A linear actuator (10) includes a plastic housing (12) having an integral flange (14) for mounting the actuator. A stator assembly (16), having windings (18), is disposed in the plastic housing. A rotor assembly (20), having a permanent magnet (22), is mounted for rotation with respect to the stator assembly such that when the windings are energized, a magnetic field is generated to cause rotation of the rotor assembly. A shaft (32) is restricted from rotation and is associated with the rotor assembly such that rotation of the rotor assembly causes linear movement of the shaft. Connector structure (46) houses leads for powering the windings. The plastic housing has an annular end (48) that captures an annular surface (50) of the connector structure to couple the plastic housing to the connector structure.