Craig R. Merkel
Sneads Ferry,NC
Summary
Organized and results-driven professional with 20+ years of experience thriving in fast-paced, high-demand environments. Known for bringing energy, structure, and a positive, solution-oriented mindset to every challenge while successfully managing multiple priorities and delivering consistent results.
Proven ability to lead large teams, streamline operations, and execute complex initiatives with precision—regularly managing 100+ personnel and high-value assets exceeding $100M. Adept at staying focused under pressure, meeting deadlines, and driving projects forward in dynamic, ever-changing environments.
Experienced in strategic planning, operations management, data analysis, and cybersecurity, with a global background working across diverse teams and cultures. Recognized for strong organizational skills, proactive problem-solving, and a track record of excellence and professionalism.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Barracks Manager SkillBridge
MCAS New River S-4
Jacksonville, NC
03.2026 - Current
- Managed day-to-day facilities operations, maintaining compliance with safety regulations, security protocols, and company policies.
- Managed data collection, validation, and system updates to ensure accuracy and integrity of reporting within eMH, MOL, and MAXIMO platforms.
- Oversaw key control processes, including issuance, tracking, and accountability
- Completed Fire safety, eMH, and MAXIMO training
Senior Manager, Employee Relations
United States Marine Corps
Camp Lejeune
10.2020 - 03.2026
- Managed real property assets valued at significant levels, optimizing maintenance programs to reduce operational costs while consistently delivering high-quality facility services in support of mission requirements.
- Executed and synchronized on-site facility operations, including maintenance, alterations, cleaning, recycling, safety, environmental, and security activities to sustain uninterrupted mission support.
- resolved unique staffing challenges with understaffing, arbitrating disputes, terminating employees, verifying employment eligibility and recruiting operations.
Recruiter
United States Marine Corps
Tampa, FL
03.2017 - 10.2020
- Managed the full recruitment process, including prospecting, screening, sales, and processing, successfully enrolling over 40 new clients/contracts into a structured program.
- Worked independently, managing a full schedule with over 84 hours a week dedicated to prospecting, client support, and lead generation, contributing to overall recruitment goals.
- Engaged with over 80 high schools and community colleges, building relationships and attending 10 community outreach events to generate leads and referrals for future recruits
Team Leader
United States Marine Corps
Jacksonville, NC
01.2016 - 10.2020
- Led diverse teams in high-pressure environments, ensuring mission success and operational readiness.
- Developed training programs to enhance team performance and improve tactical skills across units.
- Streamlined communication processes, fostering collaboration between departments during critical operations.
- Implemented safety protocols that reduced incidents and improved overall unit compliance with regulations.
Education
Associate of Science - Computer Drafting And Design
ITT Technical Institute
Milwaukee, WI06-2003
Skills
- Project Management
- Team Leadership / Mentor
- Strategic Planning
- Ethical Leadership
- Operations Management
- Training & development
- Leadership Development
- Team Building
- Employee Relations
- Conflict Resolutions
Certification
- Basic Recruiter, United States Marine Corps 2017
- Advanced Management and Leadership, United States Marine Corps 2020
- Networking Chief, United Sates Marine Corps 2021
Timeline
Barracks Manager SkillBridge
MCAS New River S-4
03.2026 - Current
Senior Manager, Employee Relations
United States Marine Corps
10.2020 - 03.2026
Recruiter
United States Marine Corps
03.2017 - 10.2020
Team Leader
United States Marine Corps
01.2016 - 10.2020
Associate of Science - Computer Drafting And Design
ITT Technical Institute