Solicitation Senior Acquisition and Assistance Specialist.doc

SOLICITATION NUMBER:

267-11-001

ISSUANCE DATE:

October 27, 2010

CLOSING DATE/TIME:

November 17, 2010 / 17:00 Baghdad Time

POSITION TITLE:

Senior Acquisition and Assistance Specialist

MARKET VALUE:

GS-13 ($ 71,674 to $ 93,175) 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:

Senior Acquisition and Assistance Specialist, USAID/Iraq Office of Acquisition and Assistance

INTRODUCTION

The OAA team performs the pre-award and post-award Acquisition and Assistance (A&A) functions supporting a large portfolio in four strategic areas: Capacity Building, Democracy and Governance, Economic Growth and Agriculture, and Focused Stabilization. The portfolio consists primarily of level-of-effort term and completion contracts and cooperative agreements. Specifically, the incumbent will be expected to perform all pre-award functions to include but not limited to participation in portfolio reviews, procurement planning, and the development of possible new activities. The incumbent will also be expected to perform all post-award actions as well as to foster training and development of that skill set amongst Iraqi A&A Specialist interns.

I. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The incumbent shall provide personal services as a Senior Acquisition and Assistance Specialist for USAID/Iraq/Office of Acquisition and Assistance (OAA). The incumbent will be responsible for all pre-award and post-award functions, such as development of requests for proposals/applications, drafting of documents for the contract review board, preparation of award instruments, modifications to acquisition and assistance actions, claims, change orders, post-award approvals and actions, terminations, audits, and closeout. The incumbent will be assigned a portfolio, serve on a Strategic Objective (SO) team, and will also be expected to provide on-the-job training to Iraqi foreign service nationals (FSNs), some of whom have no experience in A&A. The incumbent must be experienced and be able to independently perform the pre-award functions, such as drafting solicitations and requests for applications, instructing and providing expert guidance to technical evaluation committees, performing cost and price analyses, cost reasonableness analysis, conducting negotiations, and preparing award documents and award file documentation for review and signature of the contracting officer (CO). The incumbent will be expected to provide training to the FSN acquisition specialist(s) in A&A pre-award and post-award functions. An estimated breakdown of duties based on OAA/ Baghdad’s current worked load is as follows:

a. Pre-Award and Post-Award function for acquisition and assistance awards (60%)

b. Provide A&A training to USAID/Iraq personnel. (20%)

c. Provide advice and guidance to SO teams, prepare documentation for CO signature, comply with internal and external reporting requirements, administrative duties such as maintaining electronic and paper file systems (20%)

Representative Duties: None required.

Travel: The A&A Specialist may be needed to travel within Iraq to visit field sites and regional USG offices. Currently, such travel is infrequent.

II. SUPERVISION AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervision Received: The incumbent shall report directly to a Contracting Officer. The incumbent shall work independently with limited supervision.

Supervision Exercised: The incumbent will work closely with one or more FSN acquisition specialists and be responsible for their on-the-job training. While the incumbent will not have direct supervisory responsibilities over the FSN, the incumbent will be evaluated not only on the quality of his/her own work products, but on the progress and performance of the FSN under his/her tutelage.

Overall Management Functions: The incumbent will not have the authority to sign A&A instruments or other documents that require a warrant, nor the authority to make legal determinations that have the effect of binding the Government. If a US citizen, the incumbent may be eligible for a warrant, but this is not guaranteed.

III. DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA/SELECTION CRITERIA

Education: A bachelor’s degree is required, preferably in accounting, law, business or other related field. Procurement Management Certification Program (PMCP) certification or its equivalent and a minimum of three years additional acquisition and assistance experience (beyond the required seven) will be considered for applicants who do not meet the educational requirements for this position.

Work Experience: A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in the field of acquisition and assistance is required. Demonstrated experience in negotiation and administration of all types of A&A awards is required, particularly in the negotiation and administration of level-of-effort term and completion contracts. Experience with negotiation and administering assistance awards is required.

Post Entry Training: The incumbent is expected to be an expert in the field of USG acquisition and assistance procedures. If required, USAID specific training will be offered.

Language Proficiency: Level VI (fluent) in both spoken and written English.

Knowledge: A thorough and complete knowledge and understanding of how to execute and administer a complex acquisition and assistance portfolio in accordance with USG regulations. Knowledge of reference and guidance materials to be used by the incumbent in performing the duties shall include, but is not limited to, the following:

Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)

USAID Acquisition Regulations (AIDAR)

Code of Federal Regulations

OMB Circulars

A&A Policy Directives (AAPDs)/Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs)

USAID Automated Directive Systems (ADS)

USAID/Iraq A&A Notices

(The above USAID-specific materials are available via the USAID website: www.usaid.gov)

Skills and Abilities: Attention to detail, good analytical skills, and excellent organizational skills to perform the pre and post award functions. Discretion, tact and the ability to work under accelerated schedules and deadlines and to effectively complete required actions. Excellent interpersonal, communication and teamwork skills and the ability to work independently. Written English capability to prepare correspondence and contractual documentation in a professional and competent manner requiring little or no editorial changes. Computer skills in Word and Excel etc, so as to independently prepare correspondence and documentation with minimal office administrative support.

