Project Manager for Construction

Working Title: Project Manager for Construction & Renovation Projects
Job Class: Planning Director State
Agency: Minnesota Zoological Garden

• Job ID: 90590
• Location: Apple Valley
• Telework Eligible: No
• Full/Part Time: Full-Time
• Regular/Temporary: Limited
• Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
• Date Posted: 12/15/2025
• Closing Date: 01/09/2026
• Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Zoological Garden / Zoological Gardens-MAPE
• Division/Unit: Operations/Campus Planning & Management/Planning, Construction & Exhibits/Construction
• Work Shift/Work Hours: Day Shift; 7:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.
• Days of Work: Monday - Friday
• Travel Required: No
• Salary Range: $ $55.42 / hourly; $77,798 - $115,716 / annually
• Job Class Option: Project Management
• Classified Status: Unclassified
• Bargaining Unit/Union: 214 - MN Assoc of Professional Empl/MAPE
• End Date: 06/30/2029
• FLSA Status: Exempt - Administrative
• Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities: No

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

This is a limited position that will not exceed three (3) years after hire date.

This position directs and manages new capital construction, building addition, renovation, remodeling, and repair/replacement projects through all phases (development, pre-design, design, procurement, construction and occupancy) in support of the Minnesota Zoo's mission to connect people, animals and the natural world to save wildlife. The position is responsible for applying comprehensive and fully integrated professional construction project management knowledge and skills to direct and manage multiple projects simultaneously of variable scale, budget and complexity. The incumbent operates facilities' fleet vehicles around the Zoo campus.

Duties include but are not limited to:

Project Development and Design: Direct and coordinate the development and design of exhibit, infrastructure, construction, and landscape projects, such that the needs of the internal project team is clear and all applicable standards are met.

Project Procurement, Bidding and Coordination: Provide project management, administrative direction and coordination for construction of projects as assigned such that all projects will be completed on time, according to prepared designs and within budget.

Construction Coordination: Act as field project supervisor for projects as assigned so that all projects are completed according to specifications and highest quality projects are effectively, efficiently and completed in a timely manner within budget and in accordance with applicable state and federal laws, construction management standards, and customer needs.

Standards and Plans: Maintain and utilize the Project Management office as the holder of Zoo standards and plans ensuring all plans and documents clearly notate material and supply needs, are easily accessed and available when needed, and kept in accordance with State and Zoo records retention schedules.

The following qualifications are required of all applicants seeking consideration for this position. Only applicants whose application materials clearly demonstrate fulfillment of each of these minimum qualifications will be considered for the position. To ensure accurate evaluation, your resume must clearly describe your experience in the required areas. For each job, include whether it was full-time, part-time, or intermittent/on-call; how many hours per week you worked; and the month and year you started and ended.

• Four (4) years of construction project management experience. A Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management may substitute for two (2) years of experience; a PMP certification or relevant Associate's degree may substitute for one (1) year of experience.
• Demonstrated ability to manage the design and construction of complex facilities—including buildings with architectural, mechanical, electrical, and structural systems—and to review plans, specifications, estimates, and schedules for accuracy and compliance.
• Knowledge of construction methods, trades, materials, and applicable building codes and standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects, prioritize work, and respond to competing stakeholder demands.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills, including the ability to negotiate solutions and prepare and present complex information in written and verbal form.
• Proficiency with project-related software, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and drafting or design applications.
• Current and valid driver's license.

• Professional credentials such as Architecture, Engineering, or Project Management licensure or certification (e.g., AIA, PE, PMP).
• LEED accreditation or demonstrated experience with sustainable design and construction practices.
• Seven (7) years of construction project management experience, or equivalent depth of experience in related fields.
• Five (5) years of general construction experience in addition to project management experience.
• Experience with zoological or animal-care facilities, including knowledge of life support system requirements and operational considerations necessary to protect animal collections.
• Advanced proficiency with project-related software, including:
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Project scheduling software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, or equivalent)
• Web-based project management platforms
• Blueprint design and drafting software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, or comparable applications)
• Demonstrated experience managing high-complexity or highly specialized construction projects, such as public facilities, mechanical-intensive buildings, or multi-disciplinary environments.
• Experience coordinating with regulatory agencies, permitting authorities, or inspectors on complex building projects.
• Experience developing or evaluating life-cycle cost analyses, value engineering options, and sustainability strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse project teams, contractors, consultants, and stakeholders in fast-paced or politically complex environments.
• Experience working in public-sector, nonprofit, or mission-driven organizations, particularly those with complex operational needs or diverse user groups.

• Ability to respond to emergency issues off hours when required
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders, squat, and crouch occasionally
• Ability to stand for long periods of time and walk long distances on uneven terrain
• Ability to carry and use two-way portable radios to communicate with all zoo staff
• Ability to sit at a desk and operate a computer for 6-8 hours per day
• Ability to work in an environment that includes both indoor and outdoor work spaces year round, with moderate noise generated by office and air handling equipment

Applicants must have the ability to meet the physical requirements and work in the environmental conditions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodations.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

It is policy of the Minnesota Zoo that all candidates submit to a background check prior to employment. The background check may consist of the following components:

• Conflict of Interest Review
• Criminal History Check including fingerprinting
• Education Verification
• Employment Reference / Records Check
• License / Certification Verification

Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at or email For additional information about the application process, go to

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State of Minnesota is unable to sponsor applicants for work visas. All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the US.

Veteran's Preference:

In order to be considered an eligible candidate for Veteran's Preference, apply online and email your valid DD-214 form along with the Job ID# and Position Title by the closing date to , or mail to Cyndee Robinson, MN Zoo, 13000 Zoo Blvd., Apple Valley, MN 55124.

For technical application assistance, please contact MMB Careers.

If you have questions please visit the page of Frequently Asked Questions or contact the Careers Help Desk at or email

If you have questions about this position, contact Cyndee Robinson at

Created by the State of Minnesota, the Minnesota Zoo opened in 1978 with a mission to connect people, animals, and the natural world to save wildlife. Cutting-edge exhibits provide exciting experiences with animals and their habitats introducing guests to species from around the globe. Education programs engage audiences at the Zoo, throughout the region, and around world. Conservation programs protect endangered species and preserve critical ecosystems.

What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?

• A sense of purpose in their work
• Connection with their coworkers and communities
• Opportunities for personal and professional growth

As an employee, you'll have access to one of the most affordable health insurance plans in Minnesota, along with other benefits to help you and your family be well.

• Paid vacation and sick leave
• 12 paid holidays each year
• Low-cost medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug plans
• Fertility care, including IVF
• Diabetes care
• Dental and orthodontic care for adults and children
• 6 weeks paid leave for parents of newborn or newly adopted children
• Pension plan that provides income when you retire (after working at least three years)
• Employer paid life insurance to provide support for your family in the event of death
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance that can provide income if you are unable to work due to illness or injury
• Tax-free expense accounts for health, dental, and dependent care
• Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being

• Training, classes, and professional development
• Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at )

• A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance
• Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues
• Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.

APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES

Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at or email and let us know the support you need.