The availability of pretrial diversion varies by state and county. In some places it simply isn't available.

A shoplifting conviction can affect future job prospects, and can negatively affect your credit. It's an honesty-related offense, which means it can also come up in other contexts (such as if you're testifying in court).

If you get a job before you are convicted, you would be accurate in stating on the associated application that you have not been convicted.