An electromagnetic actuator includes a plunger, an armature, and a coil. The plunger is moveable between a first position and a second position. The armature includes a first armature portion proximally disposed about the first position, and a second armature portion proximally disposed about the second position. The coil is proximally disposed with the first armature portion and, when energized, is configured to generate a magnetic field. The magnetic field causes the plunger to move toward the first position by a magnetic flux through a magnetic circuit. The magnetic circuit includes the first armature portion, the plunger, a main air gap, and a variable air gap. The main air gap and variable air gap are between the first armature portion and the plunger. The main air gap diminishes as the plunger moves toward the first position. The variable air gap enlarges as the plunger moves toward the first position.