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Sr. Compensation Analyst

Mojave, CA

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

As a Senior Compensation Analyst, you will play a key role in analyzing, delivering, and optimizing compensation programs to ensure our rewards programs are competitive, compliant, and aligned with organizational goals. This position blends strategic thinking with hands-on execution and is ideal for someone who thrives in complexity, enjoys problem-solving, and wants to make an impact in a fast-paced environment. You’ll partner closely with the Chief Human Resources Officer to provide analytical insights, manage projects, and optimize operational processes. You will serve as a connector between compensation and our systems – enhancing how we leverage technology to optimize delivery of compensation programs. This position requires a strong blend of analytical skills, understanding of compensation principles, and the ability to communicate complex information effectively.

 

This role will develop and manage the base compensation plan and is responsible for the compliance of the 401k plan. This role acts as a fiduciary ensuring the plan(s) are in the best interest of participants and meets employee needs. This role will provide deep subject matter expertise in compensation best practices, benchmarking, deferred compensation and retirement plans.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES


Compensation Analysis

  • Build, implement and administer compensation programs – including but not limited to, base pay structures, job architecture, incentive plans, recognition programs.
  • Conduct market pricing and benchmarking using compensation surveys and pay platform
  • Bring forward market trends; actively identify and action on opportunities to influence program design and Total Rewards strategy.
  • Perform advanced data analyses to inform decision-making; partner with and provide actionable insights for HR partners.
  • Implement and refine compensation processes and procedures to drive efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness - leveraging technology and automation where possible.
  • Develop and maintain metrics that assess the effectiveness of Total Rewards programs.
  • Contribute to cross-functional initiatives as part of an agile Total Rewards team, offering analytical expertise to drive project success.
  • Ensure all compensation and benefits programs comply with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.

 

401k Administration

  • Fulfill the legal and fiduciary duties in managing the 401(k) plan and oversee risk management strategies related to financial operations.
  • Ensure the 401(k) plan complies with all relevant laws and regulations, and that operations like contribution processing and distributions are handled correctly.
  • Establish a benchmark to measure effectiveness and regularly review third-party administrators (TPAs), investment advisors, and other vendors to ensure they provide high-quality, effective cost-effective services.
  • Develop and implement ongoing campaigns and events that keep the compensation plan front-of-mind and give employees convenient opportunities to review and adjust their strategy.
  • Conduct and review annual testing, such as non-discrimination and top-heavy tests, to maintain compliance.

 

Program & Project Execution

  • Drive execution of enterprise-wide initiatives by coordinating across functions, managing timelines, applying program management practices, and ensuring alignment with strategic priorities.
  • Partner with internal teams and external vendors to ensure seamless implementation and operational readiness.
  • Lead annual compensation activities such as survey submissions, annual structure reviews, and compensation planning.
  • Maintain knowledge of all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and compliance requirements that impact pay programs, including but not limited to FLSA, EEO, minimum wage, and compensation disclosure regulations. Develop recommendations to address any required changes.

 

Technology & Systems Enablement

  • Serve as the compensation technology SME to optimize tools, market pricing platforms, and analytics dashboards.
  • Lead system testing, configuration reviews, and data validation for compensation-related modules.
  • Identify and execute opportunities to automate workflows and improve data integrity across platforms.
  • Lead system-related training and own documentation for end-users.

 

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Finance, Business, or related field required.
  • 7+ years of progressive experience in compensation and retirement benefits, with subject matter expertise in 401(k) plan management. A background working with both qualified and non-qualified plans is preferred.
  • Proficiency in compensation benchmarking methodologies, survey participation, and data analysis techniques.
  • In-depth understanding of compensation structures, job leveling, FLSA determination and market pricing tools.
  • In-depth understanding of retirement planning concepts, and relevant laws and regulations, particularly ERISA and tax rules related to non-qualified plans, is critical.
  • Strong knowledge of 401(k) plan rules, compliance, and operations.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, decision-making and communication skills.
  • Ability to translate data into insights and recommendations for HR/business leaders.
  • Highly flexible, able to prioritize multiple projects and deadlines to complete well in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving organization.
  • Comfortable navigating ambiguity and driving clarity.

 

Certifications And Licenses

  • CCP (Certified Compensation Professional), CEBS, or similar certification preferred.

 

Special remarks regarding the position

  • This position is located in Mojave, CA
  • $120,400-$158,000

Benefits and our location(s): 

  • 9/80 schedule
  • Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
  • Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
  • 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500
  • Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles.  The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.  

Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers. 

Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

 

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.  For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

 

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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