Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Timeline
Generic

John Ray

Summary

I am an energetic, hard working and responsible married, father of two young kids. I am looking for a rewarding career with the ability to serve my community.

Overview

33
33
years of professional experience

Work History

Substitute Custodian

Johnston City Community Unit School District #1
11.2023 - Current
  • Improved school cleanliness by performing thorough and regular custodial duties, including sweeping, mopping, and sanitizing surfaces.
  • Aided in maintaining well-functioning facilities by reporting any necessary repairs or malfunctions to appropriate personnel.
  • Demonstrated adaptability in times of staffing shortages or emergencies by quickly adjusting to different building layouts or responsibilities on short notice.
  • Promoted a respectful work environment by maintaining professional interactions with staff, students, and visitors.
  • Enabled smooth transitions between substitute assignments through clear communication with fellow custodians about ongoing projects or concerns.



Lawncare, Tree and Home Maintenance

Self Employed
01.2017 - Current
  • Operating and maintaining lawncare, tree trimming and handyman business.
  • Manage scheduling for multiple clients, ensuring timely completion of all tasks while minimizing downtime.
  • Assisting with seasonal cleanup efforts including leaf removal, mulching, pruning, and tree removal when necessary.
  • Optimizing machinery lifespan through routine inspections, cleaning procedures, oil changes and blade sharpening.
  • Delivering exceptional customer service by addressing client concerns promptly and professionally, ensuring repeat business.

Parent Mentor

Parent Engagement Institute, Jefferson Elementary
09.2022 - 05.2023
  • Contributed to a positive school climate through active engagement in an assigned classroom, professional development workshops, and community engagement.
  • Worked one on one and in groups with students for optimal learning and engagement
  • Promoted parental involvement in school activities, resulting in increased participation

Line Maintenance Tree Trimmer

IBEW/Nelson Tree Service
01.2020 - 06.2022
  • Reduced potential hazards by identifying and removing damaged or diseased limbs promptly.
  • Safeguarded surrounding property with careful planning and attention to detail during tree removal projects.
  • Maximized equipment lifespan by diligently cleaning tools after each use, reducing repair costs over time.
  • Maintained a clean, organized work site, demonstrating professionalism and respect for the property owners throughout each project''s duration.
  • Demonstrated strong communication skills when interacting with clients, addressing questions or concerns regarding the tree trimming process.
  • Streamlined work processes for increased efficiency, implementing best practices for tree trimming and removals.
  • Mitigated risks associated with hazardous trees near power lines through close collaboration with utility companies during removal operations.
  • Collaborated with team members to ensure optimal results while working on large-scale projects.
  • Promoted safety in the workplace by adhering to industry guidelines, including proper equipment usage and maintenance.

Small Business Owner

Self Employed
07.2017 - 01.2020
  • Managed daily operations for a successful small business, ensuring efficient processes and quality services.
  • Established a loyal customer base by providing personalized attention, addressing concerns promptly, and exceeding expectations.
  • Created financial plans and budgets to optimize resources, track expenses, and ensure profitability.
  • Evaluated sales reports and financial statements to manage cash flow and develop techniques to improve business.
  • Participated actively in local community events or organizations as a way to give back while expanding brand visibility and credibility.
  • Fostered a positive work environment that motivated employees towards achieving their potential while contributing significantly towards overall company success.

Boiler Operator, Turbine Operator, Scrubber Operator and Coal Handling

Southern Illinois Power Cooperative
01.2008 - 07.2017
  • Sole operator of CT Site/Gas Plant
  • Operated various types of machinery, demonstrating versatility and adaptability in diverse work environments.
  • Maintained a safe working environment by enforcing strict adherence to safety guidelines and protocols.
  • Assisted in training new operators, sharing knowledge of best practices and promoting a culture of teamwork amongst peers.
  • Provided on-the-job training to newly hired workers and team members.
  • Maintained knowledge of industry policies and procedures to set up and operate equipment safely.
  • Performed inspections and routine maintenance on equipment.
  • Operated technical and mechanical equipment and adjusted machine settings according to work cycles.
  • Consistently met or exceeded performance targets while maintaining strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
  • Accurately documented all operational data, ensuring up-to-date records for review and analysis.
  • Coordinated with other departments to address production-related issues, fostering effective communication across teams.
  • Kept accurate records of defective units or products.
  • Supported management in achieving strategic objectives related to productivity, cost control, quality assurance, compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Efficiently read and interpreted blueprints.

