72DFFP19R00023_-_FFPO_Mali_-_Final_-_2nd_deadline_extension.pdf

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Request for Personal Services Contractor

United States Agency for International Development

Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance Office of Food for Peace

Position Title: Food for Peace Officer – Mali Solicitation Number: 72DFFP19R00023 Salary Level: GS-13 Equivalent: $76,687 - $99,691 GS-14 Equivalent: $90,621 - $117,810

Issuance Date: June 12, 2019 Closing Date: July 24, 2019 (Deadline Extended) Closing Time: 4:00 P.M. Eastern Time

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government (USG), represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Office of Food for Peace (FFP), is seeking offers from qualified U.S.

citizens to provide personal services as a Food for Peace Officer – Mali under a United States Personal Services Contract (USPSC), as described in the attached solicitation.

Submittals must be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified.

Offerors interested in applying for this position MUST submit the following materials:

1. Complete resume. In order to fully evaluate your offer, your resume must include:

(See sample resume on www.ffpjobs.com website)

(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. 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) Names and contact information (phone/email) of your current and/or previous supervisor(s). Current and/or previous supervisor(s) may be contacted for a reference.

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

(e) U.S. Citizenship.

Your resume should contain sufficient information to make a valid determination that you fully meet the experience requirements as stated in this solicitation. This information should be clearly identified in your resume. Failure to provide information sufficient to determine your qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration.

http://www.ffpjobs.com/

Solicitation for a USPSC Food for Peace Officer - Mali

72DFFP19R00023

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2. Responses to the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs): Each offeror’s supplemental document must address the QRFs shown in the solicitation.

3. USPSC Application form AID 309-2: Offerors are required to complete sections A through I. This form must be physically signed and scanned. Electronic signatures will not be accepted.

All USPSCs with a place of performance in the United States are required to have a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to receiving an offer. You will be disqualified if you either fail to comply with this requirement or if your name appears on the excluded parties list.

Registration information is available at www.sam.gov and further guidance will be provided to the selectee regarding DUNS and SAM registration.

The submission of additional documents submitted will not be accepted. Incomplete or late offers will not be considered. FFP reserves the right to select additional candidates if vacancies become available during future phases of the selection process.

Offerors can expect to receive a confirmation email when offer materials have been received.

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

Your complete resume, signed and scanned AID 309-2 form, and the supplemental document addressing the QRFs must be emailed to:

FFP PSC Recruitment Team E-Mail Address: ffp_pscrecruitment@usaid.gov

Any questions on this solicitation may be directed to FFP PSC Recruitment Team via the information provided above. Further guidance on applying, including a sample resume, can be found at www.ffpjobs.com.

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.

Sincerely, /s/

Patrice Lee Contracting Officer https://www.sam.gov/SAM/ mailto:ffp_pscrecruitment@usaid.gov http://www.ffpjobs.com/application/process.aspx

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SOLICITATION NO.: 72DFFP19R00023

1. ISSUANCE DATE: June 12, 2019

2. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS:

July 24, 2019, 4:00 P.M. Eastern Time (Deadline Extended)

3. POSITION TITLE: Food for Peace Officer - Mali

4. MARKET VALUE: This position has been designated as a tandem position that, depending on the qualifications of the candidate, can be filled at either the GS-13 ($76,687 - $99,691) or GS-14 ($90,621 - $117,810) equivalent level, without locality pay. Final Grade will be determined by the candidate’s established work history, qualifications and education. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value and based upon the candidate’s established salary history. USAID FFP reserves the right to place the offeror at the Grade level for which he/she is found qualified during the selection process. Salaries over and above the top of the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated.

NOTE CONCERNING MARKET VALUE: The offeror(s) chosen for the position will be recommended for hire at either the GS-13 or GS-14 level commensurate with his/her overall experience, training, and qualifications as determined by the FFP Selection Committee.

5. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two (2) years, with three (3) one-year options.

6. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Bamako, Mali

7. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret Level Security Clearance

8. STATEMENT OF WORK:

BACKGROUND

USAID's Office of Food for Peace (FFP) predicts, prevents, and responds to hunger overseas.

Through its emergency food assistance activities, FFP saves lives, reduces suffering, and supports the early recovery of people affected by conflict and natural disaster emergencies, including refugees.

FFP also addresses the root causes of food insecurity and helps individuals and communities withstand future crises and lay the foundation for stable, inclusive growth. FFP development activities help chronically food insecure populations reduce their long-term need for food assistance by helping communities improve access to food for their most vulnerable people, especially women and children.

FFP works closely with other parts of USAID, especially the Bureau for Food Security, which plays a key role in implementing the U.S. Government’s Feed the Future initiative, and the

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Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), which leads on disaster response around the world. FFP employs a staff of over 100 in Washington and also has officers posted abroad.

More information on FFP is available at: https://www.usaid.gov/food-assistance.

INTRODUCTION

Recurrent natural disasters, limited job opportunities and severe poverty contribute to chronic malnutrition and hunger in Mali, while civil conflict since 2012 has exacerbated food insecurity and spurred population displacement. A mid-2017 national nutrition survey found a concerning prevalence of childhood malnutrition across the country, with malnutrition levels in Timbuktu and Gao regions reaching the emergency threshold. Furthermore, the number of people requiring emergency food assistance during the 2018 summer lean season has increased by more than 50 percent since the same period in 2017. To improve food security and reduce malnutrition, USAID’s Office of Food for Peace (FFP) has provided nearly $50 million in emergency and development food assistance since FY 2017. In partnership with the UN World Food Program (WFP), the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) and non-governmental organization (NGO) partners, FFP responds to the urgent food needs of populations affected by displacement, natural disasters or other shocks through a combination of in-kind food sourced in U.S., local and regional markets or market-based emergency food assistance. In addition, FFP supports activities that treat and prevent malnutrition in children and pregnant and/or lactating women. FFP also partners with the NGO CARE to implement a long-term development activity that benefits approximately 270,000 individuals in the Mopti region.

