Last Updated: 02/24/2026
If you have a felony on your record and are thinking about applying to Pepsi, this guide gives you direct, realistic answers — not recycled HR language or false guarantees.
We focus on how hiring actually works in distribution, warehouse, and driver roles.
Quick Answer
Yes — Pepsi absolutely does hire felons, especially for warehouse and production roles.
However:
- Hiring decisions are typically handled through corporate HR systems.
- Background checks are standard.
- CDL driver positions are stricter (more on truck driving with a felony).
- Recent violent felonies may reduce approval chances but do not completely lock you out.
Pepsi operates through regional bottling and distribution facilities across the United States. Many jobs are warehouse-based and physically demanding which can create opportunity for second-chance applicants.
Getting hired is not guaranteed, but it is possible depending on your conviction type and how much time has passed.
Pepsi Felon-Friendly Score™
41 / 50 — A solid, high score.
Pepsi offers real opportunities in certain roles but uses structured corporate screening, which lowers flexibility compared to franchise-based employers.
| Category | Score | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Industry Type (Manufacturing/Distribution) | 8/10 | High demand for labor in warehouse roles. |
| Corporate Structure | 7/10 | Centralized HR and standardized screening is more lenient than most large corporations. |
| Background Check Strictness | 6/10 | Background checks are common. |
| Second Chance Practicality | 10/10 | Long-term career paths exist once hired. |
How Pepsi Hiring Actually Works
Pepsi jobs typically fall under:
- Warehouse / Order Selector
- Production / Bottling Plant
- Merchandiser
- Delivery Driver (CDL or non-CDL)
- Maintenance Technician
Unlike franchises and small business, Pepsi’s hiring process is usually corporate controlled and structured. All applicants have to get a background check and pass a drug test. Expect and prepare for formal screening.
Does Pepsi Run Background Checks?
Yes. Background checks are standard for all positions at PepsiCo.
Most locations conduct:
- Criminal background check
- Employment verification
- Drug screening
- Motor Vehicle Record (for driving roles)
The review usually considers:
- Type of offense
- Time since conviction
- Job relevance
- Pattern of offenses
What Positions Are More Felon-Friendly at Pepsi?
It is important to apply for the right positions.
More Flexible Positions
- Warehouse Associate
- Order Selector
- Forklift Operator
- Production Line Worker
- Sanitation Crew
These roles are labor-focused and less sensitive than driving or financial positions.
More Restricted Positions
- CDL Delivery Driver
- Route Sales Representative
- Positions involving cash handling
- Management roles
Driving-related felonies (especially DUI) can create barriers for driver positions. Go figure.
Can You Be a Pepsi Delivery Driver With a Felony?
This is one of the most important distinctions.
Likely Barriers
- DUI within the past 3–5 years
- Suspended or revoked license
- Reckless driving history
- Multiple traffic violations
Possible Approval
- Non-driving felony from several years ago
- Clean driving record since conviction
- Valid CDL and endorsements
Driver positions are reviewed more strictly than warehouse jobs. If driving is your goal long-term, consider starting in warehouse and building trust.
Real-World Strategy to Get Hired at Pepsi With a Felony
Pepsi is corporate. That means:
- Applications are online.
- Interviews are structured.
- Background checks are expected.
Here’s what helps:
- Apply to warehouse roles first
- Highlight physical work experience
- Show schedule flexibility
- Keep explanation of conviction brief if asked about your record.
Example:
“I made a mistake several years ago, took responsibility, and have worked consistently since then. I’m focused on stability and long-term employment.”
Corporate environments respect accountability and consistency.
What Pepsi Hiring Managers Actually Care About
Warehouse and distribution managers care about a few things.
- Showing up consistently
- Physical endurance
- Safety awareness
- Following procedures
- Staying long-term
Turnover in distribution can be high due to physical demands. Reliability is extremely valuable. Make sure you highlight the above attributes during your interview.
