Sr Associate Publishing Production
$74,000–$110,000 year
HybridEl Segundo, California, United States
Job Summary
Coordinate production activities for assigned publishing titles, ensuring projects remain on schedule, within budget, and meet established quality standards. Develop detailed production schedules, proactively identify risks, and suggest mitigation plans to achieve key milestones. Collaborate on production planning by reviewing specifications, estimates, and timelines for accuracy, while troubleshooting challenges such as printer delays, file issues, and manufacturing defects. Serve as the primary liaison between Editorial, Design, Creative, Inventory Planning, Sales, Finance, Licensing, and external manufacturing partners. Maintain relationships with domestic and international printers and vendors, negotiating schedules and escalating issues as needed. Provide production analysis and recommendations to support leadership decision-making on estimates, manufacturing costs, and budget planning. Maintain accurate production records and participate in recurring status meetings to ensure alignment across stakeholders. This role supports the successful execution of complex publishing projects from manuscript through manufacturing and final delivery for Mattel's iconic brand portfolio.
Required Qualifications
- Experience in children's, trade, licensed, or consumer products publishing
- Knowledge of global manufacturing, import logistics, and international print sourcing
- Experience managing print budgets, forecasting production costs, and identifying cost-saving opportunities
- Familiarity with quality management systems (QMS), manufacturing standards, and continuous process improvement methodologies
- Working knowledge of title management, ERP, or project management systems (Smartsheet, or similar)
- Knowledge of sustainability initiatives, FSC-certified paper, and publishing compliance standards
Desired Qualifications
- Experience in children's, trade, licensed, or consumer products publishing
- Knowledge of global manufacturing, import logistics, and international print sourcing
- Experience managing print budgets, forecasting production costs, and identifying cost-saving opportunities
- Familiarity with quality management systems (QMS), manufacturing standards, and continuous process improvement methodologies
- Working knowledge of title management, ERP, or project management systems (Smartsheet, or similar)
- Knowledge of sustainability initiatives, FSC-certified paper, and publishing compliance standards
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