Zoo Capital Projects Manager

What you'll bring to the team

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

Essential:

• 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