Licensing Manager Jobs in California
Licensing Manager jobs in California are among the most active in the country, concentrated in entertainment and media, life sciences and pharmaceuticals, technology, and consumer goods, with openings from coordinator-level through senior director. The heaviest hiring is in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego, where companies like Disney, Genentech, and Qualcomm maintain large intellectual property and licensing operations. The most sought-after specialties are entertainment and brand licensing, life sciences technology transfer, and software and IP rights management. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Licensing Manager JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 18+ Licensing Manager jobs
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:
The Licensing Systems team is part of the Franchise Finance organization and is responsible for the systems that run this business which include style guides, product approvals and contracting and finance. We work cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to ensure user success, system adoption and financial accuracy.
The Opportunity:
We are currently seeking a Sr Manager to join the Franchise Finance Licensing Operations team in El Segundo, CA. This role will own the day-to-day management of projects, governance and support for the Mattel Licensing Systems (including RightsLogic, MyMediaBox and Malibu).
What Your Impact Will Be:
System Responsibilities
- Research, design, and document specifications for the enhancement of Mattel Systems.
- Manage Implementation Projects for new businesses and enhancement requests which include:
- Collect and create requirements
- Collaborate with vendor to determine best approach for customizations
- Handle complex support questions from internal and external parties
- Write Use Cases and Test Scripts
- Oversee the testing of new releases and approve release to end users
- Provide sign-off proposals and obtain budget approval
- Lead planning, coordination and execution of projects, with a clear focus on timelines and communication in a dynamic environment
- Oversee monthly and quarterly system close process
- Oversee system integrations, partner with team to resolve any failures until completion
Support and Process Improvement
- Provide ongoing support to Clients by troubleshooting issues, identifying and implementing long-term solutions, and short-term resolutions if necessary
- Offer clear support pathways for internal teams and external licensees, with documented ownership and service expectations
- Identify recurring pain points and recommend processes, configuration, training, or policy improvements based on business value and implementation effort
- Troubleshoot issues, prepare reconciliations, variance and exception analysis, data validation, control evidence, to support validation of financial data
- Prepare training documentation and lead webinars for training both internal and external Licensees
- Educate our users regarding capabilities of the system, and guide them to a solution that substantially meets their needs, and requires minimum customization
Asset Management
- Evaluate improvements in process based on technology solutions
- Develop metrics and reporting to show adoption and usage
People Leadership
- Oversee 1 associate manager that manages day-to-day support and administration
- Define decision rights and handoffs so analysts and administrators remain accountable clear governance
- Lead, coach, and develop assigned team members across systems operations, analytics, reporting, and administration
What We’re Looking For:
- 10+ years’ experience with data analysis and troubleshooting
- Prior project management experience required
- Demonstrated experience leading complex projects or programs with multiple business, technology, and vendor stakeholders
- General knowledge of accounting practices preferred
- Experience working with financial data, financial operations, royalty systems, or close processes is preferred
- Knowledge of Media, Licensing or Consumer Products is helpful
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Strong business software application knowledge
- Strong time management and organizational skills
- Ability to motivate teams and work independently
- Proactive mindset with ability to provide creative solutions to complex problems
- Leader as well as team player
- Detail-orientated with an ability to see the big picture and work on cross-divisional projects with many stakeholders
- Manages diverse projects and assignments
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency in Microsoft Word, Project, Visio, Outlook, and PowerPoint
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.
Our Approach to Flexible Work:
This role is an in-office role Monday-Thursday, and work from home on Fridays. We embrace a flexible work model designed to empower a culture of growth, optimism, and wellbeing, where every employee can reach their full potential. Combining purposeful in-person collaboration with flexibility, our focus is to optimize performance and drive connection for moments that matter.
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.
Beware of recruiting scams: Mattel will only contact you through official @mattel.com or @smartrecruiters.com email addressesand will never ask for payment or sensitive personal information during the hiring process.
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.
The pay range for this position is between $150,800 and $180,000 annual. 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.
Videos to watch:
The Culture at Mattel
Corporate Philanthropy
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:
The Licensing Systems team is part of the Franchise Finance organization and is responsible for the systems that run this business which include style guides, product approvals and contracting and finance. We work cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to ensure user success, system adoption and financial accuracy.
The Opportunity:
We are currently seeking a Sr Manager to join the Franchise Finance Licensing Operations team in El Segundo, CA. This role will own the day-to-day management of projects, governance and support for the Mattel Licensing Systems (including RightsLogic, MyMediaBox and Malibu).
What Your Impact Will Be:
System Responsibilities
- Research, design, and document specifications for the enhancement of Mattel Systems.
- Manage Implementation Projects for new businesses and enhancement requests which include:
- Collect and create requirements
- Collaborate with vendor to determine best approach for customizations
- Handle complex support questions from internal and external parties
- Write Use Cases and Test Scripts
- Oversee the testing of new releases and approve release to end users
- Provide sign-off proposals and obtain budget approval
- Lead planning, coordination and execution of projects, with a clear focus on timelines and communication in a dynamic environment
- Oversee monthly and quarterly system close process
- Oversee system integrations, partner with team to resolve any failures until completion
Support and Process Improvement
- Provide ongoing support to Clients by troubleshooting issues, identifying and implementing long-term solutions, and short-term resolutions if necessary
- Offer clear support pathways for internal teams and external licensees, with documented ownership and service expectations
- Identify recurring pain points and recommend processes, configuration, training, or policy improvements based on business value and implementation effort
- Troubleshoot issues, prepare reconciliations, variance and exception analysis, data validation, control evidence, to support validation of financial data
- Prepare training documentation and lead webinars for training both internal and external Licensees
- Educate our users regarding capabilities of the system, and guide them to a solution that substantially meets their needs, and requires minimum customization
Asset Management
- Evaluate improvements in process based on technology solutions
- Develop metrics and reporting to show adoption and usage
People Leadership
- Oversee 1 associate manager that manages day-to-day support and administration
- Define decision rights and handoffs so analysts and administrators remain accountable clear governance
- Lead, coach, and develop assigned team members across systems operations, analytics, reporting, and administration
What We’re Looking For:
- 10+ years’ experience with data analysis and troubleshooting
- Prior project management experience required
- Demonstrated experience leading complex projects or programs with multiple business, technology, and vendor stakeholders
- General knowledge of accounting practices preferred
- Experience working with financial data, financial operations, royalty systems, or close processes is preferred
- Knowledge of Media, Licensing or Consumer Products is helpful
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Strong business software application knowledge
- Strong time management and organizational skills
- Ability to motivate teams and work independently
- Proactive mindset with ability to provide creative solutions to complex problems
- Leader as well as team player
- Detail-orientated with an ability to see the big picture and work on cross-divisional projects with many stakeholders
- Manages diverse projects and assignments
- Strong Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency in Microsoft Word, Project, Visio, Outlook, and PowerPoint
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.
Our Approach to Flexible Work:
This role is an in-office role Monday-Thursday, and work from home on Fridays. We embrace a flexible work model designed to empower a culture of growth, optimism, and wellbeing, where every employee can reach their full potential. Combining purposeful in-person collaboration with flexibility, our focus is to optimize performance and drive connection for moments that matter.
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.
Beware of recruiting scams: Mattel will only contact you through official @mattel.com or @smartrecruiters.com email addressesand will never ask for payment or sensitive personal information during the hiring process.
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.
The pay range for this position is between $150,800 and $180,000 annual. 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.
Videos to watch:
The Culture at Mattel
Corporate Philanthropy
See All 18 Licensing Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Licensing Manager JobsLicensing Manager Jobs by City in California
Where California roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Licensing Manager Job Market in California
A snapshot from current California openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
- Media & Entertainment
- Technology & Software
What California Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in licensing manager jobs across California.
- Bachelor's degree in business, law, or a related field required by most California employers
- Demonstrated experience negotiating and drafting licensing agreements across California industries
- Working knowledge of intellectual property law and contract compliance standards
- Proficiency with contract management platforms and licensing databases used in California markets
- Experience coordinating with legal, finance, and product teams throughout the licensing lifecycle
- Strong communication skills for managing relationships with licensees, counsel, and internal stakeholders
Licensing Manager Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a licensing manager in California?
Most licensing managers in California start with a bachelor's degree in business administration, law, or a field relevant to their industry, such as life sciences or entertainment. From there, experience in contracts, compliance, or intellectual property roles builds the foundation employers expect. California's technology transfer offices, entertainment studios, and biotech companies frequently promote from within, and a paralegal background or coursework in IP law strengthens candidacy considerably.
How much do licensing managers make in California?
Licensing managers in California earn a median of about $96,980 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $57,530 for the lowest 10% to over $158,280 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire licensing managers in California?
Employers hiring licensing managers in California right now include Paramount, Biocytogen, and Mattel, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. California's concentration of entertainment studios, pharmaceutical companies, and technology firms means demand for licensing professionals is broad and relatively stable across the state.
Which California cities have the most licensing manager jobs?
El Segundo, Los Angeles, and San Francisco have the most licensing manager openings in California. Los Angeles drives volume through its entertainment and brand licensing industry, San Francisco and San Diego reflect the life sciences and technology sectors headquartered in those regions, and other suburban areas often appear on the list because large corporate campuses and research institutions outside the core cities maintain their own licensing teams.
Are there remote licensing manager jobs in California?
Yes, and more than many comparable roles, since licensing work centers on contracts, negotiations, and communication rather than physical presence. About 73% of licensing manager openings tied to California are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, reflecting how much of the work can be done digitally. Agreement review, royalty tracking, and licensee communications are the functions most commonly performed fully remotely.
How can I get hired as a licensing manager in California with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is through a licensing coordinator or contracts administrator role, which large California employers in entertainment and biotech use to develop early-career talent. Studios and pharmaceutical companies in Los Angeles and San Diego regularly bring in candidates from paralegal, rights management, or business affairs assistant backgrounds. Building familiarity with contract lifecycle tools and completing a certificate in intellectual property or technology transfer from a California university will strengthen an application significantly.
Where can I find and apply to licensing manager jobs in California?
You can find and apply to licensing manager jobs in California on Migrate Mate, which lists current California openings updated regularly. Search the available roles, find the ones that match your experience and location, and apply directly to the employer through the listing.
See All 18 Licensing Manager Jobs in California
Find roles in California that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Licensing Manager Jobs