Pit Bosses

The gaming area is usually separated into pits or groups of tables. The person in charge of overseeing the pit is called the pit boss. He or she may also be referred to as the pit manager, pit supervisor, gaming manager, or gaming supervisor.

The pit may consist of tables of one specific game such as craps or blackjack or may have tables of different types of games grouped together. The pit boss must have an understanding of all the games he or she is overseeing.

The pit manager works under the direction of the shift manger and has a variety of responsibilities. First and foremost, the individual is expected to supervise the games in the pit and be sure they run smoothly. Games must be run properly and according to the policies of the casino. The pit boss must assure that regulations and procedures of the games are followed.

A good portion of the job of the pit boss involves customer service. He or she is expected to greet players to the pit and make them feel welcome and comfortable. The individual may answer questions and escort players to gaming tables. 

Pit bosses are responsible for opening and closing gaming tables depending on the number of customers and number of available dealers. They may move dealers from table to table trying to assure the best gaming experience for guests. Individuals supervise dealers in their pit and are in charge of all pit personnel. They are expected to watch dealers to make sure they are dealing properly and not making mistakes. They must ensure that all proper procedures are followed and watch for any cheating on the part of dealers or other employees in the pit. Individuals are additionally responsible for scheduling the breaks for all pit personnel.

Pit bosses must also be alert to players attempting to cheat the casino in any way. They watch players who seem more skilled than others, such as those who count blackjack cards. If there is a problem, they either step in or alert the shift manager to take action.

Pit bosses deal with large sums of money. Throughout their shift, they watch all bets, chips and movement of money. They are responsible for accounting for every dollar that goes through the pit during their shift.

There is a lot of paperwork necessary in effectively running the pits. Pit bosses are responsible for handling that paperwork. This includes things like making out and authorizing cash-outs, fills, or credit slips. It also includes shift reports, shift changes, scheduling, etc.

Pit bosses arbitrates and settle any disputes which may occur between players and dealers. If a customer has a complaint about the way a game was played or a dealer makes a mistake, the pit boss is expected to step in, make corrections, and handle the situation quickly and fairly. He or she is always on hand to answer questions regarding the game or the way it was played.

Individuals also are responsible for handling any other customer problems and complaints which arise and calming down agitated customers. Pit bosses may coach dealers, prepare dealer reviews, and train dealers in better customer service skills, game protection.

As a rule, pit bosses work eight hours shifts in the pit with three or four breaks. They may need to handle some paperwork after their shift has concluded.