Solicitation Electronic Security Operations Coordinator and Technician October 2008.doc

SOLICITATION NUMBER:

267-09-001

ISSUANCE DATE:

October 16, 2008

CLOSING DATE/TIME:

October 30, 2008 / 17:00 Iraq Local Time POSITION TITLE: Electronic Security Operations

Coordinator and Technician

MARKET VALUE: GS-14 ($81,093 to $105,420)

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Thirteen Months with possible extension PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Iraq

SECURITY ACCESS: Secret Security Clearance

AREA OF CONSIDERATION:

US Personal Services Contractors

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Electronic Security Operations

Coordinator and Technician, USAID/Iraq Executive Office (EXO)

EXPECTED START DATE:

Immediate

OVERVIEW AND BACKGROUND:

A. ORGANIZATIONAL LOCATION OF POSITION

The position is located in Baghdad, the capital city of Iraq, at the USAID Mission compound in the International Zone. The USAID Compound currently provides office and work space for 143 USAID employees and 20 life-support contractor personnel and residential space for approximately 140 people. The security infrastructure the incumbent is expected to support is very large and comprehensive and includes a large established infrastructure of the latest electronic, state-of-the-art integrated camera, security notification, and access control equipment, protecting the 15+ acres of compound. The Electronic Security Operations Coordinator and Technician position will report directly to the Supervisory Executive Officer in the Executive Office and may supervise local technical support staff and/or oversee technical support contracts, as required.

B. POSITION TITLE OF DIRECT SUPERVISOR

The incumbent will report to the Supervisory Executive Officer, USAID/Iraq.

C. OVERVIEW AND WORK DESCRIPTION

Safety and security are serious issues in Iraq and the reason Iraq is designated as the highest profile, critical threat, unaccompanied post. Travel outside Baghdad and other cities within Iraq is tightly regulated and monitored by the Regional Security Office (RSO). For the well-being of mission staff it is imperative that all precautions and measures are taken to minimize threats to safety and security. The basic function of the Electronic Security Operations Coordinator and Technician is to provide a high level of technical security and security infrastructure support in a continuing effort to maintain security equipment systems on the USAID compound for the protection of personnel and property. This effort includes the repairs, replacement, and maintenance of security equipment systems, which include but not limited too; CCTV, Public Address, Active Anti-Ram Barriers, Security Communications, Forced Entry/Ballistic Resistant (FE/BR) Doors, and Armored Vehicles; to the USAID offices and personnel located in Baghdad, Iraq.

All posting to Iraq are currently an unaccompanied because this has been determined to be a critical threat post. Travel within Iraq is restricted, subject to the approval of the Regional Security Office (RSO). Danger pay in Baghdad is 35%, and post differential 35%. Three rest and recuperation (R&R) trips are authorized for each one year tour, and separate maintenance allowance (SMA) is authorized when applicable.

The selected candidate must be able to obtain a Secret level security clearance and a medical clearance for worldwide availability.

D. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Electronic Technical Support

The Electronic Security Operations Coordinator and Technician is responsible for monitoring critical electronic security systems and performing the full-range of technical security and operational activities throughout the USAID Baghdad, Iraq compound, including the installation, repair, replace, programming, and maintaining of security equipment/systems that are installed on the USAID/Iraq compound.

Safety and Security:

The Electronic Security Operations Coordinator and Technician is expected to provide expert electronic technical advice to the Senior Safety and Security Specialist for USAID/Iraq on the mission-wide security infrastructure planning for USAID’s Baghdad compound operations. The Electronic Security Operations Coordinator and Technician will also assist the Senior Safety and Security Specialist to ensure maximum safety and security for USAID personnel operating in the IZ by helping s/he review, maintain, and exercise evacuation plans for USAID personnel, and assisting in the evaluation and assessment of technical security for the compound and housing complex. The incumbent will backstop radio procurement, communications planning, operations and usage, and work supportively with the Senior Safety and Security Specialist for USAID/Iraq and the Regional Security Office in support of their responsibilities for physical security of USAID buildings and residences for mission personnel.

Operations and training:

The Senior Safety and Security Specialist is administratively responsibilities for safety and security related office procurement, equipment inventory and record-keeping. The incumbent will assess needs and develop training programs – as needed, for security staff and USAID employees on the proper use of electronic security equipment and radios.

E. OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTS:

1. Supervisory Controls: The Incumbent receives supervision, policy direction, and guidance from the Supervisory EXO or designee but the incumbent is expected to work independently in carrying out responsibilities. While the exercise of independent judgment and initiative may be necessary when dealing with operational matters, the incumbent’s actions and decisions should first be cleared by the Executive Office.

