7200AA23R00039 EE Program Specialist 9-11_FE.pdf

U.S. Agency for International Development 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20523 www.usaid.gov

ISSUANCE DATE: March 6, 2023 QUESTIONS DUE DATE: March 16, 2023 CLOSING DATE: April 5, 2023

CLOSING TIME: 5:00 PM EST

SUBJECT: Solicitation for GS-9/11 Equivalent Personal Services Contract (PSC) for Program Specialist, for

Europe & Eurasia Country Affairs (EECA) office, in the Bureau for Europe and Eurasia (E&E/EECA), USAID/Washington.

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking applications from qualified individuals interested in providing Personal Services Contract (PSC) services as described in the attached solicitation.

Submittals must be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. In order to be considered for the position, candidates must meet the Minimum Qualifications listed in the solicitation.

Consideration and selection will be based on a panel evaluation of the applications vis-a-vis the Evaluation Criteria.

Resumes must be attached to the USAID form AID 309-2 (Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts) and applicants should write a brief appendix to demonstrate how prior experience and/or training address these criteria. Applicants are required to sign the certification at the end of the AID 309-2. Applications received without a signature will not be considered for the position.

Applicants are responsible for submitting the AID-309-2 so as to reach the Government office designated in the solicitation by the closing date and time specified in the solicitation. Applications must be submitted in an email to the person specified below. An application received after the closing date and time will be considered late, unless there is acceptable evidence to establish that it was received on time.

Questions Questions must be received by the questions closing date April 5, 2023 before 5:00 EST, by email to Sr. Contract Specialist Ony Razafindratovo at orazafindratovo@usaid.gov and with a copy to the Contracting Officer Mrs.

Trenae Bonner-Watson at tbonner@usaid.gov.

Submission of proposals Submission of proposals in response to this solicitation must be in accordance with the instructions in Section VI of this solicitation and must be directed by email to Ony Razafindratovo at orazafindratovo@usaid.gov and with a copy to the Contracting Officer Mrs. Trenae Bonner-Watson at tbonner@usaid.gov.

All email submissions must contain the solicitation number, RFP# 7200AA23R00039, in the subject line.

Offerors should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their proposals.

Sincerely, Trenae Bonner-Watson Contracting Officer

M/OAA/RM/AEM

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

SOLICITATION NUMBER: 7200AA23R00039

ISSUANCE DATE: March 6, 2023

QUESTION DUE DATE: March 16, 2023

CLOSING DATE April 5, 2023

POSITION TITLE: USPSC GS-9/11 Program Specialist, Bureau for Europe and Eurasia

MARKET VALUE: This position for US Personal Services Contractor Program Specialist, has been designated as a “ladder” position. The entry level for this position has been established at the GS-9 level equivalent (Salary of $64,957 - $84,441per year) rate with locality pay, with promotion potential through the GS- 11 equivalent level (Salary $78,592 - $102,166 per year) rate with locality pay.

Salaries over and above the top of the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated. The incumbent must be willing and available to fulfill the terms of this contract in Washington, D.C.

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One (1) year, with four (4) one-year option periods. Subject to satisfactory performance, requirements of the position, and availability of funds.

PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Washington, D.C.

This position has been designated as suitable for Telework, subject to meeting the telework policy requirements (see ADS 309man). The contractor will be authorized to perform the services under this contract from the official USAID worksite where the contractor will perform services on-site for a certain number of days per pay period and perform the remaining days at an alternative worksite (the contractor’s residence)

SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret

AREA OF CONSIDERATION: Open to all U.S. Citizens

REGISTRATION IN SAM REQUIRED: All individuals contracted as USPSCs are required to have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) Number in System for Award Management (SAM) – www.sam.gov http://www.sam.gov/

RFP# 7200AA23R00039

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II. PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) seeks an energetic self-starter Program Specialist to keep the Country Affairs Office running smoothly and reduce the burden of administrative tasks on the Director and Deputy Director of USAID’s Bureau for Europe and Eurasia.

The PSC will work pursuant to the statement of work set forth in the contract for the GS-9 level position for a minimum period of 12 months (Washington, D.C. locality). Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value depending on qualifications, experience, and educational background.

After 12 months of performance, the PSC may be considered for promotion to the GS-11/Step 9 level subject to completion of the annual performance evaluation by the supervisor. To be eligible for promotion to this level, the PSC must receive at least a “Satisfactory” performance rating in the annual performance evaluation.

The evaluation must include a statement by the supervisor that the PSC is performing successfully at the current grade and is considered ready to perform at the higher grade level.

