Rafael Hidalgo

About Rafael Hidalgo

I hold a Master of Science in Computer Science from Montclair State University, complemented by a strong foundation in data science developed through my experience as an Analytical Chemist and Research Assistant. These roles sharpened my scientific reasoning and ignited a passion for using data to solve real-world problems.Data Analysis & InterpretationAt Nelson Laboratories, I performed high-throughput analytical testing using techniques such as HPLC, atomic absorption, and UV-Vis spectroscopy—boosting efficiency by 30%. This hands-on work with large datasets strengthened my skills in organizing, analyzing, and drawing insights from complex data.Strategic Solution DevelopmentI designed lab workflows and custom data systems that reduced operational costs by 20% and improved data accessibility. I now apply that same innovative thinking to enhance machine learning models and algorithmic performance in my current projects.Leadership in Research & AI DevelopmentI led the Robo-CSK Organizer project, which improved robotic decision-making efficiency by 40% and was awarded Best Paper at the IEMTRONICS 2024 conference. In another initiative, I fine-tuned a text-to-image diffusion model trained on 2.3 billion images to generate unique outputs from as few as 30 inputs—demonstrating the power of model personalization at scale.I\'m actively seeking opportunities to apply my analytical mindset and creative problem-solving skills to drive business value through data. If you\'re looking for someone who can turn complex data into actionable insights, feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn or reach out at r••••••••@gmail.com.Specialties:Data Science & AnalyticsMachine LearningData InterpretationResearch & DevelopmentTechnological Innovation

Experience

1. Software Engineer

   Istar Jewelry

   Nov 2025 — Present · Pine Brook, NJ, US

   Software Engineer supporting the design, development, and deployment of internal platforms that extend and integrate with Acumatica ERP, enabling automation across inventory, logistics, invoicing, and warehouse operations.Design and maintain ERP-integrated backend services to support inventory ID generation, UPC allocation, customer proposals, carton validation, and packing slip generationBuild and deploy microservices (Node.js and Python) that supplement Acumatica functionality and support real-world manufacturing and distribution workflowsLead development of a Kohl’s packing slip automation system, converting large DSCO Excel exports into branded, multi-page PDF documents using parallel processing and barcode generationDevelop warehouse tooling for real-time carton validation and item scanning, integrating directly with Acumatica APIs to support operational accuracyBuild and maintain full-stack internal tools using React, TypeScript, Node.js, PostgreSQL, and Prisma, deployed via Nginx and PM2 across staging and production environmentsImplement Excel-based automation pipelines for ERP imports, proposals, and reporting, reducing manual processing and operational riskCollaborate cross-functionally with logistics, operations, and business teams to translate complex business processes into reliable, maintainable software systemsSupport ongoing ERP evolution by troubleshooting data integrity issues, improving documentation, and hardening deployment workflowsTech stack:Node.js · Express · Python · Flask · React · TypeScript · PostgreSQL · Prisma · Acumatica ERP · REST APIs · Nginx · PM2 · Excel automation · PDF generation

Education

• Montclair State University

  Master's degree, Computer Science

• Montclair State University

  Bachelor's degree, Biology and Spanish

  2008 — 2011