The effectiveness and optimization of parameters associated with embedded moving surface actuation over a square cylinder are investigated experimentally. The space of actuation parameters is reduced to a grid search by measuring pressure on the surface of the obstacle and implementing an NSGA-II evolutionary algorithm. From these results a detailed grid search is performed and PIV data gathered for the baseline and actuated flow to investigate changes in the wake. Baseline characteristics and a methodology for analysis are first presented for the unactuated flow at a constant Reynolds number of 15,000. Key signatures of von Karman vortex shedding are noted in the time-averaged quantities and Fourier spectra from both the pressure and velocity measurements. A POD analysis is performed identifying the spatial shapes and energy distribution associated with the shedding. Ensemble phase averaging is performed to quantify the ratio of shed circulation and establish the degree of cycle-to-cycle variations. Grid search results from the actuated flows are presented. A characteristic whirling frequency associated with the actuation is noted in the Fourier spectra and an analysis of the associated effects presented over the range of actuation rates. From the gathered PIV data an analysis was performed following a similar methodology as the baseline case. The affects of lock-on and quasi-periodicity due to the actuation frequency are quantified over the range 2000 to 3000 RPM via POD and phase average. Relation of the vortex street parameters extracted from the PIV to the coefficient of drag is presented. Trends in the drag correlate with changes in the vortex impulse due to alteration of the shedding structure. Cycle-to-cycle variations are further investigated to verify effects observed from mean quantities.