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Law & Government

Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators

Observe gambling operation for irregular activities such as cheating or theft by either employees or patrons. Investigate potential threats to gambling assets such as money, chips, and gambling equipment. Act as oversight and security agent for management and customers.

Median salary (BLS)

$43,370

10th–90th percentile (BLS)

$33k – $62k

Job outlook

No separate BLS projection for this specific role

AI exposure

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Education

Typical entry: No degree required

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How to qualify

EstimateLicense required

Cost to qualify

$200–$5,150

Time to qualify

1 yr

Renewal

—

  1. 1

    High school diploma or GED

    Course

    Expected by most employers; if you need the GED, test fees run $0–$150 depending on the state.

    $0–$150 · 3 months · varies by state source

  2. 2

    On-the-job training

    Experience

    Employer-provided and typically paid — days to a few months for most no-degree roles.

    Cost varies · 3 months source

  3. 3

    Bar exam / state licensure / academy

    License

    Lawyers: the state bar exam. Public-safety roles: a training academy plus state certification.

    $200–$5,000 · 6 months · varies by state source

Estimated typical U.S. route for "Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators" — built from BLS education requirements and College Board 2024–25 average published prices (public, in-state tuition + fees + books). Not yet verified against a specific state's licensing rules — confirm with your state licensing board or program.

Typical progression

  1. Junior Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators

    Entry / Junior

    $32,730

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators

    Established

    $43,370

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Gambling Surveillance Officers and Gambling Investigators

    Senior

    $52,670

Key skills

A typical day

  • •Monitor establishment activities to ensure adherence to all state gaming regulations and company policies and procedures.
  • •Observe casino or casino hotel operations for irregular activities, such as cheating or theft by employees or patrons, using audio and video equipment and one-way mirrors.
  • •Report all violations and suspicious behaviors to supervisors, verbally or in writing.
  • •Develop and maintain log of surveillance observations.
  • •Inspect and monitor audio or video surveillance equipment to ensure it is working appropriately.

Fields of study

Any field

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Reputation-based selection; stats shown are outcome data per school.