Sr Accounts Payable Accountant

Role Summary

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost-per-launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight-proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Accounts Payable Specialist / Accountant manages the full accounts payable cycle while supporting broader general accounting functions. This role ensures accurate, timely processing of vendor invoices and payments, maintains compliance with internal controls, and contributes to month-end close, account reconciliations, and financial reporting. The ideal candidate combines strong AP operational skills with a solid understanding of general accounting principles (GAAP).

How You'll Fulfill Your Mission

Accounts Payable

• Process high volumes of vendor invoices accurately and on time, matching purchase orders, receiving documents, and invoices (3-way match)
• Verify and reconcile discrepancies in vendor invoices, resolving pricing, quantity, or coding issues
• Prepare and process weekly/biweekly payment runs (checks, ACH, wire transfers)
• Maintain vendor master files, including W-9 collection and 1099 tracking
• Respond to vendor inquiries and resolve payment discrepancies in a timely, professional manner
• Ensure proper GL coding of invoices in accordance with the company's chart of accounts
• Reconcile the AP subledger to the general ledger on a monthly basis
• Process employee expense reports and ensure compliance with company travel & expense policy
• Maintain AP aging reports and proactively manage payment timing to optimize cash flow
• Assist with year-end 1099 preparation and filing

General Accounting

• Assist with month-end and year-end close processes, including journal entries and accruals related to AP
• Support audit requests by providing documentation and explanations related to AP transactions
• Help maintain and improve internal controls over the procure-to-pay process
• Identify and recommend process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy in AP and accounting workflows
• Support preparation of schedules and analysis for internal management reporting
• Assist with sales & use tax compliance as it relates to vendor invoices, where applicable
• Collaborate with Procurement, Treasury, and other departments to ensure smooth transaction processing

Why We Value You

• Associate or bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent work experience)
• 5–7 years of accounts payable and/or general accounting experience
• Solid understanding of GAAP and general ledger accounting principles
• Proficiency with ERP/accounting software (e.g., Odoo, NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Strong Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, reconciliations)
• High attention to detail and strong organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with AI tools
• Experience with month-end close and account reconciliation processes
• Familiarity with 1099 and sales/use tax compliance requirements
• Experience with AP automation tools (e.g., Bill.com, Coupa, Tipalti, Concur)

Requirements

Key Competencies

• Accuracy and attention to detail
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Process improvement mindset
• Integrity and discretion in handling confidential financial data
• Strong interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration
• This is an on-site role with occasional work from home on a case by case basis
• We're competitive in compensation and offer equity as part of the package. We have great benefits that include health, vision, dental, and 401K in comparison to other startups. We provide lunch and there's plenty of snacks and drinks to get you through the day.
• We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

ITAR Requirements: This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicants ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.

© Astra Space Operations, LLC. All rights reserved, Astra is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We encourage people of different backgrounds, experiences, abilities, and perspectives to apply.

San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.