Counsel - Employment & Compensation

About 1x

We’re an AI and robotics company based in Palo Alto, California, on a mission to build a truly abundant society through general-purpose robots capable of performing any kind of work autonomously.

We believe that to truly understand the world and grow in intelligence, humanoid robots must live and learn alongside us. That’s why we’re focused on developing friendly home robots designed to integrate seamlessly into everyday life.

We’re looking for curious, driven, and passionate people who want to help shape the future of robotics and AI. If this mission excites you, we’d be thrilled to hear from you and explore how you might contribute to our journey.

Role Overview

We are seeking a mid-level Counsel with 5–8 years of experience to join our Legal team, reporting to the Head of Legal. This role will serve as a trusted advisor to HR, Finance, and leadership, providing expert counsel on employment law, employee relations, and compensation matters. The ideal candidate has both in-house and law firm experience, with a deep understanding of U.S. employment law, employee incentive structures, and global compliance considerations.

Responsibilities

• Provide day-to-day legal support to HR on employee relations, performance management, terminations, investigations, and workplace policies

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws, including wage and hour, discrimination, leave, and workplace safety regulations

• Draft, review, and update employment-related documents such as offer letters, employment contracts, and separation agreements

• Advise on the design, administration, and compliance of compensation programs, including base pay, bonuses, and equity (options, RSUs, ESPPs)

• Partner with Finance, HR, and external counsel on executive compensation matters, including severance and change-of-control arrangements

• Oversee compliance with tax and securities laws related to compensation, including IRC Section 409A, Rule 701, and SEC disclosures

• Support the governance and administration of stock option and RSU programs, including plan design, grant documentation, and board/shareholder approvals

• Advise on global expansion of equity programs and cross-border compliance issues

• Develop and maintain global employment policies, handbooks, and training materials

• Monitor legal developments in employment and compensation and advise on their business impact

• Support internal investigations and compliance programs, including anti-harassment and whistleblower initiatives

• JD (or equivalent) and an active license to practice law in at least one U.S. jurisdiction

• 5–8 years of legal experience, including time at a reputable law firm and in-house legal team

• Strong expertise in U.S. employment law, compensation, and equity incentive programs

• Familiarity with executive compensation, tax, and securities law considerations

• Excellent drafting, negotiation, and communication skills

• Business-oriented mindset with the ability to deliver practical legal advice

• Experience in fast-paced, high-growth environments

• Exposure to international employment law and global workforce compliance is a plus

• Ability to collaborate effectively with HR, Finance, and senior leadership

Benefits & Compensation

• Salary Range: $200,00 - 260,000 base + Equity

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) with company match

• Paid time off and holidays

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, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.