Mechanical Engineer (Robotics & Electromechanical)

About Overlay

Overlay is building the world's first intelligent makeup robot, reimagining beauty application through robotics, perception, and design. As a venture-backed, pre-launch startup, we're defining a new category of personal robotics at the intersection of self-expression and engineering. We're a small team inventing what doesn't yet exist and turning it into something beautiful.

What You'll Own

• Own mechanical design of robotic and electromechanical subsystems, from concept through build
• Design motion systems: select and size motors, gearboxes, bearings, sensors and actuators
• Design cable management and routing through moving assemblies
• Run FEA and tolerance analysis, and turn results into design changes
• Design plastic and machined parts for manufacturing (injection molding, CNC, sheet metal)
• Design and build test fixtures; plan and run validation with clear pass/fail data
• Create assembly and fabrication-ready drawings
• Work with firmware, electrical, robotics and vendor teams to keep interfaces and specs clear
• Embody our company values of ownership, velocity and craft

What We're Looking For

• 4+ years designing robotic or electromechanical products, through at least one build
• SolidWorks and FEA
• Motor, actuator and drivetrain sizing
• Cable routing and packaging in moving assemblies
• DFM for injection molding and machining
• Test fixture design and validation testing
• Working knowledge of ASME Y14.5 / GD&T
• Thrive in a small, resource-conscious startup where the job is to invent, build and ship

Bonus Points

• Robot arms, consumer robotics, or medical/personal-care devices
• Experience working with contract manufacturers or vendors in Asia
• Metrology experience: CMM, laser tracker or stereo camera
• Prototype bring-up, 3D printing, machining
• Interesting side projects

Who You Are

• Mission-driven: excited to build a new category of personal robotics that works on real people
• Hands-on: you like building, testing and fixing hardware yourself
• Energized by working in person with a small team in our Oakland office
• High ownership, and comfortable moving fast with incomplete information

Culture and Values

• Move Fast, Move Smart: Act quickly, but with clear thinking and good judgment.
• Extreme Ownership: Own outcomes fully from idea to execution to results.
• Disagree Boldly, Then Commit Fully: Challenge ideas openly, then align and execute without hesitation.
• Intellectual Honesty Above All: Prioritize truth over ego. Be candid, admit mistakes, and follow the evidence.
• Live Demos: Show real, working results instead of talking about ideas.

Compensation and Benefits

• The base salary range for this role is $135K - $175K, depending on experience and level. The package also includes early-stage equity, medical, dental and vision coverage, a 401(k) match, flexible time off and commuter benefits.
• In-person collaboration in our Oakland office.