Publishing Project Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 Team:

Mattel is seeking a creative, collaborative, and detail-oriented Editor to join our Publishing team, reporting to the Senior Editor. The Publishing team creates engaging books and publishing experiences for readers of all ages, extending Mattel's iconic brands—including Barbie, Barney, Fisher-Price, Hot Wheels, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, Monster High, Pingu, Polly Pocket, Thomas & Friends, and more—through innovative storytelling and exceptional design.

The Opportunity: 

This role will support the editorial development and execution of Mattel's publishing program for readers ages 8 through adult, spanning fiction, graphic novels, adult nonfiction and activity books, and select licensed publishing. Working closely with the Senior Editor, you'll independently edit assigned titles while contributing to larger publishing initiatives across the 8+ portfolio.

The ideal candidate is a strong editor with excellent storytelling instincts, exceptional organizational skills, and a passion for developing high-quality books. You'll be equally comfortable managing assigned projects, collaborating with writers and creative partners, and working cross-functionally to bring compelling publishing experiences to life.

What Your Impact Will Be: 

• Manage and edit assigned titles across Mattel's publishing program for readers ages 8 through adult, ensuring projects are delivered on schedule and meet editorial and brand standards.
• Support the Senior Editor on larger publishing initiatives, contributing editorial support on marquee titles and assisting with select licensed publishing projects as needed.
• Manage assigned editorial projects through all stages of development, including brainstorming story and format ideas; coordinating with authors, agents, writers, and packagers; providing developmental and line editing; reviewing layouts and artwork; and partnering with copy editors through final production.
• Collaborate closely with Design, Production, and Operations to ensure projects meet creative, production, and scheduling goals.
• Partner with Brand and Content teams to develop original stories, refine publishing concepts, and gather supporting information and assets.
• Manage internal and external approval workflows, incorporating stakeholder feedback while maintaining editorial quality, brand consistency, and project momentum.
• Maintain title information, including metadata, pricing requests, and other publishing documentation.
• Stay informed on trends in children's and adult publishing, entertainment, and consumer products, bringing fresh ideas and new opportunities to Mattel's publishing program.
• Cultivate strong relationships with authors, freelancers, and creative partners to support successful project development.
• Present editorial concepts, manuscripts, and project updates to the Senior Editor and cross-functional partners, clearly communicating editorial rationale and incorporating feedback.

What We’re Looking For:

• 2–4 years of professional editorial experience, preferably in children's, licensed, or trade publishing.
• Strong understanding of the publishing process from concept development through production.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the children's publishing market; familiarity with the adult trade market is a plus.
• Experience editing fiction and/or narrative nonfiction, with strong developmental editing and line editing skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to build productive relationships with authors, agents, freelancers, and internal partners.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly collaborative, adaptable, resourceful, and detail-oriented, with sound editorial judgment and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook, with working knowledge of Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams. Familiarity with Smartsheet and Workfront is a plus.
• A passion for books, storytelling, and bringing beloved brands to life through exceptional publishing.
• Enthusiasm for toys—and the joy they inspire—is always a plus.

*The pay range is indicative of projected hiring range, however 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. 

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Mattel, we are dedicated to an inclusive workplace and a culture of belonging. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles. Join Mattel's Talent Community and start receiving exciting updates about our company, our employees, and our culture. Also, interested in signing up for job alerts? Do so here!
How We Work:
We are a purpose driven company aiming to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We live up to our purpose employing the following behaviors:

• We collaborate: Being a part of Mattel means being part of one team with shared values and common goals. Every person counts and working closely together always brings better results. Partnership is our process and our collective capabilities is our superpower.
• We innovate: At Mattel we always aim to find new and better ways to create innovative products and experiences. No matter where you work in the organization, you can always make a difference and have real impact. We welcome new ideas and value new initiatives that challenge conventional thinking.
• We execute: We are a performance-driven company. We strive for excellence and are focused on pursuing best-in-class outcomes. We believe in accountability and ownership and know that our people are at their best when they are empowered to create and deliver results.

Who We Are:
Mattel is a leading global toy and family entertainment company and owner of one of the most iconic brand portfolios in the world. We engage consumers and fans through our franchise brands, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, Monster High, MEGA and Polly Pocket, as well as other popular properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include toys, content, consumer products, digital and live experiences. Our products are sold in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential.

Mattel’s award-winning workplace culture has been recognized by Forbes, Fast Company, Newsweek, Great Place to Work, TIME, and more.

Visit us at https://jobs.mattel.com/ and www.instagram.com/MattelCareers.
Mattel is an Equal Opportunity Employer where we want you to bring your authentic self to work every day. We welcome all job seekers, and 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 or 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.

Videos to watch:
The Culture at Mattel
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