Position: Microfluidics Mechanical Engineer

Location: Palo Alto

Reports to: VP of Engineering

FLSA Status: Exempt/Salary

Total fundraise $57ml. Most recent round $20ml.

Overture Life is for a Head of Engineering to join our growing team.

Overture Life is founded on the belief that IVF is too expensive, and results are not good enough to meet our vision of reproductive freedom meaning people should be free to choose if and when to have a family. We are fortunate to be backed by amazing investors including Khosla Ventures, Google Ventures, Overwater Ventures and more.

We are addressing this head on by automating the embryology lab - the heart of every IVF clinic to standardize and improve all processes from egg and embryo freezing and thawing to embryo making and more.

Our first product - the DaVitri automates egg freezing so it can be done outside the embryology lab. The device uses microfluidics to carefully manage the process of preparing the egg for freezing. Our other products span a range of technologies from robotics, mass spectrometry, machine vision and machine learning.

Our goal is to drive up success rates in IVF by improving every aspect of the embryology lab to allow more people to walk home with a baby after embarking on IVF.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Microfluidics Mechanical Engineer to join our team, focusing on the development of innovative microfluidic solutions for in vitro fertilization (IVF) applications. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering, with specialized experience in microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip technologies. You will play a key role in designing, developing, and optimizing microfluidic devices that enhance IVF processes, and will be instrumental in transitioning these technologies from prototype to commercial products.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design & Development:
• Develop and optimize microfluidic devices specifically tailored for IVF applications.
• Utilize CAD software and other tools for modeling and simulation to create designs that meet the precise needs of IVF procedures.
• Prototyping & Testing:
• Fabricate and test prototypes using techniques such as soft lithography, injection molding, or 3D printing.
• Conduct rigorous validation and troubleshooting to ensure devices perform effectively in IVF settings.
• Commercialization:
• Lead efforts to transition microfluidic devices from research prototypes to commercial products.
• Oversee scaling up production, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and support manufacturing processes tailored to the IVF market.
• Collaboration:
• Work closely with cross-functional teams, including reproductive specialists, product managers, and biologists, to integrate microfluidic devices with IVF systems and ensure they meet clinical and market needs.
• Project Management:
• Manage project planning and execution, including defining scope, setting milestones, and overseeing timelines.
• Provide regular updates on progress and address potential risks associated with IVF product development.
• Documentation & Reporting:
• Maintain detailed documentation of design processes, testing results, and modifications.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and regulatory submissions.
• Market Insights:
• Stay informed about advancements in IVF technologies and market trends.
• Propose new ideas for product improvements and innovations based on industry developments and clinical needs.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field. A Master’s degree or PhD is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 7 years of experience in mechanical engineering with a focus on microfluidics. Demonstrated experience in launching commercial products and managing the transition from prototype to market-ready products, particularly in the context of IVF technologies, is required.
• Skills:
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., Onshape, Solidworks)
• In-depth knowledge of microfluidic design principles and fabrication techniques
• Experience with prototype development, testing methods, and scaling up production for IVF applications
• Understanding of regulatory requirements specific to IVF product development
• Strong problem-solving abilities and troubleshooting skills
• Excellent communication and teamwork capabilities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with advanced manufacturing techniques (e.g., soft lithography, PDMS molding)
• Familiarity with fluid dynamics and thermal management in microfluidic systems
• Background in reproductive technologies or clinical applications related to IVF
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies

Additional Information:

• Work Environment: Office-based
• Travel Requirements: Some flexibility to travel domestically and internationally, up to 6 weeks a year for clinical instrument testing

Benefits:

● Industry competitive pay

● Stock options in a fast growing, well-funded technology company

● Health insurance package options including PPO, vision, and dental for you and your dependents

● Paid Parental Leave

● 401(k)

● Paid Time Off