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Cinema Projectionist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Smithsonian Institution

Projectionist

Washington, DC · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

OVERVIEW Our Projectionists operate IMAX dual laser 3D and conventional digital cinema projectors, various audio/visual equipment (including a range of ADA equipment), digital dome projection and ...

Smithsonian Institution

Projectionist

Washington, DC · On-site

Our Projectionists operate IMAX dual laser 3D and conventional digital cinema projectors, various audio/visual equipment (including a range of ADA equipment), digital dome projection and sound ...

Seefilm Bremerton Cinema

Floor Staff

Bremerton, WA · On-site

This position will also help to clean the cinema throughout the business day. This person, with appropriate experience, may also be asked to act as floor general or projectionist. Any person may be ...

SEEfilm Cinema

Floor Staff

Bremerton, WA · On-site

This position will also help to clean the cinema throughout the business day. This person, with appropriate experience, may also be asked to act as floor general or projectionist. Any person may be ...

Cinemagic Inc

Floor Staff

Roseburg, OR · On-site

This position will also help to clean the cinema throughout the business day. This person, with appropriate experience, may also be asked to act as floor general or projectionist. Any person may be ...

Cinemagic Inc

Floor Staff

Roseburg, OR

This position will also help to clean the cinema throughout the business day. This person, with appropriate experience, may also be asked to act as floor general or projectionist. Any person may be ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Cast Member-2

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

CINÉPOLIS CAREERS Cinépolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... or projectionist when issues arise. * Remain up to date on movie summaries. * Other duties as ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Cast Member

Miami, FL · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

CINEPOLIS CAREERS Cinepolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... or projectionist when issues arise. * Remain up to date on movie summaries. * Other duties as ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Cast Member

Euless, TX · On-site

$11 - $15/hr

CINEPOLIS CAREERS Cinepolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... or projectionist when issues arise. * Remain up to date on movie summaries. * Other duties as ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Cast Member

Euless, TX · On-site

CINÉPOLIS CAREERS Cinépolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... or projectionist when issues arise. * Remain up to date on movie summaries. * Other duties as ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

CINÉPOLIS CAREERS Cinépolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... or projectionist when issues arise. * Remain up to date on movie summaries. * Other duties as ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Cast Member-2

Inglewood, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.50/hr

CINEPOLIS CAREERS Cinepolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... or projectionist when issues arise. * Remain up to date on movie summaries. * Other duties as ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Server

Jupiter, FL · On-site

CINEPOLIS CAREERS Cinepolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... Cognizant of issues with movie projections-communicating with management or the projectionist when ...

Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas

Server

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $20/hr

CINÉPOLIS CAREERS Cinépolis USA is a luxury cinema exhibitor offering enhanced movie-going ... or the projectionist when issues arise. • Inform management of guest complaints and or ...

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Cinema Projectionist information

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How much do cinema projectionist jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for cinema projectionist 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.

What is a cinema projectionist?

Cinema projectionists are responsible for operating and maintaining the equipment that displays films in movie theaters. Their duties include setting up projectors, loading films or digital media, adjusting sound and picture quality, and troubleshooting technical issues during screenings. They play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable viewing experience for audiences. With the transition from traditional film to digital formats, projectionists today often work with advanced digital cinema technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cinema projectionist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cinema Projectionist, you need a good understanding of audio-visual technology, film handling, and basic mechanical aptitude, often gained through on-the-job training or technical courses. Familiarity with digital projection systems, sound equipment, and software for scheduling and playback is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work independently are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure high-quality screenings, minimize technical disruptions, and contribute to a positive audience experience.

What are some common challenges faced by cinema projectionists during busy showtimes?

Cinema projectionists often encounter challenges such as managing multiple screens simultaneously, troubleshooting technical issues with projectors or sound systems under time pressure, and ensuring seamless transitions between films. During peak hours, quick problem-solving and attention to detail are crucial to avoid disruptions in movie presentations. Effective communication with floor staff and management also helps address any unexpected issues promptly, ensuring a smooth experience for moviegoers.

What is the difference between Cinema Projectionist vs Film Technician?

