A cash handler is a person who is responsible for receiving, counting, tracking, recording, securing, transporting, or depositing cash on behalf of a company or organization. A cash handler’s job description may include all of these responsibilities, or they may be assigned to only a few very specific cash handling responsibilities. Many cash handling procedures are increasingly being automated in an effort to speed up certain processes and reduce human error and theft.
A strong math aptitude and a keen eye for detail are required for becoming a professional cash handler. Handlers must also be dependable, trustworthy, and laser-focused. Some employers demand that cash handlers have prior experience and training in cash handling procedures, while others provide on-the-job training. Many employers also require applicants to submit to a full background check and obtain a license in accordance with any applicable state laws in order to handle cash.
In a cash handling job, the amount of money that an individual is responsible for can vary. Some may only be in charge of petty cash, while others may be in charge of securing, transporting, and depositing large sums of money. Many cash handlers work as part of a team, with one person in charge of counting cash and preparing it for deposit, another in charge of transporting cash to a vault, and yet another in charge of physically guarding the person in charge of transporting currency. Because of the increased risk of robbery, some handlers may be required to obtain a permit to carry a firearm for protection.
Cage workers in casinos, armored transportation guards and drivers, bursars, bank employees, and retail professionals are all examples of cash handler jobs. These industries have very different job descriptions for handlers, but they all require workers to ensure that an employer’s cash currency is accounted for and protected at all times. It is not uncommon for people with cash handling experience to work in multiple industries over the course of their careers.
While the majority of cash handler jobs involve dealing with paper money, other financial instruments may also be handled. A cash handler, for example, might be in charge of coins, tokens, casino chips, bank checks, money orders, invoices, and receipts. To accurately conduct and record monetary transactions, handlers are frequently required to use specialized equipment and computer software.