Background

The Country Affairs Office is a fast-paced office of 20 staff members who work on multiple engagements each week with the Agency Front Office, the interagency, the legislative branch, and foreign partners. The Office needs an energetic self-starter to keep the office running smoothly and reduce the burden of administrative tasks on the Director and Deputy Director. Problem solving, working across the Bureau, and researching administrative and logistical issues will be key aspects of the incumbent’s duties. In return, the right candidate will gain exposure to and knowledge of the national security architecture and the Agency's activities in the Europe and Eurasia region.

At the GS-9 Level:

Knowledge Level Required by the Position:

At the proposed grade level, the employee is expected to have knowledge of administrative systems at a level characteristically acquired through previous administrative experience of at least two years. The incumbent must have the ability to interact with a broad range of internal and external partners and function successfully as a member of a fast-paced multi-functional office. The incumbent must also have demonstrated initiative and ability to manage competing work priorities and work independently when required. The incumbent must also have strong organizational and interpersonal skills. The incumbent should also be team-oriented and able to take direction from and interact effectively with a number of team members.

Supervisory Controls

The position will take direction from and report to the Director & Deputy Director of E&E/EECA and work with moderate direction and supervision. The need for quick response in high-profile, complex, and often fluid situations requires the incumbent to exercise discretion and good judgment and operate with certain levels of autonomy, responsibility, and authority. Work is evaluated for the effectiveness of results and compliance with prevailing policies, regulations, directives, and objectives.

This position is a one-year personal services contract with options for four additional years. The incumbent will establish a work plan in consultation with the Division Chief who will guide the incumbent’s work schedule and assignments.

Guidelines

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The incumbent of this position will:

apply a sound understanding of USAIDs operational processes and administrative procedures in

Washington to support EECA.

serve as a central point of contact on USAID policies and guidelines.

Level of Complexity of Work Assignments:

At the GS-9 level, duties are moderately varied requiring different processes and methods applied to administrative and management functions; maintaining contact with USAID employees, supervisors, and managers to give guidance on administrative practices. Problem solving, working across the Bureau and researching administrative and logistical issues will be the key aspects of the incumbent’s duties.

The GS-9 program specialist carries out his/her assignment in accordance with plans, schedules, and samples determined by the supervisor. The supervisor or team leader defines the method of approach to be taken and techniques to be used, and discusses them with the program specialists.

The GS-9 specialist discusses initial findings and observations with the supervisor before preparing the draft of his portion of the formal report. The supervisor checks on work progress and reviews the final product for technical and factual accuracy.

Scope and Effect

The work involves treating a variety of conventional problems, questions, or situations in conformance with established criteria. The work product or service affects the design or operation of systems, programs, or equipment; the employee’s completed work contributes to the effectiveness, efficiency, and productivity at the bureau and mission level within the agency.

Personal Contacts

At the proposed grade level, the employee is expected to maintain contact with individuals or groups from inside the agency. Contact is typically with individuals within the E&E bureau, management bureaus, and with front office or desk information management points of contact in pillar and regional bureaus. The incumbent will also maintain contact with counterpart(s) at the appropriate State Department regional bureau in order to handle administrative matters or to facilitate review of country clearance checklists and other documents. The incumbent will also serve as the primary point of contact for guests for information and assistance on logistical/entry/security procedures to EECA office spaces.

Purpose of Contacts

The contacts are needed to accomplish the assigned duties of this position.

Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with employees at USAID.

Maintain contacts with State Department desk/regional bureau counterparts for the purpose of accomplishing administrative tasks (scheduling, travel, etc.).

Initiates contact with USAID employees, supervisors, and managers to give guidance on problems or relationships of a procedural nature, such as administrative practices.

Assists desk officers in obtaining State Department approval of annual country clearance checklists and other documents.

Physical Demands

The work is generally sedentary and does not pose undue physical demands.

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Work Environment

The incumbent will be based in the Ronald Reagan Building (RRB) at the USAID headquarters in Washington, DC. While in the post of assignment, work is generally performed in an office environment, in a cubicle.

At the GS-11 Level:

Knowledge Level Required by the Position

At the proposed grade level, the employee is expected to have knowledge at a level characteristically acquired through previous administrative experience of at least 3-4 years. The employee is expected to have sufficient knowledge of administrative procedures and systems in order to independently verify guidance provided by others within the Agency. The employee should be able to explain how the details of particular situations might require a deviation from ordinary processes or established guidance, and what procedures or policy guidance is available to help the office achieve its goals. The incumbent must have the ability to interact with a broad range of internal and external partners and function successfully as a member of a fast-paced multi-functional office. The incumbent must also have demonstrated initiative and ability to manage competing work priorities and work independently when required. The incumbent must also have strong organizational and interpersonal skills. The incumbent should also be team-oriented and able to take direction from and interact effectively with a number of team members.

