Operations Manager, Prototyping

Prototyping Operations Manager
San Carlos, CA (on-site)

About 1X
We build humanoid robots that work alongside people to solve labor shortages and create abundance.

Role Overview

The 1X Prototyping Team is hiring a Lab Operations Manager to run day-to-day lab operations and ensure our prototyping platform and services are always ready and reliable.

This role centers on two things:

• Keeping the prototyping platform (equipment, tooling, materials, and the lab environment) functional, organized, and ready to use at all times, while continuously improving it to meet the evolving needs of our engineering teams

• Ensuring prototyping services (3D printing, machining, assembly, fabrication, etc.) are executed predictably and at a consistently high level of quality

The Lab Operations Manager works closely with engineers across R&D and with our internal Special Projects engineering corps (non-robot engineering) to understand upcoming build needs, coordinate resources, and proactively close gaps. This keeps the lab stable, responsive, and dependable so engineers can move iterate quickly without getting blocked.

WHO THRIVES ON THE PROTOTYPING TEAM

The prototyping team moves fast, builds constantly, and figures things out without a playbook. People who do well here usually show these traits:

• Own It – You take responsibility. If it’s broken or missing, fix it.

• Move Fast – You make smart calls and iterate quickly instead of overanalyzing.

• Be Resourceful – You figure things out when tools, time, or info are limited.

• Learn & Improve – You absorb feedback, learn fast, and get better every week.

Build trust – You do what you say, communicate clearly, and follow through