JOBSEARCHER

Associate Production Manager

Hot TopicIndustry, CAMay 20th, 2026
At Hot Topic, we’re passionate about creativity and high performance. We're also passionate about Pop Culture...in case you hadn't noticed. We’re looking for an Associate Production Manager to partner with our Product Development team in bringing music and pop culture inspired fashion to life. Apparel production takes a village, and you’re known as the one that’s able to bring it all together. The result: amazing product that our customers love.This role operates on a hybrid schedule and will require to work from our HQ located in the City of Industry, CA three days a week.Pay range$62,000 - $72,000 a yearPlease note the pay range for this position starts as listed in the job posting, but other factors such as an individual’s education, location, meeting the minimum job requirements for the role, training and experience, will determine the final salary for potential new hires.What You'll DoManage production process from design handoff to finished product - develop and source fabrics, yarns, and trims; obtains approvals for fabric, lab dip, and trims, ensure tech pack turnovers to sourcing partners; troubleshoot and come up with options to resolve issues in development/production and qualityWork closely with the merchant & product development team to ensure vision of product is achieved during the sourcing & production process & updating them regularly on deliveries and production issuesPartner with internal teams like import, vendor relations, and traffic teams to ensure inbound merchandise is properly coordinated for on time deliveryWork closely with the licensing team to obtain licensor’s comments in a timely manner to ensure on time deliveryWork with overseas vendors to monitor development and on time deliverySource & start up new factory relationships; negotiate appropriate costs and deliverables with sourcing partners to ensure best margin and quality are achieved for our customers!What You'll Need3+ years product development experience in retail or wholesale working with overseas officesExperience working on licensed product a plusOrganized, great communicator and detail oriented, proficient in ExcelWell versed in reviewing garment test reportsSourcing, manufacturing and costing wizard. You work your magic so much, they call you the Harry Potter of PD & ProductionAn up-to-date point of view on the latest trends & strategies in sourcing & productionNegotiation is your middle nameSome travel may be requiredTeam player - you thrive in a team environment and are comfortable giving, and receiving, honest, direct, feedback