Tax Lead

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving complex problems and providing unrivaled technical expertise. As a federally funded research and development center, we design, develop, and deliver solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers. Our team is a community of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators who work on projects that drive national security and scientific advancement.

The Aerospace Corporation is looking for a Tax Lead to lead our corporate tax reporting. The position requires full‑time, on‑site work in El Segundo, California.

• Prepare and file federal and state tax‑exempt returns; compile related tax work papers.
• Prepare and file various state annual property tax returns; compile related monthly fixed asset data.
• Lead and coordinate company responses to state property tax audits.
• Investigate complex tax questions and brief executive management on findings.
• Correspond with state and federal tax authorities regarding tax issues.
• Collect data and arrange payments for international tax returns and filings.
• Lead and coordinate tax projects and initiatives.
• Provide general and detailed information for and interface with internal and external auditors.
• Prepare general ledger account reconciliations and related journal entries.
• Assist with other Financial Reporting department responsibilities including benefit plan financial statements, benefit plan 5500 reports, and corporate financial statements.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related technical discipline.
• Seven or more years of progressively responsible experience in the tax field.
• Experience in extracting data, preparing tax filings, and managing the tax filing process.
• Experience interfacing with, responding to auditors.
• Experience working with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Strong interpersonal communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Experience preparing audit schedules and/or analyzing accounting data.
• Position requires a standard five‑day schedule from mid‑September to mid‑December with occasional extended hours during month‑end and fiscal year‑end closes and the year‑end corporate audit.

• Ten or more years of progressively responsible experience in the tax field.
• History of providing tax conclusions with citations from relevant legal authorities.
• Experience leading client or department projects, and/or designing and implementing business processes.

• CPA certification with hands‑on public accounting experience.
• Advanced degree in Taxation or MBA.
• Familiarity with tax complexities unique to non‑profits (e.g., unrelated business taxable income).
• Experience with tax software (e.g., Lacerte).
• Knowledge of government contract accounting regulations, Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS).
• Strong passion for data analysis and dashboard reporting to enhance decision‑making and operational efficiency.

Competitive compensation package based on performance. Pay range: $ - $ (annual). Ranking within the range depends on education, experience, and skills.

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution ranging from 8% to 12% of eligible compensation and matching contributions, immediate eligibility and vesting.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.
• Inclusive work environment focused on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

El Segundo, California – full‑time, on‑site. Standard five‑day schedule; may require extended hours during month‑end and fiscal year‑end closes.

The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

If you need assistance accommodating a disability or need reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact us by phone at  or by email lbox.