Vast is developing next-generation space stations and space infrastructure using an incremental, hardware-rich, and capital-efficient approach. Vast is rapidly developing its multi-module Haven Station to support a continuous human presence in space for America and its allies, enabling advanced microgravity research and manufacturing, and supporting a growing space economy for government, corporate, and private customers. Haven Demo’s 2025 success made Vast the only operational commercial space station company to design, build, and operate its own spacecraft in orbit. Next, Haven-1 is targeted to become the world’s first commercial space station, with launch anticipated in 2027, followed by additional Haven modules. Additionally, the company recently announced two new offerings leveraging its space station components and the heritage of Haven Demo: Vast Satellite, a high-power satellite product line; and Vast Lunar Systems, power, communications, and habitats for the Moon.

Headquartered in Long Beach, California, and with more than 1,000 employees and over a billion dollars in private capital, Vast has built the facilities capable of manufacturing America’s next space station. The company plans to develop future habitats and systems for Mars, dedicated modules for government partners, and other crewed systems designed to unlock the expanding long-term space economy.

Vast is looking for a Payroll Manager, reporting to the Director, Finance, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. The Payroll Manager is a critical member of our growing Finance team. The Payroll Manager will oversee the organization's global payroll procedures, ensuring payroll is delivered timely, accurately, efficiently and in compliance with regulations.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located in our Long Beach location.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Manage all payroll deadlines and monthly, semi-monthly, bi-weekly payroll tasks
Ensure compliance with applicable laws and payroll tax obligations
Coordinate timekeeping and payroll systems
System maintenance support including new hire set up, tax form processing, local tax set up, timekeeping input, termination processing, garnishment processing, and verification of employment.
Collaborate with Human Resources (HR) and accounting teams
Oversee processing of payroll changes (e.g. new hires, terminations, raises) and system upgrades
Manage workflow to ensure all payroll transactions are processed accurately and timely
Understand state and federal new hire, leave of absence, and termination laws
Produce audit reports, audit registers, and other reporting inquiries
Resolve issues and answer payroll-related questions
Provide support to any project related activities from Finance and HR

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field required
5+ years of payroll processing with multi-state experience required
In-depth understanding of payroll procedures, laws, taxes, and best practices

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

Familiarity with payroll software/ HRIS (e.g. Rippling) and MS Office
Experience with audit procedures, tax, and accounting practices is preferred
Strong interpretation of company policies and procedures in a multi-state payroll environment.
Ability to thrive at a startup where you will have the opportunity to help create and optimize key systems and processes
Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, time management and work prioritization
Ability to work independently and with a team in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Ensures confidentiality and controls access to sensitive information
Strong sense of accountability and integrity with excellent written and verbal communication skills
Aerospace manufacturing experience is a plus

Pay Range: California

$104,000—$148,000 USD

We calibrate level and compensation to the selected candidate's experience and demonstrated capability. We welcome applicants across a range of experience levels to apply.