Solicitation_72026719R00003.pdf

USAID/Iraq US Embassy Compound

International Zone Baghdad-Iraq

USAID MISSION/IRAQ

SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72026719R00003

ISSUANCE DATE: July 3, 2019 CLOSING DATE/TIME: July 24, 2019 17:00 Baghdad time

SUBJECT: Solicitation for U.S. Personal Service Contractor (PSC)

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation.

Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1 of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records.

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offer.

Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in Attachment 1.

Sincerely, Maura O’Brien Contracting Officer

ATTACHMENT 1 72026719R00003

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 72026719R00003

2. ISSUANCE DATE: July 3, 2019.

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: July 24, 2019 no later than 17:00 Baghdad time.

4. POINT OF CONTACT: Mohammad Ibrahim, Human Resources Specialist, USAID/Iraq, Mibrahim@usaid.gov or Maura O’Brien, Supervisory Executive Officer, MObrien@usaid.gov (inquiries only). Applications will NOT be accepted to these email addresses. Please see item IV for instructions on how and where to submit applications.

5. POSITION TITLE: Senior Financial Analyst.

6. MARKET VALUE: $64,490 - $83,840 equivalent to GS-12. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value.

7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The period of performance is one year, with the possibility of extensions. The contract and extensions cannot exceed 5 years.

8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Baghdad, Iraq.

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: U.S. Citizens, U.S. Resident Aliens and Third Country Nationals.

10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: The successful applicant shall be required to obtain a Secret level security clearance (if U.S. Citizen) or Moderate Risk Public Trust certificate (if U.S. Resident Alien), as a pre-condition for employment.

11. STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

1) BACKGROUND

Since 2003, USAID has been a major contributor to the U.S. government (USG) relief, stabilization and reconstruction effort in Iraq. USAID works closely with other USG entities, the Government of Iraq (GOI), provincial and local governments, international institutions such as the United Nations (UN) and the World Bank, and a network of partners from non-governmental organizations, local community groups, and Iraqi citizens.

2) STATEMENT OF DUTIES

mailto:Mibrahim@usaid.gov mailto:MObrien@usaid.gov

BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:

The incumbent analyzes and advises on (1) the complex financial aspects of developing, implementing and evaluating USAID projects, which are large and complicated, and (2) the various aspects of the internal operations of the USAID Mission. The incumbent serves as a Cognizant Contracting Representative (COR) for Agency or recipient-contracted audits of implementing partners. In addition, the incumbent advises on the steps to be taken to implement audit findings and recommendations. The Senior Financial Analyst reports to Deputy Controller/Financial Manager and provides technical guidance to one FSNPSC Financial Analyst. In the absence of the Deputy Controller/Financial Manager the incumbent provides technical supervision for FMO staff.

DETAILED DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent applies professional financial analysis methods and techniques, including financial management indicators, in order to analyze the financial viability of proposed USAID projects and activities and the adequacy of funding during implementation.

In collaboration with USAID/Iraq's Office of Acquisitions and Assistance (OAA) and the Technical offices, the Senior Financial Analyst reviews the financial information and reporting systems for all contracts, grant activities and task orders to ensure compliance with the terms of the agreement and cost effectiveness.

In addition, the incumbent is responsible for assisting the Technical Offices and the Program Office with forecasting future resource requirements by providing financial data for the sector portfolio and administrative expenses. This includes pipeline analysis to facilitate an orderly and timely flow of funds for program implementation so sufficient funds are available for each activity and not in excess of current requirements. The incumbent assists the Technical Offices with accrual estimates and program obligation reviews (Section 1311).

Develops internal ad hoc reports with graphical presentation (as required) of the financial data to illustrate how efficient Program Areas/Sectors are managed. He/She consults with various technical offices to discuss Program Areas/Sector reporting needs. Analyzes the information required, designs, polishes format and generates tailored financial reports from the official accounting data.

