The present application is directed to a MEMS device. The MEMS device includes a substrate having a first end and a second end extending along a longitudinal axis, the substrate including an electrostatic actuator. The device also includes a movable plate having a first end and a second end. The device also includes a thermal actuator having a first end coupled to the first end of the substrate and a second end coupled to the first end of the plate. The actuator moves the plate in relation to the substrate. Further, the device includes a power source electrically coupled to the thermal actuator and the substrate. The application is also directed to a method for operating a MEMS device.