Procurement - Senior Procurement Specialist, Capital Construction

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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) and/or refer to the benefit details provided below after the job description information.

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.

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.

1. * Manage the procurement in all phases of the project lifecycle, including planning, design, procurement, construction, and commissioning, ensuring alignment with scope, schedule, and budget.
2. * 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.
3. * Negotiate and administer contracts with architects, consultants, vendors, contractors, and other project partners.
4. * Review and interpret architectural drawings, engineering plans, schematics, and technical construction documents to guide project execution.
5. * Collaborate with Facilities Project Managers to ensure high-quality work, adherence to project schedules, and achievement of key milestones.
6. * Implement and maintain effective cost control measures to ensure projects are delivered within approved budgets.
7. * Schedule, facilitate, and lead Owner-Architect-Contractor (“OAC”) meetings to track progress, address issues, and ensure projects remain on schedule and within budget.
8. * Identify, address, and resolve issues related to contract disputes, design discrepancies, and construction challenges in a timely and efficient manner.
9. * 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.
10. * 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.
11. * Manage multiple procurement projects, working closely with cross-functional teams, promoting collaboration and accountability to achieve project objectives.
12. * Prepare and deliver comprehensive project reports and presentations to clients, senior leadership, and other key stakeholders.
13. Other related duties as assigned to ensure successful achievement of BZC objectives.

* Denotes Essential job