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 DoingEnsure accurate and timely compliance with payroll tax regulations, including federal, state, and local tax reporting and remittanceStay updated on tax law changes and assist in updating payroll processes to reflect new requirementsOversee day-to-day payroll operational activities, ensuring proper processing of payments, deductions, and adjustmentsCollaborate with payroll vendors to address and resolve routine compliance and tax-related issuesMaintain precise documentation of payroll tax calculations and adjustments to support internal and external auditsAssist with audit preparations by gathering necessary documentation and promptly resolving any identified discrepanciesGenerate and analyze payroll tax reports to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for process improvementsServe 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 policiesWhat You Need To Be SuccessfulMinimum Requirements for Payroll Specialist III:High school diploma or equivalent4 years of relevant payroll tax or payroll operations experienceExperience in payroll tax compliance, including familiarity with SSA, IRS, and state/local taxation requirementsExperience using payroll software and HRIS systems, with strong data analysis skillsIn addition to the requirements above, the minimum requirements for Payroll Specialist IV are:6 years of relevant payroll tax or payroll operations experienceExperience with SAP, Workday, and/or ADP payroll systemsHow You Can Stand OutIt would be impressive if you have one or more of these:Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related fieldProfessional certification in payroll or tax compliancePrior experience working within a regulated or audited financial environmentWe 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)$30.80 - $56.16Pay Basis: HourlyLeadership CompetenciesOur 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 StrategicallyLead 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 plansPaid holidays, sick time, and vacationStandard and alternate work schedules, including telework options401(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 hireFlexible spending accountsVariable pay program for exceptional contributionsRelocation assistanceProfessional growth and development programs to help advance your careerEducation assistance programsAn inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respectWe are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.Equal Opportunity CommitmentThe 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, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.