What Does a Movie Theater Usher Do?

The job of an usher is one that requires a lot of attention to detail. They are responsible for ensuring that moviegoers have a pleasant experience while they’re in the theater, and this means everything from helping people find their seats to clearing away trash or spilled popcorn.

The role of an usher is more than just being a seat-filler though—they also play a critical part in keeping patrons safe during emergencies. Ushers are trained on how to respond to fire alarms, medical emergencies, and other dangerous situations so that they can help keep everyone calm and safe until emergency responders arrive.

Movie Theater Usher Job Duties

Ushers typically have a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Checking tickets to ensure that only authorized guests are admitted to the theater
• Cleaning up spilled food and drink, collecting trash, replacing light bulbs, and performing other basic custodial tasks
• Collecting box office receipts and processing cash payments from ticket sales
• Answering customers’ questions about showtimes, seating arrangements, or other theater information
• Escorting customers to their seats at the start of each movie using an electronic device that detects seat numbers
• Opening doors for customers as they enter the theater, their cars as they leave, and assisting with wheelchair users
• Selling popcorn, candy, and other concessions during intermission or between showings of movies
• Providing security for the theater by checking bags for weapons or other prohibited items
• Cleaning theaters between showings to ensure a pleasant environment for next showing’s customers

Movie Theater Usher Salary & Outlook

The salary of an usher can vary depending on a number of factors, including their level of experience, the size of the theater they work in, and the city or state in which they live.

• Median Annual Salary: $23,053 ($11.08/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $35,000 ($16.83/hour)

The employment of movie theater ushers is expected to grow at an average rate over the next decade.

The continued popularity of movie theaters should lead to increased demand for ushers. As more people attend movies, there will be a need for more ushers to help patrons find their seats and clean theaters between showings.

Related: Movie Theater Usher Interview Questions and Answers

Movie Theater Usher Job Requirements

Ushers in movie theaters typically need to meet the following requirements:

Education: Most movie theater ushers are required to have at least a high school diploma or GED. Some employers may prefer an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Those with a background in theater arts may have an advantage when applying for theater usher positions.

Training & Experience: Most movie theater ushers learn the specific skills and knowledge they need for the role while on the job. Training may include how to operate the ticketing and projection systems, how to clean the theater and how to interact with customers. Training may also include how to interact with security personnel and how to handle any safety issues that may arise.

Some ushers may have previous experience in customer service or theater work. This experience can help them excel in their role as a movie theater usher.

Certifications & Licenses: A movie theater usher needs a valid license to operate the theater’s ticketing and cash collection systems, so these professionals typically need a valid license to operate a cash register. Some states require servers to have a license to serve alcoholic beverages, so a movie theater usher might need to get this additional certification.

Movie Theater Usher Skills

Movie theater ushers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Patience: The job of a movie theater usher requires a great deal of patience. You may encounter a variety of situations throughout your shift, including unruly patrons, emergency situations and other unexpected circumstances. Having patience allows you to remain calm and handle these situations effectively.

Attention to detail: The job of an usher requires a great deal of attention to detail. You should be able to notice small changes in the theater, such as a spilled drink or a seat that needs to be cleaned. You should also be able to notice if a patron needs assistance and be able to find the right staff member to help them.

Friendliness: A friendly demeanor can help you make customers and coworkers feel welcome. Being friendly can also help you develop positive relationships with customers, which can help you learn more about their needs and how you can improve your service.

Multitasking: A movie theater usher often has several tasks to complete at the same time. For example, they may be checking tickets while also directing patrons to their seats. This requires the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks.

Ability to follow instructions: The duties of a movie theater usher are often very specific and require following instructions precisely. For example, if a manager instructs an usher to check the restrooms before a movie starts, the usher should follow those instructions to the letter. This ensures the theater is operating according to protocol and that the movie starts on time.

