Actuator Design Engineer

Overview: The role involves leading the design, development, and technical evaluation of advanced electromechanical actuator systems supporting various applications such as humanoid robotics, drones, defense platforms, and industrial automation. The engineer will be responsible for the full lifecycle of actuator development, from architecture and concept generation to prototype validation and system integration, as well as building the business case and driving it to an investment decision.

Responsibilities: Design and prototype rotary and linear actuators optimized for targeted applications. Own and drive the end-to-end business case for actuator manufacturing capabilities, including market sizing, competitive benchmarking, capital expenditure, and unit economics. Present technical and market findings to executive leadership and defend the business case. Lead electromagnetic, thermal, and mechanical trade-off analyses across candidate architectures. Specify magnet grades, geometries, and rotor configurations in partnership with engineering teams. Guide prototype build and test programs to validate actuator performance against specifications. Partner with manufacturing and suppliers to transition designs from prototype to scalable production-ready systems, including sourcing strategy and vendor qualification. Serve as the technical contact with OEMs to understand and meet actuator specifications and integration constraints. Advise on intellectual property landscape, compliance considerations, and supply chain implications. Define organizational structure and hiring plans for the actuator engineering team and manage engineering staff as the business case develops.

Qualifications: 8+ years of experience in actuator, motor, or electromechanical system design, with expertise in robotics, aerospace, defense, or precision motion control. Experience independently building and executing a business case for new products or initiatives, including market sizing, benchmarking, unit economics, and investment recommendations. Strong foundation in electromagnetics, motor design, and mechatronic system integration. Experience designing for prototype and production environments, including machining, casting, molding, and assembly processes. Proven ability to lead or build technical teams.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience with permanent magnet materials (NdFeB) and their application in high-performance actuators. Familiarity with humanoid robotics, drone, or defense platform requirements and defense compliance considerations. Prior experience in corporate development, new business incubation, or 0-to-1 product roles. Advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechatronics. We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those qualified individuals who closely meet the qualifications of the position will be contacted. The details of the position are only a summary, other duties may be assigned as necessary. Background Check and Drug Screen may be required.