Amusement arcade workers

Amusement arcade workers supervise the use of games machines. They also look out for the safety of customers and stop any inappropriate behaviour. The work involves handling money.

Work activities

Amusement arcade workers look after games machines and supervise the use of them. They make sure that customers behave reasonably and don’t misuse the equipment.

Arcade workers usually have to understand the machines and games enough to sort out minor problems, like stuck coins or non-payment of prizes.

Some arcade workers are responsible for unlocking and locking the arcade. Arcade workers collect money from customers and give out change or tokens. They also keep the arcade clean and tidy. In some arcades, they make hot and cold drinks for customers.

Personal qualities and skills

As an amusement arcade worker, you need:

• Good communication and people skills.
• To be able to work in noisy, busy conditions.
• Stamina and the ability to handle quiet times.
• To be able to count money and give the correct change.
• Teamworking skills.
• To be honest and reliable.

Pay and opportunities

Amusement arcade workers are typically paid the National Minimum Wage, although you could earn more in a supervisor or management position.

Arcades are open all days of the week, often until late at night. Shift work, part-time work and weekend-only work are all possible.

Opportunities for amusement arcade workers occur in towns and cities throughout the UK. Many of the larger amusement arcades are at seaside and holiday resorts. Some arcades are small independent firms, while others are part of a large chain.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in local newspapers, on the Government’s Find a Job service.

Entry routes and training

You can apply directly to arcades.

On-the-job training will cover any knowledge needed of the games machines, customer services and health and safety issues.

Relevant work-based qualifications include those in retail work, customer service, and leisure and tourism.

It may be possible to progress to a supervisory position and be responsible for other workers.

Qualifications

No formal qualifications are usually needed for entry to this work.

Your employer will expect a certain level of numeracy because you will sometimes be dealing with taking money and giving change.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits. However, as some facilities are reserved for gamblers aged 18 and over, you will need to be 18 to work there. 

Previous work within the leisure industry is helpful.

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• Sports and leisure centre assistant
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