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How to become A Casino Dealer

Hospitality and Tourism

Casinos are like carnivals for adults who hope to win big; Casino Dealers are the suave and confident aces who encourage their patrons to try their luck at games of chance in an ethical and fair manner. Continue Reading

Skills a career as a Casino Dealer requires: Customer Service Business Communication Mathematics Cash Flow Foreign Languages View more skills
Casino Dealer salary
$48,135
USAUSA
£24,466
UKUK
Explore Career
  • Introduction - Casino Dealer
  • What does a Casino Dealer do?
  • Casino Dealer Work Environment
  • Skills for a Casino Dealer
  • Work Experience for a Casino Dealer
  • Recommended Qualifications for a Casino Dealer
  • Casino Dealer Career Path
  • Casino Dealer Professional Development
  • Learn More
  • Conclusion

Introduction - Casino Dealer

Casinos are like carnivals for adults who hope to win big; Casino Dealers are the suave and confident aces who encourage their patrons to try their luck at games of chance in an ethical and fair manner.
Similar Job Titles Job Description
  • Dealer
  • Croupier
  • Games Dealer
  • Poker Dealer
  • Table Games Dealer
  • Professional Gaming Dealer
  • Gambling Dealer
  • Card Dealer
  • Blackjack Dealer
  • Black Jack Dealer

 

What does a Casino Dealer do?

What are the typical responsibilities of a Casino Dealer?

A Casino Dealer would typically need to:

  • Offer a pleasant gaming experience to patrons who wish to play professional and ethical card and table games of chance 
  • Conduct games of blackjack, poker, roulette, keno, and baccarat for the house against the patrons in a fair and respectful manner 
  • Operate gambling tables at casinos and casino hotels per the state gaming regulations and those of the employer
  • Know the minimum and maximum bets that can be placed by the patrons, payouts, and side bet rules
  • Set up the table before a game or break down existing ones to maintain an active gaming area
  • Welcome new and returning patrons to the table, place wagers and chips in their allotted places in exchange for the patrons’ money
  • Ensure all patrons are aware of the rules and regulations governing a specific game and know the odds of winning under different circumstances
  • Deal the cards, throw the dice, or spin the wheel, depending on the game to be played at the table
  • Control the pace of the game and monitor the play to make sure everything is above board and no one is cheating
  • Ensure bets are placed correctly; keep a mental record of all the bets placed; promptly report any suspicious activity or individuals to security personnel
  • Determine the winners, add up payoffs, cash out winning bets, collect losing bets, and issue payouts to patrons
  • Collect chips from players who are done playing and return them to the cashier’s cage
  • Be able to identify patrons with a potential gambling problem and use available in-house resources to assist such individuals
  • Answer the patrons’ questions about government gaming rules and regulations, casino policies, and game strategies promptly, courteously, and accurately
  • Keep the gaming areas under their charge clean and organised; monitor the slot machines and electronic gaming areas; offer support to other staff members
  • Communicate changes in casino policies and procedures to other casino staff members, if required; collaborate with colleagues to ensure customers enjoy their time in the casino

 

Casino Dealer Work Environment

Gambling establishments are usually located in metropolitan cities. Although most Casino Dealers work in well-lit and ventilated establishments, some may be regularly exposed to secondhand cigar and cigarette smoke.

 

The gaming areas may be noisy, hot, and crowded, especially during peak hours and involves continuous interaction with patrons. Those working for a casino chain or cruise ship or overseas may need to travel to run gaming tables in other centres or help run corporate entertainment events.

Work Schedule

To enjoy and succeed at a job that does not distinguish between weekdays and weekends, that usually begins in the evening and ends in the wee hours of the morning, a full-time Casino Dealer must be willing to work 8-hour shifts that include nights, weekends, and holidays. You can take 15-minute breaks every hour when business permits.

 

 

Research suggests that flexible hours appeal more than salary to the younger generation. There has been an incremental increase in employers willing to give promising employees a chance to adjust their schedules per the work pressure.

