Prototyping Specalist, Electronics

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 Prototyping Specialist to join our R&D team and provide Prototype as a Service for the entire R&D organization. In this role, you will work closely with cross-functional teams to build and test prototypes, accelerating innovation and reducing development cycles. You will leverage your expertise in electronics prototyping to bring ideas to life and help turn concepts into functional hardware systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Serve as the go-to resource for electronics prototyping within the R&D team, providing Prototype as a Service to accelerate development and testing.

• Design, assemble, and troubleshoot custom electronic prototypes, including PCB assemblies, wiring harnesses, sensors, actuators, and power systems.

• Collaborate with engineers across mechanical, electrical, and software disciplines to ensure seamless integration of prototypes into robotic systems.

• Manage the electronics lab, maintaining tools, equipment, and inventory to ensure efficient operations.

• Perform rapid prototyping using tools like 3D printers, CNC machines, and soldering stations to create custom components and assemblies.

• Develop test setups and fixtures to validate prototypes under real-world conditions.

• Document the prototyping process, including schematics, assembly guides, and test procedures, to support future development and scalability.

• Identify opportunities to streamline prototyping workflows and introduce new tools or processes to enhance efficiency.

• Ensure that prototypes meet safety and reliability standards, particularly for electrical systems.

• 5+ years of experience in electronics prototyping, including PCB design, assembly, and troubleshooting.

• Some knowledge of CAD tools for PCB design (e.g., Altium, KiCad, or Eagle).

• Strong hands-on experience with soldering, wire harness assembly, component selection, and integration of sensors/actuators.

• Familiarity with embedded systems and microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, STM32, ESP32).

• Experience with prototyping tools and equipment, including 3D printers, CNC machines, and oscilloscopes.

• Knowledge of electronics testing methods, including continuity testing, voltage/current measurements, and thermal analysis.

• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive, hands-on approach to building and testing hardware.

• Good organizational and documentation skills to support efficient prototype iterations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with robotics hardware and mechatronic systems.

• Familiarity with RF systems, power electronics, or motor control circuits.

• Knowledge of low-volume manufacturing processes for producing prototypes at scale.

• Hands-on experience with test automation and data acquisition systems.

• Familiarity with Python, C/C++, or other scripting languages for automation and testing.

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!