Cinema Projectionist
What is the work like?
As a projectionist, it would be your job to operate the equipment that shows films in cinemas, and make sure that everything to do with film screenings goes smoothly.
Your typical tasks would include:
- receiving and checking the film reels
- loading the reels onto the projector in the right order
- making sure that the film runs smoothly through the projector
- checking that sound is operating properly
- joining (‘splicing’) lengths of film together if they break
- storing the films safely
- sending the reels on to other cinemas
- looking after the projection equipment
- being responsible for heating, lighting, ventilation and alarm systems in the cinema.
In an older cinema, you may run several mechanical projectors in different rooms. In modern cinemas the work is less physical, with mechanical projectors and film reels being replaced by long-playing digital projection systems.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To become a projectionist you will need to be aged at least 18, because of film classification laws.
You will find it useful to have some technical skills in electrics, electronics, cameras or sound equipment. Joining a film club can be a good way of developing your knowledge of film formats and projection equipment. You do not usually need any formal qualifications, but employers may give you an entry test for you to prove your technical ability.
You should apply directly to cinemas for a trainee projectionist job. If there is no projection work available when you apply, you may be able to take other work in the cinema until a projectionist job comes up.
What further training and development can I do?
You will be trained on the job by your employer. Most cinemas now belong to major leisure companies, who usually provide full structured in-house training.You may also attend short courses to help you to keep up to date with new formats and digital technology, such as the training run by BKSTS – The Moving Image Society. See the BKSTS website for more information.
Where can I go for more information?
21 Stephen StreetLondon
W1T 1LN
Tel: 020 7255 1444
21 Caledonian Road
London
N1 9GB
Tel: 0808 100 8094 (Scotland)
Tel: 08000 121 815 (Wales)
Pinewood Studios
Iver Heath
Bucks
SL0 0NH
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Salaries are normally between £12,000 and £16,000 a year.
- Head projectionists in larger cinemas may earn up to £20,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would work in a windowless and air-conditioned operating booth or projection box. You would usually work alone during screenings.
Working with traditional film projectors can be quite physical, as you need to lift and carry heavy film reels. In some cinemas you may have to climb ladders to take care of the screen and curtains.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good practical skills
- the ability to find and repair mechanical faults
- an interest in film and cinema
- a willingness to work alone
- the ability to carry out routine jobs quickly
- good attention to detail
- to be reliable and punctual, to run the films according to schedule
- good eyesight, hearing and coordination.
What opportunities are there?
You could work for a large cinema chain at a multi-screen complex, or for a small independent cinema.
Jobs may be advertised in the local press, in Jobcentre Plus, at local cinemas or on the websites of the larger cinema chains.
Major cinema chains may have a promotion structure leading to opportunities to become head projectionists or cinema managers.
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