Senior Actuator Design Engineer

<p>Figure is an AI robotics company developing autonomous general-purpose humanoid robots. The goal of the company is to ship humanoid robots with human level intelligence. Its robots are engineered to perform a variety of tasks in the home and commercial markets. Figure is headquartered in San Jose, CA.</p> <p>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.</p> <p><strong>Key Responsibilities:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Own the mechanical design of electric actuators, including lamination stacks, high-speed rotors, geartrains, and bearing systems</li> <li>Design and size planetary gearboxes and other reduction stages to meet torque density, speed, and lifetime requirements</li> <li>Architect full actuator assemblies including structural layout, thermal path considerations, and serviceability</li> <li>Lead design of rotor and stator assemblies including magnet retention (adhesives, interference fits), balancing, and burst strength analysis</li> <li>Perform detailed tolerance stack-ups, shaft fits, bearing life calculations, and structural analysis using FEA</li> <li>Use KISSsoft or Romax to model gearbox performance, lifetime, and manufacturability</li> <li>Develop detailed CAD in CATIA and release complete drawing packages for supplier release and internal manufacturing</li> <li>Collaborate closely with electromagnetic, controls, and system teams to deliver integrated, validated actuator solutions</li> <li>Support vendor discussions and DFM reviews to ensure robust and scalable production of actuator components</li> </ul> <p><strong>Requirements:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering</li> <li>3+ years of experience in mechanical design of actuators, electric motors, or gear-driven systems</li> <li>Strong fundamentals in mechanical design, dynamics, and structural analysis</li> <li>Proven experience designing planetary or other compact gearbox architectures</li> <li>Deep understanding of bearing selection, preloading, and life estimation</li> <li>Proficiency with CATIA (V5 or V6) for complex assemblies and surfacing</li> <li>Hands-on experience with rotor balancing and high-speed design for rotating systems</li> <li>Proficient with KISSsoft or Romax for gearbox modeling and optimization</li> <li>Excellent communication skills and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment</li> </ul> <p><strong>Preferred Qualifications:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with a focus on machine design or dynamics</li> <li>Experience designing actuators for robotics, aerospace, or automotive applications</li> <li>Knowledge of thermal management in compact electromechanical systems</li> <li>Familiarity with lamination stack-up design, magnet bonding, and motor assembly methods</li> <li>Experience taking actuator designs from concept through prototyping and into production</li> </ul> <p>The US base salary range for this full-time position is between $150,000 and $190,000 annually.</p> <p>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. </p>