So you have decided that you want to become a blackjack dealer at
a casino. This can be a very entertaining profitable career and the following
article will help you in making the right decision.
First and foremost is that most casinos require dealers or
positions of responsibility to begin working at a lower level position. This can
include but are not limited too, pit assistant, doorman/woman, entrance host, or
even low end positions like dishwashers, and bus people.
The reason the casinos will do this is so that they can get to
know the new employee. They can begin a relationship and a basis of trust with
the individual. The casino is in business to make money and they want people
working for them that they can trust.
If you have a decent work history and a good personal background
it is possible to be hired directly into a dealer position
First thing that is essential is that you attend some sort of
casino or dealer school. Most casinos have this as a mandatory requirement. Some
of the larger casinos will put all of their potential dealers into
schools/courses that they maintain. This ensures all of their staff is on the
same page.
Once you have completed the required courses, many casino
managers/owners want specific personalities running their games.
I am friends with a few mangers and they suggest appearance, and
the ability to relate well with a diverse group of people is what they are
looking for.
If faced with an attractive 20 something woman that is very
educated and personable, versus a 55 year old guy that is recently out of work
the choice is rather easy if they possess the same skill set.
After you are hired by the casino, your hours will vary.
Obviously being new you can't expect the best hours or best tables in the
casino. You also need to be
prepared to have a wide range of availability, often dealers will work 10-12
hour shifts some times having to stay late, or other times being sent home
early. You may be required to work a number of days in a row. Only on weekends,
or only night shifts, it will be dependant on what is required.
Table dealers are paid a low hourly rate generally minimum wage
in comparison to other positions within the casino. Most of the money made in this profession is dependant tips.
In order to be a successful dealer and make good tips it is
essential that you are personable and relate well with the table players. It is
also imperative that you have excellent math skills. The majority of your time
is split about 50/50. Dealing and shuffling the cards, and handling cash and
providing chips. Having good math skills will ensure that you are able to
provide accurate change, as well payout and receive chips after each hand.
In conclusion, if you want to be a casino dealer in Blackjack you
can make a decent living. It's not uncommon for a dealer that is readily
available and works full-time hours to make $50-$60,000 per year.
Keep in mind though that the majority of their income is tips. You must
possess all of the skills mentioned in this article if you want to become a
successful dealer.