The incumbent verifies that Agency requirements are met prior to the obligation of funds in the system. Reviews and clears obligating documents to determine the accuracy and reasonableness of the budgets presented in the financial tables. Develops standard and customized reports based upon the Agency's official accounting system (aka Phoenix). Develops government cost estimates, as necessary, for comparative purposes and as a benchmark for comparison of contractor budget submissions.

Under the direction of the Deputy Controller/Financial Manager, coordinates the effective implementation of the Mission’s Audit Management and Resolution Program by: 1) preparing, monitoring and implementing the RIG approved audit inventory and audit plan; 2) facilitating, controlling, and tracking audits included in the audit plan; 3) participating in the acquisition process for Agency or recipient-contracted audits of implementing organizations, including the development, review and approval of audit scopes of work; 4) Coordinates the assessment of risks and testing of internal controls with the Financial Analysis team and ensures testing and reporting is documented in Mission's files; 5) participating in the development of management decisions for audit recommendations and follow-up on the close-out of audit recommendations once included by Washington in the Consolidated Audit and Compliance System (CACS).

The incumbent works in collaboration with appropriate USAID/Iraq and Middle East Bureau (ME in USAID/Washington) staff to assist in developing and maintaining a comprehensive monitoring system to track program implementation. Due to the security situation in Iraq, a normal level of activity monitoring is not possible. Therefore, it is important for the incumbent to maintain a system of assessing risk for each of the USAID-funded activities. Furthermore, the incumbent will provide technical guidance to CORs and AORs to effectively perform financial monitoring of USAID's contractors, vendors and grantees.

The incumbent also coordinates with Mission staff to establish tracking systems and integrate financial controls into the implementation mechanisms for each contract or grant within the program sector. In addition, the incumbent ensures that financing and reporting procedures, which conform to USAID's financial and program reporting systems and USG requirements and limitations, are fully considered and set forth in grant projects and contract agreements.

The incumbent prepares special financial reports for USAID management, US Embassy, and other US Government organizations and manages the updates to the financial database in conjunction with the official USAID accounting system (aka Phoenix).

The incumbent provides technical guidance to one FSNPSC Financial Analyst. This requires developing, implementing and monitoring long-term and weekly work plans to meet the needs of FMO and the Mission. To complement this work plan, the Senior Financial Analyst will develop and implement individual training plans which include on-the-job and formal training lessons.

These training and work plans are aimed at expediting the skills and capabilities of the FSNs in order to take on more high-level financial management responsibilities and services.

3) SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP

The incumbent reports to the USAID/Iraq Deputy Controller/Financial Manager and receives guidance from the Regional Controller, as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding.

Senior FA resolves problems/situations encountered or referred by other staff. Only the exceptionally complex problems/situations are referred to the supervisor. The Senior FA has a fair degree of discretion in how he/she resolves the problems encountered.

4) SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

Although the Senior Financial Analyst does not directly supervise one FSNPSC Financial Analyst based in Erbil however the incumbent is responsible for providing guidance and technical supervision.

12. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Typically, the employee sits comfortably to do the work. However, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying of light items, such as papers, books, or small parts; or driving an automobile. No special physical demands are required to perform the work. The work requested is generally sedentary and poses few physical demands. The selected applicant must meet new fitness for duty standards for Iraq (stated in 15 State 11055) which includes: (1) a full medical evaluation, and (2) must obtain medical clearance from State/MED in order to deploy to post.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

In order to be considered for the position, a candidate must meet the Minimum Qualifications.

Applications will be pre-screened and only those that meet the Minimum Qualifications will be considered. These are the minimum qualifications necessary to be considered for the position:

1. Education: University degree (B.S. equivalent) in accounting, economics, or finance is required. MBA in Finance, Business Administration or related field and/or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is highly desirable.

2. Prior Work Experience: From five (5) to seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in professional accounting or auditing is required. Extensive use of automated accounting systems and other software systems as well as prior experience with a U.S.