Employers

Finding a new job may be challenging. Casino Dealers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, attending job fairs, leveraging social media and inquiring at staffing agencies. Part-time employment is a viable option.

 

 

Casino Dealers are generally employed by:

  • Casinos
  • Poker Rooms
  • Cruise Ships
  • Fundraising Organisations
  • Event-Planning Companies
  • Online Casinos
Unions / Professional Organizations

Professional associations and organisations, such as the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR), are crucial for Casino Dealers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. 

 

 

Professional associations provide members with continuing education, networking opportunities and mentorship services. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

Workplace Challenges
  • Physical exhaustion and health issues resulting from prolonged periods of standing or sitting down in a hot and crowded environment
  • Health issues and lack of work-life balance due to irregular working hours 
  • Health issues resulting from regular exposure to secondhand smoke and distracting noises 
  • Frustration and stress from dealing with guests misbehaving under the influence of alcohol
  • The need to remain alert, calm, cheerful, and courteous at all times

 

Work Experience for a Casino Dealer

Individuals 18 and above may explore short-term paid/voluntary employment at entry-level positions in reputable casinos to get a taste of the career while gaining real-time insight into the rules and security procedures that promote integrity and responsibility in a world characterised by the easy exchange of huge sums of cash.

 

In addition to personal networks, your work experiences will help you build valuable contacts in the industry that may improve your chances of turning a temporary assignment into a permanent one.

 

Most casinos have stringent in-house training programmes to inculcate requisite skills and knowledge of games, casino rules, and security procedures in their staff, even at the entry-level, so business happens in a safe and risk-free environment. 

 

“Break-in” houses in small casinos and “high-limit rooms” in higher-end establishments teach amateurs how to deal cards and keep the players at their tables in line with the prescribed rules.

 

Even while in high school, you can check with a teacher or counsellor about relevant work-based learning opportunities available in your school or community that can help you connect your school experiences with real-life work. 

 

Experiences that promote one’s mathematical abilities, manual dexterity, and customer service and communication skills will prove handy. Consider volunteering for activities that build your knowledge of the community and local tourist attractions that can be used to put potential patrons at ease.

 

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an interesting organisation, so you can have fun while learning about yourself and be directed toward a future career. 

 

Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experienced Casino Dealers to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Recommended Qualifications for a Casino Dealer

Casino Dealers are mathematically competent, socially intelligent, and manually dexterous individuals who can skilfully draw patrons to their table. 

 

Although there are no clearly-defined guidelines, a high school diploma or GED (General Education Development), including adequate knowledge of mathematics, business, economics, health, and foreign languages, should set aspirants on the right career path.  English and speech classes will help you develop the requisite communication skills. 

 

The HRH (health, recreation, and human services) cluster and tourism and hospitality curriculum offered by some education providers to their high-school population could prove highly advantageous in gaining deeper insight into the vast array of careers available in those sectors. 

 

High-end casinos may seek dealers with great math, communication, and multilingual skills that would encourage patrons worldwide to try their luck at their table. 

 

Most gambling destinations offer a range of gaming-industry skills, beginning with short-term vocational training programmes focused on the mechanics of various table games, going all the way to advanced degrees in hotel and casino management. Introductory professional croupier courses typically take around eight weeks to complete.

 

Remember that completing a particular academic course does not guarantee entry into the profession. Be that as it may, your professional qualifications and transferable skills may open up more than one door.

 

Do your homework and look into all available options for education and employment before enrolling in a specific programme. Reliable sources that help you make an educated decision include associations and employers in your field.

 

Certifications, Licenses and Registration

Certifications demonstrate a Casino Dealer’s competency in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

 

Deal Us In is a social responsibility training programme that educates licensee staff in certain regions to distinguish between healthy and at-risk gambling behaviour among their patrons. Casino Dealers in these locations must acquire the Deal Us In - Phase I certification to ply their trade. 

 

While not legally mandated, certification in business management, first aid and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) from an objective and reputed organisation can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your chances of advancement.

