Tax Analyst

Vast is seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Tax Analyst, reporting to the Director of Finance, to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. 

You will assist with federal, state, and local tax filings, research tax implications related to new business activities, and support cross-functional initiatives to ensure compliance in a fast-growing, technically complex environment. This role is ideal for a tax professional excited to build in a high-growth, early-stage aerospace and manufacturing organization.

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

Responsibilities: 

• Prepare and support federal, state, and local tax filings, including income, payroll,  sales & use, property, and excise tax returns
• Assist with quarterly and annual tax provision calculations and related journal entries
• Maintain a tax calendar to ensure deadlines are met and all filings are completed accurately and on time
• Perform tax research and analysis related to new markets, R&D credits, incentives, and evolving regulations
• Support external tax advisors and auditors with data requests and documentation
• Reconcile tax-related general ledger accounts and maintain tax workpapers and records
• Monitor changes in tax law and assess potential business impacts
• Partner with Accounting, Procurement, and Legal to validate tax treatment for vendors, materials, and international transactions
• Support implementation of process improvements and automation within the tax workflow
• Assist with ad-hoc tax projects, audits, and compliance initiatives as needed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
• 3–5 years of tax experience in public accounting or corporate tax
• Strong understanding of U.S. federal and state tax regulations
• Proficient with Excel/Sheets and tax research tools
• Excellent communication skills and ability to translate tax requirements to non-finance stakeholders
• High attention to detail, organization, and confidentiality

Preferred Skills & Experience:

• CPA, EA, or progress toward certification a plus
• Experience in manufacturing, aerospace, or government contracting
• Familiarity with NetSuite or similar ERP systems
• Experience with sales & use tax and indirect tax compliance
• Exposure to R&D tax credits, incentives, or international tax concepts
• Strong analytical skills with ability to interpret and apply tax code and rulings

Additional Requirements:

• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time
• Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones

Pay Range: 

• Tax Analyst I: $27.88 - $42.30 per hour
• Tax Analyst II: $73,000 - $110,000