Does Southwest Airlines hire Felons? Are Felons Welcome?

If you have a criminal record and you’re looking for a job, you may wonder if it’s possible to get hired by an airline. Specifically, you may wonder if Southwest Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the United States, hires felons. In this article, we’ll answer the question, “Does Southwest Airlines hire felons?” and provide you with all the information you need to know about their hiring policies.

Southwest Airlines Hiring Policy for Felons:

Southwest Airlines does not have a blanket policy against hiring felons. However, they do conduct a thorough background check on all job applicants, and they reserve the right to disqualify applicants based on their criminal history.

Southwest Airlines Background Check:

As part of the hiring process, Southwest Airlines conducts a criminal background check on all job applicants. The background check includes a search of the applicant’s criminal record, employment history, and education. The airline may also conduct a credit check and a drug test.

Also Read: List of Trucking Companies that Hire Felons

What Can Disqualify You from Getting Hired at Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines may disqualify applicants from getting hired if they have a criminal record that includes any of the following:

• Violent crimes, such as murder, assault, or battery.
• Sexual offenses, such as rape or child molestation.
• Drug offenses, such as possession or trafficking.
• Theft or fraud.
• Any crime involving the use of a weapon.
• Any crime involving the endangerment of others.

Also Read: HEB Employment Policies: Does HEB Hire Felons?

Can You Still Get Hired with a Criminal Record?

Yes, you can still get hired with a criminal record. Southwest Airlines evaluates each applicant on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the nature of the offense, how much time has passed since the offense, and whether the applicant has taken steps to rehabilitate themselves.

Also Read: Does Sheetz Hire Felons? Breaking Down Sheetz’s Hiring Process

Steps to Take If You Have a Criminal Record and Want to Work for Southwest Airlines:

If you have a criminal record and want to work for Southwest Airlines, here are some steps you can take:

• Be honest about your criminal record: Don’t try to hide anything from the airline during the hiring process.
• Explain the circumstances surrounding your offense: If there were mitigating circumstances that led to your criminal record, be sure to explain them.
• Highlight any rehabilitation efforts you’ve made: If you’ve gone through drug treatment or completed a rehabilitation program, make sure to mention it.
• Get a character reference: If you have a former employer, teacher, or community leader who can vouch for your character, ask them to write a reference letter for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Does Southwest Airlines have a policy against hiring felons?

No, Southwest Airlines does not have a blanket policy against hiring felons.

What does Southwest Airlines look for in a background check?

Southwest Airlines conducts a criminal background check, employment history check, education check, credit check, and drug test.

Can you still get hired by Southwest Airlines if you have a criminal record?

Yes, Southwest Airlines evaluates each applicant on a case-by-case basis

How long does it take for Southwest Airlines to complete a background check?

The time it takes for Southwest Airlines to complete a background check may vary depending on the position you are applying for and the complexity of your background. Generally, it takes about 2-3 weeks for the airline to complete a background check.

Will Southwest Airlines automatically disqualify applicants with a criminal record?

Not necessarily. Southwest Airlines evaluates each applicant on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the nature of the offense, how much time has passed since the offense, and whether the applicant has taken steps to rehabilitate themselves.

What should I do if I have a criminal record and want to work for Southwest Airlines?

Be honest about your criminal record, explain the circumstances surrounding your offense, highlight any rehabilitation efforts you’ve made, and get a character reference.

What types of criminal offenses will disqualify me from getting hired by Southwest Airlines?

Southwest Airlines may disqualify applicants who have a criminal record that includes violent crimes, sexual offenses, drug offenses, theft or fraud, any crime involving the use of a weapon, and any crime involving the endangerment of others.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Southwest Airlines does not have a blanket policy against hiring felons. However, the airline conducts a thorough background check on all job applicants and reserves the right to disqualify applicants based on their criminal history. If you have a criminal record and want to work for Southwest Airlines, it is important, to be honest about your past, explain the circumstances surrounding your offense, highlight any rehabilitation efforts you’ve made, and get a character reference. By doing so, you may increase your chances of getting hired by Southwest Airlines or any other employer, regardless of your criminal record.