Staff Mechanical Engineer - Robot Hands Team

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 Staff Mechanical Engineer to join our Hands Team. This role is ideal for an inventive engineer who thrives on designing groundbreaking systems from a blank sheet of paper and driving them through to scalable production. You will play a critical role in shaping the dexterity, precision, and durability of robotic hands, enabling our robots to perform advanced real-world tasks.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop innovative mechanical designs for robotic hands, working from first principles to create systems that deliver high precision, strength, and durability.

• Lead the design process from initial concepts through detailed design, prototyping, testing, and transition to mass production.

• Invent novel mechanisms, actuators, and packaging solutions that balance compactness, functionality, and manufacturability.

• Conduct in-depth analyses, including FEA for structural, thermal, and fatigue performance, to validate designs and ensure reliability.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, software, and manufacturing engineers, to integrate hand systems into the robot seamlessly.

• Optimize designs for cost-effectiveness, scalability, and ease of assembly while maintaining performance and reliability.

• Drive hands-on prototyping efforts, iterating quickly to test ideas and validate concepts.

• Stay current with emerging technologies, materials, and manufacturing techniques to continuously push the boundaries of what robotic hands can achieve.
  

• Experience designing and developing mechanical systems from concept to production, ideally in robotics, consumer electronics, or a related field.

• Strong expertise in mechanisms, actuators, and structural design, with a proven ability to invent and innovate.

• Proficiency in CAD (e.g., SolidWorks) and analysis tools for detailed design and validation.

• Demonstrated ability to transition designs from prototypes to scalable manufacturing, including supporting supply chain and production ramp-up.

• Hands-on experience with machining, 3D printing, and other prototyping methods, with a willingness to iterate quickly and test ideas.

• Exceptional problem-solving skills and a first-principles approach to tackling complex challenges.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
  

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!