Cinema Projectionist

Cinema projectionists screen films and operate projectors in cinemas. Audiences expect to see films presented in a professional manner and it is the projectionist's job to ensure that they see a first-class presentation every time.

In some cinemas, traditional projectors are used, while in others, new digital technology has replaced these. Traditionally, projectionists have to:

• receive and check film reels, joining or repairing them as necessary
• load the reels on to the projector in the right order
• make sure the film runs smoothly through the projector and is not damaged
• join (splice) lengths of film together if they break and store films safely
• clean and maintain the projection equipment
• play advertisements and trailers in the correct order.

Working in cinemas involves antisocial hours, usually starting in the afternoon and sometimes continuing until late at night. Many cinemas operate a shift system. Projectionists usually work five days a week, including evenings and weekends. They spend most of their time in projection rooms. Most modern cinemas have air conditioning.

Salaries may range from £16,000 to £28,000 a year.

A cinema projectionist should:

• be able to work independently and be self-motivated
• have good IT and technical skills
• be practical and able to solve problems quickly and efficiently
• be patient, alert and observant
• be interested in films and the cinema.

According to the UK Film Council, there are 726 cinemas in the UK. Many of these are modern, purpose-built multiplex cinemas operated by large leisure groups. These usually have many screens and therefore require more staff than traditional cinemas.

There are no minimum entry requirements, although cinema projectionists must be at least 18, if they are showing an 18 certificate film. Applicants may be asked to do a simple entry test to determine their aptitude. An interest in films and the film industry is essential. Basic knowledge of sound or electronics is also useful. The Diploma in creative and media may be relevant for this area of work.

Initial training is usually on the job. Most cinemas now belong to major leisure complexes and training is becoming increasingly formalised as a result. The Projectionist Certificate is a new qualification run by BKSTS - The Moving Image Society. It is a certificate of competence covering the minimum standards for the industry, from film handling to dealing with evacuation procedures.

Projectionists usually begin working at a large cinema before moving to a smaller independent cinema, where they can take on a broader role. They may progress to senior or chief projectionist. Some move into administration or management.

Further details