1-1-26-1-03-8 Solicitation.pdf

Rev. 04/2022

Request for Proposals (RFP)

PROJECT ID No. 1-26-1-03-8

MARYLAND ENVIRONMENT SERVICE

COMPENSATION STUDY

Issue Date: September 18, 2025 Due Date: October 16, 2025

Minority Business Enterprises Are Encouraged to Respond to this Solicitation

Please Note: In the event of emergency closing of Maryland Environmental Service (MES) offices, this RFP is due at the same time on the next regular working day.

Rev. 04/2022

MARYLAND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE

NOTICE TO VENDORS

In order to help us improve the quality of MES solicitations, and to make our procurement process more responsive and business friendly, we ask that you take a few minutes and provide comments and suggestions regarding this solicitation. Please return your comments with your response. If you have chosen not to respond to this solicitation, please email or fax this completed form to the attention of the Procurement Officer (see Key Information Sheet below for contact information).

Title: M A R Y L A N D E N V I R O N M E N T S E R V I C E C O M P E N S A T I O N S T U D Y

Solicitation No: 1-26-1-03-5

1. If you have chosen not to respond to this solicitation, please indicate the reason(s) below:

o Other commitments preclude our participation at this time.

o The subject of the contract is not something we normally provide.

o We are inexperienced in the work/commodities required.

o The specifications are either unclear or too restrictive. (Please explain in remarks section.)

o The scope of work is beyond our current capacity.

o Doing business with government is simply too complicated o We cannot be competitive. (Please explain in remarks section) o Time for completion is insufficient.

o Bonding/insurance requirement are prohibitive. (Please explain in remarks section.)

o Bid/proposal requirements, other than specifications, are unreasonable or too risky. (Please explain in remarks section.)

o Prior experience with State of Maryland contracts was unprofitable or otherwise (Please explain in remarks section.)

o Difficulty with MES Website o Other: ___________________________________________________________

2. If you have submitted a response to this solicitation, but wish to offer suggestions or express concerns, please use the REMARKS section below. (Attach additional pages as needed.).

REMARKS:

Vendor Name: Date:

Contact Person: Phone

Address:

E-mail Address:

RFP KEY INFORMATION SUMMARY SHEET

Request for Proposals: Maryland Environmental Service Compensation Study

Solicitation Number: RFP # 1-26-1-03-5

RFP Issue Date: September 18, 2025

RFP Issuing Office: Maryland Environmental Service

Procurement Officer: Qieon Graham 259 Najoles Road Millersville, MD 21108 Phone: 410-729-8510 Fax: 410-729-8280 e-mail: procurement@menv .com

Contract Project Manager: Dr. Felicia Gross, SHRM-SCP fgross@menv.com

Do not contract the Project Manager during the procurement process.

Proposals are to be sent to: MES Procurement Portal

Pre-Proposal Conference: N/A

Site Visit: N/A

Questions Due: October 2, 2025

Closing Date and Time: October 16, 2025, 1:00 PM Local Time

MBE Goal: NO mailto:procurement@menv.com https://menv.bonfirehub.com/projects/50917/details

TABLE OF CONTENTS

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) ........................................................................................ I NOTICE TO VENDORS ............................................................................................................. II RFP KEY INFORMATION SUMMARY SHEET .................................................................. III TABLE OF CONTENTS ...................................................................................................... IV-VI

SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Summary Statement

1.2 Contract Type

1.3 Contract Duration

1.4 Procurement Officer ......................................................................................................... 6-7

1.5 Contract Monitor

1.6 Pre-Proposal Conference & Site Visit

1.7 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage

1.8 Questions

1.9 Procurement Method

1.10 Proposals Due (Closing) Date and Time

1.11 Economy of Preparation

1.12 Public Information Act Notice

1.13 Award Basis

1.14 Oral Presentation

1.15 Duration of Proposal

1.16 Revisions to the RFP

1.17 Cancellations/Reservations

1.18 Incurred Expenses

1.19 Protest/Disputes

1.20 Offeror Responsibilities

1.21 Substitution of Personnel

1.22 Mandatory Contractual Terms

1.23 Bid/Proposal Affidavit

1.24 Contract Affidavit

1.25 Compliance with Laws/Arrearages

1.26 Verification of Registration and Tax Payment

1.27 Insurance Requirements

1.28 Prompt Payment Policy

1.29 Minority Business Enterprise Goals

1.30 Living Wage Requirements

1.31 Federal Funding Acknowledgement

1.32 Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure

1.33 Investment Activities in Iran

1.34 Notice of Political Contributions

1.35 Certification Regarding Discriminatory Boycotts of Israel

SECTION 2 SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 Background and Purpose

2.2 Scope of Work - Requirements

2.3 Minimum Qualifications ........................................................................................... 14-15

2.4 Invoicing

2.5 MBE Reports

SECTION 3 – PROPOSAL FORMAT

3.1 Two Part Submission

3.2 Proposals

3.3 Delivery

3.4 Volume I – Technical Proposal ................................................................................. 16-17

3.5 Volume II – Price Proposal ....................................................................................... 17-18

SECTION 4 – EVALUATION COMMITTEE, CRITERIA, SELECTION AND AWARD

PROCEDURE

4.1 Evaluation Committee ............................................................................................... 19-20

4.2 Documents Required upon Notice of Recommendation for Contract Award

RFP ATTACHMENTS

SECTION 1 - GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1 Summary Statement

1.1.1 The Maryland Environmental Service (Service or MES) is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) to seek a vendor to conduct a comprehensive review of all MES positions to ensure that hiring rates and salary ranges remain competitive within the surrounding and appropriate labor markets. The goal is to keep MES’s classification and compensation systems current, equitable, and aligned with best practices in order to attract and retain the most highly qualified staff across all areas of the organization. This review will include an evaluation of the newly adopted Shift Differential Policy (HR 10.07); identification of hard to fill positions with associated compensation incentives; compensation offerings for Fellow and Apprentice programs; and any related pay practices impacting approximately 760 position titles across the agency.

