Vacant_AEG USPSC Senior Technical Agriculture Specialist_SOW 2011.doc

USAID Mali Senior Technical Agriculture Specialist 1.

Solicitation Number:

688-P-11-00006-00

2.

Issuance date:

January 19, 2011

3.

Closing date and time specified for receipt of applications at

USAID Mali:

February 10, 2011 4.

Position title:

USAID Mali Deputy Team Leader/ Senior Technical Agriculture Specialist 5.

Market value:

Commensurate with the position and experience NOT to0 exceed the equivalent of GS-14 ($84,697-$110,104 p/a)

Final compensation within the GS-14 grade range will be based on the individual’s salary history, work experience and educational background.

6.

Organization Location of Position:

USAID/Mali, Bamako, Mali

7.

Direct Supervisor:

AEG Team Leader

8.

Supervisory Control:

Minimal. Incumbent is expected to act independently with little direction.

9.

Period of Performance:

The Short Term Personal Services Contract will be for six months subject to availability of funds and Mission requirements.

10.

Place of Performance:

Bamako, Mali

11.

Security Access:

“Top Secret or Secret” clearance.

12.

Area of Consideration:

U.S.

SCOPE OF WORK

1. RECOMMENDED POSITION TITLE: Deputy Team Leader/Senior Technical Agriculture Specialist

2. ORGANIZATIONAL LOCATION OF POSITION: USAID/Mali, Accelerated Economic Growth Team (AEG)

3. POSITION TITLE/GRADE OF DIRECT SUPERVISOR: AEG Team Leader, Position Grade: FSN-12

4. INTRODUCTION (Short review of the program and the role of the position within the program.)

The Mission Accelerated Economic Growth Office the Mission Accelerated Economic Growth office is currently staffed by one US DH, one US/PSC (FFP Officer) and nine FSN/PSC.

With the dramatically rising AEG funds set for FY 10 and FY11, getting the AEG office staffed up is a priority. Before receiving the additional FSN/PSC and US/DH, the Mission has determined necessary to contract a highly qualified USPSC for approximately 6 months (mid-February to mid-August) to serve as a short term technical agricultural specialist with specific duties.

5. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (Work to be performed must be defined in objective, Mission-related, output terms which emphasize what needs to be done.)

The short-term USPSC will serve within the AEG Office and report to the team leader. He/She will provide in general programmatic support to the mission and specifically help with:

Program Implementation Design

· Analytical work on dynamics of rural poverty, climate change, etc. to inform on future Feed The Future implementation.

· Procurement Support for Feed The Future.

Feed The Future Implementation Plan

· Review guidance and technical issues raised by Office of Sustainable Development/Bureau for Africa as assigned.

· Assist AEG team members in reviewing their individual sections as per the guidance and issues raised.

· Ensure quality control.

· Help Compile and produce the Implementation Plan.

FY 10 Reports

· Review the reports for each of AEG activities/projects.

· Quality control (proof reading and editing) of narratives submitted by AEG Team members.

Additional related tasks as Assigned

· Acquisitions/Assistance Support.

· AEG Budgetary Process Support.

5.1. Degree of responsibility for decision-making assigned to the position The incumbent will be responsible for decisions made by AEG during the period of this position. This includes decisions involving the highest level of the Mission and making recommendations to the Team Leader.

5.2. Level of complexity of work assignments

Given the size and complexity of the USAID/Mali portfolio, the position is demanding, and the services of a Deputy Team Leader/Senior Technical Agricultural Specialist professional with prior knowledge of USAID program operations is required and will facilitate continuity of operations during the period of employment. Duties are varied, and assignments often require the participation and support of others.

5.3. Knowledge level required

A thorough knowledge and understanding of socio-economic and cultural realities of Western Africa and specifically of Mali is required. Incumbent must have a) the ability to communicate in writing in a multi-cultural environment; and 2) the ability to communicate other than in writing in a multi-cultural environment. He/she must be skilled in the use of computer based analytical programs. Position requires a high level of independent judgment with regard to USAID’s technical reports, strategic plans, strategic policies and programs.

5.4. Supervisory Controls (how are assignments made and how much review/control will be provided by the supervisor.)

The position will be supervised by the Team Leader at USAID/Mali. As the incumbent is expected to work with a certain degree of independence, s/he must be able to establish priorities, adhere to and meet established deadlines, and perform responsibilities and duties with minimal guidance and little or no follow‑up. Work produced by the incumbent is considered authoritative. S/he must be able and willing to work additional hours beyond the established 40‑hour workweek and outside the established Monday‑Friday workweek as may be required or necessary. S/he must be proactive and self-directed.

