Tax Manager

Company Overview

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 Finance team is made up of planners, analysts, and accountants, and they manage our policies, compliance, transaction processing, and reporting. They keep our financial operations in check, are always thinking ahead, and take care to meet all of our financial, business, and government obligations. They’re attentive, diligent, and meticulous, and are mission‑critical to Rocket Lab.

Based at Rocket Lab’s Headquarters in Long Beach, CA, the Tax Manager is responsible for managing our growing geographic footprint and leading the global tax function. You will support the Corporate Controller, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), and the Finance and Government Affairs organization, with a focus on compliance including tax provision, while managing complex M&A transactions.

• Oversee and manage the company’s tax activities.
• Identify and leverage government incentive programs to benefit the company.
• Manage and provide support to outside tax consultants on complex M&A transactions, including due diligence, structuring, and integration.
• Develop and maintain intercompany transfer pricing policies and strategies.
• Oversee the review of quarterly and annual income tax provision calculations in addition to preparation of tax returns.
• Review documentation prepared for special projects or tax planning opportunities.
• Perform tax research and assist with tax planning, including memo preparation and presentation of proposals to senior management.

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in a senior tax role, public and industry.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• In‑depth knowledge of tax laws, regulations, and compliance requirements.

• Experience working with manufacturing companies.
• CPA or equivalent certification.
• Experience with government incentive programs.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Proficiency in tax software and financial systems.
• Experience in managing complex M&A transactions and integrating companies into a global tax structure.

• 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.

$116,000 – $145,000 USD

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.

Benefits include top tier medical HMO, PPO and 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…