1.1.2 It is MES’s intention to obtain services, as specified in this RFP, from a Contract between the selected

Successful Offeror and MES. The anticipated duration of services to be provided under this Contract is six

(6) months from the Notice to Proceed, with the final report due no later than April 2026 to allow for executive review.

1.1.3 MES intends to make up to single award as a result of this RFP.

1.1.4 Offerors, either directly or through their subcontractor(s), must be able to provide all services and meet all of the requirements requested in this solicitation and the successful Offeror (the Contractor) shall remain responsible for Contract performance regardless of subcontractor participation in the work.

1.2 Contract Type

The Contract that results from this RFP shall be a firm fixed price.

1.3 Contract Duration

1.3.1 The Contract that results from this solicitation shall commence as of the date the Contract is signed by MES following approval of the Contract by the MES Board of Directors, if such approval is required (Contract Commencement).

1.3.2 As of the date contained in a Notice to Proceed (NTP), the Contractor shall begin performing all activities required by the Contract, including the requirements of the solicitation.

1.3.3 The duration of the Contract will be six (6) months from the date of the NTP for the provision of all services required by the Contract, and the requirements of the RFP.

1.3.4 The Contractor’s obligations to pay invoices to subcontractors that provided services during the Contract term, as well as the audit, confidentiality, document retention, and indemnification obligations of the Contract (See Attachment A) shall survive expiration or termination of the Contract and continue in effect until all such obligations are satisfied.

1.4 Procurement Officer

The sole point of contact in MES for purposes of this solicitation prior to the award of any Contract is the Procurement Officer/Coordinator at the address listed below:

Qieon Graham Procurement Administrator 259 Najoles Road Millersville, MD 21108Phone Number: 410- 729-8510 E-mail: procurement@menv.com

MES may change the Procurement Officer at any time.

1.5 Project Contract Monitor

The MES representative for this Contract who is primarily responsible for Contract administration functions, including issuing written direction, invoice approval, monitoring this Contract to ensure compliance with the terms and conditions of the Contract, monitoring MBE compliance, and achieving completion of the Contract on budget, on time, and within scope. The Project Contract Monitor may authorize in writing one or more MES representatives to act on behalf of the Project Contract Monitor in the performance of the Project Contract Monitor’s responsibilities.

The Project Contract Monitor is:

Dr. Felicia Gross, SHRM-SCP Chief of Human Resources

MES may change the Project Contract Monitor at any time.

1.6 Pre-Proposal Conference and Site Visit

There is no pre-proposal conference scheduled for this project.

1.7 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage

Each Offeror is requested to indicate its eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA) vendor number in the Transmittal Letter (cover letter) submitted at the time of its Proposal submission to this RFP.

eMMA is an electronic commerce system administered by the State of Maryland. In order to receive a contract award, a vendor must be registered on eMMA. Registration is free. Go to https://emma.maryland.gov/, click on Register Now to begin the process, and then follow the prompts.

1.8 Questions

Questions to the Procurement Officer shall be accepted though MES Procurement Portal in a timely manner prior to the Proposal due date. Questions are requested to be submitted at least fourteen (14) days prior to the Proposal due date. MES, based on the availability of time to research and communicate an answer, and in its sole discretion, shall decide whether an answer can be given before the Proposal due date. Time permitting, answers to all substantive questions that have not previously been answered, and are not clearly specific only to the requestor, will be distributed to all vendors that are known to have received a copy of the RFP.

If it becomes necessary to revise this RFP before the due date for Proposals, MES shall endeavor to provide addenda to all prospective Offerors that were sent this RFP or which are otherwise known by the Procurement Officer to have obtained this RFP. In addition, MES will post amendments to the RFP via the MES Procurement Portal. It remains the responsibility of all prospective Offerors to check all applicable websites for any addenda issued prior to the submission of Proposals.

mailto:procurement@menv.com https://emma.maryland.gov/ https://menv.bonfirehub.com/portal https://menv.bonfirehub.com/portal https://menv.bonfirehub.com/portal

1.9 Procurement Method

This Contract will be awarded in accordance with the Competitive Sealed Proposals method under COMAR 14.27.03.08

1.10 Proposals Due (Closing) Date and Time

Proposals, in the format set forth in Section 3 must be submitted through the MES Procurement Portal (Bonfire) https://menv.bonfirehub.com/. Proposals will not be accepted after the due date and time.

Proposals may be modified or withdrawn by written notice received by the Procurement Officer before the time and date set forth in this section for receipt of Proposals.

Proposals may not be submitted by e-mail or facsimile.

Vendors not responding to this solicitation are requested to submit the Notice to Vendors form, which includes company information and the reason for not responding (e.g., too busy, cannot meet mandatory requirements, etc.).

This form is located in the RFP immediately following the Title Page (page ii).

1.11 Economy of Preparation

Proposals should be prepared simply and economically and provide a straightforward and concise description of the Offeror’s Proposal to meet the requirements of this RFP.

1.12 Public Information Act Notice

An Offeror should give specific attention to the clear identification of those portions of its Proposal that it considers confidential and/or proprietary commercial information or trade secrets, and provide justification why such materials, upon request, should not be disclosed by MES under the Public Information Act, Md. Code Ann., State Government Article, Title 10, Subtitle 6. This confidential and/or proprietary information should be identified by page and section number and placed after the Title Page and before the Table of Contents in the Technical Proposal and if applicable, separately in the Price Proposal.

Offerors are advised that, upon request for this information from a third party, the Procurement Officer is required to make an independent determination whether the information must be disclosed.

1.13 Award Basis or Award Basis and Assignment of Work

The Contract shall be awarded to the responsible Offeror submitting the Proposal that has been determined to be the most advantageous to MES, considering price and evaluation factors set forth in this RFP and for providing the goods and services as specified in this RFP.

One contract will be awarded for this RFP.

http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/comarhtml/14/14.27.03.08.htm https://menv.bonfirehub.com/

1.14 Oral Presentation

Offerors may be required to make oral presentations to MES representatives. Offerors must confirm in writing any substantive oral clarification of, or change in, their Proposals made in the course of discussions. Any such written clarifications or changes then become part of the Offeror’s Proposal and are binding if the Contract is awarded. The Procurement Officer will notify Offerors of the time and place of oral presentations.

1.15 Duration of Proposal

Proposals submitted in response to this RFP are irrevocable for 120 days following the closing date of the Proposals.

This period may be extended at the Procurement Officer’s request only with the Offeror’s written agreement.

1.16 Revisions to the RFP

If it becomes necessary to revise this RFP before the due date for Proposals, MES shall endeavor to provide addenda to all prospective Offerors that were sent this RFP or which are otherwise known by the Procurement Officer to have obtained this RFP. In addition, addenda to the RFP will be posted via MES Procurement Portal. It remains the responsibility of all prospective Offerors to check all applicable websites for any addenda issued prior to the submission of Proposals. Addenda made after the due date for Proposals will be sent only to those Offerors that submitted a timely Proposal and that remain under award consideration as of the issuance date of the addenda.

Acknowledgment of the receipt of all addenda to this RFP issued before the Proposal due date shall be included in the Bid/Proposal Affidavit (See Attachment B-1) accompanying the Offeror’s Technical Proposal. Acknowledgement of the receipt of addenda to the RFP issued after the Proposal due date shall be in the manner specified in the addendum notice. Failure to acknowledge receipt of an addendum does not relieve the Offeror from complying with the terms, additions, deletions, or corrections set forth in the addendum.

1.17 Cancellations/Reservations

MES, in its sole discretion, reserves the right to cancel this RFP, accept or reject any and all Proposals, in whole or in part, received in response to this RFP, to waive or permit the cure of minor irregularities, and to conduct discussions with all qualified or potentially qualified Offerors in any manner necessary to serve the best interests of MES. MES also reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to award a Contract based upon the written proposals received without discussions or negotiations.

1.18 Incurred Expenses

MES will not be responsible for any costs incurred by any Offeror in preparing and submitting a Proposal, in making an oral presentation, in providing a demonstration, or in performing any other activities related to this solicitation.

1.19 Protest/Disputes

Any protest or dispute related, respectively, to this solicitation or the resulting Contract is NOT and shall NOT be subject to the provisions of COMAR 21.10 (Administrative and Civil Remedies). An interested party may protest to the Procurement Officer against the award of the contract which is the subject of this solicitation within four (4) business days after the proposed award of contract. The protest shall be in writing, addressed to the Procurement Officer and delivered to the headquarters of the Maryland Environmental Service. A protester may not file a protest by electronic means or by facsimile. A copy of the protest procedure is available by contacting the Procurement Officer. Any disputes/discrepancies related to the solicitation documents will not be acknowledged unless received within ten (10) days prior to the bid/proposal opening, in writing.

1.20 Offeror Responsibilities

The selected Offeror shall be responsible for all products and services required by this RFP. All subcontractors must be identified and a complete description of their role relative to the Proposal must be included in the Offeror’s Proposal. If applicable, subcontractors utilized in meeting the established MBE participation goal(s) for this solicitation shall be identified as provided in the appropriate Attachment(s) of this RFP.

If an Offeror that seeks to perform or provide the services required by this RFP is the subsidiary of another entity, all information submitted by the Offeror, including but not limited to references, minimum qualifications, and financial reports, or experience and documentation (e.g. insurance policies, bonds, letters of credit) used to meet minimum qualifications, if any, shall pertain exclusively to the Offeror, unless the parent organization will guarantee the performance of the subsidiary.

1.21 Substitution of Personnel

Continuous Performance of Key Personnel

Unless substitution is approved as outlined herein, key personnel shall be the same personnel proposed in the Contractor’s Technical Proposal, which will be incorporated into the Contract by reference. Such identified key personnel shall perform continuously for the duration of the Contract, or such lesser duration as specified in the Technical Proposal. Key personnel may not be removed by the Contractor from working under this Contract, as described in the RFP or the Contractor’s Technical Proposal, without the prior written approval of the Contract Manager.

