Film Coordinator

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Film Coordinator plays a key role in the planning, execution, and technical management of SAM’s year-round film exhibition program. This position oversees technical rehearsals, coordinates film and digital media logistics, manages guest artist support, and ensures the highest quality presentation of films in both the Downtown and Asian Art Museum locations.

Reporting to the Chief of Creative Strategy and Storytellling, the Film Coordinator also serves as a primary point of contact for logistics for projectionists, A/V staff, curators, and external partners, troubleshooting technical issues, maintaining accurate records, and coordinating complex shipping and archival processes.

This role requires a combination of technical expertise, organizational skill, and interpersonal dexterity, with the ability to manage multiple projects, maintain attention to detail, and provide a professional experience for all audiences.

As SAM heads into its second century, we are boldly reimagining what we can and should be. Our goal is to be a model for the future of museums - a bold, dynamic hub of creativity, belonging, and cultural leadership, shaping the future of art and community. Embracing new ways of engaging communities and seeking innovative partnerships - all while keeping art and community at the center of what we do.

This ambitious effort represents a transformative shift and radically redefining how art museums operate. This is a pivotal moment for SAM, and we are seeking great talent to join us on our journey. Working at SAM is not just a job—it's a chance to be part of a vibrant, creative community.

• Manages all technical rehearsals and public programs
• Serves as Program Manager for film events
• Convenes technical production meetings with curators and A/V staff; prepares and distributes technical documentation for each program season
• Schedules all rehearsals and ensures accurate and current technical information is shared internally and with external partners
• Works with AV team often, ensures optimal sound and image quality in screenings; communicates adjustments to projection staff
• Resolves technical issues with digital formats, DCPs, or archival prints by liaising with distributors or securing alternate materials
• Examines incoming film materials for print condition, format, and discrepancies; requests and tracks full inspections by projectionists
• Oversees special technical projects, including electronic titling and translations
• Provides occasional film introductions in the absence of guests/leads/curators

• Knowledge of film exhibition formats and/or experience handling film; and a strong understanding of the technical presentation standards of cinema
• Excellent communication and public speaking skills; able to work effectively with curators, filmmakers, and other guest presenters
• Ability to establish and achieve goals
• Demonstrated extreme accuracy and attention to detail
• Strong and effective writing skills needed to prepare a variety of correspondence, reporting, and other documents
• Ability to deal with multiple demands in high-pressure, public presentation situations, thinking quickly and effectively to problem solve and create and implement solutions
• Working knowledge of exhibition practice, customer and client relations, and event management
• Ability to work on multiple projects with competing deadlines and to establish goals and workload priorities
• Leadership abilities and able to inspire Work Study students through training and effective management oversight
• Proficient computer skills, including facility with using Word, Excel, and File Maker Pro
• Initiative and ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 65 lb
• Technical understanding of film exhibition formats
• Applicants for this position are expected to possess the skills, knowledge, and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned

FLSA Status: Part Time, Non-Exempt

Reports To: Chief of Creative Strategy and Storytelling

Work Location: Seattle Art Museum Downtown, Seattle Asian Art Museum Volunteer Park, and Olympic…