Solicitation Deputy Systems Manager.doc

SOLICITATION NUMBER:

267-11-000002

ISSUANCE DATE:

March 7, 2011

CLOSING DATE/TIME:

March 28, 2011 / 17:00 Baghdad Time

POSITION TITLE:

Deputy Systems Manager

MARKET VALUE:

GS-12 ($ 60,274 to $ 78,355) PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Thirteen Months with possible extension PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Iraq

SECURITY ACCESS: N/A

AREA OF CONSIDERATION:

US/Third Country National (TCN) Personal

Services Contractor (PSC)

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Deputy Systems Manager, USAID/Iraq Executive Office

I. INTRODUCTION

Within the Executive Office, the Office of Information Technology (OIT) is responsible for providing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services and support as well as overall management of USAID/IRAQ’s computer systems. These services include, but are not limited to, the following: general systems administration, information security and organization of all data and vital records, computer advisory services, and system integration between USAID systems and programmatic information with other sister agencies, implementing partners, and the Government of Iraq (GOI).

The USAID Mission in Iraq is headquartered in Baghdad, The Mission’s electronic infrastructure is a complex collection of equipment/systems: VSAT systems, microwave links, wi-fi internet, VOIP telephones, CISCO routers, Motorola 2-way radios, as well as other cutting edge technologies. USAID/IRAQ is seeking a self-motivated high-energy individual who can live and work closely with others while performing in a high stress environment amid constantly changing priorities.

The system architecture, which is constantly evolving, runs on an MS Windows platform and consists of the following basic elements: Domain Controllers, SMS Servers, Exchange 2000 Servers, SUS Servers, Firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems, File and Print Servers, SQL Server 2000, Oracle Database Server, IIS WEB Servers as well as numerous laser printers and scanners, and other peripherals.

The incumbent will provide all levels of IT systems support for USAID enterprise architecture, to include but not limited to: Help-Desk response, user assistance and training, systems and application troubleshooting, systems administration and backups, system engineering and deployment of new systems. USAID also maintains a wide array of enterprise software applications. These include: Phoenix/Momentum financial data processing, ASIST/Documentum document management and archiving, online web portals and collaboration tools, various intranet database applications built on ASP/SQL Server and RSA security tokens for remote access.

USAID/IRAQ is one of the Agency’s largest and most complex Missions. In the coming year, the Mission will be transitioning to a new location. This move is expected to have serious and challenging impacts on the OIT. Additionally, the Mission will be implementing a virtualized environment with an integrated disaster recovery system. The Iraq mission will be the first USAID field location to deploy this system.

The incumbent reports directly to the Information Systems Manager but may receive technical guidance from IRM in USAID/Washington. The incumbent will serve as the principal person responsible for the training of system users, mentoring and imparting appropriate technical skills to other Foreign Service National (FSN) OIT employees, as well as to all other Mission employees. This training will cover all areas of operation of the Mission systems and telecommunications from physical maintenance and repair of the systems’ hardware to support for the various application systems. The training will also include advising on general data-hygiene, safeguarding of Sensitive But Unclassified (SBU) data, providing routine hardware installation, troubleshooting advanced telecommunications, as well as some systems application development, script writing, and code debugging.

II. DETAILED DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

LAN and WAN Operation and Administration 50% of time

The primary objective of IT support work is ensuring the highest day-to-day network availability. The incumbent will work with the Information Systems Manager and Network Operations Center (NOC) in Washington to maintain the Mission critical Information Communication Technologies such as VSAT Internet connectivity which feeds the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone system, and Mission E-MAIL systems.

The Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) responsibilities will also include: management of a medium sized “server farm” and complex series of LAN devices and equipment at high availability status. The incumbent will install and maintain additional servers, network software and clients (PCs), upgrade new software releases, patch operating systems, optimize network performance, upgrade client software and maintain backed up copies of server data to prevent accidental loss. The incumbent will also monitor network and perform traffic analysis, test and evaluate computer operating systems. Further, the incumbent will determine LAN and WAN effectiveness relative to systems in use and their support capability and compatibility with program applications.

LAN and WAN operation and administration will include troubleshooting of servers, PCs, and LAN devices by replacing broken parts and preventive maintenance as required, maintaining system images and antivirus software on both servers’ and users' side, and controlling access to Mission devices by maintaining port security on network switches.

