Waste Management

Finding a job when you have a criminal background can be difficult, especially if you have felony convictions.

However, there are plenty of organizations that are willing to give felons a second chance, including Waste Management.

So, does Waste Management hire felons?

Does Waste Management Hire Felons?

Although there’s no official statement on the Waste Management website, reports by current and previous employees indicate they hire convicted felons.

However, hiring is on a case-by-case basis rather than it being one of the consistently felony friendly jobs.

Certain charges might make it more difficult for you to get hired than others, particularly those that involve violent crimes.

This article lays out everything you need to know about applying for a job at Waste Management and how to better your chances of getting hired.

Has Waste Management Always Hired Felons?

There has never been a point where Waste Management has outright refused to hire felons.

However, whether you get a position will likely depend on the type of crime you committed.

Does Waste Management Hire You If You Have a Misdemeanor?

Misdemeanor crimes tend to be more petty in nature, but they’re still crimes.

Therefore, although a misdemeanor might show up on a background check, Waste Management will likely treat it the same way they treat felons, which is on a case-by-case basis.

Does Waste Management Have Special Programs for Felons?

Although some companies have special programs that help get felons back on their feet, Waste Management isn’t one of them.

However, since Waste Management will consider hiring felons, you should still apply for an open position.

That said, something to look into is its programs for college graduates.

If you completed your college degree before you went to prison or during your time there, you might be eligible for one of Waste Management’s management or leadership programs.

Is Waste Management on the Ban the Box List?

Ban the Box is a campaign that supports eliminating questions regarding criminal history on job applications.

Many states, cities, and companies have pledged to remove these types of questions from interviews or applications.

As of May 2022, Waste Management hasn’t joined the Ban the Box list.

Nor have they taken the Fair Chance Business Pledge.

Yet, that doesn’t mean they’re opposed to hiring felons.

Does Waste Management Background Check?

Much like other organizations, Waste Management will perform a criminal background check on all new employees.

These criminal record checks could affect whether you get hired in some cases, especially if the employment opportunity is not one of the felony friendly jobs.

However, certain parts of the United States, including California, Maryland, and New York, won’t show any felony conviction that’s more than seven years old.

Does Waste Management Drug Test?

When Waste Management performs your background check, they might also require a drug test.

This is a pretty standard procedure for many organizations, both government and private.

Nevertheless, they won’t always require new hires to take a drug test.

It’s largely dependent on the type of position you’ve applied for.

Does Waste Management Interview Applicants?

After applying for a job, the Waste Management team will review your application and resume.

Then, if they think you’re a good fit, they’ll schedule an interview.

When a team member schedules your interview, you’ll get a phone, virtual, or in-person interview.

The process is quite relaxed and is simply an option for management to get to know you.

Types of Convictions That Make It Hard To Get Hired at Waste Management

Not all felonies are created equal, which means certain convictions might make it challenging to get a job with Waste Management, even for qualified applicants.

In some cases, you might be able to get a job with a felony conviction.

Still, the positions you’re eligible for will be limited.

For example, murder, assault, or domestic violence charges tend to make it harder for job seekers.

In addition, any convictions that involve money, such as laundering or bank robbery, might make offenders ineligible for positions where you’d handle financial information or currency.

Does Waste Management Hire Felons With Burglary Charges?

Nothing indicates Waste Management won’t hire a person with a burglary conviction.

However, a prospective employer might limit what types of jobs you can do for Waste Management.

Since burglary, along with many felonies, is often considered a crime of “moral turpitude,” offenders might not be eligible for positions that are associated with a lot of trust or responsibility.

Does Waste Management Hire Felons With Theft Charges?

Theft charges can vary quite a bit depending on how much you stole, who you stole from, and the circumstances surrounding the crime.

So, when it comes to hiring, Waste Management will likely dig into your theft charge a bit more before deciding whether you’re a good fit for the job.

However, like burglary, a felony theft charge might limit what jobs you can do.

You’re unlikely to get a job handling money or anything of value right away.

However, over time, you might be able to prove yourself as capable and trustworthy for other positions.

What Matters Most When Applying at Waste Management?

As with any job opportunity, there are certain things employers will look for in a potential employee.

Experience, honesty, and a good work ethic are all things that will get you hired.

At Waste Management, things are no different.

However, as a felon, you might need to go the extra mile to ensure your qualifications and skills outshine your checkered past.

Jobs at Waste Management That Felons Should Apply For

No matter what company you apply to, specific jobs will likely be out of reach as a felon, at least at first.

But Waste Management has plenty of entry-level or low-responsibility jobs you can apply for to start out.

Although they might not be the most glamorous, an entry-level job could get your foot in the door to a higher-ranking and higher-paying position.

Trash collector is likely the most accessible job to apply for and get as a convicted felon.

It doesn’t require much experience, skill, or responsibility.

And as a low-level position, it’s a great place to start if you think you’d like to move up the ranks.

Another position worth considering is diesel or fleet mechanic or diesel technician.

Since Waste Management’s trucks and equipment are the heart of its operation, the company is always looking for skilled mechanics.

If you have experience in automotive repair, a diesel mechanic position is a good choice.

If you have or are eligible for your commercial driver’s license, you could apply for a job as a truck driver with Waste Management.

It’s a relatively straightforward job and can give you good experience if you think you might like to start a career in trucking. Waste Management has a few different driving positions, including:

• Roll-off driver
• Route driver
• Commercial driver

Average Salary for Felons at Waste Management

The average salary for a felon working for Waste Management varies depending on your position.

Here are a few salary estimates:

• Diesel mechanic: $74,151
• Diesel technician: $80,000
• Fleet mechanic: $46,436
• Trash collector: $24.75 per hour
• Roll-off driver: $60,266
• Commercial driver: $49,334
• Route driver: $54,900

Each of these salaries is an estimate and will vary based on your location.

Still, these figures should give you a good idea of what to expect when you apply to work for Waste Management.

Tips for Getting Hired at Waste Management With a Felony Record

Landing a job with Waste Management requires skill, references, and good work history.

However, you can do a few other things to help better your chances of getting hired.

First, clean up your resume to highlight your best skills and experiences.

Then, consider contacting a resume coach to help you word your prior experience and job descriptions in a way that stands out from other applicants.

Many jobs at Waste Management involve driving a truck.

Therefore, if you have your commercial driver’s license or skill with a car, you’ll be far more marketable as an applicant.

Finally, develop your skill set as much as you can before you apply.

If you’re still incarcerated and are considering applying for a position after your release, find out if there are any career development programs you can participate in.

These programs are an excellent way to add to your skillset before release.

What Is the Best Time to Apply at Waste Management?

If you just got out of prison and need to find a job, the sooner you apply, the better.

The average hiring process at Waste Management can take a few weeks, so applying for a job as soon as you’re out is best to take advantage of any career opportunities.

If possible, keep an eye on job listings before your release and work on your resume.

This way, you won’t waste time looking for jobs.

Instead, you’ll be ready to apply and interview right away.

Final Thoughts

Does Waste Management hire felons?

Yes, in many instances, it does.

Of course, finding a job after a felony conviction might seem like an impossible task at first.

However, don’t lose heart.

Ultimately, your past work experience and skill set could help you find a great job at a company like Waste Management.

So, don’t put it off.

Head over to their website today and find an opening.