5.5. Guidelines (availability of them for required work)

A high degree of discretion and sound judgment is required in the interpretation and application of USAID Automated Directives System (ADS), USG regulations and procedures, and U.S. statutes.

5.6. Complexity of the work environment/effect on the position’s responsibilities.

USAID/Mali has a large and complex portfolio, and the incumbent will need to be able to respond rapidly to all issues.

5.7. Scope and effect of the work performed

The key responsibility of the position is to co-lead and direct the work of a professional staff of 9 FSNs. The incumbent will be looked to as the expert in all aspects of technical and administrative management of the AEG portfolio. Decisions and actions taken by the incumbent will have a significant impact on the Economic Growth development activities of the Mission.

5.8. Level and purpose of contacts.

As Deputy Team Leader/Sr. Technical Agriculture Specialist, the incumbent will work directly with the Team Leader and office chiefs as well as with various Department of State officials.

5.9. Supervision/oversight over others (address level of subordinates and degree of supervisory responsibility, if any)

The incumbent will provide direct supervision to a professional staff of 9 FSN employees.

6. MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

6.1. Education

A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree with at least 10 years experiences.

6.2. Relevant Work Experience

· Worked with USAID or other USG agencies in management position in the field;

· Participated in planning or evaluation programs;

· Implemented or evaluated strategies, policies and programs in developing countries;

· Participated in multi-cultural teams to accomplish projects or program activities;

· Developed complex technical reports, strategic plans, organization policies, goals.

6.3. Required Language Proficiency:

· Superior English speaking and writing skills are essential. Advanced speaking skills in French.

6.4. Required Knowledge Skills and abilities:

· Knowledge of socio-economic and cultural realities of western Africa and specifically of Mali.

· Ability to communicate in writing in a multi-cultural environment.

· Ability to communicate other than in writing in a multi-cultural environment.

7. ELECTIVE/EVALUATION FACTORS AND SELECTION CRITERA

8. INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS

Interested applicants must submit: (i) his/her most current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume; (ii) signed SF 171 or OF 612; and (iii) three (3) to five (5) references, who are not family members or relatives, with working telephone and email contacts, (iv) a written statement certifying the date and length of time for which the candidate is available for the position; and (v) a written statement that addresses the Quality Ranking Factors in this solicitation. The CV/resume must contain sufficient relevant information to evaluate the application in accordance with the stated evaluation criteria. Broad general statements that are vague or lacking specificity will not be considered as effectively addressing particular selection criteria.

The applicant’s references must be able to provide substantive information about his/her past performance and abilities. USAID/WA reserves the right to obtain from previous employers relevant information concerning the applicant’s past performance and may consider such information in its evaluation. (The OF 612 must be signed and those submitted unsigned will be rejected.)

Applicants must provide their full mailing address with telephone, facsimile numbers and email address and should retain for their records copies of all enclosures that accompany their submissions.

The U.S. Government Optional Form 612 (available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/forms or internet http://fillform.gsa.gov , or at Federal offices).

Applications must be received by the closing date and time at the address specified in the cover letter.

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 highest ranking applicants may be selected for an interview.

The individual shall be required to obtain a medical clearance and a security clearance. Applicant must also be available and capable of travel in West Africa region.

9. TERMS OF APPOINTMENT AND COMPENSATION

Subject to the availability of funds, this will be a seven months contract. Since there’s an immediate need to fill in this position, incumbent is expected to arrive at post no later than February 15, 2011 contingent on medical and security clearances.

The position has been classified at a U. S. Government GS14. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within that range depending on qualifications and previous earning history.

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the benefits and allowances in accordance with the AIDAR Appendix D &J which can be found at:

http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf

10. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBS) PERTAINING TO PSCS

CIBs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to this website http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit to determine which CIBS apply to this contract.

11. MEDICAL AND SECURITY CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

● Successful applicant must receive medical clearance for serving in Mali. Details of how to obtain US Department of State Medical Unit medical clearance will be provided once a job offer is made and accepted.

● Successful applicant must be able to receive USAID security clearance that involves applicant's comprehensive background investigation performed by a US Government Agency.

● Successful applicant must be able to report to post in Bamako, Mali to assume duties promptly upon medical and security clearances being granted.

