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Gaming Occupations

Employment Prospects

Employers

According to the American Gaming Association, the U.S. casino industry supports 1.8 million jobs in 43 states. States with the largest number of casino workers included Nevada, New Jersey, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Louisiana, Indiana, Missouri, and Ohio. 

Major casino corporations (most of which also own hotels) include MGM Resorts International, Las Vegas Sands Corp., Caesars Entertainment, Penn National Gaming, Wynn Resorts, Century Casinos, and Monarch Casino & Resort Inc. Many U.S.-headquartered casino companies also either have properties in foreign countries (especially Macau, China) or are actively considering foreign expansion.

Top U.S. racetrack casino markets by revenue include Philadelphia; New York City; Yonkers, New York; Charles Town, West Virginia; Providence, Rhode Island; Indianapolis, Indiana; Dade County, Florida; Dover/Harrington, Delaware; Meadow Lands, Pennsylvania; and Grantville, Pennsylvania.

Starting Out

Applicants should contact the personnel officers of casinos, hotels, and resorts for information on openings and entry-level requirements. Previous experience may be difficult to obtain if the applicant lives in an area that prohibits gambling. Previous work experience in the hospitality industry, however, is a big advantage for beginners. Applicants may want to contact casinos prior to the heavy vacation season or be willing to accept part-time employment and work their way up. Many casino schools have job placement services for their graduates. Check for this perk before enrolling.