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Import Production Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Manage sample development and production schedules * Review and approve final samples, fabrics ... in apparel import production preferred * Strong understanding of garment construction and ...

Financial Controller

Torrance, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Manage and develop the accounting team Ideal Background: * Prior Controller experience * Apparel manufacturing, wholesale, private label, or import production experience * Strong cost accounting and ...

Develop and execute targeted Specialty/Import sales strategies to achieve region and individual ... Remain informed of market conditions, product innovations, and competitors' products, prices, and ...

Manage and develop the accounting team Ideal Background: * Prior Controller experience * Apparel manufacturing, wholesale, private label, or import production experience * Strong cost accounting and ...

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Import Production Manager information

What is an Import Production Manager?

An Import Production Manager is responsible for overseeing the production and importation of goods from international suppliers to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery. They coordinate with overseas manufacturers, manage logistics and shipping schedules, and ensure all products meet quality and regulatory standards. Their role involves working closely with procurement, quality control, and supply chain teams to streamline the import process and resolve any issues that arise during production or transit.

What is the difference between Import Production Manager vs Import Coordinator?

AspectImport Production ManagerImport Coordinator
ResponsibilitiesOversees entire import production processes, manages teams, ensures compliance, and coordinates with suppliers and logistics.Handles day-to-day import documentation, tracks shipments, and communicates with vendors and customs.
Required CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor’s degree in supply chain, logistics, or related field; certifications like CITT or ISM are common.Often requires a high school diploma or associate degree; certifications like CITT or import/export licenses are advantageous.
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with frequent coordination with warehouses, suppliers, and logistics providers.Primarily office work, with some on-site visits to ports or warehouses.

The Import Production Manager focuses on overseeing the entire import process, managing teams, and ensuring compliance, while the Import Coordinator handles daily shipment tracking and documentation. Both roles require knowledge of import regulations and certifications like CITT, but the manager role involves higher-level planning and supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Import Production Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Import Production Manager, you need expertise in supply chain management, import/export regulations, and production planning, often backed by a bachelor's degree in business, logistics, or a related field. Familiarity with ERP systems, inventory management software, and international shipping documentation is typically required. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and negotiation skills help manage teams and coordinate with overseas suppliers. These skills ensure timely and cost-effective production, regulatory compliance, and efficient global operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Import Production Managers when coordinating with overseas suppliers?

Import Production Managers often encounter challenges such as time zone differences, language barriers, and varying quality standards when working with overseas suppliers. Managing lead times, ensuring clear communication, and handling unexpected delays due to customs or shipping issues are also typical hurdles. Building strong relationships and setting clear expectations with suppliers are essential for minimizing disruptions and maintaining a smooth production workflow.
What are the most commonly searched types of Import Production jobs in California? The most popular types of Import Production jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Import Production Manager jobs in California? For Import Production Manager jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Import Production Manager jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Import Production Manager jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Import Production Manager jobs? Cities in California with the most Import Production Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Import Production Manager job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, 1% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution.

Import Production Manager

Mad Engine Global LLC

Burbank, CA • On-site

$78K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Mad Engine rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 61 rated fashion and textile manufacturers


Job description

Position Summary

Mad Engine Global is seeking an experienced Import Production Manager to oversee the end-to-end production process for Men's and Boys apparel programs. This role is responsible for ensuring overseas production is executed accurately, efficiently, and on schedule while maintaining quality, margin, and compliance standards.

The Import Production Manager partners closely with Design, Sales, Merchandising, Technical Design, Sourcing, Customer Service, and overseas factories to manage licensed and private label apparel programs for key retail partners, including Walmart, Five Below, and Ross. The ideal candidate is a proactive leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has strong knowledge of apparel manufacturing, sourcing, production timelines, and vendor management.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Production Management

  • Manage overseas production from purchase order issuance through final shipment for Men's and Boys apparel programs.
  • Oversee strategic sourcing, production placement, and factory allocation to support business objectives.
  • Ensure production timelines are achieved while maintaining quality, margin, and delivery expectations.
  • Review purchase orders, production status, testing requirements, approvals, and shipment schedules for accuracy.
  • Monitor WIP reports and proactively identify production risks, implementing corrective action as needed.
  • Partner with factories to resolve production, quality, testing, or shipping issues in a timely manner.
  • Ensure products are manufactured according to approved specifications, construction standards, and customer requirements.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Work closely with Design, Product Development, Merchandising, Sales, Technical Design, and Customer Service throughout the production lifecycle.
  • Support licensed and private label programs for major retail partners including Walmart, Five Below, and Ross.
  • Communicate production status, potential risks, and delivery updates to internal stakeholders.
  • Participate in milestone meetings, calendar checkpoints, and production reviews.

Vendor & Factory Management

  • Build and maintain strong partnerships with overseas factories and strategic manufacturing partners.
  • Negotiate production timelines while supporting company sourcing and cost objectives.
  • Monitor factory performance and ensure compliance with quality, testing, and retailer requirements.
  • Follow through on production revisions, purchase order updates, and shipment changes.

Leadership

  • Lead and mentor members of the import production team.
  • Foster a collaborative, positive, and accountable work environment.
  • Promote continuous process improvements that enhance efficiency, communication, and on-time delivery.
  • Ensure departmental goals align with company objectives and customer expectations.

Financial & Operational Excellence

  • Monitor product costing throughout the production process to support margin goals.
  • Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining product quality and delivery expectations.
  • Ensure timely communication of shipment information to Customer Service and other internal partners.
  • Maintain accurate production documentation, reports, and vendor communications.


Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Business, Fashion Merchandising, Production Management, or related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
  • 5+ years of experience in apparel production, sourcing, product development, or supply chain management.
  • Experience managing overseas apparel production programs.
  • Strong understanding of garment construction, manufacturing processes, costing, testing, and quality standards.
  • Experience supporting major mass-market retailers such as Walmart, Five Below, Ross, or similar national accounts preferred.
  • Mandarin or Spanish language skills are a plus.
  • Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
  • Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Self-starter with the ability to prioritize multiple projects in a deadline-driven environment.




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