12. COMPENSATION AND REIMBURSEMENT IN U.S. DOLLARS

i. Except to the extent reimbursement is payable in the currency of the Cooperating Country, USAID shall pay the contractor compensation after it has accrued and reimburse him/her in U.S. dollars for necessary and reasonable costs actually incurred by him/her in the performance of this contract.

ii. The amount budgeted and available as personal compensation to the contractor is calculated to cover a calendar period of approximately seven months

13. BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES

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

a. Benefits (if applicable)

F.I.C.A & MEDICARE*

Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance

Shipment and Storage of Household Effects

Shipment of POV (Privately Owned Vehicle)

Pay Comparability Adjustment

Annual Salary Increase

Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

Annual & Sick Leave

Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service for USPSC

* Note: US citizen contract salary will be subject to employee’s FICA and Medicare contribution.

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)

Danger Pay (Section 650)

Consumables Allowance

Note: * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilian Foreign Areas)

c. List of Required Forms for a Security Clearance

(A) Optional Form 612

Applicants shall sign the application form. Unsigned OF-612 forms shall not be accepted and therefore applicants shall not be considered for the advertised position.

** (B) Physical Examination (Form DS-1843 and DS-1622) ** (C) Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National

Security (SF-86) or

** (D) Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)

** (E) Finger print Card (FD-258) (available from requirements office)

Note: ** The forms listed -- thru -- shall only be completed upon the advice of the contracting officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the position.

Forms A through E can be found at:

http://www.fedforms.gov/bgfPortal/docSearch.do

14. FEDERAL TAXES

USPSCs are required to pay Federal Income Taxes, FICA, and Medicare

15. HOW TO APPLY

Qualified individuals are requested to submit a U.S. Government Optional Form 612 (available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/forms or internet http://fillform.gsa.gov, or at Federal offices)

Applications must be received by the closing date and time at the address specified in the cover letter and should be sent to the following email address:

Attn.: Kadi Traore, kaditraore@usaid.gov

Human Resources Specialist or

Cheick Oumar Coulibaly, ccoulibaly@usaid.gov

Supervisory Executive Officer

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 highest ranking applicants may be selected for an interview.

16. CLOSING DATE

Applications must be in the USAID Mali Executive Office no later than February 10, 2011.

EEO/AA: USAID IS AN EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER AND PROVIDES EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND FAIR AND EQUITABLE TREATMENT IN EMPLOYMENT TO ALL PEOPLE WITHOUT REGARD TO RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, SEX, NATIONAL ORIGIN, AGE, DISABILITY, POLITICAL AFFILIATION, MARITAL STATUS, OR SEXUAL ORIENTATION ACQUISITION AND ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) AND CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBS) PERTAINING TO PSCS

CIBs and AAPDs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to this website http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_Solicit/ to determine which CIBS apply to this contract.

AAPD 06-11

Home Leave and Revised General Provision 5, Leave and Holidays

AAPD 06-10

PSC Medical expense payment responsibility

AAPD 06-07

AIDAR, Appendix D: Contract budget, salary determination and salary increase

AAPD 06-01

Medical evacuation insurance

CIB 01-10

Revision of medical clearance process – PSC with U.S. Citizens

CIB 01-07

Clarification of the extension/renewal policy regarding PSCs

CIB 01-05

Clarification of the Rest and Recuperation (R&R) policy regarding Third Country Nationals (TCNs)

CIB 00-08

Revision of Competitive Process – PSCs with U.S. Citizens

CIB 00-03

FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts

CIB 99-22

PSC Policy

CIB 98-23

Guidance regarding Classified Contract Security and Contractor Personnel Security Requirements

CIB 98-16

Annual Salary Increase for USPSCs

CIB 98-14

Change in Required Application Form for USPSCs

CIB 98-11

Determining a Market Value for Personal Services Contractors Hired under Appendix D.

CIB 97-17

PSC’s with U.S. Citizens or U.S. resident aliens

CIB 97-16

Class Justification for use of Other Than Full and Open Competition for Personal Services Contracts with U.S. Citizens Contracted with Locally, with CCNs and TCNs Subject to the Local Compensation Plan, and for Overseas Contracts of $250,000 or less

CIB 96-23

Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contracts

CIB 94-09

Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contractors

CIB 93-17

Financial Disclosure requirements under a Personal Services Contract

CIB 89-29

Use of Government Bill of Lading for Transportation of Personal Service Contractor (PSC) Household Effects, Unaccompanied Baggage and Privately Owned Vehicles

Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertain to Personal Services Contracts can be found at:

http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/cib/subject.html#psc

Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D or J also applies to PSCs can be found at:

http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf

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