Quick Answer

Conditional. Golden Entertainment hires individuals with felony convictions for certain positions, but employment in the gaming industry faces unique regulatory barriers. As a diversified gaming company operating eight Nevada casinos including The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower and over 70 PT's gaming taverns, Golden Entertainment employs approximately 5,300 team members. All positions within gaming establishments require Nevada Gaming Control Board registration, which involves mandatory fingerprint-based FBI background checks.

The Nevada Gaming Control Board evaluates each applicant's suitability, integrity, and character. While no blanket exclusion exists, crimes involving moral turpitude (theft, fraud, embezzlement), dishonesty, and violence create substantial barriers. Felony convictions within the past 5-7 years receive the highest scrutiny, and gaming-related offenses may result in permanent disqualification.

The best entry points for applicants with records are tavern positions (PT's Pub, Sierra Gold, Lucky's), hotel support roles (housekeeping, facilities maintenance), and food and beverage positions that may have less stringent licensing requirements than direct gaming floor positions. Documented evidence of rehabilitation and significant time elapsed since conviction substantially improve approval chances.

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 Employee Registration: Must be able to pass Nevada Gaming Control Board registration process, including fingerprint-based FBI background check and suitability determination.

  
  

• No Automatic Disqualifiers: Must not have active warrants, be on parole/probation restrictions preventing gaming employment, or have prior gaming license revocations.

  
  

• Character Demonstration: Must be prepared to demonstrate suitability, integrity, and good character through rehabilitation evidence, stable work history, and references.

  
  

• Physical Requirements: Many positions require standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working in fast-paced environments. Casino and tavern environments involve walking/standing entire shifts.

  
  

• Drug Screen: Must pass mandatory pre-employment drug test. Golden Entertainment maintains a drug-free workplace policy.

  
  

• Complete Honesty: Must disclose ALL criminal history accurately on gaming registration applications. Failure to disclose is grounds for denial and potential criminal charges.

  
  

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

  
  

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 21 years of age for gaming positions and positions involving alcohol service.

Critical Regulatory Information

Understanding the complex regulatory landscape for criminal records in gaming employment is essential for Second Chance applicants. Golden Entertainment operates exclusively in Nevada, where the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) maintains the most stringent gaming employee regulations in the world. All employees working within licensed gaming establishments must obtain Gaming Employee Registration, regardless of their specific role.

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. However, in gaming, state regulatory requirements often supersede EEOC guidelines, and the Nevada Gaming Control Board has independent authority to deny registrations.

FCRA Requirements

For company-conducted background checks, Golden Entertainment must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) adverse action procedures:

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

(2) Allow reasonable time to dispute inaccuracies;

(3) Provide final adverse action notice if decision stands after review. Note that Gaming Control Board registration decisions follow separate administrative procedures and appeals through the Nevada Gaming Commission.

State-Specific Considerations

Nevada does not have comprehensive Ban the Box legislation for private employers. However, Nevada does allow record sealing for certain convictions, though sealed records may still be accessible to gaming regulatory authorities. Nevada Revised Statute 179.245 permits sealing of certain criminal records after specified waiting periods. The Nevada Gaming Control Board can inspect sealed records for purposes of determining gaming license suitability per NRS 179.301. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department issues Sheriff's Cards (work cards) for certain occupations, which have separate requirements from Gaming Employee Registration.

Gaming Industry-Specific Considerations

The Nevada gaming industry operates under NRS Chapter 463, which establishes the most rigorous employee licensing requirements in the country. All employees must register with the Nevada Gaming Control Board through the Gaming Employee Registration (GER) system. The Board evaluates suitability based on integrity, reliability, and character. Convictions that demonstrate lack of business integrity or honesty—classified as crimes of moral turpitude—face particular scrutiny. Gaming-related offenses (cheating, theft from casinos, illegal gambling) within 10 years may result in automatic denial. The Board considers rehabilitation evidence but maintains discretion to deny registration for serious offenses regardless of time elapsed. Appeals are processed through the Nevada Gaming Commission with hearings available for adverse decisions.

Company Overview

Golden Entertainment, Inc. is a diversified gaming company headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, operating casinos, gaming taverns, and distributed gaming operations. The company was established in its current form in 2015 through the merger of Golden Gaming and Lakes Entertainment. Golden Entertainment trades on NASDAQ under the ticker symbol GDEN. The company operates approximately 12,000 gaming devices and 38 table games across its properties.

