Payroll Accountant

About Rocket Lab

Rocket Lab is a global leader in launch and space systems. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations. Our Electron rocket has provided reliable access to orbit since 2018, becoming one of the most frequently launched rockets in the world. Neutron will be our next rocket on the launch pad, an advanced 13-tonne payload class, reusable rocket to launch the mega constellations of the future. Our space systems business includes our extensive line of satellites and components that have enabled more than 1,700 missions including the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA Psyche Mission, Artemis I, Mars Ingenuity helicopter, and more.

Join our pioneering team and launch your career to new heights!

Payroll Accountant

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, California, the Payroll Accountant is responsible for maintaining the company payroll records which includes stock compensation, employee benefits and related taxes. You will support the Financial Accounting Manager in the Accounting organization, with deliverables required for effective accounting operations.

What You’ll Get To Do

• Review and process payroll on a bi-weekly and semi-monthly basis for salaried and hourly employees.
• Validate and reconcile payroll data to ensure accurate payroll payments, reporting, and records.
• Process all new hires, terminations, and changes to pay rates.
• Assist with all employee contributions for 401K, HSA, Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESOP), and Stock Based Compensation including coordinating transmissions with third party providers.
• Process manual checks for terminations and adjustments as needed.
• Reconciliation and resolution of discrepancies of relevant payroll, benefits, and tax accounts.
• Coordinate with other departments (Human Resources, IT, Finance and Accounting) to gather relevant data.
• Support month end close activities such as journal entry compilation, reconciliation, and reporting.

You’ll Bring These Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources or related field.
• Minimum of 5+ years accounting or payroll experience.
• Proficient in Excel and data analysis.
• Payroll and reconciliation experience.

These Qualifications Would Be Nice To Have

• Experience with stock or equity related compensation is preferred.
• Attention to detail and deadline oriented.
• Experience with Infor LN, Oracle, JDE, SAP or similar ERP systems.

Ada Requirements

• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.
• Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, operate computer keyboard and controls, and communicate verbally and in writing.
• Must be physically able to commute to buildings.
• Occasional exposure to dust, fumes and moderate levels of noise.

Base Pay Range (CA Only)

$75,000 — $105,000 USD

What To Expect

We’re on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that’s not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other’s backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important Information

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.