Maintenance and Mechanic

Southern Illinois Stone Quarry
03.2007 - 01.2008
  • Inspected and tested equipment to locate worn and damaged parts.
  • Replaced damaged, missing, or defective parts with new and refurbished components.
  • Performed diagnostic and troubleshooting procedures to find and identify root causes of mechanical issues.
  • Disassembled defective parts to make proper repairs.
  • Maintained a safe working environment at all times by adhering to company guidelines and OSHA regulations, reducing workplace accidents.
  • Kept equipment in good working order by following operating instructions, troubleshooting breakdowns, and maintaining supplies.
  • Streamlined repair processes by maintaining a well-organized and clean workspace, contributing to increased productivity.

Coal Miner

Pattiki, American Coal, Liberty Coal, Wildcat
01.1998 - 03.2007
  • Prep plant operator and maintenance
  • Roof bolter, shuttle car and ram car operator
  • Managed inventory of supplies and materials, ensuring timely availability for uninterrupted mining activities.
  • Implemented quality control measures to ensure extracted coal met industry standards before distribution.
  • Ensured compliance with federal regulations, adhering to established guidelines for safe mining practices..
  • Operated heavy machinery, such as continuous miners and roof bolters, ensuring accurate coal extraction.
  • Minimized environmental impact through proper waste disposal and reclamation practices during mining operations.
  • Assisted in training new employees on proper procedures and safety measures required for successful coal mining operations.
  • Closely monitored and recorded locations, mining progress, and safety conditions.
  • Controlled conveyors running length of shuttle cars for load distribution.

Quality Control

Atkinson/Dillingham/Lane-Olmsted Lock and Dam Project
01.1996 - 05.1998
  • Reviewed design plans for accuracy and adherence to standards, preventing costly rework during construction phases.
  • Supervised the placement of concrete and tested the concrete quality before placement.
  • Optimized resource allocation by carefully monitoring project progress and adjusting schedules as needed.
  • Reduced production errors by streamlining processes and implementing preventative measures.
  • Improved communication between departments by establishing clear lines of communication and regular progress updates, enhancing overall project efficiency.
  • Led safety initiatives on-site, reducing accidents and promoting a safe working environment for all team members.
  • Conducted site surveys and prepared detailed reports, contributing to accurate project planning and execution.
  • Coordinated with contractors and suppliers to ensure materials met required specifications, maintaining high-quality standards throughout projects.
  • Supervised placement of piling with a 100% compliance rate.

Lake Patrol

Lake of Egypt Security Patrol
09.1995 - 01.1996
  • Seasonal job opportunity while attending college
  • Lake patrol of Lake of Egypt rec areas and power plant premises

US Marine

United States Marine Corps
01.1991 - 09.1995
  • Guarded Pacific Fleet Command Center, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii
  • Guarded refuel and de-fuel of nuclear submarines
  • Top secret, secret and sensitive security clearances
  • 0311 Infantry
  • Served Honor Guard, Pearl Harbor, repatriating POW/MIA remains and ceremonies
  • Driver, Commanding Officer
  • Itinerary planning for Foreign Dignitaries
  • Small Unit Leader and Squad Leader in C Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines
  • Trained in infantry tactics, room clearing and small arms
  • Trained in desert, jungle and urban warfare, first aid and leadership.

Education

Elementary Education

Western Governors University

John A. Logan College, Autobody Program

Shawnee Community College

Skills

  • I work well with others and I am always willing to learn new things I have worked hard and work hard at every job I've been given I am able to maintain composure under pressure and extreme situations I am very open minded to suggestions and different opinions for solutions to problems I am very self aware and believe I am a good judge of character

References

  • Justin Bonner, 618-614-2129
  • Erin Monchino, 618-967-8968
  • Trent Cockburn, 618-499-2736

Timeline

Substitute Custodian

Johnston City Community Unit School District #1
11.2023 - Current

Parent Mentor

Parent Engagement Institute, Jefferson Elementary
09.2022 - 05.2023

Line Maintenance Tree Trimmer

IBEW/Nelson Tree Service
01.2020 - 06.2022

Small Business Owner

Self Employed
07.2017 - 01.2020

Lawncare, Tree and Home Maintenance

Self Employed
01.2017 - Current

Boiler Operator, Turbine Operator, Scrubber Operator and Coal Handling

Southern Illinois Power Cooperative
01.2008 - 07.2017

Maintenance and Mechanic

Southern Illinois Stone Quarry
03.2007 - 01.2008

Coal Miner

Pattiki, American Coal, Liberty Coal, Wildcat
01.1998 - 03.2007

Quality Control

Atkinson/Dillingham/Lane-Olmsted Lock and Dam Project
01.1996 - 05.1998

Lake Patrol

Lake of Egypt Security Patrol
09.1995 - 01.1996

US Marine

United States Marine Corps
01.1991 - 09.1995

Elementary Education

Western Governors University

John A. Logan College, Autobody Program

Shawnee Community College
John Ray