The company's flagship property is The STRAT Hotel, Casino & Tower, featuring the tallest freestanding observation tower in the United States at 1,149 feet. The STRAT offers approximately 800 slot machines, 38 table games, a race and sportsbook, multiple restaurants, and entertainment venues. Golden Entertainment also operates 72+ gaming taverns under brands including PT's Pub, PT's Gold, PT's Ranch, Sean Patrick's, Sierra Gold, Lucky's, and SG Bar, making it Nevada's largest tavern gaming operator.

Company Fast Facts

• Founded: 1998 (as Golden Gaming); 2015 (merger to Golden Entertainment)

• Headquarters: Las Vegas, Nevada

• Employees: Approximately 5,300 team members

• Stock Exchange: NASDAQ: GDEN

• CEO: Blake L. Sartini

• Revenue: $667 million (2024)

• Major Properties: The STRAT, Aquarius Casino Resort, Colorado Belle, Edgewater, Arizona Charlie's Boulder & Decatur, Pahrump Nugget, Gold Town Casino, Lakeside Casino

• Tavern Brands: PT's Pub, PT's Gold, PT's Ranch, Sean Patrick's, Sierra Gold, Lucky's, SG Bar, Great American Pub, Sierra Junction

Hiring Policy Analysis

Golden Entertainment conducts hiring through its centralized HR system, with background checks processed after conditional offers of employment. The company states it is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment without regard to criminal background where legally permitted. However, all positions are subject to Nevada Gaming Control Board registration requirements, which operate independently of company hiring policies. The company registers new employees with the Gaming Control Board, who then complete the application and fingerprinting process. Employee reports indicate the hiring timeline averages 2-4 weeks from application to start, with background verification taking 1-2 weeks.

Position-Specific Barriers

Barrier levels in gaming are primarily determined by state licensing requirements and the degree of cash handling, security responsibility, and customer interaction involved.

Available Positions and Pay

Pay data compiled from Glassdoor, Indeed, PayScale, and company job postings. Actual compensation varies by property location, shift, experience, and tips.

Career Path Examples

Golden Entertainment emphasizes internal advancement and provides training opportunities. Employee reviews indicate promotions to kitchen manager can occur within one year for high performers.

Tavern Food Service Track: Dishwasher ($13-$15/hr) → Line Cook ($14-$18/hr) → Lead Cook ($16-$20/hr) → Kitchen Manager ($45K-$55K/yr). Advancement based on performance, reliability, and food safety certification.

Hotel Support Track: Housekeeping/Porter ($15-$17/hr) → Room Attendant ($16-$18/hr) → Housekeeping Supervisor ($18-$22/hr) → Housekeeping Manager ($40K-$50K/yr). Progression requires strong attendance and quality standards.

Beverage Service Track: Bar Porter ($13-$16/hr) → Bar Apprentice ($14-$17/hr) → Bartender ($12-$18/hr + tips) → Beverage Supervisor ($18-$24/hr). Requires TAM card and demonstrated customer service skills.

Background Check Process

Understanding Golden Entertainment's background check process helps you prepare for what to expect. The company conducts background checks after conditional offer of employment. However, the more significant hurdle is Nevada Gaming Control Board registration, which is a separate regulatory process conducted by the state.

• What They Check: Criminal history through fingerprint-based FBI and state database checks; identity verification through SSN trace and address history; employment history verification; drug screening (mandatory); gaming license/registration status; financial history for certain positions.

  
  

• Lookback Period: Gaming registration requires disclosure of all criminal history without time limitations. Felony convictions within 5 years face near-automatic denial for gaming registration. Felonies within 7 years receive heightened scrutiny. Gaming-related offenses within 10 years create significant barriers. The Board focuses on suitability and good character rather than strict time-based cutoffs.

  
  

• Timeline: The company hiring process averages 2-4 weeks from application to start.

  Gaming Control Board registration processing takes an additional 1-3 weeks after fingerprinting. Some positions may start pending registration approval with employer sponsorship.

  
  

• Process Flow: Application submitted → Phone screening/interview → Conditional offer extended → Company background check authorization → Gaming Control Board registration initiated → Fingerprinting completed at approved vendor → FBI background check processed → Suitability determination made → Registration approved or denied → Start date confirmed → Orientation.

Disqualifying Factors

High Risk for Disqualification: Theft, fraud, embezzlement, or financial crimes (demonstrates untrustworthiness with casino funds); gaming-related offenses including cheating, illegal gambling, or theft from casinos (direct conflict with industry integrity); violent felonies including assault, battery, domestic violence, or weapons charges (safety concerns); organized crime associations or notorious reputation; multiple felony convictions indicating pattern behavior; any felony conviction within past 5 years; making false statements on gaming registration applications (grounds for immediate denial and potential criminal charges).

Lower Risk (Case-by-Case): Non-violent drug possession offenses older than 7 years with documented treatment completion; property crimes without theft elements older than 7-10 years; DUI without aggravating factors and demonstrated sobriety; minor offenses with evidence of rehabilitation. All subject to individualized suitability determination by Nevada Gaming Control Board. Rehabilitation evidence, stable employment history, and community ties significantly improve approval chances.

Your Rights as Applicant

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

  
  

• Pre-Adverse Action Notice: Before a final company decision, you must receive notice with a copy of the report and summary of your rights.

  
  

• Gaming Commission Appeal: If Gaming Control Board registration is denied, you have the right to request a hearing before the Nevada Gaming Commission within 60 days of adverse decision.

  
  

• Record Review: You can obtain your own FBI criminal history record through Identity History Summary request to verify accuracy before applying.

  
  

• Dispute Rights: You can dispute inaccurate information on background reports with the reporting agency and request correction.

Application Strategy

1. Target Tavern and Support Positions First: Focus on PT's tavern locations for cook, dishwasher, and back-of-house positions which have lower barriers than casino floor roles. Hotel support positions at The STRAT (housekeeping, facilities maintenance) offer entry points with less direct gaming involvement.

   
   

2. Apply Through Official Channels: Submit applications through hrapply.com/goldenent. Visit HR offices at The STRAT (2000 Las Vegas Blvd S, Mon-Fri 9am-4pm) or Pahrump (681 S Highway 160, Mon-Fri 9am-4pm) for in-person assistance.

   
   

3. Run Your Own Background Check: Before applying, obtain your own FBI Identity History Summary to know exactly what will appear. Request through FBI channels and dispute any inaccuracies in advance.

   
   

4. Be Completely Honest: Gaming registration applications require full criminal history disclosure. Failure to disclose any conviction is grounds for denial and potentially criminal charges for falsifying applications. Never lie or omit information.

   
   

5. Prepare Rehabilitation Documentation: Gather evidence of positive changes: completion of treatment programs, educational certificates, vocational training, stable housing, employment history, community involvement, and character references from employers, counselors, or community members.

   
   

6. Research Record Sealing: Nevada allows sealing of certain criminal records per NRS 179.245. While sealed records may still be visible to gaming authorities, sealing demonstrates rehabilitation effort. Consult with legal aid about eligibility.

   
   

7. Consider Timing: If your conviction is within 5 years, consider waiting until more time has elapsed before applying for gaming positions. Use the waiting period to build stable employment history in non-gaming industries.

   
   

8. Prepare for Hearing If Necessary: If registration is initially objected to, you may request a hearing before the Nevada Gaming Commission. Prepare thoroughly with rehabilitation evidence and consider consulting an attorney experienced in gaming law.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Understand Gaming Is Highly Regulated: Nevada gaming operates under the most stringent employee licensing requirements globally. Unlike retail or food service industries, every position within licensed gaming establishments requires state approval regardless of company hiring decisions.

   
   

2. Taverns May Offer Better Odds: PT's taverns and other Golden Entertainment bar/restaurant locations may have somewhat less intensive scrutiny than casino floor positions, though all still require Gaming Employee Registration.

   
   

3. Demonstrate Integrity Through Process: How you conduct yourself during the application process matters. Complete honesty, proper documentation, professional demeanor, and respectful communication all contribute to the suitability determination.

   
   

4. Pass the Drug Test: Golden Entertainment requires pre-employment drug screening. Address any substance issues before applying. Nevada allows recreational cannabis but employers can maintain drug-free workplace policies.

   
   

5. Highlight Stability: Gaming regulators look for evidence of stable, responsible lifestyle. Emphasize consistent housing, reliable transportation, and any work history—even informal work demonstrates reliability.

