Senior Robotics Software 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 looking for a Senior Robotics Software Engineer.  In this role, you’ll collaborate with teams working across software, hardware, firmware, AI, and production on a cutting edge humanoid robot. As part of the real time software team, your software will eventually run on thousands of robots worldwide. You’ll focus on real-time C++ development, efficient state estimation, and creating tools for system identification, hardware bring-up, and health monitoring. Candidates should have 3+ years in robotics, strong C++ expertise, Linux experience, and a passion for hands-on robotics.

Why this job is exciting

• You'll be on a team with a large set of responsibilities, requiring interaction with hardware, firmware, AI, platforms and production teams, all working towards building the world’s safest and most capable humanoid robot.

• The controls team is the first user of the hardware so you will play a key role in hardware design and sensor evaluation.

• In time, your software will run on 1000's of humanoids performing tasks in diverse environments, globally.

• You’ll be working with a 50+ DoF biped, with hands, all driven by motors we design and manufacture in-house. If this doesn’t excite you then 🤷

Responsibilities

• Develop real-time C++ software for robust, production-grade control systems.

• Design fast and efficient algorithms for state estimation.

• Create tools for system identification and precise calibration of actuators, transmissions, and full-body kinematics.

• Integrate hardware components and evaluate sensors for seamless functionality.

• Build essential tooling for hardware bring-up and debugging.

• Develop software for comprehensive robot health monitoring, visualization, and logging.

• Build and maintain APIs that enable other software components to effectively command and control our robots.

  
  

• 3+ years of professional software engineering experience in a relevant robotics field.

• Excellence in C++, strong proficiency in other programming languages.

• Experience with Linux deployed in hardware products (e.g., IoT, robots, drones, automotive).

• Thorough understanding of Object Oriented Programming, Real Time Programming, linear algebra, data structures and algorithms.

• Experience with product development in the context of release mechanisms, continuous integration, and continuous deployment.

It will be nice if you had

• Strong Linux system-level knowledge, including kernel tuning, process scheduling, and memory management for optimized performance in robotic applications.

• Solid understanding of rigid body dynamics and numerical optimization techniques, experience in applications to real-time systems.

• Experience writing embedded C for interfacing with sensor or actuators and other parts of the embedded stack.

• You have built your own robot and enjoy tinkering with hardware in your spare time.

Location

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

Sunnyvale, CA 

We are in the heart of the SiIicon 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.

If you are relocating to the Bay Area, we offer a comprehensive relocation package to support you and handle the logistics of your move. 

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.

Not sure if this is you?

If you’re excited about 1X and this role, but not sure if you qualify, apply anyway! You may be the right candidate for this or other roles.

1X is an inclusive and equal-opportunity employer that values diversity. We consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected class. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please don't hesitate to let us know during the interview process. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.

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