Each casino sets its own requirements regarding employee education and training; however, most require slot machine technicians to hold at least a high school diploma. Some casinos and machine manufacturers offer training to new hires, but technicians often gain the bulk of their education on the job by working with more experienced employees. Having a degree in electronics is a plus. Many colleges and universities offer associate degrees in electronics technology.
Technical schools, community colleges and universities all may offer technology degrees. These range from one-year certificates to two-year associate degrees, four-year bachelor degrees, and even advanced degrees. Majors include information technology, electronics, and electronic engineering. Some schools offer specific slot machine technology or repair programs, certificates and degrees. A local job placement office or college advising center may help you find appropriate schools. The American Gaming Association and Electronics Technician Association-International are also good resources for finding related education.
Slot machine technician programs teach you how to install, calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair various types of slot machines. Courses explain money operation systems, electrical systems and components, circuit creation and testing, identification of parts such as capacitors and resistors, troubleshooting codes and basic microprocessor functions. The program at Atlantic Cape Community College runs 375 hours plus a 75-hour internship. Cost for the schooling totals $3,365 (as of early 2011). Schooling may often lead to certification from the Electronics Technicians Association, International.
Gaming employees must also receive licenses from the state in which they are employed. Licensing typically requires fingerprinting for a background check, submitting personal and work history and paying the appropriate fee. Although some states, like Washington, used to require specialized training for gaming employees such as slot machine technicians in order to receive a license, most states have dropped such requirements, so schooling is not needed to obtain a license. Instead, some states give handouts that you must sign, agreeing that you understand state and federal gambling laws.