Motion Picture Projectionists
What is a Motion Picture Projectionist?
A Motion Picture Projectionist is a specialized technician responsible for the operation of film projection equipment in cinemas, theaters, and film festivals. Their primary role involves screening films to audiences while ensuring that the visual and audio quality meets industry standards. Projectionists manage the setup and maintenance of projection equipment, including film projectors, digital video equipment, and sound systems. They are tasked with loading film reels or digital formats, adjusting focus and sound, and troubleshooting any technical issues that may arise during a screening. With the transition from traditional film to digital formats, projectionists are increasingly required to be proficient in digital cinema technology. In addition to technical skills, successful projectionists often exhibit a passion for film and an understanding of cinematic elements to enhance the audience's viewing experience. They may also collaborate with theater management on programming and scheduling films, ensuring timely and seamless operations. Overall, Motion Picture Projectionists play a crucial role in delivering the cinematic experience to moviegoers.
Tasks
- Monitor operations to ensure that standards for sound and image projection quality are met.
- Start projectors and open shutters to project images onto screens.
- Open and close facilities according to rules and schedules.
- Operate equipment to show films in a number of theaters simultaneously.
- Perform regular maintenance tasks, such as rotating or replacing xenon bulbs, cleaning projectors and lenses, lubricating machinery, and keeping electrical contacts clean and tight.
Technology Skills
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Operating system software
- Apple macOS
- Microsoft operating system
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Word processing software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Word
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Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
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Video creation and editing software
- Avid Technology iNEWS
Tools Used
- Slide projectors
- Film projectors
- Stage or projection or studio lighting system
- Microphones
- Follow spots
Knowledge
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
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Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Skills
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Abilities
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Far Vision
The ability to see details at a distance.
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Less than high school diploma
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Bachelor's degree
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
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Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Detailed Work Activities
- Monitor operational quality or safety.
- Inspect equipment to ensure proper functioning.
- Operate audio-visual equipment.
- Arrange facility schedules.
- Perform basic equipment maintenance.
Work Interests
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$22840.0 - $81490.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.