Are you looking for a job that combines the thrill of gambling with the satisfaction of customer service? If so, becoming a blackjack dealer may be the perfect career for you! Not only is it an exciting and lucrative job, it also requires minimal training and provides you with a great way to use your skills in customer service.
Qualifications and Requirements to Become a Blackjack Dealer
In order to become a blackjack dealer, individuals must become knowledgeable in card-counting strategies, game rules and payouts for various combinations of numbers. Although blackjack dealers do not necessarily need specific educational qualifications, employers may require a minimum level of education due to the complexity of the game.
Prior experience in customer service and dealing is often strongly preferred. It is also important that applicants possess practical numerical skills, good interpersonal abilities and an ability to learn quickly.
Employers typically provide on-the-job training which generally lasts between one and three weeks. During this time period, aspiring dealers are taught the basic aspects of these games such as different combinations of numbers, betting techniques and relevant regulations within the new online casino setting. Before being allowed to solicit customers on their own, they must prove they have successfully learnt these skills including proficiency with calculations and multiple games at once under timed tests conducted by their supervisors.
Employers expect dealers to be presentable and able to interact with players in a professional manner at all times; thus job applicants should be comfortable handling stress while remaining prompt and courteous throughout their shift. Additionally, dealers should demonstrate integrity through adherence to established rules within the gaming industry as well as gambling laws in the particular jurisdiction their casino is governed by.
Skills and Knowledge Necessary to Become a Blackjack Dealer
Memorizing the game rules and being able to operate with precision during high-pressure situations are essential abilities.
Familiarity with the gaming regulations in your state or country is also key, as the rules may differ depending on location. Additionally, knowledge of equipment setup is important. Blackjack dealers must be proficient in setting up their workspaces, while making sure that all of the necessary supplies are readily available throughout the shift.
Good mathematical skills as well as a passion for games of chance make for great attributes when it comes to becoming a professional blackjack dealer. Having strong customer service experience, flexibility in schedule availability and an understanding of how bookskeeping works will also aid you on your way to becoming a achieving success in this industry. Finally, having an approachable personality and good interpersonal skills as well as patience help ensure that your interactions with customers are successful every time.
Training to Become a Blackjack Dealer
All reputable casinos and gaming academies require that dealers complete their own form of training before performing in a real-life casino environment.
Casino and gaming academies offer a range of dealer courses depending on the type of game they specialize in. To become a blackjack dealer, classes cover topics like game rules and principles, verifying winnings, making correct payouts to players, chip handling procedures, hand shuffling techniques and card handling skills.
At most casinos or gaming academies, students will receive hands-on training with professional dealers. This includes learning how to shuffle the cards and dealing them to players the way that each particular casino requires. Dealing procedures are very important for maintaining control over the game in order for it to go smoothly for everyone involved.
Once students have completed the course with satisfactory results, they are awarded a certificate which is recognized by many establishments as proof of their knowledge and skills as a blackjack dealer. After gaining this certification, prospective dealers will also have to take a background check prior to being hired at their local casino or resort.
Salary of a Blackjack Dealer
The salary can vary depending on the type of casino and the number of hours worked. Those employed in large, high-end casinos may earn more than those in smaller establishments. It is also possible to earn extra income from tips left by customers.
Some casinos may offer an hourly rate, but many will offer a combination of hourly wages and tips. The minimum pay for dealers is usually set by state or local law, or by regulations imposed by the Gaming Control Board. In some cases, even if an individual does not work at a licensed casino, they must still comply with these minimum wage regulations.
Tips are an important part of dealers’ salaries and may provide an additional source of income. These are generally not “guaranteed” wages as they come from customer generosity. As such, certain factors such as politeness, professionalism and skill can help increase tip amounts received each shift worked.
Given the potential earning potential of tipping, some casinos may share portions of their profits with their dealers by offering commission or incentive payouts for increased play levels or results at tables over a given time period. Additionally, promotions and/or bonuses may be offered periodically as reward for long service periods or other achievements attained since starting employment at the casino.
Job Outlook for Blackjack Dealers
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that casino jobs like blackjack dealing will grow by 6 percent between 2016 and 2026. This growth is largely due to the increasing popularity of gambling and the expansion of casinos nationwide.
According to a recent survey, the average annual salary for a blackjack dealer in the U.S. is $20,520, which translates to about $10 an hour. However, salaries can vary greatly depending on where you choose to work and what kinds of benefits are offered with your position. Factors that may affect how much you make include:
- Experience level
- Certifications or licenses held
- Customer tips
- Benefits such as health care or 401Ks associated with your job role.
It is important to note that while many other jobs require traditional 9-5 office hours, dealers usually work nights and weekends when casinos make most of their money during peak hours; this is something you should keep in mind before considering a career in dealing casino games professionally.