Blackjack is a card game played between one or more players and a dealer. The objective is to have a higher total than the dealer without going over 21. The game has many variants, but the rules are generally the same. In most casinos, players can join a table that is already in play, unless chips or a coat are holding the seat (or the game has a No-Midshoe Entry policy). Once all bets are placed, the dealer will deal two cards to each player and themselves. If a player has an ace and a ten-value card (or picture card), this is called a “blackjack” and the player wins.
After the cards are dealt, the dealer checks their hole card with a special viewing window in the table. If they have a ten underneath, they get a blackjack and everyone who made insurance wagers lose their bets. If they do not have a blackjack, the game continues as normal.
The dealer must follow a set of rules for drawing additional cards. If their hand is valued at 16 or less, they must draw another card (hit). If their hand is valued at 17 or more, they must stand (not draw any more cards). The dealer’s dealer must also follow a specific rule for splitting pairs. Generally, the dealer should only split against an up card of 2-7 and never split a pair of aces.
During the course of a shift, a blackjack dealer will interact with all types of casino guests. They will deal hands to quiet players, obnoxious ones and people who just want to have some fun. They will also talk to the dealers at their tables and make sure they are on the same page as they play. In addition, they will have to keep track of their own bankroll and the cash that is being deposited into and out of the casino’s chip trays.
While the responsibilities of a blackjack dealer may be simple, they are still vital to the success of any casino. A dealer’s attitude, professionalism and ability to keep the game flowing smoothly can make or break a game for both the casino and the players. They are also responsible for interpreting and enforcing the rules of blackjack and other casino games.
In addition to dealing blackjack, a blackjack dealer may be required to perform other job duties as per the organisational guest service standards and procedures to preserve the integrity of the gaming process. For example, they may be required to collect and exchange currency for game tokens, place cash in a secure drop box, and notify the floor supervisor or team lead of gaming irregularities and credit card rejections from guests.
In some casinos, blackjack dealers may be allowed to take breaks. These breaks can last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour depending on the casino and its policies. During their breaks, they will usually spend time in the staff lounge relaxing or chatting with other blackjack dealers. It is important for a blackjack dealer to be able to keep their cool and stay focused while taking breaks from the table.
