Hardware Systems Research Engineer
About the role
We’re building humanoid robots that work in homes, handling chores and tasks to give people more free time. This is challenging but achievable. Our flagship product, NEO, is a home robot designed to move, learn, and work alongside families. We’ve been working on this since 2014 and are now ready to ship. We’re growing and hiring with purpose, looking for individuals who want to make a real difference.
About The Team
1X Labs explores what’s next in humanoid robotics. We experiment with technologies, mechanisms, and system concepts to advance robotic capabilities. Our team works across mechanics, electronics, sensing, controls, materials, and system design. We prototype aggressively, test rigorously, and aim to influence future generations of humanoid robots.
Key Outcomes
- Rapidly prototype and evaluate novel hardware concepts that advance robotic capabilities
- Generate trustworthy experimental data to inform technical decisions and eliminate uncertainty
- Create clear performance benchmarks and evaluate concepts against biological, system-level, or product-relevant targets
- Identify and communicate true limitations, tradeoffs, and scaling challenges of emerging technologies
- Successfully transition promising research concepts into credible paths for product integration and future development programs
Key Competencies
- Exceptional hands-on engineering ability across mechanical, electrical, and software systems with 10+ years of experience
- Strong experimental mindset with a commitment to evidence-driven decision making
- Deep curiosity and intrinsic motivation to understand how systems behave and why they fail
- High degree of ownership, persistence, and comfort operating in ambiguous research environments
Minimum Requirements
- Strong hands-on experience developing complex hardware systems through professional work, research, startups, or significant personal projects
- Several years of experience building and testing innovative electromechanical systems
- Demonstrated ability to independently design, fabricate, assemble, and validate physical prototypes
- Experience working across multiple engineering disciplines, including mechanics, electronics, controls, or embedded systems
- Portfolio of projects demonstrating deep technical ownership and successful execution from concept through validation
Preferred Skills
- Experience designing and assembling prototype electronics and custom PCBs
- Experience with CAD, machining, fabrication, and rapid mechanical iteration
- Strong experimental design, data analysis, and system modeling skills
- Exposure to biomechanics, neuroscience, cognitive science, or biologically inspired systems
- Experience developing robotic, actuator, sensing, or advanced electromechanical systems
What does a successful 1X Team Member look like?
Successful 1X Team Members are builders. They move fast, take full responsibility for their work, and value time above all else. They are honest, respectful, and committed to pushing each other to be better. They prefer experiments over debates, evidence over assumptions, and execution over endless planning.
Compensation Range
$200,000 - $250,000 + Equity
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Generous paid time off, company holidays, and parental leave
- 401(k) plan with company match (100% on the first 3% of contributions, 50% on the next 2%)
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) options
- Commuter benefits (transit and parking)
- Short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial, and personal support
- Onsite snacks and catered lunches
Equal Opportunity Employer
1X is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status, justice system impact, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.