Is it a good time to get into the Vegas hospitality biz? Shifts are being cut due to a tourism slump and some gigs are under the threat of extinction due to automation. But don’t forget — leisure and hospitality is nearly a third of the local economy. The opportunities are still there. You just have to find ‘em.
🍽️ Training in Hospitality
If you don’t know where to begin, the Culinary Academy of Las Vegas is a fantastic resource (and a great cheap lunch). The school runs expedited programs in food service, kitchen work, bartending, and even housekeeping with the support and cooperation of the resort industry. If you’re short on funds, they’ll work it out. Nobody is turned away — and placement is a priority.
The Restaurant Hospitality Institute is another top option for in-person and online courses for learning about service, kitchen, and bartending jobs.
The Larry Ruvo Academy at Southern Glazer's goes more in depth on wine, cocktails, and other drink categories with some of the most experienced people in the biz. If you want to be the best of the best, this helps 🍸
As for casino dealers, you can try your luck with the Sahara, which runs its own free training school or Casino Education Group (CEG), which has a history of working closely with Station Casinos for job placement.
Otherwise, use Google to shop around and compare options. Vegas has too many bartending and casino dealer schools to list here. For long-term education, UNLV has its own College of Hospitality and CSN has programs for the culinary arts, food service, and management in hotels, gaming, and events.
✍️ Legal Requirements
You can’t just show up from Ohio with your suitcase and walk right into a service job. A Food Handler Safety Training Card from the health district and TAM Card (for alcohol awareness) are required for serving food and drinks.
Some positions (like bartenders and casino dealers) require a Sheriff’s Card (work permit via Metro Police, possibly with an FBI background check), but that typically requires a referral after being accepted for a job.
🥂 It’s Who You Know
Nobody wants to send out a resume cold. It’s best to have some kind of contact. Otherwise, the chances of getting your work experience past automated scanners can be slim. Whenever possible, hit a job fair. They happen in Vegas all the time. There’s one coming up on Jan. 28 at the Boulevard Mall with the likes of Caesars Entertainment, Station Casinos, Harry Reid International Airport, and dozens more in attendance.
I know this article only scratches the surface of what it takes to find a job in Las Vegas. Don’t be afraid to start small with a less-than-ideal position before working your way up. It could open the door to some much-needed experience and contacts for better opportunities down the line 👍
