Test Engineer - Hands

About 1X

We’re an AI and robotics company based in Palo Alto, California, on a mission to build a truly abundant society through general‑purpose robots capable of performing any kind of work autonomously.

We believe that to truly understand the world and grow in intelligence, humanoid robots must live and learn alongside us. That’s why we’re focused on developing friendly home robots designed to integrate seamlessly into everyday life.
We’re looking for curious, driven, and passionate people who want to help shape the future of robotics and AI. If this mission excites you, we’d be thrilled to hear from you and explore how you might contribute to our journey.

Role Overview

You will be a versatile and hands‑on Robotics Test Engineer. This is not a siloed testing role; you will work at the intersection of hardware, firmware, and software. Your mission will be to ensure our robots are robust, reliable, and ready for real‑world use by supporting the full product lifecycle, from early R&D characterization through to final production validation. You’ll be expected to contribute broadly, both in deeply technical areas and cross‑disciplinary debugging.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain robust, scalable test automation frameworks in Python and C++

• Architect and build custom hardware‑in‑the‑loop test systems and mechanical/electrical test fixtures to simulate real‑world conditions

• Author and maintain clear, concise test plans, test procedures, and test cases based on product requirements and technical specifications

• Develop and manage test matrices to ensure adequate coverage across hardware, software, and firmware configurations

• Create detailed, data‑driven test reports to communicate results and risks t both technical and non‑technical stakeholders

• Maintain traceability from system requirements to test case execution and results

• Execute a wide range of tests, including exploratory and characterization testing on prototypes, performance and reliability testing, and system‑level verification and validation against formal requirements

• Lead debugging and root cause analysis of issues spanning the robotics stack

• Deepen system‑level understanding of how subsystems interact to deliver product‑level features

About You

• 3+ years of experience in test engineering, systems integration, or a related role

• Strong programming proficiency in Python and/or C++

• Hands‑on experience with common lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, multimeters, and power supplies

• Solid understanding of embedded systems, microcontrollers, and communication protocols (for example: CAN, I2C, SPI)

• Experience with version control systems (especially Git)

• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a methodical, data‑driven approach to debugging

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Experience working with test automation frameworks

• Experience with Real‑Time Operating Systems or Linux environments

• Experience with CAD software for designing test fixtures

• Familiarity with agile project management tools

Benefits & Compensation

• Salary Range: $119,800 - $179,600 + Equity

• 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.