Projection Engineer

Department: Academy Theaters

Reports to: Vice President, Academy Theaters

Job Type: Full-time – Regular                                                                                 

Job Classification: Hourly (Non-exempt)                          

Workplace Location: Los Angeles – Academy Museum, 8949 Wilshire, Pickford, and Fairbanks

Summary/Objective:

The Projection Engineer will be responsible for supporting the event and performing technical upgrades, service, and maintenance of the Academy's presentation facilities including the Samuel Goldwyn Theater, Linwood Dunn Theater, David Geffen Theater, and Ted Mann Theater.

This position is represented by a union.

Essential Functions of the Job:

• Perform projection booth maintenance, service, and upgrades as directed by the Lead Engineer.
• Maintain the four Academy theaters’ state-of-the-art equipment already in service; resolve problems that occur promptly and keep detailed notes on service history.
• Maintain equipment inventory and service history.
• Work with the projection staff to provide tier 1 technical support for the ever-expanding technical requirements of the Academy's programs.
• Support special events and premiers.
• Implement the Theater Standards Committee’s initiatives and projects and Academy Tech Council programs.
• Stay current with software/firmware updates.

Required Competencies:  

• Willingness to join the Local 695 Union.
• Ability to learn new systems quickly and adapt to rapidly changing technology.
• Expert ability to troubleshoot technical problems under pressure.
• Minimum 3 years in installation and implementation of electronic equipment and low voltage systems.
• BSEE, or equivalent experience.
• Experience in calibration and alignment of motion picture projection and sound systems according to industry standards and best practices.
• Knowledge of and ability to manage complex systems and create related documentation.
• Knowledge of current sound system topology, digital signal routing and processing (Audio Architect, Q-SYS, Dante), amplifiers, and theater automation systems (Crestron, Tru-Roll, Serial RS232, relays, etc.).
• In-depth understanding of analog, digital and network-based audio signals.
• In-depth knowledge of DCP packaging and KDM troubleshooting.
• Knowledge of IP networking and the related infrastructure.
• Ability to speak fluent English with strong reading and writing skills.  
• Flexibility to work nights and weekends when needed.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Film post-production knowledge desired.
• Thorough understanding of digital cinema, 16mm, 35mm, 70mm projection systems and formats, digital cinema servers, and laser light sources.
• Experience with computer programming or scripting languages.
• Advance understanding of network protocols, VLANs, and security.
• Advance understanding of mechanical systems and fabrication techniques.
• Experience troubleshooting DTS, SRD, SDDS, Mag, and other analog film formats.
• Experience with dual system sound and picture playback systems.
• AVIXA, Dante, Q-SYS, Barco, Christie Digital certificates.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to move and transport a minimum of 50 pounds with accommodation.
• Ability to drive and park in and around Los Angeles.
• Ability to remain in a stationary position for two hours or more with accommodation.
• Ability to work at height and in small spaces with accommodation.

Work Environment:

• In a darkened theater
• In an electrical/server room
• In a crowded environment
• Outdoors

Travel: The percentage of travel time expected for the position is 25%.

Hybrid Requirement: All Academy positions require a minimum of 2-days per week of in-person work at an Academy Location. Exceptions: Positions requiring daily in person presence (ex. Front-line staff, staff who need to deal with materials on-site, etc.) and medical and religious accommodations approved the Office of People & Culture.

Required Vaccination: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable. Exception: Medical and religious accommodations approved the Office of People & Culture.

Compensation: The hourly union wage for this role is $62.41.

Benefits:

• Benefits per the IATSE Collective Bargaining Agreement.
• Additional time off including summer hours, winter hours, and a cultural floating holiday.
• Free membership screenings.
• Free tickets and screenings at the Academy Museum.