Description

Join the PRIDE!  

As Brookfield Zoo Chicago approaches its 100th anniversary in 2034, we are embarking on our Next Century Plan—a bold initiative that will reshape our campus and elevate our role as a leader in conservation and education.  As Senior Procurement Specialist – Capital Construction, you will play a vital part in bringing this vision to life.  From reimagined animal habitats and modernized facilities to enhanced standards of animal care, your work will help contribute to the transformation of the Zoo into both a cherished family destination and a world-class educational hub, creating meaningful experiences for millions of visitors each year.

This is a non-union full-time salaried position, grade 10 with an expected hiring range of $89,583 to $98,541 annually. For our Benefits Summary Information, follow this link to our Benefits Table or copy and paste the following in your internet browser www.brookfieldzoo.org/custom.czs/files/06/06337b2c-b3db-45a2-8eb2-f8362486bd0e.pdf (please refer to the non-union, full-time employee section). 

In direct support of the Director of Procurement, the Senior Procurement Specialist, Capital Construction will oversee procurement activities of capital and construction projects, developing contracts and agreements that align with the Zoo’s annual procurement requirements, ensuring optimal value. This role supports Zoo campus infrastructure and capital initiatives by analyzing spend and payment data in complex decision-making scenarios. The Specialist must have a strong understanding of the construction industry and best practices in capital procurement. Developing comprehensive reporting and recommend data-driven procurement solutions to support the Zoo’s mission and vision. The position leads procurement processes, including scope development, solicitation and contracting, in accordance with established policies and procedures. Safeguarding project execution in alignment with the annual capital budget plan, while managing administrative functions that support procurement and construction operations. Ensure adherence to all applicable federal, state, and local regulations, including Forest Preserves of Cook County and Cook County requirements. A key focus is on promoting inclusion by expanding bidding opportunities for Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises (M/WBE), supporting the organization's commitment to diversity and equity in public contracting.

PRIMARY JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.

*  Manage the procurement in all phases of the project lifecycle, including planning, design, procurement, construction, and commissioning, ensuring alignment with scope, schedule, and budget.
*  Lead the sourcing and selection of qualified vendors, including the development and distribution of Requests for Proposals (RFPs), bid evaluation and negotiation, contract award, and contract generation to ensure procurement decisions serve the best interests of the organization.
*  Negotiate and administer contracts with architects, consultants, vendors, contractors, and other project partners.
*  Review and interpret architectural drawings, engineering plans, schematics, and technical construction documents to guide project execution.
*  Collaborate with Facilities Project Managers to ensure high-quality work, adherence to project schedules, and achievement of key milestones.
*  Implement and maintain effective cost control measures to ensure projects are delivered within approved budgets.
*  Schedule, facilitate, and lead Owner-Architect-Contractor (“OAC”) meetings to track progress, address issues, and ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.
*  Identify, address, and resolve issues related to contract disputes, design discrepancies, and construction challenges in a timely and efficient manner.
*  Review and approve invoices, manage change orders, and maintain accurate documentation including vendor records, certificates of insurance, and certified payrolls in compliance with prevailing wage requirements.
*  Play a key role in the capital budget planning process by developing cost estimates based on scopes of work and contributing to overall project budgeting and forecasting.
*  Manage multiple procurement projects, working closely with cross-functional teams, promoting collaboration and accountability to achieve project objectives.
*  Prepare and deliver comprehensive project reports and presentations to clients, senior leadership, and other key stakeholders.
    Other related duties as assigned to ensure successful achievement of BZC objectives.
 

* Denotes Essential job function(s)

Requirements

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, procurement, or related field or eight years’ equivalent work experience. High school diploma or educational equivalent (e.g., GED.) required.
• Four years of progressive, comparable experience in procurement, preferably in capital projects, construction, and/or facilities.
• Demonstrated experience in the creation and management of procurement and solicitation processes. Proven track record of developing and issuing RFP’s/RFQ’s, evaluating bids and negotiating contracts for construction services, architecture/engineering and/or large equipment purchases.
• Strong understanding of complex bidding procedures, procurement specifications and construction procurement processes (such as public bidding laws, prevailing wage requirements, change order processes, types of construction contracts.)
• Working knowledge of construction industry terminology, contract specifications, design and construction submittals, quality plans, and technical drawings.
• Ability to read and interpret construction and engineering documents, technical specifications, and drawings including blueprints, schedules, and schematics.
• Familiarity with capital improvement planning and delivery methods (Design-Bid-Build, CM at Risk and alternative delivery methodologies.)
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel (for cost analysis and tracking), Word, PowerPoint, procurement and/or ERP systems. Computer literacy and familiarity with construction and engineering-related software and technologies.
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical, and quantitative skills.
• Excellent problem-solving ability, including identifying discrepancies, conducting root-cause analysis, resolving discrepancies and/or project issues and implementing corrective actions.
• Effective communicator with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage time, priorities and deadlines efficiently in a multi-project setting.
• Collaborative team player who works effectively across departments with internal stakeholders and with external partners.
• Demonstrated ability to make independent, sound decisions aligned with organizational goals.
• Cultural competency; experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.
• English fluency at a working professional level.
• Valid driver’s license required at time of hire.  Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois driver’s license or obtain one within 90 days of hire.  Valid out-of-state driver’s license is required for out-of-state residents.
   

DESIRABLE/PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Prior lead or supervisory experience in capital, construction and design preferred.
• Experience as a capital construction buyer or procurement lead is strongly preferred.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Project is preferred.
• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.
• Familiarity with facilities management a plus.
• Familiarity with Dynamics Navision Accounting software and Docuware document management software a plus.
   

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:  This position description summarizes the primary duties and functions of this position, but should not be considered a complete listing of every duty the incumbent may ever be called upon to perform.   Position requires a highly responsible, motivated, self-starter. Individual must be cooperative, persistent, and helpful.  Must be able to identify and prioritize tasks to be completed and initiate and follow through to completion without prompting and with little direct supervision.  Incumbent will interact directly with Chief Financial & Administrative Officer, Vice President of Risk & Facilities Management, Directors, and Senior Managers on a regular basis.

OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:  See Occupational Requirements Form. 

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