Senior Actuator Design Engineer

Figure is an AI Robotics company developing a general purpose humanoid. Our humanoid robot, Figure 02, is designed for commercial tasks and the home. We are based in San Jose, CA and require 5 days/week in-office collaboration. It's time to build.

We are seeking a passionate and skilled Actuator Design Engineer with a strong background in electric motor mechanical design and integrated geartrain development. You will help define and execute the design of compact, high-torque, and highly efficient actuators for a new generation of humanoid robots. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience in rotor/stator design, geartrain sizing (planetary, harmonic), and bearing arrangement, and is proficient with tools like CATIA and KISSsoft or Romax.

Key Responsibilities:

Own the mechanical design of electric actuators, including lamination stacks, high-speed rotors, geartrains, and bearing systems

Design and size planetary gearboxes and other reduction stages to meet torque density, speed, and lifetime requirements

Architect full actuator assemblies including structural layout, thermal path considerations, and serviceability

Lead design of rotor and stator assemblies including magnet retention (adhesives, interference fits), balancing, and burst strength analysis

Perform detailed tolerance stack-ups, shaft fits, bearing life calculations, and structural analysis using FEA

Use KISSsoft or Romax to model gearbox performance, lifetime, and manufacturability

Develop detailed CAD in CATIA and release complete drawing packages for supplier release and internal manufacturing

Collaborate closely with electromagnetic, controls, and system teams to deliver integrated, validated actuator solutions

Support vendor discussions and DFM reviews to ensure robust and scalable production of actuator components Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

3+ years of experience in mechanical design of actuators, electric motors, or gear-driven systems

Strong fundamentals in mechanical design, dynamics, and structural analysis

Proven experience designing planetary or other compact gearbox architectures

Deep understanding of bearing selection, preloading, and life estimation

Proficiency with CATIA (V5 or V6) for complex assemblies and surfacing

Hands-on experience with rotor balancing and high-speed design for rotating systems

Proficient with KISSsoft or Romax for gearbox modeling and optimization

Excellent communication skills and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment Preferred Qualifications:

Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on machine design or dynamics

Experience designing actuators for robotics, aerospace, or automotive applications

Knowledge of thermal management in compact electromechanical systems

Familiarity with lamination stack-up design, magnet bonding, and motor assembly methods

Experience taking actuator designs from concept through prototyping and into production

The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 and $190,000 annually.

The pay offered for this position may vary based on several individual factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package may also include additional components/benefits depending on the specific role. This information will be shared if an employment offer is extended.