Director, Construction Management

Saint Louis Zoo•St. Louis, MO

7h•Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of Construction Management will oversee the Saint Louis Zoo’s construction operations, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and according to the highest safety and quality standards. As a key leader within the Facilities and Planning Division, this position will support the Zoo’s mission and advocate the Zoo’s core values and three keys.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture or construction-related field preferred.
7-10+ years of experience managing construction projects with similar scope of responsibilities preferred.
Knowledge and experience with construction contracts, project costing, bidding process, project oversight, closeout and documentation systems, budget management, and general accounting principles.
Proficiency with advanced project management platforms such as Procore, PlanGrid, Microsoft Project, and Building Information Modeling.
Knowledge and experience with OSHA, BOCA, NFPA, ADA and other construction-related standards and requirements.
Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
Ability to work well in a team environment with subordinates, peers and superiors.
Good judgment with the ability to make timely and sound decisions.
Commitment to excellence and high standards.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
Must possess a valid driver’s license.
All successful candidates for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check and a drug test.
As this is a safety-sensitive role, a negative drug test result is mandatory. The drug test screens for five substances, including marijuana.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Association of Zoos and Aquariums standards and accreditation process a plus.

Responsibilities

Manage and oversee the entire project life cycle.
Protect Zoo interests, manage risk, and facilitate decision-making.
Create, oversee and communicate out detailed project schedules.
Manage cost estimation and budget development for materials, labor, and equipment.
Review drawings and specifications prior to the bidding process to ensure compliance with regulatory, safety, code requirements, and Zoo standards.
Secure necessary local authority approvals and permits.
Utilizing Zoo purchasing policies, negotiate with suppliers, subcontractors, and service providers to secure favorable terms and ensure timely delivery.
Review and approve all contract language in accordance with Zoo standards.
Track expenditures and implement value engineering strategies to reduce costs without compromising quality.
Prepare regular progress reports and project status updates with key milestones achieved, financial performance summaries, risk assessments and contingency plans, and recommendations for schedule adjustments or resource reallocations.
Review and sign off on project documentation throughout including but not limited to project files, daily reports, labor hours, contractor invoices, change orders, etc.
Inspect work and coordinate with architects and engineers to resolve design conflicts.
Build consensus among stakeholders with competing priorities.
Monitor supplier performance and maintain strong relationships.
Implement and enforce best practices and standards to ensure a safe work environment in partnership with Safety and Risk Management.
Adhere to all stated disciplinary actions and personnel policies as outlined in the Zoo employee handbook.
Work in close collaboration with all Zoo internal departments.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Vice President of Facilities and Planning.
Manage a small team of project managers across all Zoo campuses.
Foster a culture of safety, accountability, innovation, and customer service.
Mentor rising talent and create career development pathways to retain top performers.