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Principal Safety Engineer

1XSan Carlos, CAR&D
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Salary
$250K - $350K USD
Job type
Full-time
Posted
1 Sept 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

The Principal Safety Engineer at 1X in San Carlos shapes the safety framework for advanced humanoid robots operating directly in human environments. This role suits an innovative safety expert ready to pioneer new methodologies where traditional standards fall short.

Role Overview

1X is seeking a technical leader to define safety standards for a new generation of autonomous humanoid robots designed for home environments. Operating within the R&D department, the Principal Safety Engineer will address unprecedented challenges where physical systems and intelligent behavior intersect. This position goes beyond standard compliance, requiring novel technical solutions to protect people sharing space with dynamic machines.

Key Responsibilities

Identify unique hazards associated with humanoid robots and their Operational Design Domain through first-principles reasoning.
Invent innovative methods to mitigate and eliminate risks across hardware, software, controls, and AI behavior.
Anticipate complex hazards that emerge where physical machinery meets intelligent systems.
Translate insights into robust safety architectures, control strategies, and validation methods.
Establish fundamental engineering principles for safe humanoid design both internally and across the broader industry.
Drive technical direction and influence engineering decisions across multi-disciplinary teams including hardware, software, AI, and controls.

Requirements

Extensive background in robotics safety and AI-driven robotic systems.
Solid experience in robot architecture, mechanical design, actuation, sensing, controls, and electromechanical behavior.
Proven history of safety innovation and creating novel technical solutions for significant robotic risks.
Practical experience crafting safety cases, validation strategies, and test plans for complex autonomous systems.
Demonstrated ability in utilizing functional safety methods to achieve actual risk reduction rather than mere compliance.
Outstanding communication skills capable of engaging both deeply technical staff and executive stakeholders.

Nice to Have

Prior background working with humanoid robots, mobile robots, or machinery operating closely alongside humans.
Experience building safety architectures that integrate hardware, software, controls, and artificial intelligence.
Familiarity with existing autonomous system, machinery, and robotics standards and an understanding of their limitations.
History of designing or leading multi-disciplinary safety testing programs for physical products.
Experience deploying safety-critical technologies into consumer or residential environments.

Skills and Tools

First-principles analytical reasoning across mechanical, electrical, software, and AI failure modes.
Advanced systems thinking combined with strong technical judgment.
Multi-disciplinary collaboration spanning testing, reliability, systems, and product engineering.

Salary and Benefits

Annual salary range between $250,000 and $350,000 USD.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
Generous paid time off, designated company holidays, and parental leave.
401(k) retirement plan featuring a company match of 100% on the first 3% and 50% on the next 2% of contributions.
Flexible Spending Accounts and Health Savings Accounts options.
Commuter benefits covering transit and parking.
Short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance coverage.
Employee Assistance Program offering mental health, financial, and personal support.
Onsite snacks and catered daily lunches.

About the Company

Founded in 2014, 1X builds humanoid robots designed to assist with household chores and everyday tasks, giving people their time back. Their flagship home robot, NEO, is engineered to move, learn, and operate safely alongside real people in unstructured environments. 1X operates as an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration without regard to protected characteristics.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the official 1X careers page to submit an application for this role.

Questions candidates ask

What is the salary range for the Principal Safety Engineer position?

The salary ranges from $250,000 to $350,000 USD per year.

Where is this job located?

The role is located in San Carlos, California.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an onsite position located in San Carlos, CA.

What department does this role belong to?

This role is part of the R&D department, specifically working within the Autonomy & Safety Engineering team.

What benefits are provided with this job?

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) with company match, paid parental leave, flexible spending and health savings accounts, commuter benefits, disability and life insurance, an Employee Assistance Program, and catered lunches.

How should I apply for this job?

You can apply by visiting the official 1X company careers page.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official 1X careers page.

Apply on company site