- Security officers are essential at casinos as they help protect players, employees, and property.
- Slot key setters are responsible for duplicating slot machine keys which can make up to $70,630 per year.
- Surveillance operators watch over the entire casino floor using advanced technology to prevent fraud.
You probably think of dealers, bartenders, and security guards when you imagine employment options within the casino industry but the truth is there are many types of casino jobs that fly under the radar. From duplicate key makers to those who test out new slots, here are 15 casino careers you had no idea existed and some even come with six-figure salaries.
Best Casino Jobs You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
Getting a job in a casino used to be as easy as filling out an application but times have changed. With the rise of background checks it may be slightly more difficult to land one of these coveted positions but not by much. The first step is learning about the different roles available and what they entail.
Best Legal Online Casinos That Accept Players from Louisiana, USAWhat are some good casino jobs? That all depends on your skills, experience, and knowledge of the industry. Some positions require education and certifications while others simply prefer applicants with certain traits or abilities.
Ready to roll the dice on a career in the casino industry? I thought you might be. Below are 15 interesting casino jobs that could lead to a successful and lucrative profession.
Surveillance Operator
If you’re looking for casino jobs that allow you to stay active this is one to consider. As a surveillance operator you’ll be constantly moving and using state of the art equipment to help prevent theft, catch cheaters, and resolve guest issues.
Surveillance operators are employed by most casinos around the world and their main responsibility is monitoring the entire facility 24/7 using sophisticated cameras and audio devices. This line of work requires excellent observation skills as well as the ability to identify potential problems before they escalate.
Other tasks might include reviewing video recordings, assisting in investigations, responding to guest inquiries and complaints, and working closely with security personnel. Strong communication skills are important as well as basic computer proficiency.
The average salary for a surveillance operator in the United States is $16.83 per hour. Depending on the casino, this casino job may require some law enforcement or military experience as well as excellent references.
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MGM Casinos Worth Visiting in the US Outside of Las VegasFood & Beverage Servers
One of the best things about being in the casino industry is the variety of people you’ll meet from all walks of life. If you enjoy serving customers this is one of the more popular casino job opportunities.
As a food and beverage server your main duties will include taking orders, serving drinks and small bites, ringing up sales, and making sure patrons are satisfied. Tips are common in this line of work so if you’re looking to increase your income this could be a benefit.
Some casinos prefer candidates with previous serving or bartending experience while others will train the right applicant. Basic alcohol awareness certification and a food handler’s card may also be required.
According to Indeed the national average for food and beverage servers in the US is $13.98 per hour. Keep in mind that amount does not include tips.
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Slot Key Setter
Did you know that there are literally thousands of slot machines in Las Vegas alone? Someone has to be in charge of handling all those keys which is where the slot key setter comes into play. This is one of those casino jobs that might go unnoticed by most but it’s very important to the overall operation.
As a slot key setter you’ll be responsible for controlling and accounting for all mechanical and electronic slot machine keys. Other duties may include assisting in the relocation of machines, helping with jailing and budgeting, and providing backup support to the lockware coordinator.
Most casinos require at least a high school diploma or equivalent for this position along with basic math skills, strong organizational abilities, and attention to detail. They may also prefer one to three years of related experience and/or expertise with slot machines.
According to Glassdoor the average base pay for a slot key setter at MGM Resorts International is $19.76 per hour. That can increase to $23.72 after accepting counseling for a lateral move. According to Glassdoor, the average total pay for a Slot Key Setter at Caesars Entertainment is $16.07.
However other sites show considerably higher numbers with PayScale reporting an average of $70,630 annually for duplicate key makers and Salary.com stating the average slot key setter salary in the US is $43,355.
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Table Games Dealer
Becoming a casino dealer is a dream for many and for good reason. These individuals are in high demand and can earn a nice living doing something that’s fun and exciting.
Although this isn’t necessarily one of the management jobs in the casino industry, dealers are sometimes promoted from within which shows that upward mobility is possible. To get started you’ll need to attend a dealing school which only takes a few short weeks.
Once hired you’ll spend several months as a table games dealer-in-training (dit) learning the ins and outs of the casino floor. You’ll also have to pass a background check and maintain a professional appearance at all times.
Dealing can be both physically and mentally demanding so it’s important to like interacting with the public and have good math skills. Bending over a table all day can put strain on your back and neck so Dealers are encouraged to take breaks when needed.
