Sr. Payroll Accountant

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight‑proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

Detail‑oriented and highly organized Part‑Time Payroll Accountant supporting payroll operations for a fast‑paced rocket manufacturing and aerospace organization. Responsible for processing accurate and timely payroll for engineers, technicians, manufacturing operations, and corporate staff while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and international regulations. Manages timekeeping systems, payroll reconciliations, tax filings, and benefits deductions with precision and confidentiality. Collaborates closely with HR, finance, and program management teams to support complex compensation structures, including shift differentials, project‑based pay, government contract requirements, and equity compensation.

Brings strong analytical skills, discretion, and adaptability to a high‑growth, innovation‑driven environment where accuracy and reliability are mission‑critical.

• Prepare semi‑monthly payroll and review payroll reports for accuracy for exempt, non‑exempt, contractor, and leave of absence population.
• Assist in the day‑to‑day responsibilities of the payroll departments with accuracy and timeliness.
• Review timesheets for approval and accuracy. Communicate directly with managers and employees in a timely manner.
• Prepare and analyze various payroll reports each pay period to assure accuracy and internal controls.
• Review and process wage garnishments through payroll.
• Prepare off‑cycle payroll for termination and other payroll related payments as needed.
• Research and resolve questions from employees and managers related to payroll information such as time off, retroactive pay calculations, tax questions, benefits inquiries, and other changes.
• Prepare payroll journal entries into accounting system and ensure proper GL coding.
• Generate various reports for the HR and Finance departments.
• Assist with Workers’ Compensation and 401k audits.
• Validate prorated pay calculations for new hires and terminations including PTO pro‑ration.
• Understand proper taxation of employer and employee paid benefits and ensure proper processing through payroll (HSA, FSA, Medical, Dental, Vision, AD&D, Life insurance, Disability, 401(k), etc.).
• Perform year‑end W‑2 process and reconciliations.
• Update and maintain GL coding in Rippling as needed.
• Stay current and ensure compliance with all company policies as well as federal, state, and local laws.
• Perform other duties as assigned and participate in projects as assigned.

• Minimum 5 years of payroll processing experience.
• Must be proficient with Rippling payroll and Rippling Unity.
• Minimum 5 years finance/HR/office admin experience.
• Solid understanding of accounting fundamentals and payroll best practices.
• Solid knowledge of Excel.
• Great attention to detail.
• Excellent customer service, organizational, time management, and prioritization abilities.
• Decision‑making, problem‑solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to deal sensitively with confidential material.
• Ability to effectively communicate with various levels of management and third‑party providers.

The pay range for this role is: $50/hr, 20-25hrs/week

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency;

in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.