CFD Simulation Engineer

Since its founding in 2015, 1X has been at the forefront of developing advanced humanoid robots designed for household use. Our mission is to create an abundant supply of labor via safe, intelligent humanoids. 

We strive for excellence in all we do, solving some of the hardest problems in robotics with the world’s most talented individuals. Every part of our robots is designed and produced in-house—from motor coils to AI—reflecting our vertically integrated approach. At 1X, you’ll own real projects, be recognized for your achievements, and rewarded based on merit.

We believe the best work is done when collaborating and therefore require in-person presence in our office locations. 

As we scale from research and development to full-scale manufacturing, we are seeking a CFD Simulation Engineer to support the hardware team by performing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to optimize thermal management in our robotic systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conduct CFD simulations to evaluate thermal performance, airflow, and fluid dynamics in robotic systems, including battery cooling, actuator heat dissipation, and environmental sealing.

• Provide design recommendations based on CFD results to improve heat management, cooling efficiency, and dust/water ingress protection (IP ratings).

• Develop simulation workflows to streamline thermal and fluid analysis within the hardware development process.

• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and system engineers to ensure that CFD results align with real-world performance goals.

• Perform multi-physics simulations involving fluid-thermal coupling, convection, and radiation heat transfer.

• Document simulation assumptions, setups, and results, ensuring clear communication of insights and design recommendations.

• Stay updated on state-of-the-art CFD tools and best practices, ensuring the team leverages the most efficient and accurate simulation techniques.

• 5+ years of experience conducting CFD simulations for thermal management, aerodynamics, or fluid dynamics in robotics, automotive, consumer electronics, or similar fields

• Proficiency with CFD tools such as ANSYS Fluent, Star-CCM+, COMSOL, or OpenFOAM

• Strong understanding of heat transfer principles (conduction, convection, radiation) and fluid dynamics

• Experience with multi-material systems and cooling solutions, including active and passive thermal management techniques

• Familiarity with IP rating standards and environmental sealing requirements for dust and water protection

• Ability to interpret CFD results and provide clear, actionable design recommendations to cross-functional teams

• Hands-on experience integrating thermal management solutions into real-world products

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with electronics cooling, including battery pack thermal management, actuator heat dissipation, and power electronics cooling

• Familiarity with thermal interface materials (TIMs) and heat sinks

• Knowledge of multi-physics simulations and coupled thermal-structural analysis

• Hands-on experience in developing custom cooling solutions for complex electromechanical systems

• Familiarity with automation scripts to improve CFD workflows (e.g., using Python, MATLAB, or C++).

We encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every single qualification.

Sunnyvale, CA 

We are in the heart of the Silicon Valley in a commuter-friendly location with plenty of parking, access to 101 or 280. If you prefer public transportation, Orange Line (VTA) light rail station is across the street. Living in the Bay Area, you will have access to many activities available in its proximity from surfing in Half Moon Bay to skiing at Tahoe, wine tasting in Napa, hiking on the many trails or other sports activities on the many tennis courts, golf courses, etc.

Typical interview process 

• Introductions - interviews to learn more about you and talk about 1X and the role

  • Interview with a member of the Talent Acquisition team

  • Hiring manager / senior team member / technical interview

• Team interviews - technical interviews and deep-dives with team members. May include a take home challenge, presentation or problem-solving exercise

  • Technical deep-dive conversation with a team member 

  • Onsite interviews with team members 

• Final stages - you move to the final round

  • Expectation management with the hiring manager 

  • We will conduct reference checks

  • Job offer conversation 

Depending on the role and your background, additional interviews may be added. You are also welcome to request additional conversations with anyone you would like to meet, but didn’t get to meet during the interview process.

We are a value driven team
These are the ideas that express our team’s culture and how we work:

Be Nice

Collaboration is our driving force. Our team creates an open, trusting environment where everyone can be their most creative.

Stay Smart

A world-changing team needs the brightest minds in every discipline. This is where people come to work, learn, and grow to their full potential.

Make History

Everything we do gets us closer to one ambitious vision: Creating an Abundant Supply of Labor using Safe, Intelligent Humanoids. We believe what we build today will impact generations.

We are an inclusive environment and value diversity of background, experiences and thought, and welcome applicants from diverse backgrounds to contribute to our mission.

We're excited to get to know you and the prospects of having you on board!