In addition, the employee may assist desk officers with administrative components of producing briefing papers, such as preparing initial briefing papers for desk officers to fill with content. When the content required already exists as cleared talking points or other documents, the incumbent may pre-populate briefing papers with this content, for review and final editing by desk officers. The employee may also assist desk officers with managing the clearance process for documents requiring clearance within the Agency or from E&E Bureau leadership.

Supervisory Controls

The position will take direction from and report to the Director & Deputy Director of E&E/EECA and work with moderate direction and supervision. The need for quick response in high-profile, complex, and often fluid situations requires the incumbent to exercise discretion and good judgment and operate with certain levels of autonomy, responsibility, and authority. Work is evaluated for the effectiveness of results and compliance with prevailing policies, regulations, directives, and objectives.

This position is a one-year personal services contract with options for four additional years. The incumbent will establish a work plan in consultation with the Division Chief who will guide the incumbent’s work schedule and assignments.

Guidelines for the Required Works

The incumbent of this position will:

Critically review existing operational processes and administrative procedures, and offer alternative solutions to problems to achieve EECA objectives.

Serve as a recognized expert on USAID policies and guidelines.

As appropriate, formatting initial briefing papers for review and input by desk officers, and handling clearance procedures.

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Level of Complexity of Work Assignments:

At the GS-11 level, duties are moderately varied requiring different processes and methods applied to regular problems; initiating contact with USAID employees, supervisors, and managers to give guidance on problems or relationships of a procedural nature, such as administrative practices. The key aspects of the incumbent’s duties are problem solving, working across the Bureau and researching administrative and logistical issues.

The GS-11 program specialist typically provides assistance to other program specialists who develop the project or program evaluation plan, determine the coverage, suggest methodology, and provide guidance on the handling of technical problems and public relations issues as they arise. Within this framework, GS-11 specialists organize and carry out their assignments with relative independence from supervision. They work out their analyses and recommendations without assistance before submitting them to the supervisor for discussion and review. Results are reviewed for adequacy of coverage, factual development, and accuracy of presentation.

Scope and Effect

The work involves treating a variety of conventional problems, questions, or situations in conformance with established criteria. The work product or service affects the design or operation of systems, programs, or equipment; the employee’s completed work contributes to the effectiveness, efficiency, and productivity at the bureau and mission level within the agency.

Personal Contacts

At the proposed grade level, the employee is expected to maintain contact with individuals or groups from inside the agency. Contact is typically with individuals within the E&E bureau, management bureaus, and with front office or desk information management points of contact in pillar and regional bureaus. The incumbent will also maintain contact with counterpart(s) at the appropriate State Department regional bureau in order to handle administrative matters or to facilitate review of country clearance checklists and other documents. The incumbent will also serve as the primary point of contact for guests for information and assistance on logistical/entry/security procedures to EECA office spaces.

Purpose of Contacts

The contacts are needed to accomplish the assigned duties of this position.

Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with employees at USAID.

Maintain contacts with State Department desk/regional bureau counterparts for the purpose of accomplishing administrative tasks (scheduling, travel, etc.).

Initiates contact with USAID employees, supervisors, and managers to give guidance on problems or relationships of a procedural nature, such as administrative practices.

Assists desk officers in obtaining State Department approval of annual country clearance checklists and other documents.

Physical Demands

The work is generally sedentary and does not pose undue physical demands.

Work Environment

The incumbent will be based in the Ronald Reagan Building (RRB) at the USAID headquarters in

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Washington, DC. While in the post of assignment, work is generally performed in an office environment, in a cubicle.

III. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION

STATEMENT OF DUTIES - GS-9

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT – 80%

Provides direct administrative support for the operations of the Europe and Eurasia Country Affairs Office (EECA). Receives incoming actions for EECA and records these actions on trackers. Sorts and distributes incoming tasks to staff, and follows up to ensure that the trackers reflect the most recent status of tasks and upcoming meetings. Works in close coordination with the Bureau Executive Secretariat (ES) liaison to receive, route, and control ES taskers for the Desk. Reminds desk officers of upcoming deadlines. Ensures that EECA office-wide and Ukraine Desk tracking mechanisms are up-to-date and consistent.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with intra-Agency executive, administrative, and/or program staff.

Works with the Bureau FOIA officer to ensure that FOIA requests for the Ukraine Desk are assigned (or, if necessary, reassigned), and reminds desk officers of deadlines to respond.