Application Support/User Training

20% of time

Application support includes assisting all Mission users with their daily tasks, such as: e-mail usage, sharing calendars, spreadsheet, word processing, photo management, and graphics as well as all other software that are in use within USAID/IRAQ. The incumbent will work with the Information Systems Manager to manage and oversee the entire applications portfolio for the Mission, including but not limited to, applications developed by USAID/WASHINGTON and the Mission for financial management, project administration, Timekeeping, travel management and personnel records. The incumbent will also assist the Information Systems Manager in developing, implementing and teaching in-house training courses on the above-mentioned software as needed.

Software Development and Database Administration

10% of time

Advanced support of existing software applications will also extend to the customization and further development of software applications, scripts, macros and queries.

USAID/IRAQ has several data-driven websites and online collaboration portals built using ORACLE, MS SQL Server and Active Ser Pages (ASP), as well as MySQL and PHP. These sites not only need to be updated, but there is also a growing need to integrate these tools into a single tool or application suite. Experience in coding is highly desirable. Macros and queries already in use by Mission staff often require updates and further development to achieve better results and maximum efficiency. Additionally, when software applications are upgraded, existing database linkages, macros and queries also need to be rewritten.

Network Monitoring and Vulnerability Detection

10% of time

The equipment used in USAID/IRAQ requires daily monitoring. Vulnerability detection necessitates consistent preemptive maintenance and patching. Monitoring and deployment of security patches, anti-virus updates and updating e-mail filtering tools to maintain USAID’s high standard of Information Systems Security will be responsibilities of the incumbent. Information security is taken very seriously and assisting users to successfully navigate information security policy is also an important part of the job.

Maintenance and Hardware Repair 5% of time

Given the harsh environment and high level of utilization of computers and other related equipment, the incumbent is required to keep the servers, LAN equipment and PCs in high availability status. This includes troubleshooting of PCs, LAN equipment and servers, replacing parts that need replacement and preventive maintenance as requested by the equipment vendors.

Other Duties as Required 5% of time

Other related duties, challenges, and the ability to assist in the management of Mission information systems will be required. The incumbent will also work with and assist the Information Systems Manager as required.

III. MINIMUM REQIREMENTS

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

a. Education: Completion of education or training resulting in a baccalaureate degree in the fields of computer science, information systems management, or equivalent.

b. Prior Work Experience: Minimum of four years of responsible experience in the system administration, PC support, system development and programming. Experience on Windows 2000/2003 Servers & Exchange 2000/2003 Servers/WEB Servers (IIS), Database administration in MS SQL Server and/or Oracle and the ability to create and customize SQL queries, as well as administration of laser printers, digital senders, scanners, and modems.

c. Knowledge: A basic understanding of USAID policies, procedures, internal controls and reporting requirements. Thorough knowledge of the entire MS office suite, database applications and web application is required. A good understanding of the working and programming of Cisco IP telephones and Motorola radio systems is highly desirable.

d. Skills and Abilities: Good technical training skills, troubleshooting, diagnosing, and resolving hardware and software problems to maximize the capabilities of USAID/IRAQ computer resources. Ability to work with the Information Systems Manager and relate with USAID/IRAQ’s organization and functions in order to successfully apply priorities for automation, as well as the interrelated nature of the different application programs. Good interpersonal skills are required not only to train and work effectively with the others in resolving priority issues, but also because USAID/IRAQ employees live and work within the same compound.

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-12 level. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within the GS-12 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-12 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-12 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

Interested applicants MUST submit the following materials:

- Most current Curriculum vitae or resume

- Completed and hand-signed federal form OF-612 (including OF-612 continuation sheets as needed). The OF-612 can be downloaded from: www.usaid.gov/forms/.

- Three references, who are not family members or relatives, with telephones and e-mail contacts

- Brief appendix to demonstrate how prior experience and/or training address the minimum qualifications and selection criteria shown in the solicitation

Applicants are required to sign the certification at the end of the OF-612. Applications that are received without a signature will not be considered for the position.

Late, incomplete or unsigned applications will NOT be considered.

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.

Points of Contact

Ms. Maka Beradze, Human Resources Specialist, Phone (in Iraq) - (+1) 202-216-6276, xt1013; Email: mberadzetdy@usaid.gov or Francisco Santos, Human Resources Specialist, Phone (in Iraq) - (+1) 202-216-6276, xt1298; Email: frsantos@usaid.gov

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. 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

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