According to Glassdoor the average base pay for a table games dealer at MGM Resorts International is $16.19 per hour. After accepting counseling for a lateral move, hourly pay can increase to $18.35. According to Glassdoor, the average total pay for a Table Games Dealer at Caesars Entertainment is $18.57.
Of course these numbers can vary depending on location, type of casino, experience, etc. In Nevada dealers typically make 70% of the average pot which can range anywhere from $100,000 to $200,000 annually per table according to the .
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Best Caesars Casino Slots - Try These Top Caesars Games OnlineGaming Change Person
Change person sounds like one of those casino jobs that belongs in a bank but it’s actually necessary in the gaming industry. Also referred to as a cashier this person is responsible for dispensing and exchanging cash, coins, and tokens for guests.
This role can be found in various areas throughout the casino including table games, cage, coin sort, kiosks, pits, and walkaround. Some of the daily tasks include operating cash handling equipment, counting currency, balancing drawers, following regulatory procedures, and answering guest questions.
Since this is a money handling position it’s important to have strong mathematical skills, attention to detail, and be trustworthy. Most casinos require at least a high school diploma or GED although it’s not necessary to have college experience.
Pay will vary depending on location, number of hours worked, etc. According to Glassdoor the national average pay for a gaming change person in the United States is $15.73 per hour.
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Simple Tips to Improve Your Slots Session in 2023Pit Manager
Many people dream of working in the casino industry let alone having one of the top casino jobs. Becoming a pit manager is no easy feat but it’s attainable with the right education, experience, and determination.
Also known as a table games manager or pit boss this individual oversees multiple gaming tables such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and baccarat within an allocated area. They hire, train, and supervise dealers while ensuring all games run smoothly and profitably.
Other responsibilities include monitoring play for cheating or suspicious activity, resolving disputes, handling guests complains, maintaining accurate records, and meeting revenue goals.
Pit managers must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent along with several years of experience as a dealer and/or supervisor. Excellent leadership skills are needed as well as knowledge of state and federal gaming regulations.
According to Glassdoor the average base pay for a pit manager at MGM Resorts International is $19.83 per hour. Once additional compensation such as tips, bonus, and commission are factored in that number increases to $26.45. For Caesars Entertainment the average total pay for a pit manager is $23.78.
Working as a pit boss in Las Vegas can earn you upwards of $80,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Tips can add another 10 to 20% on top of that.
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Surveillance Coordinator
If you enjoy working in surveillance this could be a path towards advancement. Surveillance coordinators act as a liaison between operations and surveillance departments. They often begin their career in surveillance as an operator, dispatcher, or technical analyst before climbing the ladder.
Responsibilities include collaborating with executives to develop strategies, implementing plans, training staff, directing investigations, and managing the team. A bachelor’s degree in a related field along with several years of experience in casino surveillance is usually required for this role.
Ways to Attract More Players to Your Online CasinoExcellent communication and leadership abilities are necessary as well as knowledge of homeland security and counter terrorism. According to Glassdoor the national average surveillance coordinator salary is $56,621 per year.
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Lock Technician
Another great casino job for those interested in the security side of things is a lock technician. Also referred to as a hardware services technician these professionals install, repair, rekey, and maintain locks and safe devices throughout the property.
In addition to a high school diploma or equivalent, lock technicians should have prior experience working with safes, vaults, doors, and hardware. Some employers prefer applicants with a background in hotel engineering, locksmithing, or the armed forces.
According to PayScale the average lock technician salary is $18.47 per hour or $38,499 per year. Those in Las Vegas can expect to make closer to $22 per hour or $45,873 annually.
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Executive Host / VIP Coordinator
Do you have what it takes to be an executive host or VIP coordinator? This casino career path is focused on customer service and building relationships. Your primary goal is to provide outstanding service to high rollers in order to encourage repeat business.
Free Slots with Great Graphics (And 5 That Aren't) - Best Free Slot GamesDuties include greeting and welcoming guests upon arrival, arranging transportation, booking hotel rooms and dining reservations, procuring show tickets, and offering complimentary gifts such as cigars, liquor, or chips.
Strong interpersonal skills are imperative as well as the ability to multitask, make sound decisions, and communicate effectively. Most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree for this role along with previous experience in hospitality or casino hosting.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual wage for lodging managers, which includes gaming hosts, was $56,670 as of May 2020. However, casino hosts in large cities or luxurious resorts may earn significantly more.