If the Contract is task order based, the provisions of this section apply to key personnel identified in each task order proposal and agreement.

1.22 Mandatory Contractual Terms

By submitting a Proposal in response to this RFP, an Offeror, if selected for award, shall be deemed to have accepted the terms and conditions of this RFP and the Contract, sample attached herein as Attachment A-1. Any exceptions to this RFP or the Contract shall be clearly identified in the Cover Letter of the Technical Proposal. A Proposal that takes exception to any of these terms may be rejected at MES’ sole discretion.

1.23 Bid/Proposal Affidavit

A Proposal submitted by an Offeror must be accompanied by a completed Bid/Proposal Affidavit. A copy of this Affidavit is included as Attachment B-1 of this RFP.

1.24 Contract Affidavit

All Offerors are advised that if a Contract is awarded as a result of this solicitation, the successful Offeror will be required to complete a Contract Affidavit. A copy of this Affidavit is included as Attachment C-1 of this RFP. This Affidavit must be provided within five (5) Business Days of notification of proposed Contract award. For purposes of Section B of the Affidavit, please note that any company incorporated outside of Maryland is considered a foreign company. This Contract Affidavit will also be required to be completed by the Contractor prior to any Contract renewals, including the exercise of any options or any modifications that may extend the Contract term.

1.25 Compliance with Laws/Arrearages

By submitting a Proposal in response to this RFP, the Offeror, if selected for award, agrees that it will comply with all Federal, State, and local laws applicable to its activities and obligations under the Contract.

By submitting a response to this solicitation, each Offeror represents that it is not in arrears in the payment of any obligations due and owing MES or the State of Maryland, including the payment of taxes and employee benefits, and that it shall not b ecome so in arrears during the term of the Contract if selected for Contract award.

1.26 Verification of Registration and Tax Payment

Before a business entity can do business in Maryland it must be registered with the State Department of Assessments and Taxation (SDAT). The SDAT website is http://dat.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx

It is strongly recommended that any potential Offeror complete registration prior to the due date for receipt of Proposals.

An Offeror’s failure to complete registration with SDAT may disqualify an otherwise successful Offeror from final consideration and recommendation for Contract award.

1.27 Insurance Requirements

The Contractor shall at all times have and maintain Commercial General Liability with a combined limit for personal injury and property damage liability at One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) per occurrence and Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000) in the aggregate, and Vehicle Liability Insurance with a combined limit for personal injury and property damage liability of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) per occurrence and One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) in the aggregate.

Certificates of such insurance acknowledging the Hold Harmless Clause contained in this document shall be filed with the Service.

1.28 Prompt Payment Policy

This procurement and the Contract(s) to be awarded pursuant to this solicitation are subject to the Prompt Payment Policy Directive issued by the Governor’s Office of Minority Affairs (GOMA) and dated August 1, 2008 or as amended. Promulgated pursuant to Md. Code Ann., State Finance and Procurement Article, §§ 11-201, 13-205(a), and Title 14, Subtitle 3, and COMAR 21.01.01.03 and 21.11.03.01, the Directive seeks to ensure the prompt payment of all subcontractors on non-construction procurement contracts. The Contractor must comply with the prompt payment requirements. Additional information is available on GOMA’s website at: PROMPT PAYMENT POLICY

1.29 Minority Business Enterprise Goals

There is no MBE subcontractor participation goal for this procurement.

1.30 Living Wage Requirements

Living Wages are NOT required for this Contract.

http://dat.maryland.gov/Pages/default.aspx http://goma.maryland.gov/Documents/Legislation/PromptPaymentFAQs.pdf

1.31 Federal Funding Acknowledgement

A resulting task authorization issued under this agreement may contain Federal funds. The contractor agrees to comply with and ensure compliance with any stipulations which may be applicable and identifiable under such task authorization.

____ Federal Funding is applicable for this project __X_ Federal Funding is not applicable for this project

1.32 Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure

Offerors shall complete and sign the Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure (Attachment D-1) and submit it with their Bid/Proposal. All Bidders/Offerors are advised that if a Contract is awarded as a result of this solicitation, the successful Contractor’s personnel who perform or control work under this Contract and each of the participating subcontractor personnel who perform or control work under this Contract shall be required to complete agreements substantially similar to Attachment D-1 Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure. For policies and procedures applying specifically to Conflict of Interests, the Contract is governed by COMAR 21.05.08.08.

1.33 Investment Activities in Iran

The Bidder/Offeror is required to complete the Investment Activities in Iran Certification. A copy of this Certification is included as Attachment H-1. The Certification must be provided with the Bid/Proposal.

1.34 Notice of Political Contributions

Any firm awarded a state agency contract shall comply with the political contribution reporting requirements under Title 14 of the Election Law Article to which the contractor may be subject as provided in § 17-402 (2013).

