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Actuator Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OpenAI

Actuator Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$342K - $445K/yr

About the Role We are seeking a Senior Actuator Design and Integration Engineer to lead the development of custom electromechanical actuators for advanced robotic systems. You will own actuator ...

Anduril Industries

Actuator Test Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

Collaborate closely with Design Engineers and cross-functional teams (e.g., manufacturing, quality, software) to validate and refine actuator designs, clearly communicating technical issues and ...

Figure

Electrical Engineer, Actuator Systems

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $250K/yr

Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA We are looking for an Electrical Engineer to join our Actuator ...

General Atomics

Engineer II

Poway, CA · On-site

$68K - $116K/yr

The GA-ASI's actuation systems include rotary and linear electro-mechanical actuators comprising ... This Engineer will participate in Actuation system lifecycle development activities including ...

Apptronik

Staff Test Engineer - Actuation

Austin, TX · On-site

Actuator Bringup & Calibration: Lead the bringup process for new actuator hardware - including firmware deployment, motor and encoder calibration, and functional verification. Develop documented ...

General Atomics

Engineer VI

Poway, CA · On-site

... Actuation Engineers System Development and Test Software Development (Embedded - C) Mechanical Systems Integration Design Engineer Design Controls Engineer Mechanical Design Engineer Mechanical ...

Ametek

Actuator Technician

Wichita, KS · On-site

The Actuator Technician assembles Actuators according to blueprint and work order instructions ... Ability to read, interpret, and understand requirements specified on engineering drawings, sketches ...

fng

Automation Engineer

Chicago, IL

Summary The Automation Engineer develops, edits, maintains, and troubleshoots automated actuators, Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and motion-controlled programs on manufacturing equipment and ...

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Actuator Engineer information

What does an Actuator Engineer do?

An Actuator Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing actuators, which are devices that convert energy into motion in mechanical systems. They work on selecting appropriate actuator types (such as electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic), ensuring the devices meet technical requirements, and integrating them into larger systems. Actuator Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize performance, reliability, and efficiency of the actuators in applications like robotics, automotive, aerospace, and industrial automation.

What are the typical challenges Actuator Engineers face when integrating actuators into complex systems?

Actuator Engineers often encounter challenges related to ensuring compatibility between actuators and the mechanical, electrical, or control systems they interact with. Common issues include managing space constraints, meeting strict performance requirements, mitigating unwanted vibrations, and ensuring reliable communication with control units. Successful Actuator Engineers collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical designers, software developers, and system integrators, to address these challenges and optimize actuator performance within the overall system.

What is the difference between Actuator Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectActuator EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Mechatronics Engineering; often certifications in control systemsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; may include certifications in CAD or project management
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing actuators, working in R&D labs or manufacturing facilitiesDesigning mechanical systems, working in design offices, manufacturing plants, or field sites
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, robotics, industrial automationAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing, product design

While both roles involve engineering principles, Actuator Engineers focus specifically on designing and developing actuators used in automation and robotics, whereas Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on various mechanical systems and components across industries.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain software engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare expertise and certifications.

Is it possible to make 200k a year as a mechanical engineer?

Actuator engineers, a specialized role within mechanical engineering, can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually with extensive experience, advanced skills in control systems, and work in high-paying industries such as aerospace or defense. Achieving this salary often requires advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. Salary levels vary based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, and typically requires advanced degrees and extensive industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Actuator Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Actuator Engineer, you generally need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, with expertise in electromechanical systems and motion control. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools (such as MATLAB/Simulink), and industry certifications in automation or mechatronics is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills help an actuator engineer excel in both design and troubleshooting contexts. These competencies ensure the reliable development and integration of actuators, which are critical for the performance and safety of automated systems.

Is mechatronics a high paying job?

Mechatronics engineering, which involves integrating mechanical, electrical, and software systems, is generally considered a well-paying field. Actuator engineers with expertise in mechatronics often earn competitive salaries, especially with specialized skills in control systems, robotics, and automation technologies.
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Infographic showing various Actuator Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.
Power Train Throttle Control & Actuator Senior Engineer Lead

Power Train Throttle Control & Actuator Senior Engineer Lead

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$98K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Stellantis rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 124 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 44 rated automakers

Job description

The Electronic Throttle Control & Actuator Design & Release Engineer will be responsible for the Core Engine throttle and actuator components on one or more major engine families, including components such as electronic throttle controllers, Delta Pressure Valves, Exhaust Gas Recirculation Valves, and other electro-mechanical related components. This is a key position within our Core Engine Engineering team and the activities include developing components, managing and directing changes, facilitating continuous improvement in system performance and fuel economy, and carrying out engineering root cause analyses and corrective actions when necessary. The Lead Senior Throttle / Actuator Engineer will work closely with designers and CAE groups to optimize designs and will use the DFMEA to identify and rate risks and build a robust DVP&R to ensure testing is completed to reach reliability goals. The candidate will initiate source packages, hold APQP meetings during the development phase, order prototype parts, carry out and monitor DV and PV testing, and participate in post-test reviews including failure analysis. The engineer is involved in all aspects of product launch including component, system, engine, and vehicle testing, manufacturing reviews, development of service procedures, production launch, change management, and continuous improvement.
The Design and Release Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end design, validation, industrialization, and production release of automotive Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) systems and throttle actuators. This role provides technical leadership across cross-functional teams and supplier partners and ensures delivery of robust, cost-effective, and safety-compliant solutions that meet performance, quality, and regulatory requirements. The role requires deep expertise in mechatronic systems, functional safety, and vehicle launch execution within a highly regulated automotive environment. The role requires deep expertise in mechatronic systems, functional safety, and vehicle launch execution within a highly regulated automotive environment.
The Candidate will be responsible for:
Validation & Verification:
  • Define and approve DV/PV test plans for electronic throttle systems and actuators.
  • Support bench, environmental, EMC, vibration, and vehicle-level testing.
  • Analyze test data, lead root-cause investigations, and drive corrective actions.
  • Ensure validation coverage for performance, durability, safety, and diagnostics.

Supplier & Manufacturing Interface:
  • Lead technical engagement with Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers for ETC and actuator components.
  • Review and approve supplier designs, DVP&R, PPAP, and manufacturing readiness.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing engineering to support launch, quality, and yield improvement.
  • Resolve supplier-related design, quality, or production issues.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or related degree field
  • Minimum of 5 plus years of relevant electronic throttle control and actuator system component design and release experience
  • Ability to provide technical mentoring and design direction to junior engineers
  • Maintain and lead our Actuator Best Practices and Lessons Learned documentation
  • Minimum of 5 plus years of relevant electronic throttle control and actuator system component design and release experience
  • Knowledge of design tools and practices, e.g. CAD, CAE, CFD, FEA, GD&T is required.
  • Ability to perform basic fluid flow rate and sealing pressure calculation
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills as well as experience with basic PC software (e.g. MS Word, Excel, Powerpoint and Project).
  • Highly self motivated, self-directed, have the ability to manage multiple complex projects, and have a positive attitude
  • Good working knowledge of internal combustion engine operations
  • Good working knowledge of air flow and fluid mechanics
  • 0-20% travel will be required, mostly local, with occasional trips to facilities in the US, Canada and Mexico

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering
  • Previous experience in development of automotive fuel systems design and releasing
  • Experience with sizing, validating, and releasing electronic throttle controls
  • Six Sigma Blackbelt or Greenbelt certification
  • Reactive Greenbelt certification

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