Can a workplace have a contract saying you cant work for a similar company until 1 year after termination?

Question

I signed a contract at my job saying I wouldn't disclose any company secrets (I work at an envelope company), but it also stated I am not allowed to go to any other envelope company, or similar printing company, for at least 1 year after termination (voluntary or otherwise) from the company I currently work for. Is this a legal contract?

Answer 1

very legal.  you signed it in exchange for a job.

Answer 2

Yes it's legal. I worked for Pitney Bowes who sent us to work at the Google building. I had to wait about 6 months after I quit before I could work at Google because they are the client and they do this to protect themselves from losing employees to the client.