James Craig
Taylorville,IL
Summary
Experienced Correctional Officer with a strong focus on security management and communication. Adept at conducting safety inspections and developing conflict resolution strategies that enhance inmate safety and facility compliance.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Correctional Officer
State of Illinois- Department of Corrections
Taylorville, Illinois
05.2013 - Current
- Monitored inmate interactions to ensure compliance with facility policies and enhance security.
- Conducted routine inspections to identify safety hazards and uphold operational standards.
- Documented incidents and maintained accurate records for internal investigations.
- Trained new staff on security protocols, emergency procedures, and inmate management techniques.
- Coordinated transportation for inmates to court appearances and medical appointments, ensuring safety during transit.
- Implemented conflict resolution strategies to de-escalate violent situations among inmates.
- Administered first aid and CPR in emergencies, ensuring timely medical assistance for inmates.
- Participated in drills and training exercises to strengthen emergency response preparedness.
- Informed inmates and visitors of rules, safety and security procedures and responsibilities.
- Oversaw public areas and grounds to verify cleanliness and inmate safety.
- Maintained safety, security, and sanitation throughout the facility, and outside the facility work details.
- Observed inmate behavior to prevent crime, escape attempts and other dangerous activities.
- Used appropriate means to discipline prisoners.
- Monitored daily activities to identify and manage suspicious behavior, improper conduct, and signs of conflict.
- Maintained clear and open communications with facility areas to support safe operations.
- Transported prisoners between facilities or court hearings using secure vehicles equipped with restraints.
- Reported on quality of inmate work and violations committed by prisoners.
- Counseled inmates and responded to legitimate questions, concerns and requests.
- Observed emotional and physical conditions of inmates to identify and proactively address concerns.
- Supervised and inspected inmates' rooms and premises for illegal items.
- Served as a liaison between correctional staff members, outside agencies, family members of incarcerated individuals, legal representatives, and parole officers.
- Provided crisis intervention services to inmates who experienced sudden changes in behavior or emotional distress due to traumatic events inside the facility.
- Participated in team meetings with other professionals involved in the rehabilitation process of an inmate.
- Ensured that all necessary paperwork was completed accurately when an inmate is transferred between facilities or released from prison.
- Collaborated with other correctional staff members to ensure that all safety protocols were followed during counseling sessions.
- Reported unusual conditions and questionable items to supervisor for corrective action.
- Prepared parole administration documentation with zero discrepancies.
Product Assembler
Caterpillar
Decatur, Illinois
08.2012 - 04.2013
- Performed assembly of components according to specifications and established guidelines.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to improve assembly processes and product quality.
- Maintained tools and equipment to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- Executed quality control inspections to verify product integrity before shipment.
- Trained new employees on assembly procedures and safety protocols.
- Identified and reported any defects or inconsistencies in parts or products.
- Participated in process improvement initiatives to enhance overall efficiency.
- Adhered to safety compliance regulations while operating machinery in the assembly line.
- Implemented best practices for tool maintenance and usage within the assembly area.
- Conducted routine checks on assembly line equipment to prevent malfunctions.
- Supported continuous improvement efforts by providing feedback on assembly techniques.
- Followed safety and quality requirements every day.
- Ensured that work areas were kept clean and organized at all times.
Child Care Counselor
Kemmerer Village
Assumption, Illinois
07.2011 - 07.2012
- Developed and implemented individualized behavior management strategies for children in care.
- Monitored children's activities to ensure safety and compliance with established guidelines.
- Facilitated recreational activities that promoted teamwork and social skills among children.
- Documented daily observations and interactions to maintain accurate records of child progress.
- Assisted in resolving conflicts between children through mediation and problem-solving techniques.
- Encouraged positive social interactions by guiding children during group activities and discussions.
- Provided crisis intervention and support during emotional or behavioral outbursts.
- Planned and executed educational activities that stimulated cognitive and emotional growth.
- Engaged children in one-on-one support sessions to address personal issues and build trust.
- Ensured that all safety regulations were followed while on duty.
- Encouraged positive behavior through verbal praise and positive reinforcement strategies.
Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class
US Navy
Oak Harbor, Washington
06.1991 - 06.2011
- Executed thorough inspections on ordnance equipment to ensure operational readiness.
