Payroll Tax Compliance and Operations Specialist

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators.

Join us and take your place in space.

As an integral member of our Finance and HR teams, the Payroll Tax Compliance and Operations Specialist (Payroll Specialist III/IV) is pivotal in upholding our organization's financial integrity. Positioned at the core of payroll operations, you will drive process innovation and operational excellence while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local payroll tax regulations.

In this role, you will manage day-to-day payroll operations, handle vendor interactions, and implement process improvements through data analysis and industry best practices. If you're passionate about precision, proactive problem-solving, and cross-functional collaboration, you'll thrive as you address payroll tax inquiries, maintain audit readiness, and enhance our operational efficiency.

This position is 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA.

What You'll Be Doing:

• Ensure accurate and timely compliance with payroll tax regulations, including federal, state, and local tax reporting and remittance

• Stay updated on tax law changes and assist in updating payroll processes to reflect new requirements

• Oversee day-to-day payroll operational activities, ensuring proper processing of payments, deductions, and adjustments

• Collaborate with payroll vendors to address and resolve routine compliance and tax-related issues

• Maintain precise documentation of payroll tax calculations and adjustments to support internal and external audits

• Assist with audit preparations by gathering necessary documentation and promptly resolving any identified discrepancies

• Generate and analyze payroll tax reports to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for process improvements

• Serve as a key point of contact for payroll tax inquiries from internal teams, external auditors, and regulatory agencies.

• Work closely with the Compensation, Finance, and HR teams to ensure seamless integration of payroll data and compliance with corporate policies

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for Payroll Specialist III:

• High school diploma or equivalent

• 4 years of relevant payroll tax or payroll operations experience

• Experience in payroll tax compliance, including familiarity with SSA, IRS, and state/local taxation requirements

• Experience using payroll software and HRIS systems, with strong data analysis skills

In addition to the requirements above, the minimum requirements for Payroll Specialist IV are:

• 6 years of relevant payroll tax or payroll operations experience

• Experience with SAP, Workday, and/or ADP payroll systems

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if youhaveone or more of these:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field

• Professional certification in payroll or tax compliance

• Prior experience working within a regulated or audited financial environment

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change
• Engage with Impact
• Foster Innovation
• Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from…