Zoo Capital Projects Manager

Zoo Capital Projects Manager

Full-Time 45000 - 55000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Chessington World of Adventures Resort

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead exciting Zoo infrastructure projects and ensure top-notch animal welfare.
  • Company: Join Chessington World of Adventures Resort, a leader in conservation and guest experiences.
  • Benefits: Enjoy discounts, free attraction tickets, and private medical insurance.
  • Other info: Flexible full-time role with excellent career growth opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on Zoo projects while working in a dynamic environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience in capital projects, strong leadership, and compliance knowledge required.

The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.

Ready to lead the delivery of exciting Zoo infrastructure projects as a Zoo Capitals Project Manager at Chessington World of Adventures Resort? At Chessington, our Zoo is constantly evolving to support world-class animal welfare, conservation and guest experiences. As a Project Manager, you will play a key role in delivering Zoo-related capital projects, acting as the main point of contact between Merlin Magic Making, Zoo teams and external contractors. From new habitats and facilities to operational improvements, you will ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently and to the highest standards.

No two days are the same. You will manage projects from initial concept through to completion, working with stakeholders across Zoo, Health & Safety, Planning and Building Control teams to define scope, develop business cases and oversee tender processes. You'll be responsible for managing budgets, timelines and contractor performance, ensuring projects provide the best value while meeting operational and animal welfare requirements.

You will also oversee project risks and compliance, ensuring all works are delivered in line with company policies, CDM regulations and health and safety standards. Working closely with contractors and operational teams, you will coordinate project activity on site, minimise disruption and ensure all works are completed safely and effectively.

A key part of the role is stakeholder management. You will provide regular project updates, manage change control where required and ensure all project documentation, certifications and handover records are completed accurately. You will also support the successful integration of new assets into the Resort, helping operational teams transition projects into day-to-day use.

This is a full-time, 12-month contracted role, working a flexible pattern across 5 days out of 7, including weekends and bank holidays.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Proven experience in delivering capital or infrastructure projects.
  • Strong leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • Excellent planning, organisation, and time management abilities.
  • Demonstrable understanding of compliance, health & safety, and construction regulations.
  • Skilled in managing budgets and contractors effectively.
  • Membership of a professional Project Management body.

Desirable but not necessary:

  • Knowledge of animal welfare standards and Zoo licensing requirements.
  • PRINCE2 or similar project management certification.
  • Experience coordinating projects within operational guest environments.

Benefits

  • 25% discount in our retail shops and restaurants
  • 40% off LEGO online
  • Merlin Magic Pass - giving you free tickets to all our attractions worldwide for you, your family, and friends every year
  • Private Medical Insurance (single cover)
  • Discounted rates at Merlin hotels all over the world
  • Employee pricing up to 55% off cinema tickets

Sound like your next adventure? Apply now and be part of our incredible world. If you have any questions or if you require any assistance, because of a disability or medical condition, please contact us by email at recruitment@merlinentertainments.biz and one of the team will get back to you as soon as possible.

Pay Range

Competitive

Zoo Capital Projects Manager employer: Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Chessington World of Adventures Resort is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where creativity and technical skills thrive. As an AV Technician Apprentice, you will benefit from a structured 24-month programme that not only enhances your practical abilities but also provides opportunities for personal growth within a vibrant team dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, this role allows you to engage with industry professionals while enjoying the unique atmosphere of a leading entertainment destination.

Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Contact Details:

Chessington World of Adventures Resort Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Zoo Capital Projects Manager

Join Construction Networks

Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!

Show Off Your Skills on Site

If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.

Utilise Construction Job Sites

Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Chessington World of Adventures Resort, to express your interest!

Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles

Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Zoo Capital Projects Manager at Chessington World of Adventures Resort.

We think you need these skills to ace Zoo Capital Projects Manager

Project Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Budget Management
Time Management
Planning and Organisation
Leadership Skills
Compliance Knowledge

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.

Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.

Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.

Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.

How to prepare for a job interview at Chessington World of Adventures Resort

Brush Up on Technical Knowledge

For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.

Showcase Your Projects

Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.

Understand the Team Dynamics

Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.

Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving

Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!