- Coordinated training sessions for junior personnel on explosive handling procedures.
- Streamlined ordnance inventory processes to enhance accuracy and accountability.
- Assisted in the assembly and disassembly of various munitions for training exercises.
- Developed and reviewed technical documentation for ordnance maintenance operations.
- Collaborated with maintenance teams to address equipment malfunctions and improve performance.
- Implemented safety protocols to mitigate risks during weapon handling and storage.
- Conducted detailed audits of munitions stock to maintain compliance with safety regulations.
- Trained personnel on maintenance and repair procedures for aviation ordnance systems.
- Prepared aircraft for missions by loading and arming ordnance as per operational guidelines.
- Monitored the safe transport of munitions to ensure compliance with military regulations.
- Reviewed incident reports to identify trends and enhance safety measures across operations.
- Participated in joint exercises with flight crews to enhance mission readiness and coordination.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization in ordnance storage facilities to ensure safety.
- Worked effectively with fellow team members in fast-paced, dangerous and intense environments.
- Evaluated and improved workflow processes to enhance efficiency in ordnance operations.
- Performed safety checks on all aviation-related equipment prior to use or operation.
- Supported onboarding of new employees by hosting orientation sessions.
- Maintained accurate records of all trainings conducted.
- Managed training calendars to inform participants of upcoming training session topics and dates.
- Assisted in designing, developing, and implementing new training methods and techniques.
- Coordinated with subject matter experts to develop effective training content.
- Evaluated employee performance before, during, and after training sessions.
- Provided feedback to trainers regarding the effectiveness of their sessions.
- Monitored and evaluated the effectiveness of training programs using pre- and post-assessment tools.
- Replaced defective wiring harnesses and related electrical components.
- Created and maintained an effective team environment through collaboration and communication.
- Engaged in problem solving activities with all levels of staff when issues arose.
- Provided guidance to subordinates on how to improve their performance and develop new skills.
- Delegated work to staff, setting priorities and goals.
- Remained calm and professional in stressful circumstances and effectively diffused tense situations.
- Helped employees understand and follow senior manager orders to support business success.
- Organized team-building activities to foster morale and cohesion within the unit.
- Monitored personnel qualifications and training requirements, recommending courses of action when necessary.
- Provided guidance, mentorship, and counseling to junior personnel.
- Conducted performance evaluations for all subordinate personnel.
- Coordinated with other divisions to ensure mission objectives were met efficiently.
- Supervised maintenance of equipment assigned to the division including ordering new parts or materials as needed.
- Ensured subordinates were properly trained and qualified in their respective ratings.
- Supervised a team of Quality Control Inspectors and Technicians.
- Provided guidance to staff on best practices in quality assurance methods.
- Conducted regular audits to ensure compliance with quality standards.
- Supervised onboarding and training of new personnel to maximize capacities of quality assurance team.
- Conducted new employee orientation to introduce employees to policies, culture and objectives.
- Assisted in the development of instructional materials such as handouts, manuals and multimedia visual aids.
- Maintained records of all completed employee trainings.
- Developed and coordinated a variety of training classes for employees.
- Coached employees in developing and achieving individual performance goals.
- Coordinated external vendors for specialized workshops or seminars when needed.
- Scheduled classes based on availability of classrooms, equipment or instructors.
- Selected and assigned instructors to conduct training.
- Implemented diversity and inclusion training programs to foster an equitable workplace environment.
- Promoted a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organization.
Education
Master of Arts - Organizational Leadership
Chapman University
01-2014
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
Chapman University
12-2011
Skills
- Inmate management
- Incident documentation
- Security protocol enforcement
- Emergency response training
- Conflict resolution
- Safety inspections
- American Sign Language
Timeline
Correctional Officer
State of Illinois- Department of Corrections
05.2013 - Current
Product Assembler
Caterpillar
08.2012 - 04.2013
Child Care Counselor
Kemmerer Village
07.2011 - 07.2012
Aviation Ordnanceman 1st Class
US Navy
06.1991 - 06.2011
Master of Arts - Organizational Leadership
Chapman University
Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice
Chapman University