Movie Theater Usher Work Environment

Movie theater ushers typically work in the evenings and on weekends when movies are shown. They work in the lobbies and auditoriums of movie theaters, and their duties include taking tickets, tearing tickets, directing moviegoers to their seats, and cleaning up the auditoriums. They may also be responsible for setting up and tearing down movie posters and other promotional materials, and for checking the restrooms for cleanliness. Movie theater ushers typically work part-time hours, and their schedules vary depending on the movie theater’s hours of operation. Some movie theaters are open 24 hours a day, which means that movie theater ushers may work overnight shifts.

Movie Theater Usher Trends

Here are three trends influencing how movie theater ushers work. Movie theater ushers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

The Growth of Premium Cinemas

The movie theater industry is growing rapidly, with the number of premium cinemas increasing every year. This trend is being driven by the demand for high-quality entertainment experiences, which can be found in premium cinemas.

As more and more people are willing to pay extra for a better experience, ushers will need to be prepared to provide excellent customer service. They will also need to be familiar with the different amenities offered by different theaters, such as dining options and lounges.

More Focus on Customer Experience

The movie theater industry is shifting its focus towards providing a better customer experience. This means that ushers will need to be more than just ticket takers; they will need to be knowledgeable about the theater’s offerings and be able to help customers find what they are looking for.

Ushers who are able to provide excellent customer service will be in high demand, as theaters look for ways to keep customers coming back again and again. In order to be successful in this field, ushers will need to be able to understand the needs of their customers and provide them with the information they are looking for.

Greater Use of Technology

The use of technology in movie theaters is becoming increasingly common, as theaters try to stay competitive with one another. This trend is likely to continue in the future, as theaters look for new ways to attract customers.

Ushers who are familiar with the latest technologies can be an asset to theaters, as they will be able to help customers navigate the new systems and make the most of their visit. Additionally, ushers who are comfortable with technology can also be valuable employees in other areas of the theater, such as box office sales or concessions.

How to Become a Movie Theater Usher

A career as an usher is a great way to get started in the entertainment industry. It’s a entry-level job that offers opportunities for growth and learning. As an usher, you’ll learn about different aspects of the business, from marketing and sales to customer service and event planning. You’ll also develop important skills like teamwork, communication, and problem solving.

The best way to start your career as an usher is to find an opening near you. Many theaters post their openings online, so check out their websites or contact them directly to see if they have any available positions.

You can also try contacting local theaters to see if they have any openings. Most theaters are always looking for friendly, hardworking people who are willing to go the extra mile.

Advancement Prospects

Many people who start out as movie theater ushers eventually move up to other positions in the theater, such as working in the box office or concessions. Some may also advance to management positions. Others may use their experience as a movie theater usher to get jobs in other customer service industries.

Movie Theater Usher Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we provide our customers with an escape from reality through the power of film. As an usher, you will be responsible for providing a positive and memorable experience for every moviegoer that walks through our doors. From the moment they arrive, it will be your job to ensure they have everything they need to enjoy the show. This includes seating them in their assigned seats, providing them with information about the movie and amenities, and ensuring the theater is clean and presentable. You will also be responsible for handling any customer concerns or complaints in a professional and courteous manner. The ideal candidate will have prior customer service experience and a passion for movies.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Greet customers in a professional and friendly manner.
• Answer questions about movie times, ticket prices, and theater policies.
• Direct customers to their assigned auditoriums.
• Assist with seating if necessary.
• Collect tickets and passes from customers.
• Verify that all customers have the appropriate tickets for the movie they are trying to see.
• Check bags and purses for contraband.
• Ensure that the theater is clean and presentable at all times.
• Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as sweeping floors and cleaning bathrooms.
• Report any safety hazards or incidents to management immediately.
• Help with crowd control during emergencies.
• Assist customers with special needs.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Friendly, outgoing personality
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to work nights and weekends
• Ability to pass a background check
• High school diploma or equivalent

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Previous experience working in a movie theater or related customer service environment
• Flexible availability to work a variety of shifts
• Comfortable using basic computer programs
• Ability to upsell concessions and tickets