It depends on the dollar amount of the merchandise stolen.
YES
The charges for the first time offense of UNDER $ 150 retail theft in Illinois is Class A misdemeanor. The second time Class 4 Felony. Over $150 for a retail theft is a class 4 felony, even for the first time. However, if the theft is not from a retail store, then under $300 is still a misdemeanor. Over $300 it becomes a felony. See related links below.
In many states the difference between felony and misdemeanor theft is whether the theft was above or under $500.
Usually it is a misdemeanor, yes.
Minor ID theft charges have, at times, been plead down to the misdemeanor level.
Yes.
It will depend on the laws in the jurisdiction in question. It could be anything from 1 to 3 years if it is a misdemeanor. If it is a felony, it is possible there is no limit. You will have to consult a local attorney.
No, it is a misdemeanor.
how much time does retail theft carry in the state of Illinois
Sure. A store owner or manager can hire anyone he or she wants to. That said, it's also his/her responsibility to make wise choices. If you owned a retail store, would you hire someone that has stolen from another retail establishment? So, to more directly answer your question; yes, you can get a retail job with a misdemeanor retail theft but it will be difficult.
* Yes
Regardless of the state a misdemeanor is a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor can be punished with NOT MORE than one year in jail.