Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Movie Projectionist
What movie projectionists actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a movie projectionist?
Ingest new content. From there, the day usually includes load digital content, schedule shows, and run projectors. Evenings, weekends and holidays.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a movie projectionist working full time.
- Ingest new content.
- Load keys.
- Build playlists.
- Check the first show.
- Clean a lens.
- Fix a sound issue.
- Close the booth.
Where movie projectionists work
Projectionists work in theater booths.
Hours and schedule
Evenings, weekends and holidays.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Load digital content
- Schedule shows
- Run projectors
- Check sound
- Clean equipment
- Fix problems
- Handle film for specialty screenings
Tools you’ll use every day
- DCP servers
- Digital projectors
- Sound processors
- Film platters
- Light meters
- TMS software
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Love of movies
- Short training
- Quiet booth work
- Specialty film niche
What’s hard
- Declining jobs
- Late nights
- Low pay
- Few positions
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I love movies
- I like technology
- I can work nights
- I like quiet work
- I’m reliable
- I want short training
Not sure? Take the free Movie Projectionist fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Follow electrical safety
- Handle lamps carefully
- Keep booths clear
- Follow fire rules