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, but not limited to, 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.

• 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

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

• Ability to sit for extended periods and operate computer, keyboard, and office equipment
• Clear vision for reading documents, viewing computer screens, and distinguishing details at varying distances
• Ability to professionally communicate verbally and in writing with team members, management, and external stakeholders
• Mobility to move between buildings, attend meetings, and access different work areas
• Occasional exposure to manufacturing environments with moderate noise levels, dust, and fumes

Level and base salary will be determined on a case‑by‑case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job‑related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.

Base salary is just one component of our total rewards package at Rocket Lab. Employees may also receive company equity and access to a robust benefits package including: top tier medical HMO, PPO & a 100% company‑sponsored medical HSA plan option, dental and vision coverage, 3 weeks paid vacation and 5 days sick leave per year, 11 paid holidays per year, 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.

Eligibility for benefits may vary based on employment status, please check with your recruiter…