What a Casino Pit Clerk Does

A casino pit clerk handles a variety of jobs within a casino. In most cases they work out of the table games department and are not considered part of administration. Some casinos allow pit clerks to be dual-rated, meaning they work some days as a pit clerk and some days in another capacity, such as dealer.

Pit clerks are often dressed in black and white outfits and hover around the podiums within a pit of table games. They don't mingle with the guests on a regular basis as they are often working on player rating cards, data input, and printing comps and markers. They answer to the pit boss and may work in just one pit section or may be responsible for several pits.

On a regular day, a pit clerk will take stacks of player tracking cards and input the data into the player tracking software of the casino's computer system. If the casino uses an advanced player tracking system that automatically tracks the player's wagers, the pit clerk will verify entries and administer other paperwork within the pit. They will also restock pit supplies.

Comps are the complementary vouchers for food, lodging, shows and other amenities that players earn based on their hours of play and their average bet. Pit clerks often take new player applications and issue player-tracking cards as well as issue the paper comps that are used by players.

A pit clerk is also responsible for printing and keeping track of markers, or the credit issued in the form of chips for the table game players. Although these markers come from the table games and are first asked for by the floor supervisors or pit bosses, there is a lot of responsibility placed on the pit clerks to keep these markers and records absolutely correct.

Pit clerks are usually responsible for collecting paperwork generated by each shift in the table games department. This may include table inventory totals, player tracking totals, headcount (guest numbers) sheets, credit totals, dealer and supervisor hours worked and also decks of cards used.

Many casinos also expect pit clerks to handle all types of inventory controls from cards and shoes to paper supplies and computer peripherals. As such, the position of pit clerk is vital to the smooth operation of the table games department.

Pay scales are likely to be heavily dependent on the work load and responsibilities. Some type of data input and office familiarity is usually required to fill the position and the pay rate usually starts at $10-$12 per hour. If the job is offered as a dual position, the pit clerk is likely to be trained as a dealer and will have the opportunity to work a day or two in that capacity, greatly increasing their earnings.

Pit clerks, as well as all casino employees who work in "smoking" casinos, must endure loud noises, smoke, and the occasional irate player who feels the need to vent about their loses or a dealer mistake.

The pit clerk position is often an entry-level job that pays better than minimum wage and provides a clean, safe environment in an exciting field. With benefits such as a 401K and medical and dental programs, this is a sought after job.

The position is also likely to put the employee in direct contact with pit bosses and shift mangers who often make decisions about hiring and work levels. Pit clerks often move into full-time dealing positions.