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Database Marketing Analyst
The casino industry has evolved over the years and so have the job titles. One of the newest casino careers is a database marketing analyst. They use data mining techniques to analyze customer behavior and preferences which helps with targeted marketing campaigns.
Other tasks might include creating reports, collaborating with teams such as hosting, marketing, and player development, and staying current with industry trends. Most employers require a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field along with proficiency in SQL, SAS, and SPSS.
According to Glassdoor the average database marketing analyst salary in the United States is $63,144 per year.
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Cage Trainer
Casino cage jobs are typically found in tribal gaming facilities. The cage is a secured enclosure where customers can conduct financial transactions such as cashing checks, buying/cashing toys, and conducting account transactions.
A cage trainer is responsible for teaching patrons how to use the cage properly. This involves demonstrating the steps, answering questions, and ensuring everyone feels comfortable with the process. Other tasks might include reconciling drawers, performing audits, and assisting with employee cashouts.
To become a cage trainer you must have a high school diploma or GED and be at least 21 years old. Many employers prefer applicants with previous cash handling experience as well as knowledge of tribal government and sovereignty. Some may require passing a background check, drug screening, and credit check.
Glassdoor reports that the average cage trainer salary in the United States is $16.21 per hour.
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Regulatory Compliance Director
If you’re looking for a high paying casino job then then becoming a regulatory compliance director might be right up your alley. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these professionals earned a median wage of $124,420 in 2020 which translates to an average hourly rate of $60.02.
Best Real Money Mobile iPhone & Android Poker Apps 2023It’s important for casinos to adhere to strict government regulations which is where a regulatory compliance director comes in. Their main duties are to ensure the organization follows all laws and regulations pertaining to their industry.
Other tasks include developing policies and procedures, training employees, completing reports, attending meetings, and collaborating with legal counsels. A bachelor’s degree in a related field along with several years of experience in a supervisory role is typically required for this position.
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Slot Maintenance Technician
A slot maintenance technician travels to various casinos testing out new slot machines to ensure they are working correctly. It’s a unique career option that allows one to travel and try out different games.
As a slot tech you’ll test slot machines for defects, perform preventative maintenance, replace parts as needed, document repairs, and keep abreast of new products. A background in electrical or mechanical trades along with strong problem solving skills is preferred.
According to PayScale the average salary for a slot maintenance technician is $19.19 per hour or $39,896 annually. Those in Las Vegas can make closer to $23 per hour ($47,835 per year).
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Electronic Game Specialist
Similar to a slot maintenance technician, an electronic game specialist tests mechanical and electronic devices such as slot machines, video poker units, and keno stations to guarantee proper functioning. Additional duties might consist of modifying games, creating test procedures, attending trade shows, and participating in inventory counts.
Most employers prefer a two or four year degree in a related field along with experience in electronics, mechanics, or customer service. The national median salary for an electronic game specialist is $17.63 per hour according to Glassdoor.
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Interpreter/Translator
Las Vegas markets itself as a international destination which means many different languages are spoken throughout the city. Casinos want to make sure all guests feel welcome which is why they hire interpreters and translators to communicate with non English speaking patrons.
Interpreters facilitate real time verbal communications while translators convert written content from one language to another. Both are vital in the casino industry especially for international high rollers.
According to ZipRecruiter the average annual salary for an interpreter/translator in Las Vegas is $59,714.
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Casino Careers Require More than Luck
As you can see there are plenty of casino jobs to choose from and that list is always growing. Some require specific degrees or certifications while others just want applicants with solid work histories. The best way to find out what human resources needs is to stop by the casino and fill out an application.
Even if they don’t have anything suitable now it’s a good idea to put yourself on file. Many casinos do the majority of their hiring during the summer months which makes now a great time to apply.
Footnotes:
- Gaming revenue numbers are courtesy of the .
- Average table games dealer salary information is pulled from and.
- Lock technician salary data is from and.
- Self-regulation statistics were provided by the .
Anthony is a sports writer for GamblingSites.com covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. He also covers other various topics such as entertainment, general sports betting tips, and more.
His favorite teams are the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Blackhawks. He also will be a temporary fan of any team if it means winning him bets.
