Quick Answer

Yes, UPS hires people with felony convictions on a case-by-case basis. With nationwide operations, Teamsters union representation providing worker protections, starting wages of $21–$23/ hour for package handlers (among the highest in logistics), excellent benefits, tuition assistance, and clear advancement paths to UPS driver positions earning $40–$45/ hour ($85,000–$95,000/year), UPS offers premium transportation employment for people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.

Table of Contents

1. Quick Answer

2. About UPS

3. UPS 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 UPS

UPS (United Parcel Service), founded in 1907, operates the world’s largest package delivery network with extensive U.S. logistics operations, sorting hubs, delivery fleets, and supply chain services. The company employs over 400,000 workers in the United States, with most warehouse employees represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

For justice-impacted job seekers, UPS provides exceptional opportunity because of:

1. Union protection that ensures fair treatment and grievance rights.

2. Industry-leading pay compared to competitors like FedEx or Amazon.

3. Full benefits for part-time employees, including healthcare and tuition assistance.

4. Clear promotion paths from package handler to delivery driver.

5. A proven track record of second-chance hiring at major hubs nationwide.

UPS’s combination of high pay, union backing, and internal promotion structure makes it one of the best long-term career options for people with past convictions who demonstrate reliability and work ethic.

UPS Hiring Policy

UPS reviews each applicant individually with input from both corporate HR and union standards.

Approach

• Case-by-case evaluation

• Teamsters union representation ensures fairness

• Seniority-based advancement system (contract-protected)

• Job-specific screening for driving or DOT-related roles

• Focus on rehabilitation and reliability

What UPS Considers

• Type and severity of conviction

• Time elapsed since conviction

• Relevance to job duties (e.g., driving roles require extra screening)

• Work history and attendance record

• Willingness to comply with safety and union standards

Available Jobs

Package Handler (Warehouse)

($21–$23/ hour)

Loads and unloads trucks, sorts packages by destination, and maintains flow in high-volume hubs. Most accessible and union-protected position.

Warehouse Worker

($21–$23/ hour)

Performs package sorting, scanning, and general warehouse logistics.

Package Delivery Driver

($40–$45/ hour, $85,000–$95,000/year)

Delivers packages in UPS trucks. Requires clean driving record and DOT compliance. Promoted internally from package handler.

Feeder Driver (CDL)

($40–$45/ hour, $90,000–$100,000+/year)

Operates tractor-trailers between regional facilities. Requires CDL license.

Personal Vehicle Driver (PVD)

($21–$25/ hour)

Seasonal role using your own car for last-mile deliveries.

Combination Driver

($40–$45/ hour)

Splits duties between warehouse and route driving.

Operations Supervisor

($60,000–$80,000/year)

Manages warehouse workflow and staff; salaried, non-union management track.

Career Path: Package Handler → Full-Time Driver → Supervisor → Manager

Background Check

• 7-year criminal history lookback

• Case-by-case evaluation for each conviction

• Union grievance protections once employed

• DOT compliance for driver positions

• Drug testing required (mandatory for DOT roles)

Application Tips

1. Start as a Package Handler. This is the easiest entry point, union-protected, and pays exceptionally well.

   
   

2. Highlight physical ability. The work is demanding—emphasize stamina and reliability.

   
   

3. Show appreciation for unions. Mention that you value union representation and worker fairness.

   
   

4. Apply during peak hiring. UPS ramps up recruiting October–December.

   
   

5. Be flexible on shifts. Overnight or twilight shifts increase your odds.

   
   

6. Apply at multiple hubs. Submit applications to 5–10 nearby UPS facilities.

   
   

7. Commit long-term. State your goal to advance into a driver role through seniority.

   
   

8. Stay honest. Transparency about your record helps—union protections ensure fair evaluation.

   
   

9. Use tuition benefits. UPS offers up to $25,000 in education assistance.

   
   

10. Prepare for physical assessment. Package handler work is fast-paced and physical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does UPS automatically reject applicants with felonies?

No. UPS uses a case-by-case review process and provides union protections for fair consideration.

How long does it take to become a UPS driver?

Usually 1–4 years depending on seniority and hub demand. Rural areas often promote faster.

Why does UPS pay more than FedEx or Amazon?

The Teamsters union negotiates superior contracts and wage scales for UPS workers.

Can I work at UPS with a DUI?

Yes, for warehouse positions. Driving roles require additional review due to DOT rules.

Does UPS drug test?

Yes, especially for driving and DOT-regulated positions. Warehouse testing varies by facility.

Are part-time employees eligible for benefits?

Yes. UPS provides healthcare and tuition reimbursement even to part-time staff.

How much do UPS drivers make?

$40–$45 per hour, or $85,000–$95,000 annually with overtime.

Does the union help employees with records?

Yes. The Teamsters union offers grievance rights and protection from unfair dismissal.

How can I increase my hiring odds?

Apply to multiple hubs, accept night shifts, and show reliability in attendance and communication.

When is the best time to apply?

October–December, during UPS’s holiday hiring surge.

Similar Companies That Hire People with Felonies

• FedEx – Major logistics competitor; case-by-case; $17–$22/hour for handlers.

• Amazon – Large-scale warehouse and delivery hiring; highly accessible.

• USPS – Federal employer; case-by-case with certain restrictions.

• XPO Logistics – Freight and transport; hires case-by-case.

Final Thoughts

UPS offers one of the strongest pathways to stable, high-paying work for people with felony convictions. With union protections, starting pay of $21–$23/hour, clear advancement to $85k–$95k/year driver positions, and nationwide opportunities, it provides both a fresh start and long-term career growth.

UPS’s structure rewards reliability, physical effort, and consistency over background—making it ideal for rebuilding your life through solid, union-supported employment.

Next Step: Apply directly at UPS.com/careers and target Package Handler openings at 5–10 facilities near you.