Gaming Occupations

Wages for this occupation vary depending on the job. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, gaming industry workers earned the following mean annual salaries in May 2018:

• gaming dealers, $23,070
• gaming change persons and booth cashiers, $27,220
• gaming and sport book writers and runners, $27,640
• gaming cage workers, $28,980
• gaming surveillance officers and gaming investigators, $36,200
• gaming managers, $85,260.

Overall salaries for gaming industry workers ranged from less than $16,910 to $134,490 or more. Table dealers for such games as blackjack, craps, and poker are paid on an hourly basis, but their wages are greatly supplemented by customers' tips. 

Unlike most professions, the weekend and evening hours are the prime shift for a gaming worker because these shifts are the busiest playing times and generally bring in the most tips. Tips are usually pooled together and divided evenly among all employees from that shift.

Benefits may include gift shop discounts, health insurance, paid vacations, additional compensation for working holidays, and pension plans. Some casinos provide uniforms, usually a tuxedo or a vest, at a discount or free of charge.