Serves as primary timekeeper for EECA staff using the WebTA system. Works closely with staff to ensure accuracy of records and to identify time and attendance problems. Troubleshoots problems with payroll and HCTM when necessary. Compiles leave plans for all staff.

Assists in putting together travel authorizations and travel vouchers for EECA staff, including help applying for passports and making Electronic Country Clearance (eCC) requests for travelers. Assists TDY Mission staff with hotel reservations, appointments, computer log-on, workspace reservation, and administrative needs in the Washington, D.C. area. Assists travelers to Missions, both TDY and those posted, with visas, use of Agency credit cards and other requirements.

Maintains an up-to-date file plan and assures that EECA records are described accurately in the Agency’s records file. Maintains subject files of correspondence and reports. Prepares files for storage or destruction, as appropriate. Ensures the proper retention, segregation, destruction and retirement of official office files. Coordinates office records management, including the annual inventory of EECA records containing personally identifiable information (PII) with the Bureau Records Liaison Officer.

Serves as the EECA point of contact for onboarding new staff, both temporary and permanent. Works closely with AMS, CIO, SEC, and HCTM to ensure that new staff members are able to start working on their first day.

Helps desk officers in resolving administrative issues, including receiving cables and other email distributions. Prints out hard copy documents such as faxes, memos, and mail, when necessary, and

7 | Page compiles trip books and briefing books. Manages country desk distribution lists, and ensures that those distributions are up-to-date. Makes photocopies, sends faxes and e-mails, and performs other routine office duties on an ad-hoc basis.

Manages EECA office calendars. Maintains calendar for Office and Deputy Office Director and schedules appointments for them and staff, as requested. Ensures that Bureau leadership and personnel have visibility on overseas Mission holidays. Compiles holiday lists with desk officers or Mission program officers, adds these to office tracking mechanisms, and proactively sends out monthly notices to the bureau.

Coordinates administrative and logistical aspects of a variety of internal events, which may require room reservation and set up and agenda setting.

Manages EECA contact lists and directories. Ensures that these lists contain up-to-date contact information, and shares these lists, as appropriate, with others in the Bureau. Makes sure that these lists are available to EECA in the event of activation of the emergency phone tree. May serve as EECA security officer or warden in the event of emergencies.

May serve as EECA representative on the E&E tasker list, which receives taskers from within the Agency for assignment to points of contact within the Bureau for action. May include periodic weekend coverage.

Assures that supplies are available to meet office needs. Prepares and justifies requests for supplies, subscriptions, and other materials to the bureau coordinator. Coordinates maintenance for office operating machines as needed.

As necessary, escorts visitors to meetings with E&E offices and facilitates security screening and other entrance procedures.

PROGRAM SUPPORT – 20%

Time permitting, compiles summaries of the most useful cables of the week, with concise summaries on salient points. Independently inputs information from cables and other sources into briefers and reports.

Uses judgment and knowledge of current events in the region to highlight the most important items to EECA leadership to address in senior staff meetings.

As other duties permit, monitors websites and announcements from external think tanks, academic institutions and non-governmental organizations, maintaining a centrally available spreadsheet or database with upcoming events and links to summaries. As directed, attends online and in-person events and writes concise summaries for review by desk officers, EECA leadership, and Bureau principals.

Supervisory Relationship

The Program Specialist will report to the Director and Deputy Director of the E&E/EECA.

Decision Making

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At the proposed level and within the parameters of approved activities, the employee is expected to develop content development and dissemination plan for approved communications collateral subject to review by the supervisor. Editorial calendars, performance analytics, and strategy and recommendations are expected to be developed by the employee and provided to the supervisor to develop a mutually acceptable communications plan. The employee is expected to inform the supervisor of underperforming or controversial content that could affect public opinion of USAID.

Period of performance: The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for four additional years. USAID reserves the right to end the employment contract before the end of the initial one-year contract.

Travel Requirements: None.

STATEMENT OF DUTIES - GS-11

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORT – 70%

Provides direct administrative support for the operations of the Europe and Eurasia Country Affairs Office (EECA). Receives incoming actions for EECA and records these actions on trackers. Sorts and distributes incoming tasks to staff, and follows up to ensure that the trackers reflect the most recent status of tasks and upcoming meetings. Works in close coordination with the Bureau Executive Secretariat (ES) liaison to receive, route, and control ES taskers for the Desk. Reminds desk officers of upcoming deadlines. Ensures that EECA office-wide and Ukraine Desk tracking mechanisms are up-to-date and consistent. Works with E&E Bureau special assistants and administrative support to ensure all preparation, briefers, and related documentation for E&E leadership is delivered in compliance with Agency and Bureau standard operating procedures. Coordinates replies from multiple desks/Bureau offices, as appropriate, when a joint action assignment is required.

