Arrest doesn't imply conviction or even the low bar for indictment. For instance SWAT protocol is to cuff literally everybody else possible on the scene for one and then assess and release after the scene is secured. One would have to be completely stupid and paranoid to think you shouldn't hire someone because they were in a bank robbery turned hostage situation as a victim.
There is, however, a "ban the box" movement in a plurality of states, banning employers from asking potential employees about a criminal record.
With the internet documenting all public information, however, it's normally trivial for an employer to do a little research and find the employee's record.
Typically, an employer can run a criminal background check in a "ban the box" jurisdiction, but only later in the process (for example: after completing interviews and provisionally deciding this is someone you'd like to hire). There may also be other rules in place about how you can use information from the background check, and what you have to do if you decide to revoke the offer of employment based on the result of the check.
You just can't ask on the application form. You can ask later on in the process though. The idea is to give people with criminal records at least a fighting chance of getting interviews.
First, you have to admit to it with many jobs/other things anyway (e.g., fbi, military, bar exam etc). And it's usually worse to lie about the charge.
Second, everything is documented on the internet. Thus, even if you're eventually proven innocent and never had anything to do with the criminal charge, it will still be associated with you throughout life.
This is why I feel we should be pushing towards a culture that accepts that people can make mistakes.
- Basic disclosure
- Standard disclosure
- Enhanced disclosure
- Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme
Depending on the level of disclosure, "spent" convictions may need to be disclosed. You can however apply for spent convictions to be removed from the disclosure process.
As an employee for a private consultancy which was carrying out software development work for the Scottish Government I had to get a Basic Disclosure to be able to perform my duties on that contract.
It's not that unusual for certain types of work.
[0]: https://www.mygov.scot/organisations/disclosure-scotland/
It asks but doesn't mean you're automatically denied. BUT a just pardoned person in Seattle would have to answer yes if Canada asked the same question (they probably do)
I know US immigration specifically asks to mention even if pardoned or expunged.