Movie Theater Jobs

Cinema & Movie Theater Job Openings & Employment Applications Online

Movie theaters need to hire entry-level workers and professional associates all the time.

Positions and Salary
Concessions workers, ushers, and ticket salespersons often carry out interchangeable roles in movie-theater operations. Entry-level concession employees sell popcorn, candy, drinks, and other snacks for patrons to enjoy while viewing movies. At some theaters, customers may purchase tickets at the snack counter; however, many venues feature separate desks for such purposes. Ushers check ticket stubs at the theater doors and ensure behavioral and cleanliness standards remain upheld in the facility. Most entry-level theater employees make about $8.86 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Projectionists operate the film projectors during showtimes. Employees bearing the title of projectionist typically also repair and maintain the equipment. Due to the further training and skills necessary, projectionists earn closer to $11.00 an hour.

Work at a Movie Theater
Entry-level job hopefuls face very favorable prospects for hire in the movie theater industry. Previous work experience, though not often mandatory, typically benefits applicants. Customer service skills and attentiveness improve chances for work consideration, as well. Though some employers may differ on educational requirements, generally a high school diploma or less qualifies candidates. While becoming a projectionist once required specialized training, advances in technology and the use of digital mediums over traditional film reduce the skill levels needed for the position, which renders the opportunity more accessible to new workers.

Movie Theater Industry
Over 135,000 people presently hold employment in cinema-relevant positions, according to IBIS World, with more than 35,000 in concessions alone and about 7,000 projectionists. Competition between chains relates mainly to the popularity of film titles showing. Concessions options and cost, seating options, and ticket prices, factor in as well to create the healthy economic rivalry fueling the movie theater industry. Services like Netflix and Hulu further pressure theater corporations to innovate and improve to retain a strong customer base, which drives up the demand for new workers even more.

Movie Theater Job Descriptions

Ticket Counter Attendant – Ticket counter attendants take payment from customers upon entry to the establishment. Employees must maintain an updated knowledge of what films currently feature at the cinema and all of the showtimes for each movie. Usually, attendants also personably greet and welcome patrons to the business, and, after handling the cash or card transaction, provide directions to the appropriate screen of the corresponding movie. Compliant with legal regulations, many theaters expect ticket counter employees to examine IDs for movies with an adult rating, as well. Since the job lacks defined schooling prerequisites, most motivated candidates may procure employment and typically earn around $9.00 an hour in the position.

Concessions Worker – Concessions workers meet patron demands for snacks and beverages, normally offered for consumption during movies. The job involves preparing and retailing food items in timely fashion. Common items sold include popcorn, candy, nachos, and soft drinks. Employees should remain aware of offered deals and prepared for customers searching for refills on popcorn and soda. Sanitary and safe food procedures balanced with quick and friendly customer service comprises the core of the work. Job seekers with customer-relations experience or food-related training typically stand a better chance of gaining employment, though not necessarily. High school diplomas may aid consideration for hire but generally do not prove mandatory requirements. The median hourly pay for concessions workers stands between $8.00 and $9.00.

Usher – Ushers check tickets for each customer prior to entry of each individual theater. During showings of the films, the employees ensure quiet viewing conditions and order remains upheld, so that patrons may enjoy the movie without disruption. Depending on the company, workers may also clean up trash under the seating after the film ends. In the event of an emergency, ushers take on the job of directing customers safely to fire exits. Some companies may merge the duties of the usher position with protective security guard responsibilities, as well. Accessible to entry-level applicants regardless of educational background, the position pays minimum wage and moves up with tenure to hover around $9.00 per hour, on average