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Steven A. Barbosa
Eighteen years in customer service and hospitality, and over twelve in public safety and security — built on sound judgment, steady composure under pressure, and a record people can count on.
Steady, Dependable, and Easy to Work with
My career has been built on long-term commitment, adaptability, and service to others. I have spent significant portions of my professional life in both the restaurant and corrections fields, two very different industries that strengthened my ability to work with people, respond to changing circumstances, and remain dependable under pressure.
My years in the restaurant industry taught me how to succeed in a fast-moving, high-stress environment where customer service, teamwork, communication, and attention to detail are essential. My career in corrections required a different kind of flexibility; being available for changing schedules, working long hours, remaining attentive and composed, and accepting the responsibility that comes with serving in a demanding public-safety environment.
Across both careers, one principle has remained constant, I value connecting with people, building genuine relationships, and being of service to others. After decades of experience, I bring a strong work ethic, reliability, patience, adaptability, and an understanding that the way you treat people matters.
Beyond the Resume
A bit more about Steven
Hobbies & interests
Family
Family has always been at the center of my life. I come from a large, close-knit Portuguese family where spending time together, supporting one another, and maintaining strong family bonds have always been important. Some of my best memories come from family gatherings and celebrations—the conversations around the table, shared meals, holidays, and traditions that have been passed down through generations.Growing up surrounded by Portuguese culture gave me a strong appreciation for my heritage and the importance of keeping traditions alive. Whether through food, celebrations, community events, or simply making time to be together, I value the sense of connection and belonging that comes from being part of a close family. I am also proud to be a godfather and an uncle to three, roles that have given me another opportunity to be present, supportive, and involved in the lives of those closest to me.
Sports
Sports have been another constant throughout my life. I am a lifelong soccer player and fan, and I have always appreciated the teamwork, discipline, competition, and camaraderie that come with the game. My interest in athletics also goes back to high school, where I competed in track and field in a variety of sprinting and relay events. Those experiences taught me the value of individual effort while also understanding how important it is to contribute to a team.I am also a longtime football fan and a dedicated Raiders supporter. Whether I am playing soccer or following soccer and football as a fan, sports continue to be something I genuinely enjoy and a way to connect with friends, family, and others who share that enthusiasm.
Relationships & Community
One theme that connects my personal and professional life is the importance I place on people. I enjoy meeting others, hearing their stories, building genuine relationships, and being someone people can depend on. Whether through my family, sports, friendships, career, or involvement in my community, I have always valued being present and contributing where I can.Beyond the accomplishments and experience listed on my résumé, I believe the relationships I have built and maintained over the years say a great deal about who I am. Family, tradition, teamwork, service, and connection are values that have remained important to me throughout every stage of my life
Community involvement
Newark Portugal Day Parade — Union County Sheriff’s Department
Participated with the Union County Sheriff’s Department in the Newark Portugal Day Parade, supporting the department’s community presence and engagement during an important cultural celebration. The experience reflected a continued commitment to public service, community involvement, and building positive relationships with the people and communities served.
Professional goals
At this stage of my career, my goal is to bring the experience I have gained over decades of serving others into a position where I can continue helping people, providing excellent customer service, and making a meaningful contribution to an organization and its customers.
My experience has taught me that strong service is about more than completing a task. It is about listening, being dependable, understanding what someone needs, and treating people with respect. One of the principles I have valued most throughout my career is making connections with others and building genuine relationships.
I want to continue pursuing work where those qualities matter. I bring decades of experience working with people in demanding environments, along with the flexibility, patience, attentiveness, work ethic, and service mindset developed over a long career. My goal is to use that experience to help others while continuing to learn, contribute, and provide value wherever I work.
Why Steven Stands Out
Reliability, sound judgment, and clear communication across two decades of public-facing work.
Composure Under Pressure
Sound judgment and calm decision-making in high-stress situations.
Policy Compliance & Documentation
Accurate reporting and adherence to procedure.
Customer Service & Client Relations
Eighteen years building trust and repeat business.
Communication
Trilingual: English, Portuguese, Spanish — clear communication with diverse groups.
Professional Experience
Corrections Officer — Ocean County Corrections
Toms River, NJ · 07/2024–Present
Maintains a safe, secure, and orderly environment for staff and the public, applying sound judgment in high-pressure situations.
Corrections Officer — Union County Sheriff's Office
Elizabeth, NJ · 03/2014–06/2024
Oversaw daily safety and security operations for a decade, building a strong record of reliability and sound judgment.
Rater / Underwriter — Couch Braunsdorf Insurance
Bernardsville, NJ · 07/2012–01/2014
Evaluated and processed insurance quotes across multiple carriers to secure competitive rates for clients.
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Waiter / Assistant Manager — Clark Barbeque
Clark, NJ · 04/2005 - 7/2012 (Full Time)
07/2012 - 12/2023 (Part Time)
Delivered consistently top-rated customer service, growing into scheduling and financial reconciliation duties.
Education, Certifications & Languages
Education
Minor in Criminal Justice
Kean University, Union, NJ
Graduated May 2010
GPA 3.22
Certifications
Languages
References
References available upon request.
Get in Touch With Steven
Open to opportunities and happy to answer questions — reach out anytime.