Serves as the primary point of contact for all EECA administrative operations. Engages with the Office of the Executive Secretariat, addressing and tracking all taskers and/or scheduling proposal requests.

Establishes and maintains effective working relationships with intra-Agency executive, administrative, and/or program staff.

Works with the Bureau FOIA officer to ensure that FOIA requests for the Ukraine Desk are assigned (or, if necessary, reassigned), and reminds desk officers of deadlines to respond.

Serves as primary timekeeper for EECA staff using the WebTA system. Works closely with staff to ensure accuracy of records and to identify time and attendance problems. Troubleshoots problems with payroll and HCTM when necessary. Compiles leave plans for all staff.

Assists in putting together travel authorizations and travel vouchers for EECA staff, including help applying for passports and making Electronic Country Clearance (eCC) requests for travelers. Assists TDY Mission staff with hotel reservations, appointments, computer log-on, workspace reservation, and administrative needs in the Washington, D.C. area. Assists travelers to Missions, both TDY and those posted, with visas, use of Agency credit cards and other requirements.

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Maintains an up-to-date file plan and assures that EECA records are described accurately in the Agency’s records file. Maintains subject files of correspondence and reports. Prepares files for storage or destruction, as appropriate. Ensures the proper retention, segregation, destruction and retirement of official office files. Coordinates office records management, including the annual inventory of EECA records containing personally identifiable information (PII) with the Bureau Records Liaison Officer.

Serves as the EECA point of contact for onboarding new staff, both temporary and permanent. Works closely with AMS, CIO, SEC, and HCTM to ensure that new staff members are able to start working on their first day.

Helps desk officers in resolving administrative issues, including receiving cables and other email distributions. Prints out hard copy documents such as faxes, memos, and mail, when necessary, and compiles trip books and briefing books. Manages country desk distribution lists, and ensures that those distributions are up-to-date. Makes photocopies, sends faxes and e-mails, and performs other routine office duties on an ad-hoc basis.

Acts as office manager for the EECA. Advises EECA leadership on the need for revisions in administrative procedures and policy. Takes the initiative to recommend changes to administrative practices and sets office procedures and practices to be used by the staff. Facilitates intra-bureau communication and coordination by assuring that staff is fully informed on Bureau administrative and management developments.

Manages EECA office calendars. Maintains calendar for Office and Deputy Office Director and schedules appointments for them and staff, as requested. Schedules and prioritizes appointments and meetings, accepts or declines invitations in accordance with protocol requirements, and arranges for substitute representation without prior approval based on knowledge of the Agency's, Bureau's, and Office's mission, function, and substantive programs, as well as personal knowledge of EECA leadership's commitments, workload, current issues, and written and unwritten practices. Ensures that Bureau leadership and personnel have visibility on overseas Mission holidays. Compiles holiday lists with desk officers or Mission program officers, adds these to office tracking mechanisms, and proactively sends out monthly notices to the bureau.

Coordinates administrative and logistical aspects of a variety of internal events, which may require room reservation and set up and agenda setting.

Manages EECA contact lists and directories. Ensures that these lists contain up-to-date contact information, and shares these lists, as appropriate, with others in the Bureau. Makes sure that these lists are available to EECA in the event of activation of the emergency phone tree. May serve as EECA security officer or warden in the event of emergencies.

May serve as EECA representative on the E&E tasker list, which receives taskers from within the Agency for assignment to points of contact within the Bureau for action. May include periodic weekend coverage.

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Assures that supplies are available to meet office needs. Prepares and justifies requests for supplies, subscriptions, and other materials to the bureau coordinator. Coordinates maintenance for office operating machines as needed.

As necessary, escorts visitors to meetings with E&E offices and facilitates security screening and other entrance procedures.

PROGRAM SUPPORT – 30%

On occasion, performs research for and responds personally to requests for information. Drafts briefer shells into which desk officers and other subject matter experts will provide input. As requested, obtains clearances and incorporates changes into documents. Puts all documents, memos, and cables into final presentation form.

Assists desk officers in compiling and maintaining a list of talking points and background information from previously cleared documents for quick reference by desk officers and others in the Agency seeking the latest standard talking points.

Time permitting, compiles summaries of the most useful cables of the week, with concise summaries on salient points. Independently inputs information from cables and other sources into briefers and reports.

Uses judgment and knowledge of current events in the region to highlight the most important items to EECA leadership to address in senior staff meetings.