 

It may vary by jurisdiction, but for the most part, Casino Dealers require a licence from a local gaming commission or control board that regulates casino gaming and ensures applicants for dealer licences are of legal gambling age and have passed a written/practical examination after completing the requisite training programme.



 

 

Casino Dealers may also need to undergo an employment background check, including but not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media and drug screening.

Casino Dealer Career Path

A sound reputation and good track record with diverse card and table games of chance and multicultural patrons drive the career progression of Casino Dealers who can progress from dealing blackjack to craps and roulette and move into supervisory positions in the same establishment or a more popular casino.

 

Job titles, such as Floor Supervisor, Supervisor, Pit Boss, Assistant Manager, Games Manager, and Manager, may be part of your career path. With the proliferation of online gaming, poker networks need Senior Dealers, Inspectors and Team Leaders to ensure a smooth operation.

 

Dealers who accumulate significant experience, funds, and loyal patronage from wealthy regulars may consider opening their own gambling establishment, provided they have a knack for entrepreneurship. Other options include joining a casino chain, a cruise ship or moving to a foreign locale once you possess relevant experience, references and work permits. 

 

The desire to accelerate career growth and personal development has an increasing number of millennials choosing to job hop and build a scattershot resume that showcases ambition, motivation and the desire to learn a broad range of skills.

 

 

Studies prove that job hopping, earlier dismissed as “flaky” behaviour, can lead to greater job fulfilment. Employees searching for a positive culture and exciting work are willing to try out various roles and workplaces and learn valuable and transferable skills along the way.

Job Prospects

Trustworthy and even-tempered Casino Dealers with the necessary communication, customer service, leadership, and mathematical skills, requisite work experience, and ability to work odd hours have the best job prospects.

Casino Dealer Professional Development

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Casino Dealer build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, 

formal education or self-directed learning. In addition to offering the opportunity to continually upskill, regardless of one’s age, job, or level of knowledge, CPD also enables the periodic renewal of desirable certifications.

 

Casino Dealers must consistently work on being excellent communicators with exemplary guest service skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Give due attention to the mandated numerical and analytical skills and attention to detail

 

Most casinos have six-to-ten-week-long training programmes generated in-house or by a third-party provider to onboard new hires, using specific software, card shufflers, chip sorters, and surveillance systems. At the end of the training period, you may gain a Personal Functional Licence (PFL), an official permit to work in the gambling industry.

 

Practice leads to perfection and eases professional development. Make use of any opportunity to practice the skills that will make your table the one patrons make a beeline to without fail. 

 

Typically, a dealer is qualified as fully trained when they master at least four games of chance and are familiar with relevant gambling rules. Mastery of each game might take six to nine months.

 

While experience and performance have a critical say in the promotion to managerial positions, consider investing your time and energy in relevant post-secondary education if your current or potential employer believes it would enhance your knowledge and skills. Attend conferences and networking events where you can learn from others’ experiences and learn about better job opportunities.

 

 

Casino Dealers keen on migrating to online casinos must attain proficiency in trending social gaming and mobile gaming, applicable software platforms, and sophisticated payment systems. 

Learn More

Current Scenario

 

The employment outlook of a particular profession may be impacted by diverse factors, such as the time of year, location, employment turnover, occupational growth, occupation size, and industry-specific trends and events that affect overall employment.

 

The economic downturn worldwide may hurt the casino gaming industry. In addition, gambling is not legal globally. Casino Dealers may expect a brighter job outlook when those two factors change for the better.

 

In recent years, online casinos have become increasingly popular. They can expect to continue to find favour with patrons who prefer round-the-clock access to a wider range of games. Therein lies a golden opportunity for forward-looking Casino Dealers willing to transition.

 

Making the Most of the Cards You Were Dealt

 

Casino Dealers must have a judicious mix of “hard” and “soft” skills. Mathematical aptitude, knowledge of games of chance, attention to detail, a sharp memory, and manual dexterity are essential to succeed in this profession. 