Green Flags vs Red Flags
Green Flags
- Steady work history
- No recent convictions
- Clean driving record (if applicable)
- Safety-conscious mindset
- Willingness to work early mornings or nights
Red Flags
- DUI for driver roles
- Unstable employment history
- Open legal issues
Pepsi Hiring Readiness Checklist
☐ My conviction is non-violent
☐ It is more than 2–3 years old
☐ I have steady work history
☐ I can pass a drug test
☐ I have clean driving record (if applying to driver role)
☐ I can work early mornings or weekends
Score Meaning
5–6 checks: Strong chance (warehouse roles)
3–4 checks: Moderate chance
0–2 checks: More challenging but not impossible
What If You Fail the Background Check?
- Request a copy of the report.
- Verify accuracy.
- Dispute errors.
- Apply for less sensitive roles.
- Consider smaller regional distributors.
Sometimes smaller bottling companies have slightly more flexibility than large national facilities.
State Law Considerations
Some states laws affect how background checks are done on prospective employees. They often affect the following:
- Limit background check lookback periods.
- Have Ban-the-Box protections.
- Regulate CDL eligibility differently.
Know your state’s background check laws before assuming disqualification.
Pepsi Pay Scale (Typical Ranges)
| Position | Pay |
|---|---|
| Warehouse Associate | $18 – $24/hour |
| Order Selector | $19 – $25/hour |
| Merchandiser | $18 – $23/hour |
| CDL Driver | $50,000 – $75,000/year |
| Maintenance Tech | $25 – $35/hour |
(Pay varies by region and union agreements.)
Promotion Potential
Pepsi is a large employer with real upward mobility. You can defiantly move up through the ranks if you put your time in.
Warehouse → Lead → Supervisor → Manager
CDL → Route Sales → Management
Unlike fast food, Pepsi can become a long-term career if you gain trust and seniority.
How Pepsi Compares to Other Employers
| Employer | Felon-Friendly Level |
|---|---|
| Pepsi | Moderate-High |
| Coca-Cola | Moderate |
| Walmart | Moderate |
| Amazon (Warehouse) | Moderate-High |
| Fast Food Chains | High |
Reality Check
It is harder to get a job with a felony at Pepsi than say, Subway or Taco Bell. The upside to Pepsi is the following:
- Higher pay
- Good Benefits
- Long term career options
In exchange for
- More screening
- Stricter rules and policy
If your conviction is older, not very serious and you have some work history, Pepsi can be a realistic second-chance employer — especially in warehouse roles.
PepsiCo FAQ
Yes, Pepsi may hire felons for warehouse and order selector roles, especially if the conviction is older or non-violent. These positions are typically more flexible than driving or management roles. Expect a background check and drug screening as part of the hiring process.
Yes. Pepsi typically conducts criminal background checks for warehouse, production, and driver roles. The company generally reviews the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether it relates to the job responsibilities.
This depends on state law and the background screening provider used in your region. Many states allow a 7-year lookback for certain reporting categories, but serious felonies may still appear beyond that timeframe. Always verify your state’s reporting limits. Every situation is different.
It depends on the particular job. For CDL or delivery driver positions, recent DUIs (within 3–5 years) may disqualify you.
For warehouse or production roles, a DUI may is less relevant, especially if your driving record has been clean since.
Pepsi facilities typically require pre-employment drug screening but do not put much weight on drug related convictions.
Even though many online sources report that they do they actually do NOT. Pepsi does not publicly advertise a formal “second chance” hiring program. However, individual facilities evaluate applicants based on total work history and time since conviction rather than automatically rejecting all felons. In simple terms they think like second chance employer but don’t advertise it.
Warehouse Associate, Order Selector, and Production Line roles are generally the most realistic starting points. These roles focus on physical labor and reliability rather than driving credentials or financial responsibility.
Related Employer Guides
You may also want to review:
- Does Coca-Cola Hire Felons?
- Does Amazon Hire Felons?
- Does Walmart Hire Felons?
- Does Wendy’s Hire Felons?
- Does Pizza Hut Hire Felons?
Disclaimer
HelpForFelons.org is not affiliated with Pepsi or any bottling or distribution facility. Hiring policies vary by region and may change at any time. This guide is for educational purposes only and does not guarantee employment.