company matches 50% for up to 6% of your contribution. Automatic enrollment at 3% contribution rate after 60 days. Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP) at 15% discount.

Health Benefits: Four medical plan options including PPO and HMO. HSA plan with Sysco contribution ($250 individual/$500 family). Dental and vision coverage. Free preventive generic medications in certain categories. Free diabetic medications and supplies. On-demand telehealth. Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Time Off: Paid vacation starting at 1 week after first year, increasing to 4-5 weeks with tenure. Paid sick days. Paid holidays. Floating holidays. Vacation rollover up to 40 hours. Parental leave available.

Additional Benefits: Life insurance and AD&D. Short-term and long-term disability. Identity theft protection. Legal services plan. Employee discounts. Dependent scholarships. Child and elder care discounts.

Education Benefits: Tuition reimbursement program. On-the-job training for warehouse positions. Leadership development training. Career growth opportunities. Sysco promotes from within.

Employee Perspectives

Pros: Excellent 401(k) match and automatic contribution; good health insurance options; industry-leading pay for warehouse work; production-based incentives can significantly boost earnings; strong benefits package; career advancement opportunities; job security with large company.

Employee Perspectives - Cons: Physically demanding work; long hours (10-12 hour shifts common); temperature extremes in freezer/cooler; high production standards and pressure; work-life balance can be challenging; management quality varies by location; early morning or overnight shifts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Sysco Foods Denver hire people with felonies?

   Yes, Sysco Foods Denver does hire people with felony convictions, evaluated on a case-by-case basis. As an EEO employer complying with Colorado's Chance to Compete Act and EEOC guidelines, Sysco conducts individualized assessments rather than blanket exclusions. Best opportunities are in Warehouse Order Selector and general warehouse positions. Non-violent offenses, older convictions (7+ years), and demonstrated rehabilitation improve chances significantly. CDL positions face stricter DOT/FMCSA regulations including no DUI within 5 years.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Sysco Foods Denver?

   Sysco conducts background checks after extending a conditional job offer, in compliance with Colorado's Chance to Compete Act. The process includes: criminal history check (county, state, federal), identity verification via SSN trace, employment verification, and drug screening. CDL positions additionally require MVR check and DOT drug testing. You must provide written consent before the check begins. If adverse information is found, FCRA procedures apply—you'll receive a pre-adverse action notice with the report and your rights, allowing time to dispute inaccuracies before a final decision.

   
   

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

   Criminal background checks typically look back 7 years for convictions. However, individualized assessment considers time elapsed as a mitigating factor regardless of the lookback period. CDL positions have specific DOT restrictions: DUI convictions within 5 years are disqualifying; using a CMV in commission of a felony results in lifetime disqualification. Older offenses with demonstrated rehabilitation are viewed more favorably during individualized assessment.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Sysco Foods Denver?

   The most challenging convictions include: (1) DUI/DWI within past 5 years (disqualifying for CDL positions); (2) Using commercial vehicle in commission of felony (lifetime CDL ban); (3) Theft, fraud, or embezzlement (inventory handling concerns); (4) Violent felonies (workplace safety); (5) Drug trafficking or distribution. Recent convictions (within 3-5 years) face the highest scrutiny regardless of type. Dishonesty during the application process is an automatic disqualifier.

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Sysco Foods Denver for applicants with a record?

   The best entry-level positions for applicants with records are: Warehouse Order Selector ($23-$28/hr + incentives, up to $80K/yr)—no prior experience required, paid training, high-volume hiring; Warehouse Associate ($20-$26/hr)—general warehouse duties; Utility Worker ($18-$22/hr)—facility support. These positions don't require CDL or extensive background clearance. Night and part-time shifts may have additional opportunities.

   
   

6. Does Sysco Foods Denver drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, Sysco requires pre-employment drug testing for all positions. Standard positions use a standard drug panel. CDL positions require DOT drug testing which includes marijuana regardless of Colorado's legalization—federal DOT regulations apply. Testing typically occurs within a few days of accepting a conditional offer. Failed drug tests are automatic disqualifiers with no opportunity for retest. Random, post-accident, and reasonable suspicion testing may occur during employment.

