Payroll Accountant

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. 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 become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium‑lift reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

Based onsite at Rocket Lab's headquarters in Long Beach, California, the Payroll Accountant is responsible for maintaining the company payroll records, including stock compensation, employee benefits and related taxes. The role supports the Financial Accounting Manager in the Accounting organization and delivers effective accounting operations.

• 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 401(k), HSA, Employee Stock Purchase Plans (ESOP), and Stock Based Compensation, coordinating transmissions with third‑party providers
• Process manual checks for terminations and adjustments as needed
• Reconcile and resolve 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

• 5+ years of payroll accounting experience and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent years of work experience (9+ years of total work experience)
• Proficient in Excel and data analysis
• Payroll and reconciliation experience

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

• Sit at desk and operate computer, keyboard and office equipment for extended periods
• Review documents, view computer screens, and distinguish details at varying distances
• Mobility to move between buildings, attend meetings, and access different work areas
• Occasional exposure to production environments with moderate noise levels, dust, and fumes

Base Pay Range (CA Only): $75,000 - $95,000 USD.
Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package. Employees may also receive company equity and a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO and a 100% company‑sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation, 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays, flexible spending and dependent care savings accounts, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and access to a 401(k) retirement plan with company match.

Other perks include discounted employee stock purchase program, subsidized EV charging stations, onsite gym, food and drinks, and other discounts.

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…