2. Supervision Exercised: The Incumbent may be required to supervise either local technical staff (as assigned), or outside contractors, to perform the duties as required of the position.

3. Physical Demands and Work Environment: The work environment is physically demanding. The USAID compound in Baghdad is an active construction site, a climatically and physically rugged environment that requires excellent physical condition to perform the physical security technical duties.

4. Available Guidelines: Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), Foreign Affairs Handbook (FAR), Automated Directives System (ADS), Mission Orders and Mission Notices. The incumbent will be expected to complete the work under this contract in a manner consistent with professional industry standards. Installation and/or repair work will be performed in accordance with Department of State (DOS) instructions and standards that will be provided by SEC/PSP/TSSB.

5. Exercise of Judgment: Projects assigned to incumbent include a variety of duties and processes requiring extensive exercise of judgment, decision-making, and safety & security management with minimal direction. Incumbent must be able to exercise sound judgment in crisis or emergency situations.

6. Authority to Make Commitments: No authority to make fiscal commitments; full authority to make recommendations pertaining to safety and security conditions and responses.

7. Nature, Level, and Purpose of Contacts: Personal contacts are primarily internal, the USAID Executive Officers, RSO, and the USAID Office of security in Washington. Outside contacts will include contractors hire to support specific USAID/Iraq physical security projects.

8. The Contractor must be able to obtain a security clearance at least at the Secret level.

G. QUALIFICATIONS AND EVALUATION FACTORS

Candidates will be evaluated and ranked based on the following selection criteria:

Education and Experience:

The successful candidate must have a minimum of two years of formal, relevant technical training, four years general experience and at least one year of specialized experience, preferably in the repair, installation, and maintenance of communication/electronic security systems. Total experience of each individual must be in progressively more responsible positions that demonstrate that the individual has the ability to effectively use electronic test equipment, write clearly and concisely on technical topics, and troubleshoot and repair various electronic and electrical equipment systems. Experience working in developing countries; post conflict and/or post disaster, and/or in remote, rugged terrain highly preferred, but not required.

Language Proficiency

S4/R4 ability (fluent) in English is required. Clear technical written English is particularly important.

Knowledge:

A comprehensive knowledge of electronic and mechanized security equipment is needed to install, repair, replace, program, and maintain the security equipment/systems that are installed on the USAID/Iraq compound, which could includes the below security equipment/systems:

· Panasonic Close Circuit Television cameras

· Panasonic CCTV controllers

· Panasonic Matrix Switcher

· Sensormatic Digital Video Recorder

· System Interface Cabinet (SIC)

· AES Power Supply

· AES Alarm System

· PS-600 Power Supply

· Powerware Uninterrupted Power System (UPS)

· Panasonic / Pelco Monitors

· Federal Signal Public Address System

· Delta - Active Anti-Ram Barrier Systems

· Smiths or APS - X-Ray Machines

· Metor - Walk Through Metal Detector

· Motorola Communication Equipment

· Scaletta & PDI Armored Vehicles

· FDI - FE/BR Doors

Skills and Abilities:

Candidate must possess sound, independent judgment with the skills to develop and effectively implement and maintain the entire security equipment systems in a heavy workload/high stress environment. Must be able to successfully convey systems and issues to EXO management and propose well-developed recommendations and solutions. A high degree of professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment in representing the USG are essential elements of the position given the sensitivity of USG security program in the region.

Ability to understand the capabilities and limitations of imposed policy and the operating environment is a must, as are effective trouble-shooting skills. Initiative and resourcefulness are required to identify, evaluate and address issues as they arise and formulate and implement effective solutions. The successful candidate will develop/formulate standardized security equipment maintenance practices, and/or modification to existing practices.

Ability to work on a team and to maintain cordial and professional relationships with USAID staff in various locations is essential. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to support Mission staff with program implementation are necessary. Demonstrated ability to work in teams and commitment to the team mode of operation is required.

Supervisory Skills:

The successful candidate must have the ability to work independently, with minimal supervision, and may be called upon to direct either USAID local staff or contractors to complete tasks as required, therefore some experience in staff supervision and/or training is preferred.

Physical Requirements:

The successful candidate must be able to physically stand for long periods of time, kneel, bend have the ability to climb ladders and have the dexterity in the hands to prepare wires/cables for electrical hook-ups. The SET is expected to work the scheduled operational hours set by the Executive Officer/Iraq and overtime as needed in support of USAID/Iraq’s physical security requirements.

IV.

