Head of Automation

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 looking for a Head of Automation Engineering. The Head of Automation Engineering will be responsible for defining, developing, and deploying automation systems that drive throughput, reduce cost, and increase reliability across our manufacturing processes. You will lead a cross-disciplinary team focused on robotics integration, motion systems, and flexible manufacturing cells. This role works closely with Manufacturing Design, Process, Execution, and Equipment Engineering teams to ensure automation is embedded early in development and scales with product demand.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and lead the end-to-end automation strategy across all manufacturing subprocesses, including motor manufacturing, joint assembly, and robot integration.

• Build and manage a high-performing Automation Engineering team, including experts in robotics, controls, mechatronics, and custom tooling.

• Develop and deploy advanced automation systems, including:

  • In-line synchronous and asynchronous motion systems

  • Semi- and fully-automated work cells

  • Custom jigs, fixtures, and end-effectors

  • In-process test automation

• Collaborate with Product Design, Manufacturing Design, and Test Engineering teams to ensure automation roadmap is integrated early in the design and NPI process.

• Partner with Manufacturing Process and Execution Engineers to ensure robust implementation of automation in pilot and volume production lines.

• Work alongside Manufacturing Engineers to co-develop scalable station hardware and support tooling.

• Evaluate and manage external vendors and system integrators, while building internal automation capabilities.

• Own the automation roadmap to support short-term launch milestones and long-term production scalability.

• Ensure that automated solutions align with factory KPIs, including OEE, COGS, yield, and traceability.

• Promote flexible and modular automation architectures that enable rapid iteration during product and process development.

• Contribute to the development of Digital Factory Systems, including MES, traceability, and real-time analytics.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.

• 10+ years of experience in factory automation, robotics integration, or advanced manufacturing, including leadership of multidisciplinary teams.

• Proven track record deploying industrial automation systems — including PLCs, motion control, sensors, and safety systems.

• Strong understanding of tooling design, mechanical integration, and system-level architecture.

• Excellent collaboration skills with experience working across design, test, NPI, and factory teams.

• Strong systems thinking with the ability to balance cost, flexibility, and scalability.

Nice to have

• Experience automating electromechanical systems or robotic assemblies.

• Familiarity with MES, traceability systems, and digital factory platforms.

• Experience in early-stage factory buildouts, pilot production, and manual-to-automated line transitions.

Location

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

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