Senior Materials Lab Engineer
About 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 be rewarded based on merit.
We are seeking a Senior Materials Lab Engineer with deep expertise in polymer based systems, surface science, adhesives, and coatings. This role is ideal for a highly detail oriented, hands-on expert who can independently drive formulation, processing, surface treatment, bonding, and testing of advanced materials, while taking direct ownership of materials lab operations and capabilities.
You will play a critical role in building and operating a high performance materials lab, enabling rapid iteration from raw materials to validated components used in humanoid robots.
Key Responsibilities
Independently lead polymer based material development, including formulation of coatings, adhesives, and multi layer material systems
Own surface science and interface engineering, including surface preparation, treatment, and characterization to enable reliable bonding and coating performance
Develop and validate adhesive bonding processes, including material selection, process definition, and durability testing
Execute hands-on work across material processing and shaping methods, including mixing, compounding, molding, coating, laminating, and bonding
Design and implement rigorous testing and characterization protocols for bulk materials and interfaces, covering mechanical, thermal, chemical, and environmental performance
Take direct ownership of materials lab fabrication, testing, and characterization workflows, ensuring quality, repeatability, and speed
Coordinate external lab analysis and testing, including selecting partners, defining test scopes, and integrating results into development decisions
Drive structured problem solving to diagnose failures at the material and interface level, and iterate toward robust solutions
Collaborate with external suppliers and partners to source materials, evaluate coatings and adhesives, and develop new processes
Work cross functionally with mechanical, electrical, and industrial design teams to ensure materials and interfaces meet application requirements
Support scale up from lab to production, ensuring consistency of coatings, bonded assemblies, and material systems
Assist in maintenance and capability development of the materials lab, including equipment upkeep and expansion
Contribute to development of new tools, techniques, and lab methodologies to accelerate materials innovation