TERM OF PERFORMANCE / COMPENSATION

Within two weeks after written notice from the Contracting Officer that all clearances, including medical and security clearances, have been received, or unless another date is specified by the Contracting Officer in writing, the contractor shall proceed to the Washington, D.C. area for mandatory pre-deployment training and orientation, and then directly to Baghdad, Iraq, where s/he shall promptly commence performance of the duties specified above. The term of the contract will be for approximately thirteen months (including the mandatory training period in Washington, D.C.), with a period of service of one year at post.

The position has been classified at a GS-14 level. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within the GS-14 pay band, depending on qualifications and previous salary history. It is unlikely that an individual will be selected who does not already have the prior training and experience to fully perform at the GS-14 level, or who in some other way does not fully meet all requirements for the position. However, should such an individual be offered a position, the offered salary may be at less than the minimum salary in the GS-14 pay band.

In addition to the basic salary, differentials and other benefits in effect at the time, and which are applicable and subject to change on a similar basis as for direct-hire USG employees, will be added. Illustratively, these may include 35% Post Differential, 35% Danger Pay, 5% Sunday Differential, and a Separate Maintenance Allowance, if applicable (Iraq is a no-dependent post).

The employees serving in Iraq are authorized three short regional rest breaks and two Rest and Recuperation (R&R) breaks per year, or, alternatively, three R&R breaks and no regional rest breaks. Twenty days of administrative leave are provided per year in addition to annual leave and may be taken during these rest breaks.

USAID will provide furnished housing and three meals per day within the guarded and fortified International Zone in Baghdad.

V.

MEDICAL AND SECURITY CLEARANCES

The selected candidate must be able to obtain both a background security clearance and a worldwide available medical clearance. The security clearance involves a comprehensive investigation performed by the appropriate U.S. Government agency. Details on how to obtain US Department of State Medical Unit clearance will be provided once a job offer is made and accepted.

VI.

BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES/TAXES

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a US/TCN PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances: (NOTE: An individual defined as a Resident-Hire employee may only be eligible for those benefits listed under item A below.)

A. BENEFITS:

Employer's FICA Contribution

Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance

Pay Comparability Adjustment

Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

Annual & Sick Leave

Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service

B. ALLOWANCES (If Applicable):

Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120)

Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)

Post Allowance (Section 220)

Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230)

Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)

Education Allowance (Section 270)

Education Travel (Section 280)

Post Differential (Chapter 500)

Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) and

Danger Pay (Section 650)

C. FEDERAL TAXES: USPSCs and TCNPSC green card holders are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion.

VII. APPLYING

Qualified individuals are requested to submit a U.S. government Optional Form 612 which is available at the USAID websites: http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/forms.html, http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/forms.asp, or at Federal offices. Resumes may be attached to the OF-612 and applicants are encouraged to write a brief appendix to demonstrate how prior experience and/or training address the minimum qualifications and selection criteria.

The application, summary statement, or cover letter must list at least three references and provide current contact information, preferably both an e-mail address and a telephone number.

All applications should be submitted electronically to:

iraquspscjobs@usaid.gov

All applications should be received by the closing date and time previously specified. To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application and as the subject line in any cover letter. The selection will be based on the panel evaluation of the applicants vis-à-vis selection criteria mentioned previously. Applicants should also note that the salary history for the purpose of the OF-612 is the salary paid, excluding benefits and allowances such as housing, travel, educational support, vehicle use, etc. The OF-612 applications must be signed.

Point of Contact

Ms. Maka Beradze, S/HR Specialist, Phone (in Iraq) - (+1) 202-216-6276, xt1013; Email: mberadzetdy@usaid.gov or Saran Bamba Camara, Human Resources Manager, Phone (in Iraq) - (+1) 202-216-6276, xt1291; Email: scamaratdy@usaid.gov Fax (+1) 202-216-6276, xt1209

1. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs

Forms outlined below can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/

1. Standard Form 171 or Optional Form 612.

2. Contractor Physical Examination (AID Form 1420-62)**

3. AID 6-1 (Request for Security Action)**

4. SF-86 (Questionnaire for National Security Positions)**

5. FD-258 (Fingerprint Cards) 2 ach**

6. AID 610-14 (Authority for Release of Information)**

7. AID 6-85 (Foreign Residence Data)**

8. Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1970, As Amended**

9. Notice Required by the Privacy Act of 1974**

** Forms 2 through 9 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. Note: The selected individual shall be required to obtain a security clearance.

2. ACQUISITION AND ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) PERTAINING

TO PERSONAL SERVICE CONTRACT (PSC)

AAPDs contain information or changes pertaining to USAID policy, regulation and procedures concerning acquisition and assistance. A number of AAPDs pertain to Personal Service Contracts. Please refer to the USAID website: http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/ to locate relevant AAPDs. Additionally, AIDAR Appendix D or J also applies to PSCs and can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf

PAGE