What Gambling Dealers do
The U.S. Department of Labor's O*NET database describes the work of Gambling Dealers this way: "Operate table games. Stand or sit behind table and operate games of chance by dispensing the appropriate number of cards or blocks to players, or operating other gambling equipment. Distribute winnings or collect players' money or chips. May compare the house's hand against players' hands."
The core tasks O*NET records for this occupation include: "Exchange paper currency for playing chips or coin money"; "Pay winnings or collect losing bets as established by the rules and procedures of a specific game"; "Deal cards to house hands, and compare these with players' hands to determine winners, as in black jack"; "Conduct gambling games, such as dice, roulette, cards, or keno, following all applicable rules and regulations"; "Check to ensure that all players have placed bets before play begins".
Education, experience and training
According to the BLS Employment Projections, the typical education needed to enter this occupation is high school diploma or equivalent. Typical on-the-job training to reach competency is short-term on-the-job training.
Job outlook for Gambling Dealers
The Bureau of Labor Statistics counted 88,900 jobs in this occupation in 2025 and projects 91,900 in 2035, an increase of 3,000 jobs (+3.4%). That is slower than the 3.5% projected for all occupations.
About 13,300 openings a year are projected on average, counting both new positions and positions vacated by workers who retire or switch occupations. Relative to today's employment that is 15.0% a year, against 10.3% for all occupations. BLS lists a national median annual wage of $34,320, compared with $50,980 for all occupations.
Where Gambling Dealers earn the most
Published data currently covers Nevada, where the employment-weighted average of local median wages is $25,686. More states are added as pages are published.
Occupations related to Gambling Dealers
Other occupations in the same SOC minor group (39-3000) include Amusement and Recreation Attendants.
Frequently asked questions about Gambling Dealers
What is the national median wage for Gambling Dealers?
BLS lists a national median annual wage of $34,320.
What is the job outlook for Gambling Dealers?
BLS projects employment to grow by 3.4% between 2025 and 2035, compared with 3.5% for all occupations, with about 13,300 openings a year.
What education do Gambling Dealers need?
The typical entry-level education is high school diploma or equivalent and short-term on-the-job training, according to BLS.