Quick Answer

Conditional. Dover Downs Casino (now operating as Bally's Dover Casino Resort) hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions. As Delaware's largest casino resort with approximately 900 employees, Dover Downs operates a 500-room Four Diamond hotel, 2,200 slot machines, 33 table games, and a harness racing track. However, employment for nearly all positions inside the casino is subject to mandatory licensing by the Delaware Lottery Office and the Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement.

The law prohibits companies from having a blanket policy excluding all felons. Instead, the Delaware gaming licensing process focuses on an applicant's suitability, integrity, and good character. While a felony conviction can be grounds for license denial, applicants may demonstrate rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence to overcome disqualification.

The greatest barriers are created by felonies related to theft, fraud, or dishonesty (integrity is paramount in gaming), gambling offenses or crimes of moral turpitude within 10 years (automatic disqualification under Delaware law), and violent offenses or organized crime connections (regulatory concern for casino legitimacy). Recent offenses face the highest scrutiny regardless of type.

Best opportunities exist in hotel support roles such as housekeeping, laundry, and food preparation positions that are physically separated from direct gaming floor operations and do not require handling gaming cash. These positions require registration rather than full licensing, which may present lower barriers for applicants with older, non-integrity-related offenses.

Table of Content

1. Quick Answer

2. Felon-Friendly Scorecard

3. Eligibility Checklist

4. Critical Regulatory Information

5. Company Overview

6. Hiring Policy Analysis

7. Background Check Process

8. Application Strategy

9. Tips for Applicants with Records

10. Benefits Overview

11. Frequently Asked Questions

12. Alternative Second Chance Employers

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• Gaming License/Registration Required: Must be willing to submit to mandatory fingerprint-based background investigation by Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement. All casino employees require some level of licensing or registration.

  
  

• Suitability Standard: Must be prepared to demonstrate good character, honesty, and integrity. The licensing authority reviews nature of crime, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation.

  
  

• No 10-Year Automatic Disqualifiers: No gambling offenses or crimes of moral turpitude within the past 10 years. These are automatic grounds for license denial under Delaware law.

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Many positions require standing for extended periods (8+ hours), lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in climate-controlled casino/hotel environments. Some positions require pushing carts up to 350 pounds.

• Drug Screen: Must pass pre-employment drug testing. Delaware gaming regulations require drug-free workplace compliance. Testing is typically a urine screening.

  
  

• Absolute Honesty: Must be completely honest about criminal record on licensing applications. Failure to disclose is a specific ground for denial and can result in criminal charges for gaming license fraud.

  
  

• Work Authorization: Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and able to provide required I-9 documentation.

  
  

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the legal landscape for criminal records in gaming employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Dover Downs Casino operates under Delaware gaming regulations administered by the Delaware Lottery Office and Division of Gaming Enforcement. Unlike many industries, casino employment involves mandatory state licensing that creates additional barriers beyond standard employer background checks. Delaware's Ban the Box law applies only to public employers and specifically exempts casino positions, meaning criminal history inquiries can occur earlier in the hiring process.

EEOC Guidelines

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission advises employers not to automatically refuse to consider an applicant because of a criminal record. Employers must conduct an individualized assessment considering the Green Factors:

(1) Nature and gravity of the offense;

(2) Time elapsed since the offense and/or completion of sentence;

(3) Nature of the job sought and its relationship to the offense. Blanket policies excluding all felons are prohibited. However, in the gaming industry, state regulatory requirements may supersede standard EEOC guidance when specific licensing laws apply.

FCRA Requirements

If a third party conducts the background check and a job offer is denied based on the report, Dover Downs must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

(1) Provide pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report;

(2) Allow reasonable time to dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands. Note that gaming license denials by the state may follow different procedures.

State-Specific Considerations

Delaware has limited Fair Chance protections for private employers. The state's Ban the Box law (enacted 2014) applies only to public employers and does not extend to private sector employers like casinos. Public employers may consider felony convictions for 10 years following release from custody and misdemeanors for 5 years. However, Delaware's gaming industry is specifically exempt from Ban the Box protections because casino employment requires state licensing that involves criminal history review. Delaware does permit expungement of certain criminal records, and expunged convictions are not automatic grounds for gaming license disqualification (though underlying conduct may still be considered).

