Jay Dennis
Divernon,IL
Summary
Dynamic and dedicated professional with extensive experience as a Correctional Officer at the Illinois Department of Corrections. Expert in crisis intervention and conflict resolution, successfully reducing contraband incidents through vigilant monitoring. Proven ability to foster a safe environment while supporting mental health initiatives, demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
Work History
Correctional Officer
Illinois Department Of Corrections
Taylorville, IL
07.2019 - Current
- Managed high-risk situations with professionalism and composure, ensuring the safety of all involved parties.
- Searched cells of inmates to identify and confiscate contraband and other prohibited items.
- Maintained inmate safety through vigilant monitoring of behavior and swift intervention during conflicts.
- Reduced instances of contraband by thoroughly searching inmates, cells, and common areas.
- Escorted inmates to and from cells, court, hospitals, and medical appointments.
- Conducted routine and emergency head counts.
- Assisted in the training of new correctional officers, providing guidance on best practices and procedures.
- Prepared, processed and maintained forms, reports, logs, records, and activity journals.
- Collaborated with fellow officers to maintain a secure environment for staff, visitors, and inmates.
- Ensured compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies governing correctional facilities.
- Contributed to a positive work culture among colleagues by utilizing effective communication skills both verbally and in writing.
- Demonstrated cultural sensitivity when interacting with diverse populations within the correctional setting, promoting an inclusive environment for all individuals present.
- Supported mental health initiatives for inmates by connecting them with appropriate resources and services within the facility.
- Responded to emergency situations and de-escalated hostile confrontations.
- Prepared reports to document incidents and violations.
Highway Maintainer
Sangamon County Highway Department
Springfield, IL
07.2009 - 06.2019
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
- Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
Education
No Degree - Criminal Justice
Lincoln Land Community College
Springfield, ILHigh School Diploma -
Divernon High School
Divernon, IL05-1997
Skills
- First aid training
- Emergency response
- De-escalation techniques
- Conflict resolution skills
- Mental health awareness
- Observation
- Crisis intervention training
- First aid and CPR certified
- Organizational skills
- Problem-solving
- Decision-making
- Incident reporting
- Multitasking
Timeline
Correctional Officer
Illinois Department Of Corrections
07.2019 - Current
Highway Maintainer
Sangamon County Highway Department
07.2009 - 06.2019
No Degree - Criminal Justice
Lincoln Land Community College
High School Diploma -
Divernon High School