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
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
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
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