Role Overview
SpaceX is hiring a senior-level Payroll Manager. This is a full-time role in Hawthorne. The posted range is $135k to $185k. Full responsibilities, required qualifications, and the apply link are listed in the description below.
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Job Description
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
PAYROLL MANAGER
The payroll manager is a key member of the finance team and plays a critical role in ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely payroll operations for our rapidly growing workforce. This position combines hands-on payroll expertise with strategic process improvement, SOX compliance, and audit management in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Support SOX requirements for all US payroll, including control documentation, testing, monitoring, and remediation
- Lead internal and external audits related to payroll, serving as the primary point of contact
- Identify and drive process improvements, automation initiatives, and internal control enhancements
- Develop and maintain documentation of current payroll processes and procedures for both US and Global entities
- Support payroll-related projects, including system implementations, integrations, and process transformations
- Assist with end-to-end payroll processing for all US employees on a weekly and biweekly basis, including exempt, non-exempt, and equity compensation
- Support annual payroll compliance reporting for the US, including the preparation, review, and audit of W-2s
- Ensure all monthly close payroll deliverables are completed accurately and on schedule
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 6+ years of professional experience in payroll
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Experience working in finance organizations of fast-moving entrepreneurial companies
- Strong working knowledge of federal, state, and local payroll regulations, tax requirements, and compliance obligations
- Hands-on experience with UKG (Ultimate Software) and Workday
- Familiarity with US GAAP and the accounting treatment of payroll, equity compensation, and related items
- Experience supporting international payroll operations
- Demonstrated expertise in SOX compliance and internal control frameworks
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Willingness to work long hours and weekends when needed to meet critical deadlines
- This position is based in Hawthorne, CA, and requires being onsite - remote/hybrid will not be considered
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Payroll Manager: $135,000.00 - $185,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
- To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.
SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.
About SpaceX
SpaceX
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for the Payroll Manager position at SpaceX?
Use the Apply button above to submit your application directly to SpaceX. Most applications take less than 5 minutes if your resume and contact details are ready, and you'll be routed to the employer's official application system to finish.
Where is the Payroll Manager position at SpaceX located?
This position is based in Hawthorne. SpaceX has not indicated remote or hybrid options for this role, so candidates should plan for on-site work.
How much does the Payroll Manager role at SpaceX pay?
SpaceX has posted a compensation range of $135k to $185k for this position. Final offers typically vary based on candidate experience, location, and internal salary bands.
When was the Payroll Manager role at SpaceX posted?
This role was posted on May 11, 2026 (45 days ago). It's still listed as actively hiring; we re-confirm openings against the source system multiple times per day and remove closed roles.
How much experience does the Payroll Manager role at SpaceX require?
This is a senior-level position. Most senior roles call for 5+ years of directly relevant experience. SpaceX lists their specific requirements in the description below, so review the must-have qualifications closely before applying.
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