Does Costco Drug Test 2022
Wondering if Costco drug tests for employment?
Because so many people apply to work at Costco every year, the question is very popular. Like other large retailers, such as Walmart, Home Depot, and Lowe's, you will have to go through drug testing if you decide to apply for a job at Costco.
Of course, understanding the when and how of Costco drug testing can help you win and maintain employment.
Come with us as we explore what to expect during your Costco drug testing experience.
The 4 Types of Drug Tests At Costco
#1 Pre-Employment Testing
One of the most popular forms of drug testing is pre-employment testing.
The company will only hire applicants who pass this drug test.
Costco has a very strict no-drug policy and does not hire applicants if they test positive for certain illegal substances, even if that potential employee excelled during the interview process.
If you want to land a job at Costco, it is best to abstain from using drugs for at least two weeks before submitting your application.
With this amount of time, you should get a guaranteed pass.
#2 Random Testing
As with many companies, Costco has the right to perform random drug testing on any Costco employee throughout their time of employment, thanks to the company's strict no-drug policy. However, the random drug tests aren't typical for Costco employees unless that employee had a work-related accident or is up for a promotion.
#3 Suspicion Testing
If you show up to work and your manager or supervisor suspects you're high, you could have to go through a mandatory drug test to prove otherwise. A manager can deduce whether or not an employee is on drugs with direct observation of behavior while using company equipment or conducting business.
#4 Post-Accident Testing
Suppose you are involved in an accident in the workplace. In that case, you may be subject to a drug test, regardless of if your manager or supervisor believes you were intoxicated during the time of the accident. Failing to pass this drug test could result in losing your job.
FAQ
Does Costco drug test stockers?
Yes. Regardless of the position you apply for at Costco, you will have to adhere to the saliva test. This testing will be done on prospective stockers.
Does Costco drug test cashiers?
Yes. The company tests cashiers, as well as any other applicants seeking employment. Therefore, it does not matter if you are a cashier, stocker, or forklift operator.
When does Costco drug test?
Every position at Costco requires a drug test initially. However, employees will not typically be tested during their employment unless there seems to be a legitimate reason to do so.
What kind of drug test does Costco use?
While most companies collect urine samples for urine tests, Costco uses a mouth swab test to test saliva. The company Costco uses to administer the drug tests will collect a saliva sample during the saliva test and send it to a lab for testing. Costco will then receive the results of that test. If it comes back with a positive drug test result, the company can terminate you.
Does Costco test for Marijuana?
Despite the ongoing legal battles with marijuana throughout many states, drug tests typically follow the rules on a federal basis. Even if you're looking at Costco jobs in a state where marijuana is legal, they will likely still test you for it, meaning it's best to avoid using it altogether before you apply.
How often does Costco drug test?
Costco does not test its employees often.
Instead, the company adheres to three types of drug testing: pre-employment testing, suspicion testing, and post-accident testing.
If a manager suspects that an employee is under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or other illegal substances while in the work environment, they can send the employee in for a test.
The company might also require a test if an accident occurred while on the job, which is especially true if the accident was related to heavy machinery and caused injury or severe damage.
Does Costco drug test on the first interview?
The company does not typically test during the first interview, as they usually have multiple interviews for potential employees. For example, getting a job at Costco can sometimes require two to three interviews. If this is the case, you will not receive a mouth swab during the initial interview.
However, if they only give you one interview and it goes well, there is a chance that the company will test you on the spot.
What Kinds of Drugs Does Costco Test For?
Costco tests for many unauthorized substances, including marijuana, cocaine, opioids, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and other substances. Because Costco does not perform a urine test like many other large employers, it is easier to pass the oral swabs test if you are involved in substance use.
However, it is best to abstain from using drugs before your interview and during work. Those who have lost their job due to drug use will have this documented on their record, which can impact their likelihood of getting another job later down the line, as future potential employers will be able to access their record.
Does Costco drug test after orientation?
Costco will typically test potential employees after the interview process and before orientation.
Can I Fail My Drug Test For Prescription Drugs?
You cannot fail a Costco drug test if you are using prescription drugs. However, it is essential to let Costco know that you use prescription drugs before your drug screen. If your hiring manager wants to confirm the legitimacy of your prescription, you can give them your doctor's contact information. If you have a legitimate medical explanation for the drugs you are taking, you can explain that to the company ahead of time.
According to state law, your hiring manager cannot ask what drugs you're taking and why you are taking them, so there is no reason for you to disclose this information voluntarily.
Final Thoughts - Passing a Drug Test and Getting Hired at Costco Wholesale
So, as you can see, you should expect to be drug tested if you apply to Costco wholesale. If you pass the interview, Costco will give you a written consent form, which you must fill out to authorize testing before orientation starts.
The facility will then provide you with testing under direct observation to ensure there is no specimen adulteration. Unfortunately, many applicants attempt to dilute specimens by drinking lots of water before their tests, resulting in a false negative. If you don't want to end up with a positive sample, it is best to abstain from illegal substances, including marijuana, cocaine, and others, before you apply.
Author Bio
Steven Parker // Senior Staff Writer
With over 15 years of experience in the drug testing and employee background check industry, Steven Parker is an asset to IIPW.com and runs our resource development department as Senior Staff Writer.
