Cinema Projectionist

Cinema projectionists screen films and operate projectors in cinemas, ensuring the audience see a first-class presentation every time.

In some cinemas, traditional mechanical projectors are used. Projectionists working with these 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.

Most mainstream cinemas currently run films both from reels and digital sources, requiring a broad range of skills. All projectionists need to:

• check that the sound is operating correctly and at the right volume
• clean and maintain the projection equipment
• play advertisements and trailers in the correct order.

Working in cinemas involves anti-social 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 £12,000 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.

According to the UK Film Council, there are 726 cinemas in the UK. Many of these are modern, purpose-built multiplex cinemas. Larger cinemas are now increasingly using digital delivery systems, which are likely gradually to replace the traditional film and projectors.

There are no minimum entry requirements, although cinema projectionists must be at least 18, if they are showing an 18 certificate film. 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 groups and training is becoming increasingly formalised as a result. The Projectionist Certification Scheme is a competence-based award run by BKSTS that covers the minimum standards for the industry, from film handling to dealing with evacuation procedures.

Projectionists often 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