Production Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

About Us

We are a growing character brand company based in Downey, California, specializing in plush toys, collectible figures, and lifestyle accessories. Our products are distributed globally, and we work closely with overseas manufacturing partners, primarily in China.

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Production Specialist to independently coordinate and manage day-to-day production operations, from product sampling through mass production and shipment. This role requires someone who can take ownership of the production process, communicate directly with overseas factories, monitor timelines, resolve day-to-day production issues, and keep projects moving forward.

Key Responsibilities

Production Management & Coordination

• Manage day-to-day production activities from initial sampling through mass production and shipment.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for overseas manufacturers, primarily in China.
• Coordinate production schedules, monitor progress, and follow up with factories to meet delivery deadlines.
• Independently manage multiple production projects and provide regular status updates to management.
• Identify production delays, quality issues, and manufacturing challenges, recommend solutions, and escalate significant issues for management approval.
• Coordinate production priorities with internal design, sales, and logistics teams.

Product Development & Quality Control

• Coordinate product sampling, revisions, and pre-production approvals.
• Review samples, specifications, materials, colors, packaging, and workmanship against approved requirements.
• Communicate product revisions and quality concerns directly with manufacturers.
• Coordinate quality inspections, product testing, and certification processes.
• Monitor compliance with applicable product safety standards, including CPSIA and ASTM F963.
• Prepare samples and recommendations for final management approval before mass production.

Factory & Cost Coordination

• Request and compare factory quotations, production costs, and lead times.
• Communicate with existing manufacturers and assist in identifying potential new suppliers when needed.
• Coordinate pricing discussions and recommend cost-saving opportunities for management review.
• Monitor production costs and report significant changes or discrepancies.
• Support factory sourcing, OEM/ODM development, and vendor evaluation activities.

Documentation & Shipment Coordination

• Prepare, maintain, and track production purchase orders, product specifications, and production schedules.
• Coordinate packaging, labeling, and shipping requirements with manufacturers.
• Work with logistics teams to monitor shipment readiness and delivery timelines.
• Maintain accurate production records, testing reports, and vendor communications.
• Provide regular production updates and reports to management.
  

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience in production, product development, manufacturing coordination, or related fields.
• Experience managing production processes from sampling through mass production and shipment.
• Direct experience communicating and coordinating with overseas factories, preferably in China.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing timelines, production processes, quality control, and vendor coordination.
• Ability to independently manage multiple production projects with minimal supervision.
• Strong problem-solving, organizational, and follow-up skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and standard office software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on-site at our Downey, CA office.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in plush toys, vinyl/PVC figures, collectibles, accessories, or related consumer products.
• Familiarity with OEM/ODM manufacturing and overseas factory sourcing.
• Knowledge of CPSIA, ASTM F963, EN71, and other product safety requirements.
• Experience reviewing factory quotations, production costs, and product specifications.
• Familiarity with packaging requirements, labeling, and import logistics.
• Experience working with licensed character products or intellectual property (IP).
• Bilingual in English and Mandarin is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred but not required.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision & Life Insurance – Eligible after 90 days of employment
• 401(k) / Profit Sharing – Eligible after 1 year
• Paid Time Off
• 2 Paid Year-End Holidays