Gambling and Sports Book Writers and Runners
Gambling and sports book writers and runners help operate betting operations at racetracks, casinos, and betting establishments. They post odds and information about races and sporting events, receive and record wagers from patrons, process winning tickets, and may operate equipment for games like keno and bingo. This work takes place in fast-paced gaming venues.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gambling and sports book writers and runners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves posting current odds and race information, accepting wagers from patrons, and verifying bet slips for accuracy. Workers scan and process tickets from winners, paying out winnings and recording transactions. They may operate number-generating equipment for keno or bingo games and announce results to players. The pace quickens during major racing events or sporting competitions when betting volume increases significantly.
Who this work suits
Holland code CES. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'd do well in this work if you're detail-oriented and comfortable with rules and procedures—the conventional side of this job. You also need an enterprising mindset to help customers place bets and manage the flow of gaming operations. Quick math skills and accuracy handling money are essential.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $39,180 | $54,740 | $63,430 | 100 |
| New Jersey | $36,190 | $48,260 | $57,880 | 90 |
| Massachusetts | $39,400 | $47,720 | $49,320 | — |
| Wisconsin | $33,450 | $47,250 | $47,280 | 80 |
| California | $37,880 | $44,860 | $44,860 | 1,480 |
| Washington | $38,180 | $42,180 | $46,280 | 220 |
| Ohio | $34,980 | $38,460 | $66,070 | 360 |
| Kentucky | $35,060 | $37,910 | $38,420 | 60 |
| Michigan | $34,240 | $37,720 | $37,920 | — |
| Nevada | $28,500 | $37,500 | $46,070 | 1,440 |
| Iowa | $31,090 | $37,440 | $38,980 | 100 |
| Arizona | $33,030 | $35,640 | $37,000 | 260 |
All 30 states
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gambling and sports book writers and runners and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 39-3012.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.