1.35 Certification Regarding Discriminatory Boycotts of Israel

The Offeror is required to complete the Certification Regarding Discriminatory Boycotts of Israel. A copy of this Certification is included as Attachment K-1. The Certification must be provided with the Bid/Proposal.

http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/comarhtml/21/21.05.08.08.htm http://www.dsd.state.md.us/comar/comarhtml/21/21.05.08.08.htm

SECTION 2 – SCOPE OF WORK

2.1 Background and Purpose

The Maryland Environmental Service (“MES”) is issuing this solicitation for the purposes of engaging a qualified compensation consulting firm to conduct a comprehensive review of MES’s position classifications, including job descriptions.

The selected firm will assist MES in maintaining a classification and compensation system that is current, competitive, and equitable, supporting the attraction and retention of highly qualified staff across all areas of the organization. This study will also include validation and benchmarking of MES’s recently adopted Shift Differential Policy (HR 10.07) identification of hard to fill positions with associated compensation incentives;

and compensation offerings for Fellow and Apprentice programs; to ensure alignment with MES’s overall compensation structure.

MES seeks a consultant with demonstrated expertise in public-sector classification and compensation studies, the ability to benchmark against relevant markets, and experience providing actionable recommendations. The final report will be delivered by April 2026 to allow MES leadership sufficient time for review and presentation to the Board of Directors at its May 2026 meeting.

This background information is provided to assist vendors in preparing thorough and responsive proposals.

2.2 Scope of Work - Requirements

The successful Contractor will be responsible for the following:

1. Alignment with Strategic Objectives Conduct detailed fact-finding to understand MES’s strategic goals for classification and compensation. This ensures that both market data and internal analysis are aligned with MES’s workforce needs, organizational objectives, and budget parameters.

2. Market Data Collection and Analysis Collect and analyze relevant public- and private-sector market data to ensure salary ranges, hiring rates, and pay practices are competitive. This analysis will support MES’s ability to recruit and retain highly qualified staff across all organizational areas.

3. Compensation Structure Assessment Assess the current salary structure to determine whether existing pay grades, ranges, and midpoints remain aligned with current market values and internal equity considerations.

4. Shift Differential Policy Validation Review MES’s recently adopted Shift Differential Policy (HR 10.07), approved by the Board of Directors on June 26, 2025. The purpose of this review is to benchmark and validate the policy against industry standards and labor market data, ensuring it remains competitive, equitable, and aligned with MES’s overall compensation structure. This review is not intended to reconsider or modify the recently adopted policy but rather to provide independent confirmation for MES leadership and the Board that the policy supports long-term workforce goals.

5. Custom Salary Surveys Conduct a custom salary survey if additional data is needed for specialized positions or unique labor market comparisons to include but not be limited to on-the-job training programs such as Fellows and Apprentices;

and identification of hard to fill positions in relation to the assigned geographic areas

6. Job Description and Classification Review Review all job descriptions and classifications to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with recommended pay structures.

7. Data Reporting and Recommendations Utilize current compensation technology and tools to provide detailed reporting of findings, along with clear, data-driven recommendations for MES leadership and Board consideration.

8. Final Deliverable Provide a final, comprehensive report no later than April 2026. The report must include actionable recommendations, proposed implementation steps, and supporting documentation suitable for MES leadership.

2.3 Minimum Qualifications

If provided herein, the Offeror must provide proof with its Proposal that the following Minimum Qualifications have been met:

2.3.1 Work History

The Offeror shall provide a brief description of its work history and previous experience as a Compensation Study Consultant, including the scope of services provided.

2.3.2 Comparable Projects

The Offeror shall provide a brief description of at least three (3) similar projects completed within the past five (5) years, including projects comparable to MES in size and/or industry.

As proof of meeting this requirement, the Offeror shall include in its Technical Proposal references (see Attachment E-1) containing: company name, project name, time frame, results achieved, and reference contact information (name, phone number, email). The Offeror shall indicate which Minimum Qualification(s) each reference supports.

2.3.3 Professional Expertise

The Offeror’s project lead and key team members shall possess relevant certifications (e.g., Certified Compensation Professional (CCP), SHRM-SCP, SPHR) or a minimum of 5–10 years of demonstrated experience in compensation consulting, pay structure design, and market benchmarking.

2.3.4 Public Sector Experience

The Offeror shall demonstrate experience conducting compensation studies for public agencies or similar organizations with multiple job classifications and board-level reporting requirements.

2.3.5 Analytical Tools & Reporting

The Offeror shall demonstrate the use of modern compensation analysis tools and methodologies to deliver data-driven results, including market benchmarking, pay equity assessments, and clear reporting for leadership and board review.

2.4 Invoicing

2.4.1 General

(a) All invoices for services shall be signed by the Contractor and submitted to the Contract Project Manager. All invoices shall include the following information:

• Contractor name;

• Remittance address;

• Federal taxpayer identification number (or if sole proprietorship, the individual’s social security number);

• Invoice period;

• Invoice date;

• Invoice number

• MES assigned Contract number;

• MES assigned Purchase Order number(s);

• Goods or services provided; and

• Amount due

Invoices submitted without the required information cannot be processed for payment until the Contractor provides the required information.

(b) MES reserves the right to reduce or withhold Contract payment in the event the Contractor does not provide MES with all required deliverables within the time frame specified in the Contract or in the event that the Contractor otherwise materially breaches the terms and conditions of t h e Contract until such time as the Contractor brings itself into full compliance with the Contract.

2.4.2 Invoice Submission Schedule

MES will accept receipt of invoices on a monthly basis for review and approval of the work completed at that time. Invoices are due by the 15th of the month following the end of the month in which services were performed.

