Global Supply Manager, Ropes & Soft Goods

Global Supply Manager, Ropes & Soft Goods | Supply Chain
Location: Hayward, CA (on-site)

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 Global Supply Manager to lead sourcing for precision ropes, advanced fibers, and technical soft goods that enable connectivity and actuation in next-generation humanoid robots. This role is critical to scaling a resilient supply chain for cutting-edge materials and ensuring the reliability of components that are essential to robotic performance. You will collaborate closely with engineering and manufacturing teams to integrate high-performance materials into production. Your contributions will have a direct impact on the functionality and success of our robotic systems.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sourcing strategies for precision ropes, technical fibers, and advanced textiles used in robotic actuation and connectivity systems

• Identify, evaluate, and onboard global suppliers with proven expertise in high-performance fibers (aramids, UHMWPE, LCP, carbon composites, etc.)

• Negotiate contracts, pricing, and delivery terms to secure cost savings while maintaining performance standards

• Collaborate with engineering to ensure materials meet mechanical and durability specifications for robotic use cases

• Support design-for-manufacturing (DFM) efforts by providing technical insights into rope construction, braiding, coating, and terminations

• Benchmark suppliers and stay informed on emerging textile and rope technologies relevant to robotics and industrial automation

• Monitor supplier KPIs and enforce corrective actions to ensure compliance with quality, safety, and delivery standards

• Implement risk mitigation strategies such as dual sourcing and geographic diversification

• Conduct supplier audits and drive continuous improvement initiatives

• Partner cross-functionally with operations, manufacturing, and quality teams to integrate new materials seamlessly into production