Sr. Development Program Management Associate

Mattel; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Mattel in El Segundo, CA is seeking a Sr Development Program Management Associate to join our product development team. You will manage projects from ideation through production with a global cross‑functional team including Design, Development, Marketing and Manufacturing.

The role requires 5+ years of project management experience, strong communication, and the ability to juggle multiple projects in a fast‑paced environment while maintaining cost and schedule targets.

Qualifications

• BA/BS Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial) or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of relevant project management experience.
• Understanding of electromechanical systems is a plus.
• Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Managing multiple projects of varying product types and complexities while maintaining cost and schedule targets.
• Working closely with overseas development, tooling, and manufacturing to ensure successful project completion.
• Troubleshooting pre-production models and pilot production samples and making suggestions to improve performance, fix defects and improve mechanisms to guarantee end-consumer satisfaction.
• Acting as liaison between US and overseas teams throughout the product life cycle.
• Reviewing concept sketches and providing support for products in the preliminary design phase.
• Working in a team environment with Design, Packaging, Quality, Marketing, Planning, Engineering, Sculpting, manufacturing plants, and offshore development sources.
• Analyzing product design for maximum utilization of materials, methods and processes in order to meet marketing strategies, cost objectives and quality specifications while working within the constraints of selling price and business margins.
• Examining product components to develop cost estimates and value by utilizing knowledge of product design and budgetary considerations.
• Managing and maintaining product data integrity within Mattel systems.

Skills

Project Management

Cross-functional Leadership

Communication

Problem Solving

Education

BA/BS in Engineering

Job description

CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER. It's our heritage and it’s also our future. Because we don’t just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard—when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day. We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers.

The Opportunity

The Hot Wheels team is seeking a Sr Development Program Management Associate to join our product development team at our campus in El Segundo, CA. You will help manage projects from ideation through production in collaboration with a worldwide cross‑functional team consisting of representatives from Design, Development, Marketing, Manufacturing and others throughout the product design and development process.

What Your Impact Will Be

• Managing multiple projects of varying product types and complexities while maintaining cost and schedule targets.
• Working closely with overseas development, tooling, and manufacturing to ensure successful project completion.
• Troubleshooting pre-production models and pilot production samples and making suggestions to improve performance, fix defects and improve mechanisms to guarantee end-consumer satisfaction.
• Acting as liaison between US and overseas teams throughout the product life cycle.
• Reviewing concept sketches and providing support for products in the preliminary design phase.
• Working in a team environment with Design, Packaging, Quality, Marketing, Planning, Engineering, Sculpting, manufacturing plants, and offshore development sources.
• Analyzing product design for maximum utilization of materials, methods and processes in order to meet marketing strategies, cost objectives and quality specifications while working within the constraints of selling price and business margins.
• Examining product components to develop cost estimates and value by utilizing knowledge of product design and budgetary considerations.
• Managing and maintaining product data integrity within Mattel systems.

What We’re Looking For

• BA/BS Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial) or related discipline or equivalent work experience.
• 5+ years of relevant project management experience.
• Understanding of electromechanical systems is a plus.
• Proven ability to juggle multiple projects, make quick decisions, and possess excellent problem‑solving skills.
• Self‑starter with a solution‑oriented mindset.
• Successful in a fast‑paced environment.
• Possess excellent communication skills.
• Comfortable leading cross‑functional teams.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Must be comfortable with systems and data entry.
• Relationship building and customer‑facing skills.
• Demonstrated growth mindset by staying curious and continuously learning, embracing challenges, and improving themselves.

*The pay range is indicative of projected hiring range. Base pay will be determined based on a candidate’s work location, skills and experience. Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.

We encourage candidates who may not meet every single requirement to apply, as we are dedicated to an inclusive workplace and a culture of belonging.

Mattel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome all job seekers; all applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, veteran and protected veteran status, disability status, and any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Pursuant to the Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment.