Projectionists operate projection equipment to show films in cinemas. They make sure that everything to do with film screenings goes smoothly.

Cinema projectionists:

• receive and check the film reels
• load the reels onto the projector in the right order
• make sure that the film runs smoothly through the projector
• check that sound is operating properly
• join (splice) lengths of film together if they break
• store the films safely
• send the reels on to the next cinema after the run of performances is over
• look after the projection equipment.

In traditional cinemas, projectionists may have to run several mechanical projectors in different rooms, and lift and carry heavy reels of film. However, new digital technology is changing projection techniques and the work is becoming less physical. For example, mechanical projectors and film reels are gradually being replaced by long-playing digital projection systems.

Most projectionists are also responsible for technical operations in the rest of the cinema, such as dealing with heating, lighting, ventilation and alarm systems. They also need to be aware of health and safety regulations and the local licensing agreements for showing films.

Hours and Environment

As a projectionist you would usually start work in the afternoon and continue until late at night. Some cinemas have extra late night performances continuing until 2am or later. Many cinemas operate a shift system, including weekends.

You would work in a windowless and air-conditioned operating booth or projection box. You would work alone during screenings.

Working with traditional film projectors can be quite physical, as you would be lifting and carrying heavy film reels. In some cinemas you may have to climb ladders to take care of the screen and curtains.

Skills and Interests

To be a projectionist, you should:

• have good practical skills and be able to solve technical problems
• be interested in film and cinema
• be able to work alone
• be able to carry out routine jobs quickly
• pay attention to detail
• be punctual, to show run the films according to schedule
• have good sight and hearing, with good hand-eye coordination to keep films in focus.

Entry

You do not usually need any formal qualifications to become a cinema projectionist. You must be able to show an interest in films and the film industry. You will find it useful to have some technical skills in electrics, electronics, cameras or sound equipment.

You should apply directly to cinemas for a trainee projectionist job. If there is no projection work at the time, you may be able to take other work in a cinema until a projectionist job becomes available. You may have to take an entry test to show your technical ability.

You could develop knowledge of film formats and projection through joining a film club.

You will usually need to be at least 18, because of film classification laws.

Training

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 film and sound formats and digital technology. The British Film Institute and BKSTS (The British Kinematograph Sound and Television Society) both offer relevant short courses - see their websites for more information.

Opportunities

Cinemas have changed considerably in recent years. Many older town centre cinemas have been closed or modernised, and many new multi-screen cinema complexes have been built. Modern cinema complexes have many screens and open long hours, and so they need more staff.

Over the next few years, more and more cinemas will replace traditional film and projectors with new digital delivery systems via satellite, cable or DVD. This may lead to new opportunities for projectionists.

Major cinema chains may have a promotion structure leading to opportunities to become senior projectionists or cinema managers.

Jobs may be advertised in the local press, at local cinemas or on the websites of the larger cinema chains.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Trainee projectionists usually start on around £12,000 a year.
Experienced projectionists could earn around £15,000.
Senior projectionists in larger cinemas may earn up to £20,000 a year.

Further information

21 Stephen Street
London
W1T 1LN
Tel: 020 7255 1444 Prospect House
80-110 New Oxford Street
London
WC1A 1HB Tel: 08080 300 900 for England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Tel: 0808 100 8094 for Scotland Moving Image Society
Pinewood Studios
Iver Heath
Bucks
SL0 0NH