How To Become A Professional Casino Dealer
Standing in the center of a crowded casino, effortlessly shuffling cards and calculating complex payouts, is a highly skilled profession.
Many people are drawn to the profession by the exciting atmosphere, the flexible hours, and the potential for massive tips.
Learning the Trade: Casino Academies
These schools offer intensive programs that teach the exact mechanics, math, and security protocols required by major resorts.
You will typically start by learning Blackjack, as it is the foundation, before moving on to complex games like Craps or Roulette.
The final exam consists of a live audition where you must deal a flawless game while instructors actively try to confuse youYou must pass a rigorous FBI background check and obtain a gaming license from the state before you can legally workEven a minor criminal record involving theft or fraud will permanently disqualify you from ever holding a gaming license
Working Conditions and Earning Potential
You must also develop a thick skin, as dealers frequently absorb the anger of players who are losing large sums of money.
While the base salary is often just minimum wage, a good dealer at a busy, high-end casino can make $70,000 to $100,000 a year in tips.
Aspect of JobThe ChallengeThe RewardPhysical TollStanding for 8 hours on hard floorsFrequent 20-minute breaks are legally mandatedPlayer InteractionDealing with angry or drunken gamblersBuilding relationships with generous 'whale' tippers
If you can master the cards and manage the crowds, the casino floor can become a highly profitable and exciting office.