Motion picture projectionists
SOC Code: 39-3021Also known as:
Booth Operator, Booth Usher, Cinema Operator, Cinema Projectionist, Cinematographer
Median Annual Salary
$38,180
-3.7% growth (2024-2034)
500
Openings/Year
2K
Current Jobs
What Motion picture projectionists Do
Set up and operate motion picture projection and related sound reproduction equipment.
💰 Salary
$38,180
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-3.7%
Decline
🎓 Education
No formal educational credential
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
500
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
2,000
Projected Employment (2034)
2,000
Related Careers
Audio and video technicians
$54,830 •
+3.3% growth
Lighting technicians
$60,560 •
-4.6% growth
Audiovisual equipment installers and repairers
$50,620 •
+6.6% growth
Camera and photographic equipment repairers
$49,300 •
-15.1% growth
Photographic process workers and processing machine operators
$40,100 •
-2.6% growth
Top Skills Required
Operations Monitoring
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Speaking
Operation and Control
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- 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.
- Set up and adjust picture projectors and screens to achieve proper size, illumination, and focus of images, and proper volume and tone of sound.
- Inspect projection equipment prior to operation to ensure proper working order.
- Perform minor repairs, such as replacing worn sprockets, or notify maintenance personnel of the need for major repairs.
- Set up and inspect curtain and screen controls.
- Coordinate equipment operation with presentation of supplemental material, such as music, oral commentaries, or sound effects.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
No formal educational credential
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
College rankings for this career path are being calculated. Check back soon!
Want this ranking as a spreadsheet? Investor Pro+ members can export any Repit table to CSV. See plans →
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do motion picture projectionists make?
The median annual salary for motion picture projectionists is $38,180.
What education do motion picture projectionists need?
Most motion picture projectionists positions require a no formal educational credential.
Is becoming motion picture projectionists a good career choice?
Motion picture projectionists is projected to see -3.7% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 500 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for motion picture projectionists?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to motion picture projectionists?
Motion picture projectionists may also be known as: Booth Operator, Booth Usher, Cinema Operator, Cinema Projectionist, Cinematographer, Digital Projectionist, Equipment Operator, Film Projector Operator, Film Specialist, Machine Operator, Motion Picture Operator, Motion Picture Projectionist, Movie Machine Operator, Movie Operator, Movie Projectionist, Moving Picture Operator, Projection Technician, Projectionist, Projector, Projector Booth Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.