Gaming Industry-Specific Considerations

The gaming industry involves handling large amounts of cash and preventing criminal infiltration. Under Delaware Code Title 29, Section 4830, all casino employees must obtain licensing from the Delaware Lottery Office. The Division of Gaming Enforcement conducts fingerprint-based background checks through state and FBI databases. Grounds for license denial include: conviction of any felony; conviction of gambling offense or crime of moral turpitude within 10 years; commission of such acts even without conviction; notorious reputation threatening casino legitimacy. Importantly, pardoned or expunged convictions are not automatic disqualification grounds, and applicants may demonstrate rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence. The licensing process takes up to 90 days.

Company Overview

Dover Downs Casino, now operating as Bally's Dover Casino Resort, is Delaware's largest casino resort and one of Central Delaware's largest private employers. The property traces its roots to 1969 when harness racing operations began, with the casino hotel complex opening in 2002. In 2019, Rhode Island-based Twin River Worldwide Holdings (now Bally's Corporation) acquired Dover Downs Gaming & Entertainment, Inc. The property is located at 1131 North DuPont Highway in Dover, Delaware, adjacent to Dover International Speedway.

The resort features a AAA Four Diamond-rated 500-room hotel, smoke-free casino with 2,200 slot machines and 33 table games, harness racing track (November through April), Race & Sports Book, multiple dining venues, the Rollins Center ballroom, and live entertainment. In 2024, the casino returned to 24/7 operations and hired approximately 140 additional staff. The company has been rated one of Delaware's Top Workplaces for eight consecutive years.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1969 (harness racing); 2002 (casino hotel)

• Headquarters: Dover, Delaware

• Employees: Approximately 900-1,000 at Dover location

• Parent Company: Bally's Corporation (NYSE: BALY)

• Major Operations: Casino, hotel, harness racing, dining, entertainment

• General Manager: Nick Polcino, VP & General Manager

• Revenue: Approximately $179 million annually

Hiring Policy Analysis

Dover Downs Casino operates under Delaware's gaming regulatory framework requiring all casino employees to undergo state licensing. The company has been recognized as a Top Workplace in Delaware for eight years. Due to gaming regulations, Dover Downs can inquire about criminal history earlier than typical private employers. Background checks and licensing investigations are conducted after conditional offers. The licensing process typically takes 6-8 weeks from interview to start date, though temporary licenses may be issued. The hiring process includes application, phone screening, interview, conditional offer, gaming license application, background investigation, drug testing, and orientation.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels are determined by degree of gaming floor access, cash handling responsibilities, licensing requirements, and position sensitivity under Delaware gaming law.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and company job postings. Actual compensation varies by experience, shift, and department. Tipped positions may earn significantly more with gratuities.

Career Path Examples

Dover Downs emphasizes internal advancement with comprehensive training programs and tuition reimbursement. Many leadership positions are filled through internal promotion. Employee reviews indicate advancement opportunities are available for those demonstrating strong work ethic.

Hotel Operations Track: Housekeeper ($12-$15/hr) → Room Inspector ($14-$17/hr) → Housekeeping Supervisor ($17-$20/hr) → Executive Housekeeper ($45K-$55K/yr). Requires 2-3 years progression with demonstrated reliability.

Food & Beverage Track: Line Cook ($13-$17/hr) → Lead Cook ($16-$19/hr) → Sous Chef ($18-$22/hr) → Executive Chef ($50K-$65K/yr). Culinary advancement program available.

Gaming Operations Track: Casino Dealer ($15-$20/hr) → Table Games Supervisor ($20-$25/hr) → Pit Boss ($55K-$70K/yr). Note: Advancement to key employee positions requires enhanced licensing and additional background scrutiny.

Background Check Process

Understanding Dover Downs' background check process helps you prepare for casino employment requirements. The process involves both company screening and mandatory state gaming license investigation, which is more extensive than typical employer background checks.