IV.

POSITION ELEMENTS:

Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision of the Contracting Officer for the assigned portfolio. Assignments are made orally and in writing. The supervisor provides a review of the assignment, the goals and objectives to be achieved, and the results expected. Employee independently plans, designs, and carries out assignments. The incumbent will seek advice and assistance as required. Work is reviewed in terms of application of appropriate rules, regulations, and procedures.

Exercise of Judgment: The employee exercises independent judgment and initiative as a procurement specialist on the SO team or Project team to 1) identify those aspects of regulations which apply to the particular procurement; 2) develop recommendations for adopting a procurement posture; 3) tailor provisions to meet specific requirements;

4) review justifications involving contractor claims and apply appropriate regulations; and 5) evaluate proposals and document recommendations for award in accordance with all applicable regulations. (The incumbent has no formal decision making authority.)

Knowledge: The candidate should demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of USG contracting and assistance rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and practices. It is also important that the incumbent has knowledge of project development, management and implementation of rules and regulations.

Authority to Make Commitments: The Specialist has specific authorities delegated by the Contracting Officer, largely based on the personal skills and knowledge the Specialist brings to the job. Although the incumbent does not have signature authority to obligate USG funds, the incumbent will be relied upon to review and offer opinions on activity design documents, review draft waivers, and provide reliable and expert advice to Mission management at all times. The incumbent has considerable latitude in dealing with problems arising during the pre-award or post-award phases of the procurement action. The incumbent will be expected to be able to manage full and open competitive procurements from inception to completion. S/he makes viable recommendations and provides options to the Contracting Officer on the basis of analysis of alternatives to resolve technical or contractual issues. Given the volume and complexity of issues to be negotiated, the Contracting Officer relies extensively on the incumbent’s knowledge, judgment, informed conclusions and recommendations. in order to make commitments. The supervisor typically clears all major written communications to parties outside the Mission.

Available Guidelines: The Specialist follows USAID operating policies, Mission Orders, guidance provided by the Automated Directive System (ADS), and oral instructions from the supervisor. Other guidance comes from

US Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)

Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Circulars

Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR)

USAID Acquisition Regulations (AIDAR)

USAID Automated Directive Systems (ADS)

USAID Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPD/CIB)

USAID Procurement Executive Bulletins (PEBS)

Supervision/Oversight of Others: Although this position is non-supervisory, the incumbent may function as a team leader in the course of a competitive process and award. In addition, the incumbent provides regular guidance and mentoring to the Acquisition Assistants and FSNPSC Acquisition Specialist on matters of format, content, inquiries related to the functions of OAA.

Nature, Level and Purpose of Contacts: To effectively function in this position, the incumbent will be required to establish and maintain solid working relationships with all categories of Mission personnel. The incumbent will interact and communicate on a regular basis with the Contracting Officer, Supervisory Contracting Officer, Mission Director and Deputy Director, senior Mission management staff, technical team leaders, team members and Mission activity managers. Outside/external contacts include but are not limited to: (1) Executive level and senior managers of contractor and grantee organizations; (2) appropriate institutional contractor personnel and; (3) Government of Iraq (GOI) – host country officials. The incumbent deals with many issues and is often the main point of contact for the following internal and external entities. Internal contacts are COTRs, Technical Team leaders, Office Directors, for the purpose of planning and coordinating procurement schedules, discussing competition requirements, suggesting certain courses of action such as the use of IQCs, Requests for Applications and full and openly competed Requests for Proposals. Discussions also deal with sensitive performance issues of contractors, grantees, recipients, and other complex administrative issues. External contacts are with senior officials of U.S. and local organizations. These contacts generally involve discussions affecting financial issues, contract awards, grants, cooperative agreements and all administration and management related issues affecting the procurement process.

Time Required to Perform Full Range of Duties after Entry into the Position: One month

Selection Process and Criteria:

Applications from candidates who do not meet the required selection criteria will not be scored. Reference checks will be conducted on applicants. Applicants remaining under consideration will likely be interviewed. Interviews may be conducted via telephone.

Applicants will be ranked based on the following selection criteria:

· Reference Checks

50 points

Past A&A Performance

Interpersonal skills

Other demonstrated skills and abilities

Knowledge of A&A rules and regulations

· Acquisition & Assistance Experience

30 points

· Training Experience including development of training materials

20 points

Total

100 points

Optimally, contract performance (including pre-deployment training) will commence as soon as the required security and medical clearances are both set. At its sole option, USAID may consider alternate start periods and/or may favor candidates who are able to start earlier in the final ranking and selection recommendation. If a mutually acceptable start date cannot be agreed, USAID retains the option to withdraw any offer of employment and to instead consider other candidates.

Should a selected candidate for any reason become unavailable, USAID at its sole discretion may decide to consider other candidates who have replied to this announcement or to re-advertise.

V. 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-13 level. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within the GS-13 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-13 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-13 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.

VI.

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.

VII.

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.

VIII. APPLYING

Qualified individuals must submit an Optional Form 612 which is available at the USAID websites, 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.

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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