How to become a motion picture projectionist

Set up and operate motion picture projection and related sound reproduction equipment.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect usually requires a high school diploma or ged, though some occupations may not..Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.

What motion picture projectionists do

• 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.
• 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.
• Perform minor repairs, such as replacing worn sprockets, or notify maintenance personnel of the need for major repairs.

Skills that matter most

• Reading Comprehension
• Active Listening
• Speaking
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Learning Strategies

Is motion picture projectionist a good career?

On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 25% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• New York $82,260
• California $74,840
• Washington $39,070
• Ohio $36,870
• Texas $31,160

Motion Picture Projectionists salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.