Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators
Gambling surveillance officers and investigators monitor casino floors and back-of-house areas to detect cheating, theft, and other irregular activities involving employees or patrons. They work in casinos, racetracks, and other gambling establishments, using surveillance equipment and direct observation to protect gaming assets and ensure compliance with regulations.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gambling surveillance officers and gambling investigators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves monitoring surveillance camera feeds from control rooms, watching gaming tables and slot machines for suspicious activity, and conducting investigations when irregularities are detected. Officers document incidents, interview staff and customers, and prepare reports for management. Some time is spent on the casino floor observing operations directly and coordinating with security personnel to address potential threats to money, chips, and equipment.
Who this work suits
Holland code CER. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to be detail-oriented and comfortable with rule-based systems, preferring structured procedures and clear protocols. You're also motivated by business outcomes and enjoy positions where you can protect assets and advance organizational interests, making this work rewarding when you successfully identify threats and support management decisions.
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
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $57,420 | $61,770 | $61,770 | 80 |
| Connecticut | $46,890 | $56,300 | $69,480 | 180 |
| Oregon | $40,560 | $50,120 | $59,400 | 70 |
| Arizona | $44,190 | $50,010 | $59,390 | 380 |
| New York | $40,040 | $49,110 | $60,020 | 170 |
| New Jersey | $43,710 | $48,620 | $56,520 | 270 |
| Maryland | $35,320 | $47,950 | $57,890 | 120 |
| Indiana | $36,810 | $46,910 | $111,990 | 380 |
| North Dakota | $39,170 | $46,740 | $61,560 | 120 |
| Michigan | $41,910 | $46,620 | $56,460 | 330 |
| Nevada | $40,650 | $46,570 | $57,380 | 820 |
| Ohio | $36,410 | $45,880 | $65,480 | 190 |
All 34 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Protection Officer (CPO) — International Foundation for Protection Officers
- Professional Security Officer Program (PSOP) — International Foundation for Protection Officers
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against gambling surveillance officers and gambling investigators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 33-9031.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.