Global Supply Chain Manager - Palo Alto - 1X Technologies

Description

Global Supply Chain Manager - Commodity Expert

Targeted start date: Immediately. Relocation provided.

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 rewarded based on merit. We believe the best work is done when collaborating and therefore require in-person presence in our office locations.

As we scale from research and development to full-scale manufacturing, we are looking for a highly skilled Global Supply Managers (GSMs) – Commodity Experts to drive strategic sourcing, supplier relationships, and cost optimization for key commodities essential to our robotics development. These roles will report directly to the Global Supply Chain Director and play a critical role in ensuring supply continuity, quality, and cost competitiveness in our rapidly evolving industry.

Each Global Supply Manager will specialize in a specific commodity area such as electronics, mechanical components, raw materials, batteries, sensors, or hardware. The ideal candidates will possess deep technical knowledge of their commodity, exceptional negotiation skills, and experience managing a global supplier network.

Key Responsibilities:

Commodity Strategy & Supplier Management

1. Develop and execute a global sourcing strategy for assigned commodity categories, ensuring cost efficiency, quality, and supply reliability.
2. Identify, qualify, and manage best-in-class suppliers, negotiating long-term agreements to secure competitive pricing, lead times, and capacity.
3. Drive supplier performance management, including quality, delivery, and cost tracking, while ensuring alignment with company objectives.
4. Analyze commodity market trends, geopolitical risks, and economic factors to proactively mitigate supply chain disruptions.
5. Partner closely with engineering, product development, and manufacturing teams to source and qualify new materials and components that align with performance and cost goals.
6. Provide cost modeling and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) insights to optimize material selection and supplier processes.
7. Work cross-functionally to accelerate product development cycles, ensuring rapid supplier engagement and material readiness for prototyping and production.

Risk Mitigation & Supply Chain Optimization

1. Develop supply chain risk mitigation strategies, including multi-sourcing, regional diversification, and contingency planning.
2. Lead efforts to localize supply chains and reduce dependencies on high-risk regions.
3. Support the Global Supply Chain Director in shaping the company's overall procurement and sourcing vision.

Cost Management & Negotiation

1. Own total cost of ownership (TCO) analysis, including price benchmarking, supplier cost breakdowns, and cost-saving initiatives.
2. Drive value engineering and cost-reduction programs, ensuring materials meet both performance and financial targets.
3. Lead contract negotiations with suppliers to establish favorable terms on pricing, volume commitments, and intellectual property protections.

Requirements

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business, Engineering, or a related field; a Master's degree is a plus.
2. 5+ years of experience in strategic sourcing, procurement, or supply chain management, with a focus on commodity management in robotics, technology, or manufacturing industries.
3. Expert knowledge of a specific commodity area (electronics, mechanical components, motors, batteries, sensors, or hardware).
4. Experience partnering with engineering and R&D teams to support aggressive development cycles.
5. Strong understanding of global trade regulations, tariffs, and geopolitical risks impacting supply chain operations.
6. Familiarity with technical specifications and engineering development workflows.
7. Ability to interpret technical documentation and assist engineers in identifying suitable components or materials.
8. Proven track record in supplier negotiation, contract management, and cost optimization.
9. Proficiency in supply chain analytics, ERP systems, and procurement tools.
10. Strong problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to dynamic, high-growth environments.

Location Policy

We believe the best work is done when collaborating and therefore require in-person presence in our office locations.

Typical Interview Process

1. Introductions - interviews to learn more about you and talk about 1X and the role
2. Interview with a member of the Talent Acquisition team
3. Hiring manager / senior team member / technical interview
4. Team interviews - technical interviews and deep-dives with team members. May include a take home challenge, presentation or problem-solving exercise
5. Technical deep-dive conversation with a team member
6. Onsite interviews with team members
7. Final Interview Stage - we move you to our final round
8. Expectation management with the hiring manager
9. We will conduct reference checks
10. Job offer conversation
11. Depending on the role and your background, additional interviews may be added.

These are the ideas that express our team's culture and how we work:

Be Nice

Collaboration is our driving force. Our team creates an open, trusting environment where everyone can be their most creative.

Stay Smart

A world-changing team needs the brightest minds in every discipline. This is where people come to work, learn, and grow to their full potential.

Make History

Everything we do gets us closer to one ambitious vision: Creating an Abundant Supply of Labor using Safe, Intelligent Humanoids. We believe what we build today will impact generations.

Not sure if this is you?
Studies have shown that women are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet all qualifications. If you're excited about this role, but you're not sure if you qualify, apply anyway You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

1X is an inclusive and equal-opportunity employer that values diversity. We consider all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected class. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please don't hesitate to let us know during the interview process. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.

We're excited to have you on board