The projectionist operates and maintains movie theater equipment, inspects film for defects, switches reels, splices films, synchronizes sound and image, and performs minor repairs. Employers require a high school diploma, mechanical aptitude, and audio/video familiarity.
The projectionist is the person who operates the projection equipment in a movie theater or drive-in theater and ensures that the film runs correctly. Job responsibilities include inspecting film rolls for defects, smoothly switching rolls without interrupting film, and maintaining projection equipment. If there’s a problem while the movie is running, it’s the designer’s job to fix it quickly and keep the audience entertained. As a bonus, designers are among the first to see all the latest movies, an enticing benefit for movie fans looking to become designers.
Feature films are shot onto multiple reels for cinema showing, and it’s up to the designers to seamlessly switch from one reel to the next. Coils are loaded into multiple projectors, and when a coil ends, a cue mark is displayed, telling the designer to switch to the next projector. Once the switch is made, the completed reel is rewound for the next view.
Film is fragile and must be inspected before it can be displayed. The projectionist must go through each reel, looking for wear, scratches, cuts, holes, or dirt that could cause problems while showing the film. Designers may also be asked to cut and join films together, for example to include advertisements. After inspection and splicing is complete, each roll is loaded onto a separate projector to prepare for display.
Films must be in focus and synchronized with the soundtrack. Designers may be responsible for running multiple films simultaneously, switching reels for one, and then moving on to the next film. In the event of a malfunction, the projectionist’s job is to get the film running again as quickly as possible before the audience becomes restless.
Equipment maintenance is another important part of a designer’s job. In the cinema, projection equipment sees heavy use and needs regular cleaning and maintenance to run smoothly. Projectors may require minor repairs from time to time, and it is up to the designer to complete these repairs. Designers are generally not responsible for major repairs, and in many cases machines must be sent to specialists to be repaired. A projectionist, however, may be called in to assist a technician performing on-site repairs.
Employment as a projectionist typically requires a high school diploma or general education diploma. Employers often look for evidence of mechanical aptitude; good vision, near and far; and familiarity with audio/video equipment. Some employers are also looking for designers who have completed an internship, which may or may not be paid.
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