As other duties permit, monitors websites and announcements from external think tanks, academic institutions and non-governmental organizations, maintaining a centrally available spreadsheet or database with upcoming events and links to summaries. As directed, attends online and in-person events and writes concise summaries for review by desk officers, EECA leadership, and Bureau principals.

Prepare reports, briefers, tables, or similar analyses to support policy and decision making. This may include briefing checklists, PowerPoint presentations, excel documents, or similar. Analyses are generally straightforward in nature but require the ability to collect, review, and present data in a coherent, organized, and timely manner.

Supervisory Relationship

The Program Specialist will report to the Director and Deputy Director of the E&E/EECA.

Decision Making

At the proposed level and within the parameters of the program description the incumbent shall prepare reports, briefers, tables, or similar analyses to support policy and decision making.

Period of performance: The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal for four additional years. USAID reserves the right to end the employment contract before the end of the initial one-year contract.

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Travel Requirements: None.

IV. MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must possess the minimum qualifications for the position. Applicants who do not meet all the education and experience factors are considered NOT qualified for the position. Once an applicant has been identified as the selected individuals, then the applicant will begin at the salary level appropriate to the selected candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Education

A candidate must meet the minimum qualifications listed below to be considered for the position:

Verification of Academic Credentials Bachelor’s Degree is required with at least two up to four (2-4) years of professional experience.

Demonstrated experience and proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint and

Google apps and docs. Experience in use of database applications recommended.

Strong oral and written communications skills and the ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business periodicals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers, clients, customers, and general public.

Demonstrated experience in using travel arrangement system.

Experience

At GS-9 level, the applicant is expected to have knowledge of administrative systems at a level characteristically acquired through previous administrative experience of at least two years.

At GS-11 level, the applicant is expected to have knowledge at a level characteristically acquired through previous administrative experience of at least 3-4 years. The employee is expected to have sufficient knowledge of administrative procedures and systems in order to independently verify guidance provided by others within the Agency.

AND

● U.S. Citizenship;

● Submission of a current resume, with complete contact information;

● Supplemental document specifically addressing the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs);

● Submission of a U.S. Government Optional Form (AID-309-2)

● Ability to obtain a SECRET level security clearance as provided by USAID within a 6-month period.

V. EVALUATION AND SELECTION CRITERIA

https://www.usaid.gov/forms/aid-302-3

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The government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance with FAR 52.215-1.

The CO reserves the right at any point in the evaluation process to establish a competitive range of offerors with whom negotiations will be conducted pursuant to FAR 15.306(c). IN accordance with FAR 52.215-1, if the CO determines that the number of offerors that would otherwise be in the competitive range exceeds the number at which an efficient competition can be conducted, the CO may limit the number of offerors in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offerors. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

The Technical Evaluation Committee may conduct reference checks, including references from individuals who have not been specifically identified by the offeror, and may do so before or after a candidate is interviewed.

Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs):

Applicants who meet the minimum requirements for the position will be further evaluated based on scoring of the Quality Ranking Factor (QRF) responses. Those applicants determined to be competitively ranked will also be evaluated on interview performance and satisfactory professional reference checks.

(a) Knowledge and Work Experience: 60 points

(b) Written and Oral Skills: 40 points

Knowledge and Work Experience (60 points)

• Experience in providing administrative and programmatic support to technical experts, including a demonstrable ability to understand and operationalize complex development principles.

• Experience in providing administrative support in a professional office context, with preference given to extensive experience in working with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Mail.

• Education and/or experience in the field of international relations, with preference given to experience working in the field of foreign assistance in the areas of democracy and governance, economic growth, and/or energy and infrastructure.

• Experience working with senior government officials and technical experts

• Experience conducting research and preparing presentations, briefings, charts, graphs, and other visuals for use in a professional business environment.

• Experience in arranging and executing travel for an office, with international development projects.

https://acquisition.gov/browse/index/far

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• Experience managing communications with tact and diplomacy.

Written and Oral Skills (40 points)

• Excellent verbal communication skills, with tact and diplomacy and the ability to establish and develop productive working relations across multiple levels of the organization, and experience in developing and maintaining a high level of trust within project teams and with public and private organizations.

• Excellent written communication skills with attention to detail, sufficient to prepare high quality regular and ad hoc reports, presentations, activity documentation, and briefing papers.

Total possible points: 100

Applicants are required to address each of the QRFs on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards they have received that are relevant to each factor. Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page.

Failure to address the selection and/or QRFs may result in an applicant not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training, and/or awards.

