Lead Toy Designer - Pokémon Plastics

Jazwares, LLC • Culver City, CA

18h • $98,640 - $121,320 • Hybrid

About The Position

As the Lead Toy Product Designer, you will drive the creative development of Pokémon plastic products from concept to production, ensuring alignment with market trends, safety standards, and brand vision. You will collaborate with product development, branding, and engineering teams, and mentor junior designers. Your role involves conducting user research, staying ahead of industry trends, and bringing innovative ideas to life through strong sketching skills and material knowledge. Extensive experience in product design is required.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in toy design, product development, or industrial design, with expertise in plastic toys.
• Experience with 3D modeling, sculpting, and rendering (Rhino, ZBrush, or SolidWorks is a plus).
• Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and working with Asia-based factories.
• Strong ability to problem-solve, manage multiple projects, and adapt to shifting priorities.
• Excellent visual, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Expertise in control drawings, rendered illustrations, and technical specifications.
• Strong leadership, team mentorship, and project management abilities.
• Passion for character-driven product design and for the brand.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Toy Design, Industrial Design, or a related field is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of consumer products across, ensuring brand alignment and market relevance.
• Act as the primary liaison with licensors, managing approvals and maintaining strong relationships.
• Generate and refine product concepts through sketches, 2D/3D renderings, and prototypes.
• Oversee product development, ensuring quality, cost efficiency, and timely execution.
• Provide clear and precise turnover specifications for international teams and factories.
• Collaborate with branding, engineering, packaging, and marketing teams for cohesive product execution.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, materials, and manufacturing innovations in both plush and plastics.
• Present concepts and product updates to internal teams, licensors, and stakeholders.
• Mentor and guide junior designers on the Hello Kitty brand and other Girls’ team plush brands, fostering a collaborative and innovative team culture.
• Manage project timelines and ensure all deadlines and milestones are met.

Benefits

• Basic medical insurance that is 100% company-paid for employees and their children
• Employee basic life and AD&D insurance
• 401(K) retirement program with Jazwares matching up to 4% of pretax or post-tax deferrals
• Short and long-term disability
• Tuition reimbursement
• Time Off for vacation and sick leave
• Opportunity to volunteer for up to 16 hours a year on community service projects through Jazwares Cares

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior