What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Robotics Engineer position at Overlay?
We’re looking for a Senior Robotics Engineer to bring a new category of consumer robotics to life—designing precise, real-time motion systems and building the algorithms that make our robot move with intention, fluidity, and reliability.
The Team
- Overlay engineers work closely with the founders to influence product direction, company roadmap, and business outcomes
- We enjoy shipping features, moving fast, and being scrappy
- We are receptive to feedback and continuously work on improving both our product and our craft
- We work out of our Oakland office together
What You’ll Do
- Design and implement real-time motion control and trajectory systems
- Develop and tune robotic behaviors for consistent, precise output
- Collaborate closely with computer vision and mechanical teams to integrate perception, motion, and actuation
- Create and iterate on algorithms for smooth, stable motion in response to dynamic inputs
- Validate system performance in physical tests and real-world usage
- Help define the core robotics architecture and contribute to product-level decisions
- Embody our company values of ownership, velocity and craft
What We’re Looking For
- 5 years of experience in robotics, controls, or automation systems
- Proficiency in motion planning, kinematics, or real-time control logic
- Hands-on experience with physical robots, actuators, or gantry systems
- Strong coding skills in C , Python, or similar languages
- Comfort working across hardware and software boundaries
- You can take a concept from idea to prototype in a fast-paced environment
- You move with velocity and invest in improving your craft
- You are energized by collaborating in-office with your peers
Bonus Points
- Experience with motion systems for consumer products, 3D printers, or CNC machines
- Familiarity with safety systems, braking, tuning, or low-latency motion control
- Background in integrating perception with reactive motion
- Interest in systems that combine technology, aesthetics, and creative output
- Experience working with contract manufacturers
Benefits
- Highly competitive salary & generous early-stage equity
- Best-in-class medical, dental & vision insurance
- 401(k) matching program
- Supportive Flexible Time Off program, plus 10 paid holidays
- Commuter benefits for transit or parking
- Located in downtown Oakland, next door to a BART station
Compensation: The annual salary range for this position is $175,000–$250,000 annually based on level in addition to equity & benefits.
Salary : $175,000 - $250,000