A ticket checker is someone who inspects tickets before allowing people into areas that are only accessible to those with valid tickets. Ticket checkers work in a variety of industries, including entertainment and transportation. There are no special requirements for this job, and it is most commonly a summer, temporary, or casual job, though ticket checker positions do occasionally offer opportunities for advancement.
Ticket checkers are part of the enforcement team in the transportation industry, ensuring that everyone on buses, trains, ferries, and other modes of transportation has a valid ticket. The ticket checker may also act as a gate agent in some types of transportation jobs, assisting people who require assistance and ensuring that luggage and belongings are loaded safely. Ticket checkers in airports may be associated with security, in which case security agent training is required for the position.
Tickets are commonly used entertainment venues to control access, and ticket checkers are in charge of inspecting the tickets of those attempting to enter the venue. They check that the tickets are valid for the event and may tear, punch, or mark them so that they cannot be used again. If assigned seating is in use, ticket checkers can also provide directions to help people locate their seats. They may collaborate with ushers to help people find seats or make accommodations for wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
To work in these types of jobs, people must be able to stand for long periods of time and comfortably interact with members of the public. While some venues provide seating for ticket checkers, it is more common for them to stand because they may need to get up to show people where they should sit or provide other assistance. People must also be vigilant, keeping an eye out for those attempting to enter without tickets. A ticket checker may also be told to keep an eye out for scalpers, or people who buy tickets and try to resell them for a profit.
Special training may be required for certain types of ticket checker positions. This is most common in transportation, where there are concerns about law enforcement as well as people entering a venue without paying. Some transportation agencies prefer to check tickets with their own trained security or police, while others may simply instruct ticket checkers to call security for assistance if a problem arises.