Senior Cost and Project Accountant I

About The Role

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

The Finance team is responsible for all financial transactions for the company, operating as a well-oiled machine to maximize the value of our work. Our Finance team are made up of planners, analysts and accountants, and manage our policies, compliance, and reporting. They’re the ones who keep our financial operations in check, always thinking ahead and taking care to meet all of our financial, business, and government obligations. They’re attentive, diligent, and meticulous, and are mission-critical to Rocket Lab.

Senior Cost and Project Accountant I

Based at Rocket Lab’s Solar Manufacturing facility in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the Senior Cost Accountant will be responsible for contract revenue, cost of sales and inventory. This position requires the ability to maintain accurate revenue and cost of sales for significant Rocket Lab customer contracts. The Senior Cost & Project Accountant I will report to the Program Accounting Manager and work closely with the accounting team and partner with various team members throughout the organization.

• Responsible for project revenue & cost recognition
• Update and reconcile customer contract backlog and customer contract asset & liability
• Track and reconcile inventory
• Support EAC cycle for project estimates and revenue recognition
• Review and interpret new contracts using the 5 step 606 accounting revenue standards
• Set up programs and charge codes in the accounting system
• Initiate process improvement projects
• Investigate and provide feedback on accounting irregularities
• Other duties as assigned

Month End Activities

• Book journal entries to recognize OT and PIT revenue and cost of sales
• Book journal entries and reconcile contract asset & liability
• Book journal entries to adjust and reconcile inventory as needed
• Document revenue and cost of sales processes - SOX control requirements
• Prepare monthly and quarterly reporting requests as needed
• Develop project cost processes as required

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience and a bachelor’s degree, or equivalent years of work experience (HS Diploma and 9+ years of work experience)
• Strong cost accounting experience in a complex manufacturing environment
• ERP systems knowledge and experience
• Prowess in providing financial decision support

Would Be Nice To Have

• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills with the ability to explain project cost information to others
• Advanced Excel and analytical skills desirable