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Cinema Projection Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cinema West

Projection Tech

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Cinema West, California's #1 movie chain, is looking to add a Projection Technician to our Corporate Operations team. (Based out of Northern California). We're seeking a high-energy, self-motivated ...

Cinema West

Projection Tech

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Cinema West, California's #1 movie chain, is looking to add a Projection Technician to the Corporate Operations team. (Located in Northern California) As a Projection Technician , you'll be ...

Cinema West

Projection Tech

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Cinema West, California's #1 movie chain, is looking to add a Projection Technician to the Corporate Operations team. (Based out of Northern California). We're seeking a high-energy, self-motivated ...

Cinema West

Projection Tech

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Cinema West, California's #1 movie chain, is looking to add a Projection Technician to the Corporate Operations team. (Based out of Northern California). We're seeking a high-energy, self-motivated ...

Cinema West

Projection Tech

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Cinema West, California's #1 movie chain, is looking to add a Projection Technician to the Corporate Operations team. (Based out of Northern California). We're seeking a high-energy, self-motivated ...

Cinema West

Projection Tech

Concord, CA · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Cinema West, California's #1 movie chain, is looking to add a Projection Technician to the Corporate Operations team. (Based out of Northern California). We're seeking a high-energy, self-motivated ...

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How much do cinema projection jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for cinema projection in the United States is $24.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $32.45 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is there still demand for projectionists?

Cinema projectionists are still employed in some theaters, especially those with traditional film or digital projection systems. However, automation and digital technology have reduced the number of projectionist roles, making the job less common in large chains but still relevant in specialty or independent theaters that require technical skills with projection equipment. Certification in digital projection and maintenance can enhance job prospects.

What is a Cinema Projection job?

A Cinema Projection job involves operating and maintaining the equipment used to display films in a movie theater. Responsibilities include setting up digital or film projectors, ensuring sound and picture quality, troubleshooting technical issues, and managing show schedules. Projectionists may also be responsible for maintaining theater lighting and audio systems. With modern digital systems, the role often involves managing digital files and automation software. Attention to detail and technical skills are essential for ensuring a smooth viewing experience for audiences.

How to get into film projection?

To become a cinema projectionist, gain experience with film or digital projection equipment, often through entry-level positions or technical training programs. Familiarity with operating projectors, understanding of film formats, and attention to detail are essential; some employers may require a high school diploma or equivalent. Certifications in audiovisual technology can also improve job prospects.

What does a typical shift look like for a Cinema Projectionist, and what are the main responsibilities?

A typical shift for a Cinema Projectionist involves preparing and operating projection and sound equipment, ensuring each film starts and runs smoothly, and performing routine maintenance on all technical hardware. Responsibilities often include troubleshooting technical issues quickly to minimize disruptions, checking that audio and video quality meet cinema standards, and sometimes assisting with lighting cues or special presentations. Projectionists also coordinate closely with front-of-house staff and management to stay informed about show schedules and special requirements. The role can involve independent work as well as teamwork, depending on the cinema's size and structure, and offers a hands-on environment for those who enjoy behind-the-scenes operations in the entertainment industry.

What jobs can I get with a cinema degree?

A cinema degree can qualify you for roles such as projectionist, film editor, production assistant, or film critic. These jobs often require knowledge of film equipment, editing software, and industry standards, and may involve working in theaters, production companies, or media outlets.

How much does a cinema projectionist make?

A cinema projectionist typically earns between $20,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the theater. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced projectionists with technical skills can earn higher wages. Many projectionists also work evening and weekend hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cinema Projection position, and why are they important?

To excel in Cinema Projection, strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and familiarity with audio-visual equipment are essential, often supported by on-the-job training or relevant certifications. Experience with digital projection systems, film projectors, sound systems, and specialized software for scheduling and maintenance is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving ability, communication skills, and dependability help professionals respond efficiently to unexpected issues and collaborate with cinema staff. These competencies are crucial to ensuring seamless film presentations and maintaining a high-quality experience for audiences.

