Abstract: A hydraulically-assisted engine valve actuator for assisting in the actuation of an engine valve, includes a servo piston being operably coupled to the engine valve. A translatable pilot valve is in fluid communication with the servo piston and the main piston and is operably coupled to and controlled by a pilot valve positioning system. The pilot valve positioning system controls a translational stroke of the pilot valve to meter hydraulic fluid under pressure to and from the servo piston. A stroke magnifier magnifies a stroke of the pilot valve positioning system.