Quick Answer

Yes, Tim Hortons hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With over 600 locations in the United States (primarily in the Northeast and border states) and more than 4,000 in Canada, Tim Hortons offers starting pay of ($12–$16/ hour).

As a franchise-owned Canadian coffee and donut chain, hiring decisions are made by individual franchise owners, similar to Dunkin’.

The company provides accessible quick-service coffee employment and advancement opportunities for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

About Tim Hortons

Founded in 1964 in Hamilton, Ontario, Tim Hortons is Canada’s largest coffee and bakery chain, with over 4,600 total locations across North America. In the United States, the company operates more than 600 stores concentrated in New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, and other border states.

Known for its signature coffee, donuts, Timbits, and breakfast sandwiches, Tim Hortons employs thousands of people through its franchise-based structure.

For individuals with a criminal record, the decentralized ownership model provides flexibility—each franchise owner makes hiring decisions independently. This means applicants have a stronger chance of success by applying to multiple stores.

Tim Hortons Hiring Policy

Tim Hortons follows a franchise-based hiring approach, where each store owner makes their own decisions regarding applicants with criminal records.

Approach:

• Franchise-owned system; each owner decides individually

• Case-by-case evaluation

• Canadian parent company culture with local discretion

• Some franchisees known for fair-chance hiring

• Accessibility similar to Dunkin’

What Franchise Owners Consider:

• Current staffing needs

• Nature and date of conviction

• Reliability and work history

• Availability for flexible shifts

• Personal interaction and professionalism

Because franchisees have different policies, applying to 10–15 locations greatly improves your odds of finding an owner open to second-chance hiring.

Available Jobs

Team Member

($12–$16/ hour)

Prepares coffee, serves guests, and assists with cash handling and food preparation. Entry-level and most accessible role.

Shift Supervisor

($14–$18/ hour)

Leads team members, manages shift duties, and ensures smooth store operations.

Assistant Manager

($15–$20/ hour)

Supports store manager with staffing, training, and store goals.

Restaurant Manager

($18–$26/ hour)

Oversees all daily operations, including scheduling, inventory, and performance.

Career Path: Team Member → Shift Supervisor → Assistant Manager → Restaurant Manager

Background Check

Background screening policies vary by franchise owner. Some perform standard checks, while others focus on interviews and references.

• Typically a 7-year criminal history lookback

• Case-by-case evaluation

• Decision depends on franchise owner

• Drug testing may vary by location

Application Tips

1. Apply to 10–15 stores. Different franchise owners have different policies.

   
   

2. Focus on Northeast states. U.S. locations are concentrated in NY, PA, OH, and MI.

   
   

3. Show reliability. Franchise owners prioritize punctual, dependable workers.

   
   

4. Be flexible. Early morning and weekend availability improves chances.

   
   

5. Highlight customer service skills. Quick, friendly service is key.

   
   

6. Apply in person. Meeting a manager or owner can make a strong impression.

   
   

7. Mention Canadian heritage. A simple nod to the brand’s values can help.

   
   

8. Dress neatly. A professional first impression builds trust.

   
   

9. Be honest. Transparency about your record shows accountability.

   
   

10. Follow up politely. Calling back after a week shows initiative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Tim Hortons automatically reject applicants with felonies?

No. Hiring decisions depend on the franchise owner, and many evaluate applicants case-by-case.

Where are U.S. Tim Hortons locations?

Primarily in the Northeast and border states, including New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

Is Tim Hortons similar to Dunkin’?

Yes. Both are franchise-owned quick-service coffee and donut chains with comparable accessibility.

How much does Tim Hortons pay?

Starting pay ranges from ($12–$16/ hour) for Team Members, depending on state and location.

Can I work on probation or parole?

Yes, if the franchise owner agrees and you meet scheduling or supervision conditions.

Do all franchisees run background checks?

Not all. Some conduct full checks, while others prioritize interviews and reliability.

Is there room for advancement?

Yes. Dedicated employees can move up to supervisor and management roles.

Do franchise owners drug test?

Policies vary. Some require testing before or after hiring, while others don’t.

What’s the work environment like?

Fast-paced, friendly, and customer service focused — similar to Dunkin’ or McDonald’s.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• Dunkin’ – 9,000+ U.S. stores; franchise-owned; similar flexibility and hiring structure.

• Starbucks – 16,000+ stores; corporate-owned with higher pay and benefits.

• Local Coffee Shops – Independent cafés often hire case-by-case.

Final Thoughts

Tim Hortons provides a fair-chance employment option for individuals with criminal backgrounds, especially in Northeast and border states. With over 600 U.S. stores and a franchise-based hiring system, applicants can improve their odds by applying to multiple locations.

Key Points:

• Franchise-owned = individual owner decisions

• 600+ U.S. locations (mainly Northeast)

• Apply to 10–15 stores for best results

• Starting pay ($12–$16/ hour)

• Accessible quick-service jobs similar to Dunkin’

  
  

For current openings and applications, visit TimHortons.com/careers.