   
   

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

   Under Colorado's Chance to Compete Act, Sysco cannot ask about criminal history on the initial job application or until after a conditional job offer is extended. This gives you the opportunity to interview and demonstrate your qualifications before your background is reviewed. Never volunteer criminal history information before asked. When asked (after conditional offer), be completely honest—dishonesty is grounds for immediate denial or termination.

   
   

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

   Yes, advancement to management is possible with a felony conviction, though it involves increased scrutiny. Many Sysco supervisors and managers started in entry-level warehouse positions and advanced through demonstrated reliability, leadership skills, and strong production performance. The company offers leadership development training and promotes from within. However, management roles with financial or supervisory oversight face stricter requirements. Build a strong track record of reliability (2-3 years), pursue relevant certifications, and develop relationships with supervisors who can advocate for your advancement.

   
   

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

   Background checks typically take 3-7 business days after you sign the authorization form. The entire hiring process from application to start date generally ranges from 1-3 weeks. Factors affecting timeline include: position type (CDL roles take longer due to DOT verification), volume of applications, and complexity of your background check (multiple states/counties take longer). If you have a complicated history, proactively gathering documentation can help avoid delays.

   
   

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

    Key strategies to improve hiring chances: (1) Target entry-level warehouse positions rather than CDL driver roles initially; (2) Apply during high-volume hiring periods; (3) Be completely honest—dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier; (4) Prepare a brief, professional narrative about rehabilitation; (5) Gather documentation (certificates, references, treatment completion); (6) Check record sealing eligibility in Colorado; (7) Pass the drug test—address any substance issues beforehand; (8) Show flexibility on shifts (nights, weekends, overtime); (9) Network with current Sysco employees for referrals; (10) Follow up professionally after applying.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Sysco Foods Denver doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in food distribution and related industries:

Conclusion

Sysco Foods Denver offers genuine opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in entry-level Warehouse Order Selector and general warehouse positions. As the world's largest foodservice distributor with 76,000 employees and constant hiring needs across 340 distribution facilities, the organization provides a realistic pathway to stable employment with excellent benefits. Warehouse support roles offer strong pay and advancement potential, with many positions offering up to $75,000-$80,000 annually including incentives.

The work is physically demanding—you'll lift heavy products, work on your feet for 10-12 hour shifts, and operate in temperature extremes including freezer areas. However, the compensation is competitive, starting at $23-$28/hr for entry-level warehouse positions with incentive bonuses. The benefits package includes 401(k) with automatic 3% company contribution plus 50% match, comprehensive health insurance with HSA options, paid time off, and tuition reimbursement. Career advancement is achievable—Sysco promotes from within and offers leadership development training.

Key Success Factors: Target entry-level warehouse positions initially. Be completely honest about your record. Prepare a brief narrative about rehabilitation. Pass the drug test—address any substance issues beforehand. Demonstrate reliability through consistent attendance and production performance. Be flexible on shifts (nights and weekends). Take advantage of Sysco's training programs and internal advancement opportunities.

Biggest Barriers: DUI within 5 years (CDL positions), theft/fraud, violent felonies, and drug trafficking create the greatest challenges due to DOT regulations and inventory handling responsibilities. CDL driver positions face the highest barriers. However, Colorado's Chance to Compete Act provides strong fair chance protections, and individualized assessment means your specific circumstances matter.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and individual circumstances. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including company websites, job postings, employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed), and salary databases (PayScale, ZipRecruiter), employment information and company policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Sysco Foods Denver.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Background check laws, expungement procedures, and fair chance hiring requirements vary by state and should be confirmed with legal professionals. CDL positions involve additional federal DOT/FMCSA regulations that create specific barriers for certain convictions. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://careers.sysco.com