The most qualified candidates may be interviewed and required to provide a writing sample.

EE/EECA will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. USAID may evaluate the applicant’s professional references and academic credentials. EE/EECA reserves the right to make additional selections from this solicitation.

NOTE: If the full security application package is not submitted within 30 days after the Office of Security determines eligibility, the offer may be rescinded. If a Secret security clearance is not obtained within six months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded.

Interview Performance: Pass/Fail Reference Checks: Pass/Fail

VI. HOW TO APPLY:

Eligible offerors are required to complete and submit the following:

1) A USAID form AID 309-2 (Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts - available at the

USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/forms/), with hand-written signature. Form AID 309-2 must be signed and those submitted unsigned will be rejected;

2) A resume must be attached to the AID 309-2. Resumes must contain sufficient information to make a valid determination of meeting experience requirements as stated in this solicitation. This information should be clearly identified in the resume. Failure to provide information sufficient to determine qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration.

3) Offeror submissions must clearly reference the solicitation number on all offeror submitted documents.

In order to fully evaluate applications, resumes must include:

a. Paid and non-paid experience, job title, location(s), dates held (month/year), and hours worked per week for each position. Dates (month/year) and locations for all field experience must also be detailed.

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Any experience that does not include dates (month/year), locations, and hours per week will not be counted towards meeting the solicitation requirements.

b. Specific duties performed that fully detail the level and complexity of the work.

c. Education and any other qualifications including job-related training courses, job-related skills, or job-related honors, awards or accomplishments.

4) A supplemental document of up to two pages that demonstrates how prior experience and/or training directly address the QRFs should be attached.

5) Names and current contact information of three professional references that have knowledge of the applicant’s ability to perform the duties set forth in this solicitation.

6) Proof of U.S. Citizenship

7) To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on the application, as the subject line in any email, e.g., RFP# 7200AA23R00039

8) A cover letter of not more than one (1) page may be submitted, but is optional.

By submitting the application materials, the applicant certifies that all of the information on and attached to the application is true, correct, and complete and made in good faith. The applicant agrees to allow all information on and attached to the application to be investigated. False or fraudulent information on or attached to the application may result in being eliminated from consideration for this position, or being terminated after award, and may be punishable by fine or imprisonment.

Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified in this solicitation, and submitted to the Point of Contact.

Ensuring Adequate COVID-19 Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors Please be advised that upon award, the contractor will be required to show proof that the contractor is fully vaccinated against COVID-19 on or before the first date of onboarding, or submit an approved reasonable accommodation to the CO. If the contractor does not meet this requirement the contract may be terminated. * USPSCs/TCNPSCs performing overseas must follow the Mission policies and/or directives from US Department of State regarding COVID -19 requirements.

VII. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCS

Once the CO informs the successful Offeror about being selected for a contract award, the CO will provide the successful Offeror instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms.

Forms outlined below can found at http://www.usaid.gov/forms/

1) USAID form AID 309-2 (To be submitted with application).

2) Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)**

3) Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions for National Security (SF-86), or **

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

5) Finger Print Card (FD-258)**

** Forms 2 through 5 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.

VIII. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:

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A. BENEFITS:

(a) Employer's FICA Contribution

(b) Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance

(c) Pay Comparability Adjustment

(d) Annual Increase (pending a satisfactory performance evaluation)

(e) Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

(f) Annual and Sick Leave

B. ALLOWANCES:

Section numbers refer to rules from the Department of State Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas):

(a) Temporary Quarter Subsistence Allowance (Section 120)

(b) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)

(c) Cost-of-Living Allowance (Chapter 210)

(d) Post Allowance (Section 220)

(e) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)

(f) Education Allowance (Section 270)

(g) Education Travel (Section 280)

(h) Post Differential (Chapter 500)

(i) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600), and

(j) Danger Pay Allowance (Section 650)

IX. TAXES

USPSCs are required to pay Federal income taxes, FICA, Medicare and applicable State Income taxes.

X. ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDS) AND CONTRACT

INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBS) PERTAINING TO PSCs

AAPDs and CIBs contain changes to USAID policy and the PSC General Provisions in accordance with USAID regulations and contracts. See http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs.

USAID regulations and policies governing USPSC awards are available at these sources:

1. USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix D, “Direct USAID Contracts with a U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Resident Alien for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar.

2. Contract Cover Page form AID 302-4 available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms .

3. Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs. AAPDs and CIBs contain changes to USAID policy and the PSC General Provisions in accordance with USAID regulations and contracts.

MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY (OCTOBER 2006)

(a) Definitions. Terms used in this General Provision are defined in 16 FAM 116 (available at http://www.foia.state.gov/REGS/fams.asp?level=2&id=59&fam=0). Note: personal services contractors are not eligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Programs.

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(b) The regulations in the Foreign Affairs Manual, Volume 16, Chapter 520 (16 FAM 520), Responsibility for Payment of Medical Expenses, apply to this contract, except as stated below. The contractor and each eligible family member are strongly encouraged to obtain health insurance that covers this assignment.

Nothing in this provision supersedes or contradicts any other term or provision in this contract that pertains to insurance or medical costs, except that section (e) supplements General Provision 25. “MEDICAL

EVACUATION (MEDEVAC) SERVICES.”

(c) When the contractor or eligible family member is covered by health insurance, that insurance is the primary payer for medical services provided to that contractor or eligible family member(s) both in the United States and abroad. The primary insurer’s liability is determined by the terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions of the insurance policy. When the contractor or eligible family member is not covered by health insurance, the contractor is the primary payer for the total amount of medical costs incurred and the U.S.

Government has no payment obligation (see paragraph (f) of this provision).

(d) USAID serves as a secondary payer for medical expenses of the contractor and eligible family members who are covered by health insurance, where the following conditions are met:

(1) The illness, injury, or medical condition giving rise to the expense is incurred, caused, or materially aggravated while the eligible individual is stationed or assigned abroad;

(2) The illness, injury, or medical condition giving rise to the expense required or requires hospitalization and the expense is directly related to the treatment of such illness, injury, or medical condition, including obstetrical care; and

(3) The Office of Medical Services (M/MED) or a Foreign Service medical provider (FSMP) determines that the treatment is appropriate for, and directly related to, the illness, injury, or medical condition.

(e) The Mission Director may, on the advice of M/MED or an FSMP at post, authorize medical travel for the contractor or an eligible family member in accordance with the General Provision 10, Travel and Transportation AAPD 06-10 PSC Medical Expense Payment Responsibility 6 Expenses (July 1993), section (i) entitled “Emergency and Irregular Travel and Transportation.” In the event of a medical emergency, when time does not permit consultation, the Mission Director may issue a Travel Authorization Form or Medical Services Authorization Form DS-3067, provided that the FSMP or Post Medical Advisor (PMA) is notified as soon as possible following such an issuance. The contractor must promptly file a claim with his or her medevac insurance provider and repay to USAID any amount the medevac insurer pays for medical travel, up to the amount USAID paid under this section. The contractor must repay USAID for medical costs paid by the medevac insurer in accordance with sections (f) and (g) below. In order for medical travel to be an allowable cost under the corresponding General Provision, the contractor must provide USAID written evidence that medevac insurance does not cover these medical travel costs.

(f) If the contractor or eligible family member is not covered by primary health insurance, the contractor is the primary payer for the total amount of medical costs incurred. In the event of a medical emergency, the Medical and Health Program may authorize issuance of Form DS-3067, Authorization for Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents, to secure admission to a hospital located abroad for the uninsured contractor or eligible family member. In that case, the contractor will be required to reimburse USAID in full for funds advanced by USAID pursuant to the issuance of the authorization. The contractor may reimburse USAID directly or USAID may offset the cost from the contractor’s invoice payments under this contract, any other contract the individual has with the U.S. Government, or through any other available debt collection mechanism.

(g) When USAID pays medical expenses (e.g., pursuant to Form DS-3067, Authorization for Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents), repayment must be made to USAID either by insurance payment or directly by the contractor, except for the amount of such expenses USAID is obligated to pay under this

17 | Page provision. The Contracting Officer will determine the repayment amount in accordance with the terms of this provision and the policies and procedures for employees contained in 16 FAM 521. When USAID pays the medical expenses, including medical travel costs (see section (e) above), of an individual (either the contractor or an eligible family member) who is covered by insurance, that individual promptly must claim his or her benefits under any applicable insurance policy or policies. As soon as the individual receives the insurance payment, the contractor must reimburse USAID for the full amount that USAID paid on the individual’s behalf or the repayment amount determined by the Contracting Officer in accordance with this paragraph, whichever is less. If an individual is not covered by insurance, the contractor must reimburse USAID for the entire amount of all medical expenses and any travel Costs the contractor receives from his/her medevac provider.

(h) In the event that the contractor or eligible family member fails to recover insurance payments or transfer the amount of such payments to USAID within 90 days, USAID will take appropriate action to collect the payments due, unless such failure is for reasons beyond the control of the USPSC/dependent.

(i) Before departing post or terminating the contract, the contractor must settle all medical expense and medical travel costs.