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1x.tech

Materials Lab Associate, Prototyping

1x.tech, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94306

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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 We are seeking a Materials & Prototyping Lab Associate to join our research and development team. In this creative, hands‑on role, you’ll work at the intersection of materials science, physics, and robotics, supporting the development of next‑generation materials and processes for humanoid robots. You will collaborate closely with Ph.D. scientists and cross‑functional engineering teams to prepare samples, conduct experiments, and support materials discovery and rapid prototyping.

Responsibilities

Prepare, mix, and process materials including polymers, resins, adhesives, coatings, and textiles using lab‑scale mixing, roll mill processing, compounding, molding, and curing equipment

Conduct wet chemistry experiments such as functionalization, solution blending, polymerization, surface treatments, and solvent casting

Support scientists in designing and executing experiments that reveal new structure‑property relationships and functional performance

Characterize materials using mechanical, thermal, and microscopic analyses and organize data for review

Operate and maintain FDM, SLA/DLP, and SLS 3D printers, optimizing print quality and part consistency

Fabricate fixtures, jigs, and prototype assemblies for testing and development

Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, and materials teams to support rapid, iterative prototyping cycles

Maintain chemical inventory, MSDS documentation, and EHS compliance for materials labs

Ensure proper PPE use, fume hood operation, and waste‑handling procedures are followed

Keep lab instruments calibrated and workspaces organized for accuracy and reproducibility

Support a culture of safety, discipline, and continuous improvement within the materials lab

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, or a related field

1–3 years of hands‑on R&D laboratory experience (academic, industrial, or prototype lab)

Experience working in wet chemistry environments, including safe handling of solvents, polymers, and resins

Familiarity with 3D printing processes (FDM, SLA/DLP) and slicing/CAD tools

Strong mechanical aptitude and comfort assembling and testing small parts or prototypes

Familiarity with EHS systems and chemical hygiene programs

Excellent documentation, communication, and organizational skills

A self‑starter who is curious, proactive, and takes ownership in supporting the success of the Materials team

Experience with materials characterization tools (tensile testers, rheometers, thermal analyzers, microscopes)

Background in polymer, composite, or coating process development

CAD design experience (Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Onshape) for prototyping and fixture design

Experience with rapid prototyping using polymers, including part finishing and iterative design

Exposure to robotics, mechatronics, or advanced manufacturing environments

Benefits & Compensation

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.

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