O’ Reilly Auto Parts store is a well-known auto parts store that gives professionals and do-it-your-selfers alike access to auto parts, supplies, and specialty tools. Founded 62 years ago, O’ Reilley’s seeks to offer a hassle-free way for anyone to get the parts and equipment needed to keep their vehicle running.

It is important for people who are felons to find meaningful employment. Society benefits when felons are employed because they will be less likely to re-offend if they are trying to support themselves. Also, employment gives them a sense of belonging in the community.

About O’ Reilly Auto Parts

O’ Reilly focuses on being a one-stop-shop for all automotive care needs. They offer professionals and do-it-yourselfers aftermarket parts and equipment. The other major segment of their business is the rental of specialty tools, helping nonprofessionals fix their own vehicles without having to own every tool themselves.

O’ Reilly Automotive, Inc. as it’s officially known, founded in December 1957, in Spring Field, Missouri by Mr. Charles O’ Reilly. Mr. O’ Reilley had worked for many years previously at Link Moter Supply but left because of a disagreement with his partner there.

The year after setting out on his own the company did over $700,000 in sales and has continued to grow. Today they have over 5,200 stores in the continental United States making O’ Reilley’s the 3^rd largest auto parts chain in the country.

My research shows that the pay is slightly above the minimum wage for most employees at retail storefronts. Someone who is working in the warehouse makes more money than the in-store salespeople but requires having more knowledge of parts and products. There a few salaried positions, the highest being for the Commercial Sales Executive. Other benefits differ from store to store and is based on which segment of the company employees them and if they are full or part-time employees.

After looking at reviews written by past employees, most people seem to have a good experience with the company. A few people mention how there many entry-level positions that can teach a lot if you are driven and open to the experience. Also, there is a lot of variety that requires some level of problem-solving.

Does O’ Reilley Auto Part Hire Felons?

O’ Reilley’s website it does not say anywhere specifically that they will or will not hire felons. After doing some digging, I found a few places that help felons reintegrate back into society and learned a few things. First, O’ Reilly does not take part in the Fair Chance Business Pledge, in which the company takes an oath not to discriminate against those with a criminal record during the hiring process. Second, I reached out to O’ Reilly to ask if they hire felons and have not received a response.

At first glance, this does not seem especially encouraging, but after reading more and more it seems as this is fairly typical and it comes down to how you present yourself to the company. The only thing that would readily disqualify you would be a theft or violent crime on your record. Although it may be difficult, persistence and personality can definitely overcome the hurdle of a felony conviction.

Does O’ Reilly Auto Parts run background checks?

After looking at job postings on the company’s website it is clear that they will perform a background check. As I covered earlier, O’ Reilly does not take part in the Fair Chance Business Pledge. All applications require your permission for a background check.

O’ Reilly is not only looking at your criminal history, but verifying your identity, confirming your level of education, and looking at your driving history.

Careers At O’ Reilly Auto Parts

O’ Reilly’s offers a few different entry-level employment opportunities that allow for growth and progression. Most of the entry-level jobs at O’ Reilly’s don’t require more than a GED or high school diploma. Someone who has legal troubles as well as lacking a college degree, maybe considering them as a source of employment.

There are three major sections of the retail sector of the business: sales, delivery and the distribution warehouse.

The sales team is the face of the business. They are in charge of selling product and helping answer any questions the customer has about parts or tools. They are also responsible for renting out specialty tools.

They break delivery drivers into two groups. First, are the drivers who move specific parts between retail stores. Second, is the driver who moves numerous parts between the warehouse and the storefronts.

The warehouse handles the storage and preparation of all the parts that are meant to be dispatched daily.

Lastly, there is the corporation which includes Human Resource and IT. They oversee the inventory of every warehouse and store tracking every part as it moves.

Application Process At O’ Reilly Auto Parts

To apply at O’ Reilly’s go to https://corporate.oreillyauto.com/onlineapplication/careerpage and do one of two things. Either click on Apply Now at the top right in green and start filling out the application or use the job locator to find the specific jobs available in your area.

When they ask about criminal history, remember to fill it out truthfully. O’ Reilly’s will find through the background check. Don’t get discouraged. To stand out above the rest, make sure to relay your automotive or product knowledge, this is highly valued at O’ Reilly.

Be persistent. Call or stop by after you fill out the application, bring a resume with you and be ready to interview just in case. Make sure that your resume highlights any past automotive experience and when it comes to the interview be forthcoming about your situation.

Application Links

Company: https://www.oreillyauto.com/
Careers: https://corporate.oreillyauto.com/onlineapplication/careerpage