Invoices will be paid only up to the firms Not-to-Exceed Lump Sum Price of the Price Proposal Form (See Attachment F-1)

2.5 MBE Reports

If this solicitation includes a MBE Goal, the Contractor and its MBE subcontractors shall provide the following MBE Monthly Reports based upon the commitment to the goal:

(a) Attachment G, the Prime Contractor Paid/Unpaid MBE Invoice Report by the 15th of the month following the reporting period to the Contract Manager and the MBE Liaison Officer.

(b) Attachment H, the MBE Subcontractor/Contarctor Unpaid MBE Invoice Report by the 15th of the month following the reporting period to the Contract Monitor and the MBE Liaison Officer.

(c) Attachment I, the MBE Prime Contractor report by the 15th of the month following the reporting period to the Contract Monitor and the MBE Liaison Officer.

SECTION 3 – PROPOSAL FORMAT

3.1 Two Part Submission

Offerors shall submit Proposals in separate volumes:

Volume I – TECHNICAL PROPOSAL Volume II – PRICE PROPOSAL

3.2 Proposals

3.2.1 Volume I – Technical Proposal, and Volume II – Price Proposal shall be submitted on the MES Procurement Portal (Bonfire) https://menv.bonfirehub.com/, see the Requested Information section.

3.3 Delivery

3.3.1 MES accepts only Electronic Proposals through the MES Procurement Portal https://menv.bonfirehub.com/.

Volume I & II should be uploaded separately. See the Requested Information section on the MES Procurement Portal.

Proposals will not be accepted on the MES Procurement Portal after the RFP closing date.

3.4 Volume I – Technical Proposal

Offerors shall submit electronic copies of the required documents as specified below. Proposals shall be clearly titled.

SECTION 1 Cover Letter SECTION 2 Background, Minimum Qualifications and Experience SECTION 3 Scope of Work SECTION 4 Provide References (See Attachment E-1) SECTION 5 Required Forms:

Bid/Proposal Affidavit (See Attachment B-1) Conflict of Interest Statement (See Attachment D-1) Certification of Investment Activities in Iran (See Attachment H-1) Certification Regarding Discriminatory Boycotts of Israel (See Attachment K-1) Copy of Current State of MD License/Certification of Good Standing

SECTION 1 - COVER LETTER (3-page limit):

Offerors shall include a cover letter signed by a party authorized to sign binding agreements on behalf of the Offeror.

The cover letter should provide a high level overview of the key components of the submittal. The letter shall clearly indicate that the Offeror has carefully read all the requirements in the RFP, and indicate whether the Offeror takes any exceptions to the requirements.

SECTION 2 - BACKGROUND, MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

This section of the proposal is designed to establish the Offeror as an entity with the ability and experience to fill the requirements specified in the solicitation. The Offeror’s background should be concise and clear, and include descriptive information regarding the service delivery. The following information shall clearly provide and submit any Minimum Qualifications documentation that may be required, as set forth in Section 2― Minimum Qualifications.

SECTION 3 - SCOPE OF WORK:

All proposals shall include a detailed description of the services to be rendered, including, but not limited to a written general understanding and any deviations to the requirements outlined in the Scope/Statement of Work contained herein.

In addition, proposals shall provide:

• A proposed project plan and timeline demonstrating how the Offeror will meet all deliverables, including the final report due no later than April 2026.

• A description of the methodology and tools to be used for data collection, analysis, benchmarking, and reporting;

• An explanation of the project team’s roles and responsibilities including qualifications and relevant experience;

• A description of how the Offeror will ensure collaboration and communication with MES leadership and staff throughout the project.

SECTION 4 - REFERENCES:

References shall be submitted in References Section (See Attachment E-1)

SECTION 5 - REQUIRED FORMS:

Provide all forms as outlined above.

3.5 Volume II – Price Proposal

Offerors shall submit electronic copies of the required documents as specified below. Proposals shall be clearly titled.

SECTION 1 Price Proposal (See Attachment F-1) Financial Capability SECTION 2 Required Forms: Example of Insurance Certificate

Financial Capability will be requested by the Apparent Awardee

SECTION 1 –PRICE PROPOSAL – ATTACHMENT F-1

The Price Proposal should contain all price information in the format specified in Attachment F-1.

Prospective Offerors Conditioning the Price Proposal From will deem your proposal non-responsive and not be accepted. COMAR 21.05.02.22

SECTION 2- REQUIRED FORMS:

Provide all forms as outlined above.

FINANCIAL CAPABILITY:

An Offeror must include in its Proposal a commonly-accepted method to prove its fiscal integrity. The Offeror shall include Financial Statements, preferably a Profit and Loss (P&L) statement and a Balance Sheet, for the last two (2) years (independently audited preferred).

In addition, the Offeror may supplement its response to this Section by including one or more of the following with its response:

• Dunn and Bradstreet Rating;

• Standard and Poor’s Rating;

• Lines of credit;

• Evidence of a successful financial track record; and

• Evidence of adequate working capital.

