HaloBraid is a robotics startup developing a braiding assistant device to speed up salon hair-braiding for professional stylists
HaloBraid is a hair technology company using breakthrough engineering to elevate everyday routines. We’re building the world’s first robotic hair-braiding system—integrating computer vision, robotics, compliant fiber manipulation, and novel mechatronic machines. This is one of the hardest unsolved problems in robotics, applied to a $300B industry. 8 billion hours are spent braiding hair each year. HaloBraid gives that time back. The system collaborates with professional stylists to reduce braiding appointments from 6 hours to minutes and grow their business. We’re moving from R&D into deployment with salons, well-funded by leading investors. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of the hair styling industry. We are looking for a Fall 2026 Mechanical Engineering Co-op to play a pivotal role in developing our innovative hair braiding robotic system. RESPONSIBILITIES: - Contribute to the development of complex technology, product sub-assemblies, and test rigs - Take an active, hands-on role to ensure that engineering problems are resolved thoroughly - Utilize various rapid prototyping technologies to build, test, and iterate - Use hand calculations, computer simulation, and/or lab-based testing to validate designs through the development process - Conduct user testing and project the voice of the customer back into the design - Conduct various forms of testing, problem solving, and design iteration REQUIREMENTS: - At least one semester remaining in your undergraduate or graduate degree - Experience with CAD (we use Onshape, experience with Solidworks or equivalent is acceptable) - Experience with various rapid prototyping methods (3D printing, CNC, etc) - Demonstrated design intelligence, mechanical intuition, creative problem solving, and strong attention to detail - A willingness to fail and learn! DESIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE (OPTIONAL BUT THE MORE, THE BETTER) - Gone through (and documented!) the design process for a project, through school or on your own time - Strong documentation skills and the ability to convey complex ideas in a team setting - Strong experimental rigor and testing process - Experience with complex CAD models with clear top down design - Experience with consumer electronics, robotics, or hair styling tools - Interest in hair braiding/styling - Interest in robotics and mechanisms - Complementary engineering experience: - Mechanisms, mechatronics, and moving components. - Experience with design optimization using FEA/CFD simulation - Electronics prototyping and soldering Working Style - User centric, you want to build stuff people use and love - Low ego, adaptable, and collaborative spirit - Willing to learn through fast-paced iteration and feedback - Passionate, driven by innovation Benefits of Working with Us: - Company subsidized parking or commute for onsite employees Onsite work This is an onsite full time position at our office/lab in Cambridge, MA. You must have authorization to work in the US. Don’t Meet Every Requirement? If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align with every single part of the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization.