Senior Hardware Test 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 Senior Hardware Testing Engineer to own and lead reliability testing efforts. In this role, you will focus on ensuring the long-term performance and durability of our robotic systems, identifying potential failure points, and driving improvements to increase reliability at scale.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design, implement, and manage reliability testing protocols for robotic hardware, including environmental, mechanical, electrical, and lifecycle tests.

• Lead root cause analysis (RCA) for hardware failures, working cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and firmware teams to resolve issues.

• Develop automated test rigs and systems to perform continuous reliability testing of key robotic subsystems (e.g., joints, actuators, sensors).

• Create and maintain detailed test documentation, including test plans, procedures, and reports, ensuring clear communication of test results and recommendations.

• Conduct Highly Accelerated Life Testing (HALT) and Highly Accelerated Stress Screening (HASS) to proactively identify weak points in design.

• Collaborate with design teams to implement Design for Reliability (DfR) principles, ensuring robust designs that can withstand real-world use.

• Evaluate and track failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA) results, recommending improvements to reduce risk of failure.

• Work closely with manufacturing partners to ensure that reliability testing is part of the production process, identifying and mitigating risks during scaling.

• Stay up to date with reliability standards and best practices across industries to ensure our testing processes are world-class.

• Provide technical mentorship to junior team members and build a culture of continuous improvement within the hardware testing team.

• 3+ years of experience in hardware testing and reliability engineering, with a focus on complex electromechanical systems.

• Expertise in reliability testing methodologies, including environmental, mechanical, and electrical stress tests.

• Strong knowledge of root cause analysis (RCA) methods and tools, such as 8D, Fishbone, or 5 Whys.

• Experience designing custom test rigs for automated and long-term testing.

• Familiarity with FMEA and experience improving product designs based on reliability data.

• Proficiency with data acquisition tools and test automation platforms.

• Strong communication and documentation skills, with the ability to clearly present test results and recommendations.

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

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in robotics, automotive, consumer electronics, or other industries with complex electromechanical systems.

• Knowledge of environmental and regulatory standards (e.g., IP ratings, thermal cycling, vibration testing).

• Knowledge of sensor integration and actuator performance testing.

• Familiarity with PCB-level reliability testing.

• Experience working with global manufacturing partners to ensure reliability at scale.

• Familiarity with data analytics tools to track and analyze reliability data trends.

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

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

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!