More about Cinema Projection jobs
What cities are hiring for Cinema Projection jobs? Cities with the most Cinema Projection job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cinema Projection jobs? The most popular types of Cinema Projection jobs are:
What states have the most Cinema Projection jobs? States with the most job openings for Cinema Projection jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Cinema Projection jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Cinema Projection jobs are:
Cinema Projection jobs near you

Projection Tech

Cinema West

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Cinema West, California's #1 movie chain, is looking to add a Projection Technician to our Corporate Operations team.
(Based out of Northern California).
We're seeking a high-energy, self-motivated, and team-oriented individual to provide vital technical support to our Operations team. If you're passionate about film, enjoy troubleshooting, and love working behind the scenes to make the magic happen, this could be the perfect role for you!
As a Projection Technician, you'll be responsible for delivering top-notch technical support and services to our theatres throughout California and Idaho.
This includes, but is not limited to:
Preventive maintenance
Equipment installation
Site surveys
On-demand and emergency service calls
Your focus will be on supporting and maintaining digital cinema equipment, ensuring our locations are always ready to deliver the best possible experience to our guests.
Cinema West offers fantastic benefits:
  • Medical & dental
  • Matched 401(k)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Personal days
  • Paid Holidays
  • "Six" Sick days
  • Performance Reviews
  • Strong Leadership Team Environment

Requirements
Position: Projection Tech
Reports to: Operations
Salary Range: $85k - $100k (annually)
Full-Time, Exempt Position
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Perform service and preventative maintenance on servers, projectors and audio and digital cinema (TMS) equipment through on-site visits and telephone support. Service work at the theatre is mainly carried out after normal business hours (on weekends or holidays).
  • Work closely with the Technical Service Team to provide escalated troubleshooting and ensure timely resolution of issues.
  • Assist Theatre Managers on proper operations, maintenance, troubleshooting and training on hardware and software.
  • Test electronic assembly, components or parts by connection to various equipment, such as ohmmeter, voltmeter, ammeter, color meter, resistance bridge, oscilloscope, automatic or computerized test equipment.
  • Reduce the number of lost shows by quickly responding, analyzing and correcting problems proactively during site visits.
  • Installs electronic or digital equipment, perform software installations and updates and verify functionality.
  • Performs regular maintenance tasks, such as rotating or replacing xenon bulbs, cleaning projectors and lenses, lubricating machinery, and keeping electrical contacts clean and tight.
  • Upkeep and general housekeeping on mechanical and storage rooms, adhering to Health and Safety regulations.
  • Effective time management skills and ability to maintain focus and to deliver against objectives, even in the face of multiple priorities.
  • Examine equipment and assemblies for defects and replace defective components. Repairs equipment and performs field testing. Resolve firmware and software issues.
  • Record activities in UpKeep daily, including but not limited to work descriptions, expenses, hours and labor and travel.
  • Respond to all inbound location communications including emails and phone calls within set timeframes.

Development
  • Communicate regularly and honestly with the Operations Team to maximize results, for improvement.
  • Support Management in resolving theatre projection and audio issues.

Requirements
  • A broad knowledge of audio systems, electronics/mechanical, use of specialized test equipment (including but not limited to volt/ohmmeters, audio test equipment and oscilloscopes) and the ability to read and understand electrical schematics.
  • Experience with digital cinema equipment is preferred.
  • A broad knowledge of audio systems, electronics/mechanical, use of specialized test equipment (including but not limited to volt/ohmmeters, audio test equipment and oscilloscopes) and the ability to read and understand electrical schematics.
  • Knowledge of projection optics alignment.
  • Working knowledge of AC and DC power supplies, experience with low voltage, single phase and 3 phase powered equipment.
  • Background in technical service support.
  • Experience with common software and hardware including but not limited to the MS Office Suite, Outlook. Basic knowledge of networking concepts and network communications (i.e. pinging devices, IP address configuration). Working knowledge of FTP protocols and use and telnet and client software/utilities.
  • The ability and flexibility to travel extensively (primarily CA & ID).
  • Complex thinking, and problem-solving skills are required to troubleshoot equipment failures quickly and efficiently. Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
  • Must have 5+ years' experience in operating and mechanically maintaining motion picture projection and sound apparatus of all film gauges and film types to ensure ongoing optimum performance
  • Must possess strong leadership skills,
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Must have skills & experience with cinema technology (projection, POS, systems, ...) and experience with electronics related to the Pro-Av market.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The position can be physically demanding and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, crouching, crawling, climbing and must be able to lift weight in excess of 50lbs regularly. Comfortable working at heights using ladders, scaffolding, and lifts. A job specific Physical Demands Statement is attached and will also require your signature.
Work Authorization/Security Clearance
In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
EEO Statement
No employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, gender, age, religious preference, handicap, national origin, sexual orientation or marital status.

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