Gaming Occupations

Employment in the gaming industry is expected to increase by 3 percent (or about as fast as the average for all careers) through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The public's interest in gambling, new gaming venues, and the growth of casinos throughout the country have kept this industry growing for the past few decades, although there is an increasing risk of oversaturation that may cause some existing casinos to close.

Where employment in the gaming industry was formerly limited to Nevada, and later, Atlantic City, opportunities are now available in almost every region of the country. Regional casinos (U.S. casinos that are not located in Las Vegas or Atlantic City) are among the fastest-growing sectors of the gaming industry.

The growing number and size of casinos will increase demand for qualified employees to work service and managerial positions. In addition, many casinos take on additional employees during their busy seasons, and many opportunities are available for part-time as well as full-time employees. Job openings may be more competitive at racetracks. The racing industry has experienced slower than normal growth, partly due to increased competition from casino type gambling.

Employment for slot machine supervisors has declined in recent years because of technology that reduces the need for workers to reset machines, pay out jackpots, and perform other duties.

Online gambling, which is legal on a limited basis in the U.S., may influence future employment in the gaming industry. "As more states approve expansions in the number of physical and online gambling establishments, the competition for customers will increase," the DOL explains. "Establishments that fail to keep or attract customers may close, thereby negating some of the jobs created.