Staff Actuator Design Engineer

What You Will Do

• Design, develop, and test electromechanical actuators and motor-driven mechanisms for light electric vehicle platforms
• Create detailed drawing packages and manufacturing instructions for mechanical parts and assemblies
• Perform 3D modeling of components and assemblies, including die castings, injection-molded plastics, sheet metal, powder metal, and metal injection molding
• Collaborate with electrical engineers to integrate PCBAs, wire harnesses, and electronic systems into mechanical designs
• Collaborate with controls engineers to ensure physical systems support robust control and seamless integration with embedded software
• Coordinate validation efforts with Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers
• Develop and execute design verification plans and reports (DVP&R)
• Lead and maintain design failure mode and effects analyses (DFMEAs)
• Prototype and iterate designs using hands-on fabrication and lab testing to validate functionality
• Set actuator design standards and best practices for the engineering team
• Mentor and develop engineers through design reviews, technical guidance, and hands-on collaboration

What You Will Bring

• BS/MS in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 8+ years of experience designing electromechanical actuators
• Deep understanding of motors, servo drives, and motion sensors
• Design experience with precision motion mechanisms, including force/displacement amplification, mechanical linkages, and motion transmission systems (spur, planetary, worm, cycloidal gearing, lead screws, and ball screws)
• Deep understanding of the sources and effects of friction, damping, and backlash, and how to mitigate and control them
• Ability to model mechanical behavior (e.g., stiffness, losses, backlash) using MATLAB/Simulink, Amesim, or equivalent 1D multiphysics simulation tool
• Strong foundation in material properties, coatings, heat treatment, statics, and dynamics
• Knowledgeable about control strategies and firmware implementation
• Proficient in 3D/2D CAD (Catia V5/V6 preferred) and skilled in CAE tools (Ansys, Abaqus, HyperWorks, or similar)
• Strong knowledge of GD&T and tolerance stack-up analysis
• Bonus: Proficient in developing low-level drivers using Python, C, and C++
• Bonus: Design experience with PCBA integration and wire harness design
• Bonus: Familiarity with PLM systems, BOM structuring, engineering changes, and deviation processes

Additional information

The salary for this position ranges from $200,000 - $230,000 per year, depending on experience, qualifications, and location.

Perks and Benefits

• Robust health coverage. Excellent health, dental and vision insurance covered up to 100% by Also. with FSA & HSA options.
• One Medical membership and dedicated insurance advocates.
• Rich fertility and family building benefits with Progyny.
• Flexible time off.
• 401(k) match.

• Why ALSO.
• We’re passionate about helping the world find a better way to get there-wherever it is you’re headed.
• We’re located in the heart of Silicon Valley and have brought together a world-class team from some of the biggest brands in the technology, automotive, cycling, outdoor recreation and retail spaces.
• Together we’re working hands-on to imagine, design and build an entirely new solution to a global set of transportation challenges.