• What They Check: Criminal history at county, state, and federal levels through fingerprint-based FBI database search; identity verification through SSN trace and address history; financial history review; employment history verification; education verification for positions requiring credentials; drug screening; character assessment including associations and reputation.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Gambling offenses and crimes of moral turpitude have a strict 10-year lookback for automatic disqualification. All other felony convictions are reviewed indefinitely based on suitability assessment, though older offenses with evidence of rehabilitation carry less weight. Employment verification typically extends 7-10 years.

• Timeline: The hiring process averages 6-8 weeks from interview to start date based on employee reports. Gaming license investigation typically takes 30-90 days. Temporary licenses may be issued when necessary for efficient operations.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening → Interview conducted → Conditional offer extended → Gaming license application and fingerprinting → Background investigation by Division of Gaming Enforcement → Drug test → Suitability determination → Final hiring decision → Orientation and training.

Disqualifying Factors

Automatic Disqualification: Conviction of gambling offense within 10 years; conviction of crime of moral turpitude within 10 years; commission of acts that would constitute such offenses even without conviction; false statements on gaming license application.

High Risk for Disqualification: Theft, fraud, embezzlement, forgery (dishonesty offenses critical in gaming); violent felonies; drug trafficking; organized crime connections; money laundering; multiple felony convictions; recent felonies of any type.

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent offenses beyond 10 years with rehabilitation evidence; misdemeanors unrelated to integrity; single offense with significant time elapsed; offenses subject to pardon or expungement. All subject to individualized suitability assessment.

Your Rights as Applicant

• FCRA Protections: You must receive written notice and provide consent before background checks by third-party consumer reporting agencies. If denied based on the report, you're entitled to a copy and the right to dispute inaccuracies.

  
  

• Gaming License Due Process: If your gaming license is denied, you may request a hearing and present rehabilitation evidence. The licensing authority must provide written reasons for denial.

  
  

• Rehabilitation Opportunity: Delaware law specifically provides that applicants may demonstrate rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence to overcome disqualification grounds.

  
  

• Expungement Protection: Pardoned or expunged convictions are not automatic grounds for license denial under Delaware gaming law, though underlying conduct may still be considered.

Application Strategy

1. Target Hotel Support Positions: Focus on housekeeping, laundry, kitchen preparation, and maintenance roles that are physically separated from direct gaming operations. These positions may require less stringent registration rather than full gaming licenses, presenting lower barriers for applicants with records.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit your application through the Bally's Dover careers portal at ballyscareers.com or doverdownscareers.peoplematter.jobs. Check the careers page regularly as positions are posted frequently, especially after the return to 24/7 operations.

   
   

3. Prepare for Gaming License Application: Understand that you will need to complete a detailed gaming license application with full disclosure of criminal history. Gather all court documents, disposition records, and certificates of completion in advance.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest: Never lie about your criminal history. False statements on gaming license applications can result in permanent disqualification and potential criminal charges. The licensing investigation will uncover your full history through FBI fingerprint checks.

   
   

5. Prepare Your Rehabilitation Narrative: Delaware law allows demonstration of rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence. Prepare a comprehensive package: acknowledgment without excuses, description of lessons learned, concrete evidence of changed lifestyle, community contributions, stable employment history, education certificates.

   
   

6. Document Rehabilitation Thoroughly: Gather completion certificates from programs, educational achievements, vocational training, stable housing documentation, character references from employers, probation officers, community leaders, and any evidence of positive community involvement.

   
   

7. Check Expungement Eligibility: Research whether your offense qualifies for expungement or pardon under Delaware law. Contact Delaware Center for Justice at (302) 658-7174 for assistance. Expunged records are not automatic disqualifiers under gaming law.

   
   

8. Allow Adequate Time: The gaming license process takes 30-90 days. Apply to multiple positions and be patient with the process. Follow up professionally if you don't hear back within 3-4 weeks.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Casino Industry Has Unique Barriers: Unlike many industries, gaming employment requires state licensing regardless of position level. Understand that this creates additional hurdles beyond typical employer background checks. Focus on positions with registration rather than full gaming licenses.

   
   

2. Start Entry-Level and Prove Yourself: Begin in hotel support roles even if overqualified. Demonstrate reliability, integrity, and work ethic. Build relationships with management. Internal advancement is strongly emphasized at Dover Downs.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check First: Order your FBI identity history summary and Delaware state criminal record. Know exactly what will appear before the licensing investigation. Dispute any errors in advance.

   
   

4. Understand the 10-Year Rule: Gambling offenses and crimes of moral turpitude within 10 years are automatic disqualifiers. Calculate your timeline carefully. If within this window, consider waiting or targeting non-gaming positions.

   
   

5. Pass the Drug Test: Address any substance issues completely before applying. Casino industry requires drug-free workplace compliance. Testing is mandatory for most positions.

   
   

6. Highlight Stability and Reliability: Emphasize stable housing, reliable transportation, and consistent work history. Gaming regulators and employers value demonstrated stability as evidence of rehabilitation.

   
   

7. Be Flexible on Schedule: Willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays significantly increases your chances. Casino operations run 24/7 and high-turnover shifts are easier to fill.

   
   

8. Use Delaware Reentry Resources: Contact Delaware Center for Justice, Project New Start, or Delaware Division of Employment and Training for assistance with job placement, legal aid, and skills training.

Benefits Overview

Dover Downs (Bally's) offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. Benefits eligibility begins after 60 days of employment for most programs. Part-time employees may have limited benefits access.

• Compensation: Hourly wages ranging from $11-$20/hr for entry to mid-level positions. Tipped positions (dealers, servers, bartenders) can earn significantly more. Award of Excellence and Leadership Award programs provide recognition bonuses.

  
  

• 401(k) and Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match (approximately 3% match when you contribute 6%). Free personal financial coaching available through the company.

  
  

• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance options available. Coverage begins after 60 days of employment. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health and personal support. Additional mental health benefits available.

  
  

• Time Off: Paid time off (PTO) accruing from hire date. Floating holidays. Paid holidays based on position.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: Tuition reimbursement; internal training programs; employee discounts on casino services; uniform and laundry service provided; childcare benefits; service awards; annual employee appreciation events.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Pros: Friendly atmosphere; comprehensive training; advancement potential; uniform service provided; good perks and discounts; recognition programs.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Cons: Pay lower for some positions; favoritism concerns; demanding schedule; weekend/holiday work required; high turnover; management inconsistencies between departments.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Dover Downs Casino hire people with felonies?

   Yes, but with significant restrictions. Dover Downs can hire individuals with felony convictions, but all employees require Delaware gaming licensing which involves state-conducted background investigation. A felony conviction can be grounds for license denial, but is not automatic disqualification (except for gambling offenses and crimes of moral turpitude within 10 years). Applicants can demonstrate rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence. Best opportunities are in hotel support positions physically separated from gaming operations.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Dover Downs Casino?

   The process involves both company screening and mandatory Delaware gaming license investigation conducted by the Division of Gaming Enforcement. Applicants must complete a detailed gaming license application and submit to fingerprint-based FBI and state criminal database checks. The investigation covers criminal history, financial history, character, and associations. The process takes 30-90 days from application to license decision.

   
   

3. How far back does the background check go at Dover Downs—what is the lookback period?

   Gambling offenses and crimes of moral turpitude have a strict 10-year lookback for automatic disqualification under Delaware law. All other felony convictions are reviewed indefinitely as part of suitability assessment, though older offenses with rehabilitation evidence carry less weight. Standard FCRA 7-year limitations on reporting apply to third-party background checks, but state gaming investigations are not bound by these limits.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Dover Downs Casino?

   Most difficult: Any gambling offense or crime of moral turpitude within 10 years (automatic disqualification); theft, fraud, embezzlement, forgery (integrity paramount in gaming); organized crime connections; recent violent felonies. Moderately difficult: Non-violent felonies beyond 10 years; multiple convictions. Less difficult: Single non-violent offense with significant time elapsed; misdemeanors unrelated to integrity; expunged or pardoned convictions (not automatic bars).

   
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Dover Downs for applicants with a record?

