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Rafael Mendoza

CNC Machinist
Grand Rapids, MI, United States

Professional Summary

Precision-focused CNC Machinist with 10+ years of experience setting up and operating multi-axis mills and lathes for automotive and aerospace suppliers. Known for holding tolerances to ±0.0005", strengthening inspection discipline, and delivering reliable shop-floor output through careful setup, quality checks, and team training.

Employment History

CNC Machinist
Lakeshore Precision Components · Grand Rapids, MI
2021 · Present
• Set up and operated multi-axis Haas and DMG mills/lathes for automotive and aerospace supplier components, holding tolerances to ±0.0005”. • Reduced scrap approximately 18% through disciplined first-piece checks, tool-life monitoring, and corrective action. • Trained 4 junior operators on setup verification, offsets, blueprint interpretation, and safe machine operation.
CNC Operator
West Michigan Tool & Die · Grand Rapids, MI
2017 · 2021
• Operated Fanuc- and Mazak-controlled CNC equipment, completing first-article inspections and in-process checks for close-tolerance tooling. • Cut setup time approximately 25% by standardizing fixtures, setup sheets, and repeatable tool-offset procedures. • Partnered with quality and engineering teams to resolve dimensional issues and keep production on schedule.
Machine Shop Apprentice
River City Manufacturing · Grand Rapids, MI
2015 · 2017
• Read engineering blueprints and work instructions while supporting manual mill and lathe operations for prototype and production parts. • Assisted with basic CNC programming, tool changes, deburring, and in-process measurements under senior machinist guidance. • Built foundational habits in safe setup, 5S organization, material traceability, and precision shop math.

Education

Associate of Applied Science, Machine Tool Technology
Grand Rapids Community College · Grand Rapids, MI
2013 · 2015
NIMS Machining Level I • OSHA-10 General Industry

Skills

Mastercam
G-code/M-code
Haas
Mazak
Fanuc
GD&T
CMM basics
Calipers/micrometers
SPC
5S
Lean