Having a well-paying job is necessary to have a stable life. It helps you pay for rent and utilities and also to support the needs of your family.
Most felons find it difficult to get a job after their release due to stringent background checks and due to the hesitation by employers in hiring anyone with a record.
If you have experience working in the transportation and logistics sectors then BNSF can be your next workplace but do they hire felons?
Does BNSF hire felons?
BNSF hires felons as per their company website. As long as the felony record does not directly impact the role for which you are applying, they will not make your records a big factor.
For example, they won’t hire a person for a driving job if the person has driving related offenses on their records.
Does BNSF run background checks?
BNSF runs extensive background checks on all potential employees. Their background checks include the following
Education – An applicant needs to have a high school diploma/ GED or highest level of degree from an accredited institution. BNSF will look back all educational records of the applicant.
Employment/Military History – Any or All employment history should be mentioned in the employment section of the job application. Any military experience should also be mentioned clearly. BNSF will verify employment records that are up to 5 years old.
Criminal records – An applicant must disclose full criminal record review, including misdemeanor and felony convictions at federal, county, state, and city level – includes DUI/DWI. BNSF will look back all the criminal records of the applicant without any time limits.
Driving Records – All traffic violation records must be disclosed by the applicant. BNSF will verify driving records as far as 7 years old.
Social Security Verification – BNSF verifies if the applicant is legally allowed to work in the U.S. and has all the necessary permits to stay and work inside the U.S.
Does BNSF run Drug tests?
Yes. BNSF conducts drug tests on job applicants. Applicants will be asked to provide hair specimens from the head or other body parts in enough quantity required for the test.
The drug test will check for use of certain drugs in the past 90 days and will also check for prescription drugs. The applicant must be able to provide a valid prescription from a registered medical practitioner if their drug test shows prescription drugs.
Denying to participate in the drug test will halt the hiring process and can affect your chances of getting hired.
About BNSF
BNSF is the largest freight transportation company in the U.S. They help their clients deliver goods and services across the country. They operate across 28 states in the U.S. and 3 provinces in Canada and employ more than 32,000 people.
BNSF is one of the top transporters of the products and materials that help feed, clothe, supply and power communities throughout America and the world.
BNSF moves those goods more safely and efficiently, on significantly less fuel, with fewer emissions than the all-highway alternative. They carry agricultural products, consumer products and Industrial products.
People who enjoy outdoor work and travelling will find working at BNSF enjoyable. BNSF also provides employees with benefits like health insurance, dental insurance and vision insurance.
Hiring process at BNSF
A person must be at least 18 years of age to work at BNSF. Qualifications required depends on the job roles and are posted along with the job roles.
You have to submit a job application on the BNSF career portal to get started with your hiring process. They no longer accept paper applications. You have to submit your updated resume along with the application.
Remember that application has to be made against a specific job posting or role. You can make a separate application if you want to apply for multiple job openings.
If selected for an interview, or if additional information is needed, a BNSF representative will contact you directly via email or telephone. All candidates will receive an email when their status changes.
Some tips for attending an interview
- Be punctual. Reach the venue well before time so that you get time to calm down and be mentally prepared for the interview.
- Dress appropriately for the role. Prefer formal dressing when visiting corporate offices.
- Carry all required documents and certificates.
- Be polite and respectful. Be ready to answer questions about your felony and be honest in your answers.
- Highlight any previous employment experience and community work you have undertaken.