   Best entry points are hotel support positions physically separated from gaming floor: Housekeeping/EVS ($12-$15/hr), Laundry Attendant ($11-$14/hr), Kitchen Prep/Dishwasher ($11-$14/hr), Line Cook ($13-$17/hr), Maintenance ($14-$18/hr). These positions may require less stringent registration rather than full gaming licenses, presenting lower barriers for applicants with records.

   
   

6. Does Dover Downs Casino drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes, Dover Downs requires pre-employment drug testing as part of Delaware gaming regulatory compliance. Testing is typically a urine screening for common controlled substances. The drug-free workplace policy applies to all positions. Some employee reports suggest testing policies may vary by department, but applicants should assume drug testing is required.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Dover Downs ask about criminal history?

   Delaware's Ban the Box law does not apply to casino positions because gaming employment requires state licensing. Dover Downs can inquire about criminal history earlier in the process than typical private employers. However, the detailed gaming license application with full criminal history disclosure typically occurs after a conditional job offer is extended.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Dover Downs if they have a felony?

   Advancement is possible but becomes more challenging for supervisory and management positions. These roles typically require 'key employee' gaming licenses with more extensive background investigation and higher standards for suitability. Demonstrating consistent integrity, reliability, and work ethic over time is essential. Focus on building a track record of excellent performance before pursuing advancement to positions with enhanced licensing requirements.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Dover Downs?

   Employee reports indicate 6-8 weeks from interview to start date. The gaming license investigation portion typically takes 30-90 days depending on complexity. Temporary licenses may be issued when necessary to allow efficient operations. The overall process is longer than typical private employers due to mandatory state licensing requirements.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Dover Downs?

    Key strategies:

    (1) Target hotel support positions with lower licensing barriers;

    (2) Prepare comprehensive rehabilitation documentation;

    (3) Be completely honest on all applications;

    (4) Check expungement eligibility;

    (5) Allow adequate time since conviction—especially beyond 10 years;

    (6) Demonstrate stability;

    (7) Be flexible on scheduling;

    (8) Apply consistently;

    (9) Use Delaware reentry resources;

    (10) Understand gaming-specific requirements.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Dover Downs doesn't work out, consider these employers known for fair chance hiring practices in Delaware hospitality and related industries:

Conclusion

Dover Downs Casino (Bally's Dover Casino Resort) offers limited but real opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in hotel support positions separated from direct gaming operations. As Delaware's largest casino resort and a recognized Top Workplace, the organization provides a pathway to stable employment with competitive benefits—but the mandatory state gaming licensing process creates substantial additional barriers beyond typical private employers.

The work environment is fast-paced, requiring weekend and holiday availability. Compensation is competitive for the region, particularly for tipped positions. Benefits are comprehensive including health insurance, 401(k) with match, and tuition reimbursement.

Key Success Factors: Target hotel support positions initially; prepare comprehensive rehabilitation documentation; be completely honest throughout the process; pursue expungement if eligible; demonstrate stability and reliability; be patient with the 6-8 week timeline; use Delaware reentry resources for support.

Biggest Barriers: Mandatory state gaming licensing for all positions; fingerprint-based FBI background investigation; automatic disqualification for gambling offenses and crimes of moral turpitude within 10 years; high scrutiny for integrity-related offenses; extensive investigation into character, associations, and financial history.

Success at Dover Downs requires honest acknowledgment of past mistakes while demonstrating rehabilitation evidence. Delaware law specifically provides opportunity to overcome disqualification through rehabilitation evidence. For those committed to the process, Dover Downs can provide a genuine second chance in the hospitality industry.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies, gaming regulations, and licensing requirements may change without notice. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including Delaware gaming regulations, company websites, job postings, and employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed), employment information may be outdated or incomplete. Always verify current practices directly with Dover Downs Casino and the Delaware Lottery Office.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment. Gaming license decisions are made by the Delaware Division of Gaming Enforcement based on individual circumstances. Background check laws, expungement procedures, and gaming regulations vary by jurisdiction and should be confirmed with legal professionals. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization such as Delaware Center for Justice for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://doverdownscareers.peoplematter.jobs