Sr. Staff Test Engineer

Sr.

Staff Test Engineer, Manufacturing Location:

Hayward, CA & San Carlos, CA (on-site) 1X 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. The Role We are seeking a Senior Staff Test Engineer to lead the architecture and execution of advanced validation strategies across design, reliability, and manufacturing domains. This role is responsible for developing robust test methods, defining validation frameworks, and ensuring high-quality data generation to support engineering decisions. You will operate as a technical leader, driving test innovation, mentoring teams, and partnering cross-functionally to ensure product robustness and performance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Lead development and implementation of test methods, fixtures, and equipment for Design, Reliability, and Manufacturing Validation tests. Interpret engineering requirements and validation goals to create test guidelines, equipment specifications, and detailed procedures. Establish data collection, instrumentation, and reporting methods for key characteristics exercised during testing. Document comprehensive test procedures and ensure repeatability and traceability. Perform deep data analysis and summarize test results into actionable insights. Support the creation and continuous use of a structured test tracking and reporting system. Document test failures and act as the issue conductor for failures occurring on tests you have developed. Lead root cause investigations into test failures and drive assignment to appropriate engineering owners for corrective action. Ensure lessons learned from test issues are fed back into design and engineering teams. Collaborate with the Test Lab Manager, engineering teams, and program management to establish schedules and ensure tests complete in alignment with program milestones. Develop test control systems in partnership with Software Engineering, including diagnostics, automation, and test progress tracking.

Required Qualifications:

10+ years of experience in a Reliability Test or Design Validation test engineering role. Deep experience developing vibration, thermal cycling, thermal aging, humidity, dust, water immersion, pneumatic, and mechanical actuation test methods and associated equipment. Demonstrated expertise optimizing test methods based on DFMEA, engineering requirements, and ambiguous or poorly defined validation criteria. Experience with electric motor, battery, PCBA, polymer material, and mechanical component test methods and applicable standards. Strong knowledge of Reliability and Ongoing Reliability test methodologies. Extensive experience with data analysis, structured problem-solving methods, and statistical interpretation. Experience with test controls, automation, and data acquisition systems. Proven ability to generate detailed test procedures and technical reports. Strong project management skills with ability to drive cross-functional alignment. Excellent cross-functional collaboration and communication skills. Preferred Qualifications (Bonus): Experience testing humanoid, medical, or industrial robotic systems. Experience working in a high-growth, dynamic development environment. Familiarity with QALT and other coupon-level reliability test methodologies. Location Policy This position is based in our Hayward and San Carlos facilities and requires in-person collaboration.

Salary Range:

$212,000 - $260,000 Health, dental, and vision insurance 401(k) with company match Paid time off and holidays Equal Opportunity Employer 1X is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.