SECTION 4 – EVALUATION COMMITTEE, CRITERIA, SELECTION AND

AWARD PROCEDURE

4.1 Evaluation Committee/Selection/Award

4.1.1 EVALUATION COMMITTEE –

An evaluation committee, selected by MES, will review and evaluate all proposals. The Committee will conduct its evaluation of the merits of the responsive proposals. Each member will score this phase of the evaluation in accordance with the following:

EVALUATION CRITERIA

A. Firm’s Background & Experience

Demonstrated experience conducting compensation studies of similar size and complexity; qualifications of key personnel and subcontractors; and references from comparable projects. Positive client references will be considered.

B. Methodology

Quality and clarity of the proposed approach, including project plan, timeline, data collection methods, benchmarking techniques, and reporting processes. This should include: i) understanding of MES’s requirements; ii) strategy for assessing positions; iii) ability to conduct up to 4–6 on-site interviews; iv) approach to targeted/custom surveys; v) cost analysis for position reclassifications; vi) use of current technologies and business practices; and vii) cost-saving options, if acceptable to MES.

C. References

Quality and relevance of references provided on Attachment E-1, demonstrating successful outcomes on similar projects within the past five (5) years.

D. Pricing

Reasonableness and competitiveness of the Price Proposal – Attachment F- 1 made part of Volume II

Total Points Possible 100

The Contract shall be awarded to the responsible Offeror(s) submitting the Proposal that has been determined to be the most advantageous to MES, considering price and evaluation factors set forth in this RFP and for providing the goods and services as specified in this RFP Offerors may be required to make oral presentations to MES representatives. Offerors must confirm in writing any substantive oral clarification of, or change in, their Proposals made in the course of discussions. Any such written clarifications or changes then become part of the Offeror’s Proposal and are binding if the Contract is awarded. The Procurement Officer will notify Offerors of the time and place of oral presentations. – from Section 1.14.

4.1.2 PROPOSED PROJECT SCHEDULE - The proposed tentative schedule for evaluation of proposals, award of a contract and completion of the project is as follow:

4.1.3 PRE-MOBILIZATION MEETING:

Prior to commencement of work, the Contractor may be required to meet with MES’s Project Manager to review the contract and schedule of work.

4.1.4 DEBRIEFING OF UNSUCCESSFUL OFFERORS:

Upon written request made within ten (10) calendar days after Contract Award, the Procurement Office will provide unsuccessful Offerors with a discussion of MES’s evaluation of their proposal, citing the strengths, deficiencies, and weaknesses. Point-by-point comparisons with the proposals of others will not be made.

Debriefings will not include discussions of information contained in other Offerors' proposals.

4.2 Documents Required upon Notice of Recommendation for Contract Award

Upon receipt of a Notification of Recommendation for Contract Award, the following documents shall be completed and submitted by the recommended awardee within five (5) Business Days, unless noted otherwise. Submit three (3) copies of each with original signatures:

a. signed Contract (Attachment A-1),

b. completed Contract Affidavit (Attachment C-1),

c. completed MBE Attachments B and C, within ten (10) Working Days, if applicable;

d. completed MBE Attachment F if a waiver has been requested, within ten (10) Working Days, if applicable;

e. copy of a current Certificate of Insurance with the prescribed limits set forth herein Insurance

Requirements, naming MES as an additional insured;

The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank.

September 18, 2025 RFP Issued October 2, 2025 Questions Due by 1:00 PM October 9, 2025 Issuance of Addendum October 16, 2025 RFP Due by 2:00 PM Week of October 20, 2025 Interviews (if required) November 3, 2025 Final Recommendation December 2025 Contract Award January 2026 Begin Work

RFP

ATTACHMENTS

ATTACHMENT A-1 – CONTRACT – SAMPLE ONLY

CONTRACTORS CONTRACT/BASIC AGREEMENT

(I.D. No. 1-__-__-__-__) (Rev. 1/15)

THIS CONTRACT, entered into this ______ day of _____________________, 20____, by and between the

MARYLAND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICE

259 Najoles Road Millersville, Maryland 21108 hereinafter ("Service") and

CONTRACTOR

Contractor street address City, State ZIP CODE hereinafter ("Contractor")

WHEREAS, the Service has chosen the Contractor, and the Contractor has agreed to perform the work herein and be bound by the terms of this Contract.

NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants herein contained be it agreed by and between the parties hereto as follows:

ARTICLE I - SCOPE OF WORK

The general objective of this Contract is that the Contractor shall provide services FOR/RELATED TO

WORK at NAME OF FACILITY in LOCATION (CITY OR COUNTY) for (NAME OF CLIENT IF

APPROPRIATE) as set forth in the NAME OF DOCUMENT dated DATE (and the Contractor’s NAME OF

DOCUMENT dated DATE), which is (are) attached hereto and expressly incorporated herein and made a part of this Contract.

ARTICLE II - COMPENSATION AND METHOD OF PAYMENT

The Service shall pay the Contractor in accordance with the Contractor’s Proposal for the not to exceed amount of _____________________ Dollars and _______Cents ($_________.___). The Contractor shall submit monthly invoices for all costs expended in the performance of this Contract. A standard billing format shall be followed including, but not limited to, the Contractor's Federal Tax Identification Number of ___-__________ and the Contract Identifying Number set out above. Billings shall be due and payable within thirty (30) days of receipt by the Service. A cost accounting practice will be followed in accordance with COMAR 21.09, and uniform practices of the profession as acceptable to the Service. The Service shall pay each invoice within thirty (30) days of receipt.

