Payroll Staff III/IV

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

26d•Onsite

About The Position

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. The Payroll Staff position is responsible for ensuring the payroll systems, processes, and corporate policies are compliant, as well as managing and directing vendors, audits, and process improvements for payroll-related activities. The position implements processes improvements and cost optimization opportunities through data analytics and knowledge of best practices and benchmarking. This role provides c ross-functional communication and coordination to solve complex payroll issues with other departments, managers, employees, auditors, and outside agencies. This role may provide training and mentorship to Payroll Specialists. This position is 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
6 or more years of relevant payroll experience
Proven experience in payroll administration, including complex calculations and analysis
In-depth knowledge of payroll regulations, tax laws, and labor laws, with experience in compliance
Experience with Social Security Administration (SSA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and multiple state and local taxation rules
Proficiency in using advanced payroll software, HRIS systems, and data analysis tools
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret and manipulate large sets of payroll data
Experience interacting with internal and external auditors
Ten years of payroll experience

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in accounting business, finance, or related field
Professional certification in payroll administration (e.g., Certified Payroll Professional, Fundamental Payroll Certification)
Experience with SAP
Experience with Workday
Experience with ADP

Responsibilities

Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local payroll regulations, tax laws, and labor laws, including reporting and remittance requirements
Manages day-to-day activities with payroll vendor, directing resolution for hard-to-solve issues that are escalated
Maintains primary accountability for off-cycle payments, including issuing stop-payments, reissuing new checks, ensuring that calculations are accurate, and that payments are issued consistent with federal and state regulations
Oversees responses to internal and external payroll audits, providing necessary documentation and resolving any identified issues
Implements process improvement and cost optimization by analyzing payroll data and reports to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies
Maintains current subject matter expert level knowledge of industry best practices and emerging trends in payroll administration, technology, and compliance; implement change to corporate processes to ensure compliance and efficiency
Develops and document payroll procedures, guidelines, and standard operating processes to ensure consistent and efficient payroll operations
Trains and mentor payroll staff to ensure they are proficient in payroll procedures
Serves as a subject matter expert on payroll-related matters, collaborating with peer corporate services departments including Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Benefits, Compensation, People Analytics, People Experience, People Management, People Strategy, People Systems, and other related touchpoints at The Aerospace Corporation
Ensures confidentiality and security of employee payroll and personal information.
Serves as key resource to stakeholders for interpreting policies, procedures, and regulations relating to Payroll; draft, refresh, and revise Time policies as needed
Serves as Communications and Change Management process advisor for Payroll processes and procedures; provides continuous process improvement on policies and practices
Supports quarterly and annual fiscal-year end planning for Payroll reporting, tax compliance, and in support of state and federal regulations including the year-end W2 process
Serves as Payroll implementation subject matter expert on new compensation and benefit plans (deductions & wages); partners with Compensation and Benefits teams on interpretation and implementation
Directs maintenance of payroll systems and software, ensuring that configuration, testing, troubleshooting, and enhancements to ensure that systems are implemented are compliant, efficient, and consistent with corporate policy
Ensures accuracy of staff p erform ing complex payroll calculations, including variable pay components, retroactive adjustments, and special payments
Manages resolution of escalated payroll inquiries and issues from employees or other stakeholders in a timely and professional manner
Serves a s systems integration and management of Payroll Systems point of contact for IT organization

Benefits

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