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Actuator Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Sr. System Engineer - Swaybar

Detroit, MI

$103K - $141K/yr

Supports system engineering in the definition of performance requirements, architecture, and interfaces for subsystems such as eMachine, EE Hardware, Gearbox, SW, Controls, Actuation mechanism ...

Electrical and Controls Engineer

Livonia, MI · On-site

$74K - $100K/yr

In fact, our actuation solutions are installed on some of the most advanced aircraft, missile ... The ideal candidate brings strong CAD proficiency and electrical engineering depth, a project ...

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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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an actuator engineer?

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.

Active Chassis & Actuation Design Release Engineer

Stellantis

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

$38 - $43.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Stellantis rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 130 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 44 rated automakers


Job description

The Active Chassis & Actuation Design and Release Engineer is responsible for leading the hardware design, packaging, development, and release of the brake system module(s) and brake actuation components (including electric, vacuum and hydraulic brake boosters & vacuum hoses where applicable) and brake fluid reservoirs. This position will include all aspects of component design to ensure all system and vehicle level functional objectives are met and will also perform the component and system, level validation testing. This includes but is not limited to:
  • Leading diagnostic, hardware, and software development to meet system and vehicle functional objectives
  • Lead and manage the project to ensure the supplier deliverables are tracked and met (hardware, software, CAN communication, DV/PV testing, EMC, parts delivery, etc.)
  • Managing overall release of components including the bill of materials, CAD drawings, design verification plan and physical testing, issuing engineering change notices, creating and reviewing DFMEAs & DVP&Rs, developing source packages
  • Support the purchasing organization
  • Support manufacturing at vehicle assembly plants through pilot builds, launch activities and continuous improvement
  • Support the service organization by developing diagnostic analysis and repair techniques
  • Support the quality organization in the PPAP process as well as analysis of warranty claims
  • Work with their Functional Integration and EE counterparts they will actively lead root cause analysis of any issues which may be identified in manufacturing, development, aftermarket or elsewhere (tracking systems include GIMS, RMS, IDS, etc.)
  • Communicate status to the program and the engineering organization through their Global Design Lead and/or Sub System Technical Lead

Basic Qualifications:
  • A minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or equivalent (Materials /Chemical/ Civil/ Aerospace/Computer).
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in automotive electrical/electronics engineering.
  • Strong interpersonal communication and leadership skills/experience
  • Program management skills
  • Ability to present concepts/strategies/project status to large groups
  • Ability to work effectively within a team environment and be able to perform job responsibilities with little supervision
  • Ability to sort through complex problems and data in pursuit of a resolution

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master of Science degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering or MBA from an ABET accredited university
  • Experience with internal Stellantis and EE systems
  • Two or more years of experience with design and validation of chassis brake systems
  • Experience specifically related to the design of chassis components
  • Ability to perform basic design activities in CATIA/NX/Teamcenter related to vehicle packaging and design of component to support day-to-day responsibilities
  • Design For Six Sigma training (DFSS) proactive Quality training Formal problem-solving training (Kepner Tregoe, Shainin)

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