   
   

6. Be Flexible on Scheduling: Casinos and taverns operate 24/7. Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts increases your chances. Graveyard shifts often have higher hiring need.

   
   

7. Network With Current Employees: Employee referrals can help your application receive consideration. Connect with current Golden Entertainment team members through professional networking.

   
   

8. Consider Alternative Industries First: If your conviction is recent or involves integrity crimes, building a track record in non-gaming hospitality (restaurants, hotels without gaming) may improve your gaming application later.

Benefits Overview

Golden Entertainment offers a competitive benefits package for full-time team members. Benefits become available after completing the 90-day introductory period.

• Compensation: Entry-level positions start at $13-$18/hr depending on role. Tipped positions (bartenders, servers) can earn significantly more with tips. Employee reviews note pay is generally lower than industry average but consistent with 40-hour weeks available.

  
  

• 401(k) Retirement: 401(k) retirement savings plan available after eligibility period. Some positions may have pension benefits through union agreements.

  
  

• Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance available for full-time employees. Coverage includes employee and eligible dependents. Healthcare spending accounts available for eligible medical expenses.

  
  

• Time Off: PTO accrual after introductory period. Employee reviews indicate sick and vacation days are combined. Holiday pay varies by position and seniority.

  
  

• Additional Benefits: Life insurance and disability coverage; Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through SupportLinc for counseling and support services; tuition reimbursement programs; employee discounts; paid training opportunities.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Pros: Consistent hours and scheduling; benefits package including health insurance; family-like atmosphere at some locations; opportunities for advancement to management within 1 year; training provided; tips can substantially increase earnings.

  
  

• Employee Perspectives - Cons: Pay rates below industry average; limited merit increases reported; management quality varies by location; some locations report understaffing and overtime requirements; benefits not openly advertised.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Golden Entertainment hire people with felonies?

   Conditionally yes. Golden Entertainment does not have a blanket policy excluding all felons, but all employees must obtain Nevada Gaming Control Board registration. The Gaming Control Board evaluates suitability based on character, integrity, and rehabilitation. Crimes of moral turpitude (theft, fraud, dishonesty) and recent felonies face significant barriers. Tavern and hotel support positions may offer better opportunities than direct gaming floor roles. Success depends heavily on offense type, time elapsed, and demonstrated rehabilitation.

   
   

2. What is the background check process at Golden Entertainment?

   Golden Entertainment conducts company background checks after conditional offer. More significantly, Nevada Gaming Control Board registration requires fingerprint-based FBI criminal records check, identity verification, and suitability determination. The company registers you with the Board, you complete online application and pay fees, get fingerprinted at approved vendor, and the Board processes your registration. This regulatory check is more extensive than typical employer background checks.

   
   

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

   Gaming Employee Registration requires disclosure of ALL criminal history without time limitations. For suitability purposes, felonies within 5 years face near-automatic denial. Felonies within 7 years receive heightened scrutiny. Gaming-related offenses within 10 years create significant barriers. The Board focuses on overall suitability rather than strict cutoffs—demonstrated rehabilitation can overcome older convictions, but recent offenses are very difficult to overcome.

   
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Golden Entertainment?

   Most difficult: theft, fraud, embezzlement, and financial crimes (directly conflict with cash-handling responsibilities); gaming-related offenses (cheating, illegal gambling, casino theft); violent felonies including assault, weapons charges; organized crime associations; multiple felony pattern; false statements on applications. Moderately difficult: drug distribution. Lower difficulty: older non-violent possession offenses, DUI without aggravating factors, property crimes without theft elements—all still require favorable suitability determination.

   
   

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

   PT's Tavern Cook ($14-$18/hr), Dishwasher ($13-$15/hr), and back-of-house positions have lowest barriers with minimal cash handling. Hotel support roles including Housekeeping ($15-$17/hr) and Facilities Maintenance at The STRAT offer entry-level opportunities. Bar Porter and food service positions provide pathways with advancement potential. All positions still require Gaming Employee Registration but face less scrutiny than direct gaming operations.

   
   

6. Does Golden Entertainment drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Yes. Golden Entertainment requires pre-employment drug screening as part of onboarding. Testing is typically urinalysis. The company maintains a drug-free workplace policy. While Nevada permits recreational cannabis, employers can maintain policies prohibiting marijuana use. Failed drug tests will disqualify candidates. Address any substance issues before applying.

   
   

7. When during the hiring process will Golden Entertainment ask about criminal history?

   Nevada does not have comprehensive Ban the Box legislation for private employers. Golden Entertainment may ask about criminal history on applications. However, the formal Gaming Employee Registration application—where complete disclosure is mandatory—occurs after the company initiates your registration with the Gaming Control Board. Never falsify any applications; incomplete disclosure on gaming applications is grounds for denial and potential criminal charges.

   
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Golden Entertainment if they have a felony?

   Potentially yes, with caveats. Employee reviews indicate advancement to kitchen manager or supervisor roles within 1 year is possible for high performers. However, higher-level positions face increased regulatory scrutiny. Management roles involving significant cash handling, gaming operations oversight, or key employee licensing face higher barriers. Demonstrated integrity, stable tenure, and continued clean record are essential. Building a track record in entry-level positions strengthens advancement opportunities.

   
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take at Golden Entertainment?

   The company hiring process averages 2-4 weeks from application to conditional offer. Gaming Control Board registration processing adds 1-3 weeks after fingerprinting, though some employees may start pending registration with employer sponsorship. Total timeline from application to full onboarding is typically 3-6 weeks. Complex cases requiring additional review or hearings take longer.

   
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Golden Entertainment?

    Key strategies:

    (1) Target tavern and hotel support positions with lower barriers;

    (2) Run your own background check first to know what appears;

    (3) Be completely honest—never omit or falsify information;

    (4) Document rehabilitation thoroughly with certificates, references, and stable history;

    (5) Research record sealing eligibility under Nevada law;

    (6) Consider timing if conviction is very recent;

    (7) Be flexible on scheduling for nights/weekends/holidays;

    (8) Demonstrate professionalism throughout the process;

    (9) Prepare for potential Gaming Commission hearing if registration is objected to; (10) Build non-gaming hospitality experience if barriers are too high currently.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

If Golden Entertainment doesn't work out, consider these employers known for second chance hiring practices in Nevada and the hospitality industry:

Conclusion

Golden Entertainment offers limited but possible opportunities for individuals with criminal records, though the gaming industry's unique regulatory environment creates substantial barriers not found in other sectors. As a major Nevada gaming operator with approximately 5,300 employees across casinos and taverns, the company provides diverse position types with varying levels of accessibility.

The work environment spans fast-paced casinos, neighborhood taverns, and hotel operations. Compensation ranges from $13/hr for entry-level positions to $25+/hr plus tips for skilled roles. Benefits include medical, dental, vision insurance, 401(k), and PTO after the 90-day introductory period. Employee reviews are mixed, with praise for consistent hours and benefits but concerns about below-average pay and management quality varying by location.

Key Success Factors: Target tavern and hotel support positions; maintain complete honesty throughout the process; document rehabilitation thoroughly; allow maximum time to elapse from conviction; demonstrate stability and integrity; be flexible on scheduling; prepare for potential Gaming Commission hearing.

Biggest Barriers: Nevada Gaming Control Board registration requirement; indefinite criminal history disclosure; crimes of moral turpitude (theft, fraud, dishonesty); recent felonies within 5-7 years; gaming-related offenses; violence and weapons convictions; any false statements on applications.

For applicants with recent integrity-related convictions, building experience in non-gaming hospitality first may be a wiser strategy before attempting gaming employment. The regulatory framework exists to protect the industry's integrity, but it also means successful applicants with records have demonstrated genuine rehabilitation—making their ultimate approval a meaningful achievement.

Disclaimer

This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal advice. Hiring policies vary by position, location, and individual circumstances. Nevada Gaming Control Board registration requirements and suitability determinations are independent regulatory processes separate from company hiring decisions. While we strive for accuracy using publicly available sources including company websites, job postings, employee reviews (Glassdoor, Indeed), salary databases (PayScale, ZipRecruiter), and regulatory information, employment information and policies may change without notice. Always verify current practices directly with Golden Entertainment and the Nevada Gaming Control Board.

Inclusion in this guide does not guarantee employment or gaming registration approval. Gaming license laws, expungement procedures, and record sealing requirements vary and should be confirmed with legal professionals. Consult with an employment attorney or legal aid organization experienced in gaming law for specific legal advice about your situation.

Apply Now: https://www.hrapply.com/goldenent