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Cinema Projectionist

Do you want to become a Cinema Projectionist? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Cinema projectionists are responsible for everything relating to film screening and operate the projectors that show the films in a cinema. They:

• receive and check the film reels
• load the reels onto the projector in the right order
• ensure the film runs smoothly through the projector
• join (splice) lengths of film together if they break
• send the reels on to the next destination after the run of performances is over.

Projectionists are also responsible for checking that the sound is operating correctly and at the right volume.

Working in cinemas involves unsocial hours, usually starting in the afternoon and continuing until late at night. Projectionists usually work shifts, including evenings and weekends, five days a week.

Salaries range from about £12,000 to £20,000 a year.

A projectionist should:

• be able to work on their own and be self-motivated
• be practical and able to solve technical problems quickly and efficiently
• be patient, alert and observant
• have good sight, hearing and hand-to-eye co-ordination
• have an interest in films and the cinema.

In the next few years cinemas will begin to be equipped with new digital delivery systems via satellite, cable or DVD. This will gradually replace the traditional film and projectors, and lead to new opportunities for projectionists.

There are no minimum entry requirements for work as a cinema projectionist, but an interest in films and the film industry is essential. Evidence of a basic technical skill or foundation course in sound or electronics would be useful. There is no upper age limit for this type of work.

It is vital that staff responsible for operating and maintaining projection equipment are properly trained. Initial training is usually on the job, but most cinemas now belong to major leisure complexes and training is becoming increasingly formalised as a result.

Cinema projectionists may progress to senior or chief projectionist. Some may move into administrative or managerial roles.

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