Project Manager

  • Indianapolis Zoo
  • Indianapolis, Indiana
  • Full Time

If you are an experienced professional that has a knack for meeting tight and challenging project deadlines and complex animal exhibit construction, look no further, your career is at the Indianapolis Zoo! We're currently seeking a Project Manager to join our team. The Project Manager is responsible for managing the development and implementation of assigned projects, with specific focus on estimating, contracting, schedule, and construction management. The ideal candidate is committed to the Zoo's mission to protect nature and inspire people to care for our world. To be successful in this role, a broad knowledge and prior experience in project management, general trades/construction, mechanical systems, preventative maintenance programs, and asset management is required. Familiarity with both schematic and detailed cost estimation practices, project scheduling techniques, general accounting, project control techniques, general design development concepts, and construction document preparation to develop and design bidding documents is vital to the role.

What You'll Do

  • Assists in the preparation of integrated design, bidding, procurement and construction schedules for approved capital renovation programs and asset purchases.
  • In conjunction with the user department(s) and the Facilities Department, establishes parameters under which projects will be implemented.
  • Within the limits of those established parameters, evaluates facts and data, and decides upon issues relating to project scope, schedule and cost. If such issues are inconsistent with established parameters, makes recommendations and secures administrative decisions to minimize the negative impact to the Zoo as well as its guests, staff and animal collection.
  • Oversees all in-house work related to assigned projects. Addresses and resolves problems during construction phase with construction lead as well as make any needed recommendations. Responsible for schedule, and budget for duties assigned to Zoo staff.
  • Conducts onsite observations of projects during progression as a basis for determining conformance with the contract documents of the work, materials and equipment. Leads periodic walk-throughs with Zoo staff and Zoo project team(s).
  • Responsible for uploading new project documents to the Zoo's electronic facilities library, ensuring that all documents are organized as projects are completed and kept current thereafter (as-builts, warranty information, operation manuals, utilities mapping, etc.).
  • Responsible for coordinating and identifying preventive maintenance needs on assigned projects, ensuring all PMs are identified and delivered to the Director of Facilities for entry into the work order system.
  • Manages and documents change orders, value engineering, and punch list items once project is underway. Partners with various Zoo stakeholders to ensure all are informed and in agreement.
  • Performs all project management activities according to established Zoo procedures; makes recommendations to Administration relating to suggested changes or revisions to these procedures. Activities include leading design review meetings, leading construction progress meetings, shop drawing/sample approvals, contract preparation and administration, budget and schedule controls, pay request approval, regular field inspection walks, publishing construction updates to Zoo staff, and securing/reviewing contract as-builts as well as other related tasks.

What We're Looking For

  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Engineering or Construction Management, or a related field is preferred.
  • Must possess a valid Indiana driver's license and be insurable by IZS insurance carrier.
  • Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting at least 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/ or up to 50 pounds of force frequently.
  • Ability to ascend/ descend ladders, steps, and uneven terrain, while maintaining body equilibrium to perform various jobs.
  • Must be able to safely operate department tools and manual transmission vehicles.
  • Ability to work around equipment that produces a significant noise level.
  • Will be working around mechanical moving parts, live electrical circuits, and exposed to dusty conditions and outdoor pollens.
  • Computer skills-Microsoft Windows (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) and familiarity with utilizing the Internet. Skills with or ability to learn Google Sketchup, Bluebeam and contractor document control platforms such as Oracle, Procure, etc.
  • Strong knowledge of safety regulations and sustainable design/construction as well as understand LEED principles; also, familiarity with regulatory agencies' policies and procedures.
  • Must be able to access construction project sites, often through use of temporarily-constructed stairways, etc.

Additional Information

  • This is a 40 hour per week position with the possibility of varying shifts due to emergency situations and peak season/project demands.
  • The Project Manager is on call 24 hours a day and will work weekends, holidays, and overtime as required.

Why the Indianapolis Zoo?

Join a mission-driven team where your project management skills will help make a global impact. As a unique institution accredited as a zoo, aquarium, and botanical garden, the Indianapolis Zoo offers an inspiring environment for innovation, education, and conservation.

How to Apply:

Submit your resume and salary requirements to be considered.

Apply today and help us amplify the voice of conservation.

Employment at the Indianapolis Zoo is contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment testing including a background check, motor vehicle check (if applicable) and a drug test.

Job ID: 486401931
Originally Posted on: 7/22/2025

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