Government institution is highly desirable. Two (2) to three (3) years’ experience in audit management of Agency or recipient-contracted audits of implementing organizations is required.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

Applicants must submit a summary statement of no more than one letter-size page, which describes how their relevant professional experience and education has prepared them to meet the specific challenges of the duties and responsibilities described above. The Contracting Officer will establish a competitive range and only shortlisted candidate will be contacted for interview.

Applications that do not meet the required minimum qualifications will not be scored.

1. Education (10 points): University degree (B.S. equivalent) in accounting, economics, or finance is required. MBA in Finance, Business Administration or related field and/or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is highly desirable.

2. Prior Work Experience (40 points): From five (5) to seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in professional accounting or auditing is required. Extensive use of automated accounting systems and other software systems as well as prior experience with a U.S. Government institution is highly desirable. Two (2) to three (3) years’ experience in audit management of Agency or recipient-contracted audits of implementing organizations is required.

3. Language Proficiency (10 points): Fluent English (Level IV) reading, speaking and writing ability is required.

4. Knowledge (20 points): A thorough knowledge and understanding of generally accepted accounting and auditing principles, theories, and terminology. Skilled in the preparation of budgets, reports, and in conducting financial and risk management assessments. Extensive skills in the use of accounting systems and Microsoft Office suite. Broad knowledge of U.S.

Government rules, regulations, guidance and procedures as related to accounting practices and requirements.

5. Skills and Abilities (20 points): Incumbent must possess excellent analytical skills and be able to exercise sound independent judgment. Effective people skills and management ability. Able to judge the adequacy of accounting systems, procedures and controls, and recommend improvements. Strong oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated high level of proficiency in the use of automated systems and computer software. Ability to compile and visualize data and deliver presentations to a wide range of stakeholders.

Total possible points: 100

Candidates meeting the above required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented within the application. The Contracting Officer reserves the right to establish a competitive range. Those applicants determined to be competitively ranked will be invited to participate in an interview. Only those applicants in competitive range, if established, will be contacted. The interview will be one of the determining factors in the final selection.

Reference checks will be conducted with the highest-ranked offeror at the conclusion of evaluations and prior to negotiations to assess the applicant’s technical knowledge, work performance, communication skills, and group dynamics, using the above criteria.

IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER

1. Qualified applicants are requested to submit:

A. Most current Curriculum Vitae or resume;

B. Eligible offerors are required to complete and submit the offer form AID 309-2, (https://www.usaid.gov/forms/aid-309-2) “Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals,” available at http://www.usaid.gov/forms.

C. Three professional references, which could be your current and former supervisors and be able to comment on your suitability for employment, with telephones and e-mail contacts to be provided on a separate sheet;

D. Brief appendix of no more than one letter-size page to demonstrate how prior experience and/or training have prepared them to meet the specific challenges of the duties and responsibilities described in the solicitation.

2. Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted electronically to: IraqUSPSCjobs@usaid.gov.

3. To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, Applicants must prominently reference the Solicitation number in the application submission.

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSC HIRES

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

1. Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms) https://www.usaid.gov/forms/aid-309-2 mailto:IraqUSPSCjobs@usaid.gov

2. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions for National Security (SF-86), or

3. Questionnaire for non-Sensitive Positions for National Security (SF-85),

4. Finger Print Card (FD-258)

5. OF-306

VI. BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a Personal Service Contracting (PSC) employee is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:

1. 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

2. ALLOWANCES:

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

(a) Post Allowance (Section 220)

(b) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)

(c) Education Allowance (Section 270)

(d) Education Travel (Section 280)

(e) Post Differential (Chapter 500)

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

(g) Danger Pay Allowance (Section 650)

VII. TAXES

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

VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO

PSCs

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/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf.

2. Contract Cover Page form AID 309-1 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 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf https://www.usaid.gov/forms http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs .

4. Ethical Conduct. By the acceptance of a USAID personal services contract as an individual, the contractor will be acknowledging receipt of the “Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch,” available from the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, in accordance with General Provision 2 and 5 CFR 2635.See https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations .

https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations