Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Production Accountant  image - Rise Careers
Job details

Production Accountant

Company Description

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 Production Finance team supports Mattel Television as it evolves into a dynamic entertainment-led business, leveraging its rich intellectual property to create compelling content driven stories.  By developing this IP into engaging narratives, we aim to partner with various entertainment streamers and networks to ensure our stories resonate with a global audience.  This strategic shift not only enhances our brand presence but also allows us to connect with viewers across diverse platforms, creating a unified experience that celebrates the power of storytelling.  

Job Description

The Opportunity: 

Mattel is currently seeking a Production Accountant in El Segundo, CA. This role will provide support to the Live Action, Animation Development and Films teams and will be responsible for managing the financial records for those areas. This person will be crucial in the tracking of all related development costs and will have a strong background in accounting principles and knowledge of Union-related payroll. This person will also support the Director, Production Finance in all monthly and quarterly reporting activities.

What Your Impact Will Be: 

•    Manage the monthly cost reporting process for Live Action and Animated development projects, ensuring accurate reporting of actual costs and forecasting of projected spending.
•    Lead the bi-weekly Film slate review with Finance to ensure financial records are up to date and all known Union & non-Union payroll requirements are understood and accounted for.
•    Prepare and review the Mattel TV Studios monthly overhead report to ensure accuracy of reporting and classification of production spending.
•    Prepare and review the monthly reconciliations for the Live Action, Development and Films teams.
•    Prepare and review the quarterly Mattel TV Studios consolidated cashflow forecast for ongoing productions, as well as the Development and Films portfolios.
•    Prepare and review the monthly intercompany transactions for submission to Finance, relying on knowledge of the organizational structure and budgetary responsibilities of our internal stakeholders and partners.
•    Act as the primary contact for day-to-day relations with our payroll vendors for Live Action and Film WGA contracts ensuring adherence to Union timelines and reporting requirements.
 

Qualifications

What We’re Looking For:

•    Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent
•    5+ years relevant experience in a finance, accounting, auditing or royalty environment  
•    Strong Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint and Project) 
•    Experience in Entertainment Production Accounting
•    Experience with Non-Union and Union payroll (IATSE, SAG, WGA and DGA)
•    Proficiency in a variety of production accounting software tools, including but not limited to PSL, CAPS, SmartAccounting and Movie Magic Budgeting. 

Additional Information

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Mattel we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

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 Affirmative Action/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
Mattel Investor Highlights

Mattel Glassdoor Company Review
3.8 Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon Glassdoor star icon
Mattel DE&I Review
No rating Glassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star iconGlassdoor star icon
CEO of Mattel
Mattel CEO photo
Ynon Kreiz
Approve of CEO

Average salary estimate

$100000 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$80000K
$120000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Production Accountant , Mattel

Join Mattel as a Production Accountant and dive into a world where creativity meets solid financial practice! Located in vibrant El Segundo, California, this role is integral to our Live Action, Animation Development, and Films teams. You’ll be the mastermind managing financial records, keeping us organized amid our exciting dynamic entertainment transition. This position is perfect for someone who thrives on tracking development costs and has a strong grasp of accounting principles along with Union-related payroll knowledge. Your expertise will shine as you handle monthly cost reports, lead film slate reviews, and prepare reconciliations for our various departments. You’ll collaborate closely with the Director of Production Finance to ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s an opportunity not just to show off your financial talents but to help bring innovative stories to life. Whether you're coordinating with payroll vendors or overseeing fine details like intercompany transactions, every aspect of your role contributes to the positive impact we have here at Mattel. Here, every voice matters, and your ideas will help enhance our global brand presence. If you have 5+ years of experience in finance or accounting and know your way around entertainment production accounting, we’re excited to meet you! Bring your enthusiasm and let's create impactful narratives together.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Production Accountant Role at Mattel
What are the main responsibilities of a Production Accountant at Mattel?

As a Production Accountant at Mattel, the main responsibilities include managing monthly cost reporting for Live Action and Animated projects, leading the financial slate review processes, preparing monthly reconciliations, and ensuring compliance with Union payroll requirements. You'll directly support the Director of Production Finance and engage with various teams to ensure financial transparency and accuracy.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are needed for the Production Accountant position at Mattel?

To be considered for the Production Accountant position at Mattel, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent and have at least 5 years of relevant experience in finance or accounting, specifically in the entertainment industry. Proficiency in production accounting software and strong Excel skills are crucial for success in this role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does the Production Accountant contribute to Mattel's projects?

The Production Accountant at Mattel plays a crucial role by ensuring all development costs are tracked accurately and reported on time. This role involves preparation of financial forecasts that guide program decisions, thereby enhancing the efficiency and profitability of various animated and live-action projects under the Mattel Television umbrella.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the work environment like for Production Accountants at Mattel?

The work environment for Production Accountants at Mattel is collaborative and innovative. Team members are encouraged to share ideas and contribute to the overall goals of the company. With a culture that values respect and inclusivity, Mattel fosters a workplace where employees feel empowered and motivated to contribute their best selves.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What software knowledge is beneficial for a Production Accountant at Mattel?

A Production Accountant at Mattel should be proficient in a variety of production accounting software tools, including PSL, CAPS, SmartAccounting, and Movie Magic Budgeting. Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs, especially Excel, is also essential to effectively manage financial data and reporting.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Production Accountant
Can you explain your experience with production accounting software?

In your response, highlight specific software you've used, such as PSL or Movie Magic Budgeting. Discuss how you've utilized these tools to streamline processes or enhance reporting accuracy in previous roles.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure the accuracy of financial reports in production?

Discuss your attention to detail and any methodologies you follow for verifying data. Include examples of cross-referencing budgets against actual spending, conducting reconciliations, and collaborating with other departments to ensure all costs are captured accurately.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What challenges have you faced in managing Union payroll?

Share experiences related to understanding Union contracts, compliance with reporting timelines, and navigating any disputes or discrepancies with payroll vendors. Emphasize your problem-solving skills and adaptability in the face of challenges.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you prioritize tasks during tight deadlines?

Discuss techniques you use for prioritization, such as creating a prioritization matrix or utilizing project management tools. Mention real experiences where you successfully met deadlines despite challenges.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Describe a time when you identified a cost-saving opportunity in a previous role.

Provide a detailed example, outlining the problem, your analysis, and the steps you took to implement a cost-saving solution. This shows not just your focus on financial accuracy but also your strategic thinking.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you approach financial forecasting for development projects?

Explain your process for gathering data, analyzing trends, and making predictive assessments. Highlight your experience with collaboration across departments to ensure all variables are considered.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What do you know about the entertainment industry’s accounting standards?

Discuss your familiarity with industry standards, terminology, and practices, especially those that pertain to Union negotiations and compliance within the entertainment sector. Showcase your understanding of the unique aspects of production accounting.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What steps do you take to maintain good relationships with stakeholders?

Emphasize your communication skills and discuss how you build trust through transparency, regular updates, and responsiveness to inquiries. Provide an example of how your relationship-building efforts led to a successful project.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How have you contributed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace?

Share personal experiences where you supported or initiated efforts for diversity and inclusion in your previous workplaces. Explain your belief in the value of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and positive work culture.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What attracted you to the Production Accountant position at Mattel?

Reflect on your passion for storytelling and how you believe strong financial backing contributes to successful project execution. Express your admiration for Mattel’s commitment to creativity and innovation in children's entertainment.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Mattel Hybrid 333 Continental Blvd, El Segundo, CALIFORNIA
Posted 2 days ago
Inclusive & Diverse
Empathetic
Collaboration over Competition
Growth & Learning
Photo of the Rise User
Mattel Hybrid El Segundo, California, United States
Posted 2 days ago
Inclusive & Diverse
Empathetic
Collaboration over Competition
Growth & Learning
Photo of the Rise User
Aston Carter Hybrid Green Bay, Wisconsin, United States
Posted 2 days ago
Posted 4 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 3 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Aston Carter Hybrid New York, United States
Posted 2 days ago
Posted 10 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Smiths Group Hybrid 325 Commerce Dr, Mt Vernon, OH 43050, USA
Posted 12 days ago
Belron Hybrid COLUMBUS, OH
Posted 4 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Aston Carter Hybrid Irving, Texas, United States
Posted 2 days ago

Mattel, a global leader in toys and family entertainment, engages audiences with a vast portfolio of iconic brands like Barbie, Hot Wheels, and Fisher-Price.

276 jobs
MATCH
Calculating your matching score...
BADGES
Badge Diversity ChampionBadge Family FriendlyBadge Flexible CultureBadge Global CitizenBadge Work&Life Balance
CULTURE VALUES
Inclusive & Diverse
Empathetic
Collaboration over Competition
Growth & Learning
FUNDING
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
December 21, 2024

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!
LATEST ACTIVITY
F
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed Mortgage Loan Officer Assistant at Fulton Bank
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Amazon Work from Home Data Entry Jobs – Entry Level at Amazon
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Ironton just viewed Software Engineer Intern (Summer 2025) at Curri
Photo of the Rise User
23 people applied to Billing Specialist at Hint Health
J
Someone from OH, Westerville just viewed Oracle Database Administrator- Remote only at JASCI
Photo of the Rise User
6 people applied to Quickbooks AR and AP at Upwork
V
Someone from OH, Toledo just viewed Sports Event Coordinator at Ventures With Jen
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Dayton just viewed Research Assistant at Leidos
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Finance & Accounting Associate at HeadQuarters
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Canton just viewed Communications Manager at Shearer's Foods
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Sandusky just viewed Supply Chain Trainee Program (SCTP) at Anheuser-Busch
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Mason just viewed HR/Recruiting Assistant at Illumination
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Strongsville just viewed Used Car Buyer - Concord Toyota at Sonic Automotive
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Mid-level Creative (f/m/d) at Landor
P
Someone from OH, Kent just viewed Graphic Designer at ProjectGrowth
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Waverly just viewed Client Services Manager at Pepperstone
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Plain City just viewed Aesthetic Telehealth Nurse Practitioner (remote) at Moxie
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Columbus just viewed EdTech Product/Program Manager at Planner5D
S
Someone from OH, Lorain just viewed Test Engineer- Ninja at SharkNinja
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Youngstown just viewed Channel Development Representative at Arrow Electronics
Photo of the Rise User
Someone from OH, Cincinnati just viewed Buyer at Novolex