ARTICLE III - TERM

The Term of this Contract is from the date established in the Notice to Proceed through TERMINATION

DATE. No work shall be performed without a Notice to Proceed issued by the Service. The Service reserves the right to renew this agreement for one (1) term of two (2) years at the same terms.

ARTICLE IV - CONTRACT REPRESENTATIVES

The following individuals are designated as Contract Representatives for their respective parties:

Service Name Project Manager 259 Najoles Road Millersville, Maryland 21108 Phone Phone Email EMail@menv.com

Contractor Name Title Contractor street address City, State ZIP CODE Phone Phone Email Email

The scope of authority of the designated Contract Representatives to act for their respective parties is set forth in Article V of the Service's General Conditions which is attached hereto and expressly made a part of this

Contract in accordance with Article V.

ARTICLE V - GENERAL CONDITIONS

The conditions contained in the document entitled Maryland Environmental Service-General Conditions-

Service Contract – 06/14, which is attached hereto, are expressly incorporated and made a part of this Contract herein.

ARTICLE VI - MERGER

This Contract embodies the whole agreement of the parties. There are no promises, terms, conditions, or obligations referring to the subject matter, other than those contained herein or incorporated herein by reference.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Contract I.D. No. 1-__-__-__-__, by causing the same to be signed on the day and year first above written.

CONTRACTOR

_______________________________ BY

WITNESS

Name:

Title:

_______________________________ BY

WITNESS

Name:

Title:

Approved as to form and legal sufficiency this ________ day of ______________________, 20____.

Assistant Attorney General

ATTACHMENT B-1 – BID/PROPOSAL AFFIDAVIT

BID/PROPOSAL AFFIDAVIT

A. AUTHORITY

I HEREBY AFFIRM THAT:

I, (print name), (title), of

(print firm name) possess the legal authority to make this Affidavit.

B. CERTIFICATION REGARDING COMMERCIAL NONDISCRIMINATION

The undersigned bidder hereby certifies and agrees that the following information is correct: In preparing its bid on this project, the bidder has considered all proposals submitted from qualified, potential subcontractors and suppliers, and has not engaged in "discrimination" as defined in §19-103 of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland. "Discrimination" means any disadvantage, difference, distinction, or preference in the solicitation, selection, hiring, or commercial treatment of a vendor, subcontractor, or commercial customer on the basis of race, color, religion, ancestry, or national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or on the basis of disability or any otherwise unlawful use of characteristics regarding the vendor's, supplier's, or commercial customer's employees or owners.

"Discrimination" also includes retaliating against any person or other entity for reporting any incident of "discrimination". Without limiting any other provision of the solicitation on this project, it is understood that, if the certification is false, such false certification constitutes grounds for the State to reject the bid submitted by the bidder on this project, and terminate any contract awarded based on the bid. As part of its bid or proposal, the bidder herewith submits a list of all instances within the past 4 years where there has been a final adjudicated determination in a legal or administrative proceeding in the State of Maryland that the bidder discriminated against subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, or commercial customers, and a description of the status or resolution of that determination, including any remedial action taken. Bidder agrees to comply in all respects with the State's Commercial Nondiscrimination Policy as described under Title 19 of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland.

B-1. CERTIFICATION REGARDING MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISES.

The undersigned bidder hereby certifies and agrees that it has fully complied with the State Minority Business Enterprise Law, State Finance and Procurement Article, §14-308(a)(2), Annotated Code of Maryland, which provides that, except as otherwise provided by law, a contractor may not identify a certified minority business enterprise in a bid or proposal and:

(1) Fail to request, receive, or otherwise obtain authorization from the certified minority business enterprise to identify the certified minority proposal;

(2) Fail to notify the certified minority business enterprise before execution of the contract of its inclusion in the bid or proposal;

(3) Fail to use the certified minority business enterprise in the performance of the contract; or

(4) Pay the certified minority business enterprise solely for the use of its name in the bid or proposal.

Without limiting any other provision of the solicitation on this project, it is understood that if the certification is false, such false certification constitutes grounds for the State to reject the bid submitted by the bidder on this project, and terminate any contract awarded based on the bid.

C. AFFIRMATION REGARDING BRIBERY CONVICTIONS.

I FURTHER AFFIRM THAT:

Neither I, nor to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief, the above business (as is defined in Section 16-101(b) of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland), or any of its officers, directors, partners, controlling stockholders, or any of its employees directly involved in the business's contracting activities including obtaining or performing contracts with public bodies has been convicted of, or has had probation before judgment imposed pursuant to Criminal Procedure Article, §6-220, Annotated Code of Maryland, or has pleaded nolo contendere to a charge of, bribery, attempted bribery, or conspiracy to bribe in violation of Maryland law, or of the law of any other state or federal law, except as follows (indicate the reasons why the affirmation cannot be given and list any conviction, plea, or imposition of probation before judgment with the date, court, official or administrative body, the sentence or disposition, the name(s) of person(s) involved, and their current positions and responsibilities with the business):

D. AFFIRMATION REGARDING OTHER CONVICTIONS

Neither I, nor to the best of my knowledge, information, and belief, the above business, or any of its officers, directors, partners, controlling stockholders, or any of its employees directly involved in the business's contracting activities including obtaining or performing contracts with public bodies, has:

(1) Been convicted under state or federal…