 

However, remarkable interpersonal skills characterising one as a polite, trustworthy, honest, discreet, and charismatic individual will go a long way in endearing a Casino Dealer to their patrons.

 

One must be able to hold one’s own while operating as a seamless part of the team and deal with difficult situations tactfully and patiently. Being well-groomed and physically fit will only enhance your ability to succeed in this particular role.

 

The Best Business Strategy

 

Casino operators who realise that satisfied patrons are their most effective advertising tools prioritise superior customer experience (CX) above everything else. Casino Dealers who can create something memorable from every interaction with their patrons will be indispensable and much sought after.

 

Safety First

 

In a bid to safeguard their patrons and assets, casinos are placing greater emphasis on security measures. Casino Dealers who can assist with the execution of requisite measures and verify their efficacy will find themselves in great demand across diverse sectors.

 

Fast Facts

 

Casino Dealers typically wear tuxedo shirts, pants, and vests; an apron and nametag add a practical touch to an otherwise uber-formal attire. They work in groups of tables called pits and change tables regularly.

 

 

Casino Dealers can expect regular meals, flexible breaks, and 20 days of paid statutory annual leave from their employers in return for being willing to give their best on all holidays except Christmas Day. 

Conclusion

A taste for gambling coupled with numerical acuity, a knack for guest service married to a sense of fair play, and a confident personality overlaid by charm are what it takes to become a successful Casino Dealer who can induce patrons to stake their money on bets and cards.

Advice from the Wise

“It's hard to walk away from a winning streak, even harder to leave the table when you're on a losing one.”

 

― Cara Bertoia, Cruise Quarters - a Novel About Casinos and Cruise Ships

Did you know?

The French alternative “croupier” earned relevance in European casinos as a more sophisticated term compared to the colloquial “dealer” used more commonly in the United States of America.

Introduction - Casino Dealer
What does a Casino Dealer do?

What do Casino Dealers do?

A Casino Dealer would typically need to:

  • Offer a pleasant gaming experience to patrons who wish to play professional and ethical card and table games of chance 
  • Conduct games of blackjack, poker, roulette, keno, and baccarat for the house against the patrons in a fair and respectful manner 
  • Operate gambling tables at casinos and casino hotels per the state gaming regulations and those of the employer
  • Know the minimum and maximum bets that can be placed by the patrons, payouts, and side bet rules
  • Set up the table before a game or break down existing ones to maintain an active gaming area
  • Welcome new and returning patrons to the table, place wagers and chips in their allotted places in exchange for the patrons’ money
  • Ensure all patrons are aware of the rules and regulations governing a specific game and know the odds of winning under different circumstances
  • Deal the cards, throw the dice, or spin the wheel, depending on the game to be played at the table
  • Control the pace of the game and monitor the play to make sure everything is above board and no one is cheating
  • Ensure bets are placed correctly; keep a mental record of all the bets placed; promptly report any suspicious activity or individuals to security personnel
  • Determine the winners, add up payoffs, cash out winning bets, collect losing bets, and issue payouts to patrons
  • Collect chips from players who are done playing and return them to the cashier’s cage
  • Be able to identify patrons with a potential gambling problem and use available in-house resources to assist such individuals
  • Answer the patrons’ questions about government gaming rules and regulations, casino policies, and game strategies promptly, courteously, and accurately
  • Keep the gaming areas under their charge clean and organised; monitor the slot machines and electronic gaming areas; offer support to other staff members
  • Communicate changes in casino policies and procedures to other casino staff members, if required; collaborate with colleagues to ensure customers enjoy their time in the casino

 

Casino Dealer Work Environment
Work Experience for a Casino Dealer
Recommended Qualifications for a Casino Dealer
Casino Dealer Career Path
Casino Dealer Professional Development
Learn More
Did you know?
Conclusion

Holland Codes, people in this career generally possess the following traits
  • R Realistic
  • I Investigative
  • A Artistic
  • S Social
  • E Enterprising
  • C Conventional
United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals that this career profile addresses
Decent Work and Economic Growth Sustainable Cities and Communities Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
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