AspectCinema ProjectionistFilm Technician
CredentialsBasic technical training, certifications varyTechnical certifications, film handling experience
Work EnvironmentMovie theaters, cinemasFilm labs, production facilities
Employer & IndustryEntertainment, cinema industryFilm production, post-production
Common Search & ComparisonYesOften compared in film industry roles

The main difference is that a Cinema Projectionist operates and maintains projection equipment in theaters, focusing on screening films. A Film Technician works more broadly in film labs or production, handling film stock, repairs, and quality control. While both roles require technical skills and industry knowledge, the Projectionist is primarily customer-facing, whereas the Technician supports film production and post-production processes.

How do you become a cinema projectionist?

To become a cinema projectionist, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and should gain experience with film or digital projection equipment. Training is often provided on the job, and familiarity with maintenance, troubleshooting, and safety procedures is important for success in the role.

How much does a cinema projectionist get paid?

A cinema projectionist typically earns between $10 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $20,000 to $40,000. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the theater, and the role often requires knowledge of film and digital projection equipment.
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What states have the most Cinema Projectionist jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Cinema Projectionist jobs?

For Cinema Projectionist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Cinema Projectionist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cinema Projectionist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,250 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Projectionist

Washington, DC • On-site

Smithsonian Institution
Museums and Historical Sites • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about Smithsonian Institutionexternal

$50K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Smithsonian Institution rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Projectionist
Application Deadline: 18 September 2026
Department: Smithsonian Enterprises
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Washington, DC
Reporting To: Theater Technical Manager
Compensation: $50,000 - $52,500 / year
Description
OPEN DATE: 09/01/2026
CLOSING DATE: 09/18/2026
POSITION TYPE: Trust Fund
APPOINTMENT TYPE: Indefinite
SCHEDULE: Full Time
DUTY LOCATION: Washington, DC Metro Area
Position sensitivity and risk: Low Risk
Open to all qualified applicants
What are Trust Fund Positions?
Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Child Care), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care).
Conditions of Employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation for position designated.
  • Complete a Probationary Period.
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
  • The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
  • Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

OVERVIEW
Our Projectionists operate IMAX dual laser 3D and conventional digital cinema projectors, various audio/visual equipment (including a range of ADA equipment), digital dome projection and sound systems, PowerPoint and similar presentation projectors, meeting room A/V systems, theater and planetarium audio and lighting systems, computers, and other audio/visual systems, as needed. Projectionists may work in a variety of locations as assigned. The theaters include the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater and Northrup Grumman Planetarium (National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC) and at the Airbus IMAX Theater (National Air and Space Museum Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly VA), and other work locations if needed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develops and maintains knowledge and skills used to operate existing and new equipment. Studies, understands, and follows policies and procedures related to the theaters, including related technical and safety issues.
  • Follows a very flexible work schedule that may include early mornings, late nights, or occasional overnight work.
  • Notifies supervisor immediately in the event of any problem with operation of any piece of equipment or system that affects the quality of shows.
  • Provides routine technical maintenance of selected projectors and A/V systems, such as changing projection lamps, cleaning filters, and other tasks as needed/required.
  • Escorts and assists vendors during preventive maintenance and emergency repair sessions.
  • Professionally interacts with theater patrons and museum visitors as well as co-workers and associates. Answers questions and completes other duties as assigned.
  • Maintains and updates an inventory of theater content on hand including hard disk drives and other media.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from two-year College or technical school; and six months to one-year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Ability to work weekends and holidays, as well as weekdays and evenings, is required in order to meet the demands of the Smithsonian Theaters 364-day-per-year public schedule and schedule of special events.
  • One year of general experience in the operation and maintenance of audio/visual equipment or one year experience as a professional digital dome theater console operator is required.
  • Must be familiar with audio/visual equipment and able to perform basic service and repair, and operate a wide range of electrical, electronic, and optical equipment.
  • Must be experienced operating cinema and/or digital dome and theater sound and lighting systems.
  • Must demonstrate an ability to readily acquire new skills and learn on the job.
  • Must be able to travel between all of the Smithsonian Theater locations on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., and Chantilly, Virginia.

Education completed outside the United States must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.
Any false statement in your application may result in rejection of your application and may also result in termination after employment begins.
Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."
Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.
What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.
Relocation expenses are not paid.
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact SECareers@si.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. To learn more, please review the Smithsonian's Accommodation Procedures.
The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To review The Smithsonian's EEO program information, please click the following: https://www.si.edu/oeo

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