This program is integrated into the Mali Mission resilience strategy and aims to strengthen food and nutrition security among poor households. These activities focused on nutrition promotion, livelihood diversification, resilience building, conflict reduction, and governance enhancement.

9. CORE FUNCTIONAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

The incumbent manages and monitors FFP’s food assistance programs for Mali and ensure the effective management of FFP resources provided. The primary responsibility of the incumbent is to coordinate and monitor ongoing FFP-funded emergency food assistance programs and report on their implementation to FFP/Washington, the Mission and the U.S. Embassy.

Under the direct supervision of the FFP/Mali Team Leader or his/her designee, the incumbent performs the following duties:

At the GS-13 Equivalent Level:

• Serve as a point of contact for NGOs and public international organizations (PIO), such as WFP and UNICEF implementing FFP-funded programs, USG representatives, and others on FFP food security issues in Mali;

• Provide policy recommendations related to implementation of emergency programs carried out by PIOs and NGOs;

https://www.usaid.gov/food-assistance

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• Analyze and assess data from a variety of sources including field assessments, technical data, early warning information, and reports from USAID field staff, NGOs, and PIOs to recommend appropriate food assistance programs;

• Monitor and report on implementation of ongoing FFP-funded programs, including progress and problems encountered by grantees, as well as commodity management, including following up with cooperating sponsors on the status of loss claims;

• Advise and guide FFP-funded implementing partners on interpretation and execution of

FFP-funded food assistance regulations, policies, and procedures;

• Report on all food security issues, to include changes in the food security situation and food assistance requirements, government policies and actions affecting food assistance programs, government food assistance programs, including donor pledges and programs;

• As the FFP expert, coordinate with the country team (USAID Mission, US Embassy, and/or other USG in-country staff), host government, NGOs, PIOs, donors, and others to address issues that may directly impact on food assistance funding decisions;

• Undertake and report on assessments to inform FFP food assistance funding decisions or modifications to ongoing programs;

• Provide direction to NGOs on requirements for preparation of work-plans and program modifications, and with PIOs on new appeals or revisions to existing ones;

• Serve as a food assistance expert, work with other USG agencies and donors to promote integration of food assistance with other programs to increase the effectiveness of the programs overall; and

• As needed, serve on short-term assignments with other USAID offices or bureaus in direct support of FFP programs. These placements shall not exceed three months.

At the GS-14 Equivalent Level:

• Serve as primary point of contact for NGOs and PIOs, such as WFP and UNICEF implementing FFP-funded programs, USG representatives, and others on FFP food security issues in Mali;

• Provide policy recommendations related to implementation of emergency programs carried out by PIOs and NGOs;

• Analyze and assess data from a variety of sources including field assessments, technical data, early warning information, and reports from USAID field staff, NGOs, and PIOs to recommend appropriate food assistance programs;

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• Monitor and report on implementation of ongoing FFP-funded programs, including progress and problems encountered by grantees, as well as commodity management, including following up with cooperating sponsors on the status of loss claims;

• Advise and guide FFP-funded implementing partners on interpretation and execution of

FFP-funded food assistance regulations, policies, and procedures;

• Report on all food security issues, to include changes in the food security situation and food assistance requirements, government policies and actions affecting food assistance programs, government food assistance programs, including donor pledges and programs;

• As the FFP expert, coordinate with the country team (USAID Mission, US Embassy, and/or other USG in-country staff), host government, NGOs, PIOs, donors, and others to address issues that may directly impact on food assistance funding decisions;

• Undertake and report on assessments to inform FFP food assistance funding decisions or modifications to ongoing programs;

• Provide direction to NGOs on requirements for preparation of work-plans and program modifications, and with PIOs on new appeals or revisions to existing ones;

• Serve as the food assistance expert, work with other USG agencies and donors to promote integration of food assistance with other programs to increase the effectiveness of the programs overall;

• As needed, serve on short-term assignments with other USAID offices or bureaus in direct support of FFP programs. These placements shall not exceed three months; and

• Supervise other FFP staff based in Mali as needed.

Supervisory Controls:

At both the GS-13 and GS-14 equivalent levels, the incumbent’s supervisor is the FFP/Mali Team Leader, but the incumbent maintains reporting relationships with the FFP West Africa Regional Director in Senegal and the FFP West Africa Regional Team Leader in Washington.

The incumbent reports any information to them on issues pertaining to ongoing FFP-funded food assistance programs. The incumbent sets overall work objectives, and the incumbent consults with the supervisor to develop deadlines, projects, and work to be performed.

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent plans and handles problems and deviations in accordance with instructions, policies, previous training or accepted practices. In coordination with the supervisor, the incumbent carries out assignments, prioritizes tasks so that assignments are completed on time, develops deadlines for activities, other specialized tasks, and resolves most conflicts that arise. With input from the supervisor, the incumbent interprets policies in terms of established objectives. The supervisor evaluates work for technical soundness, appropriateness, and conformity to policy requirements. Completed work is reviewed for

7 | Page effectiveness in advancing USAID's Food Security policy, FFP's Strategic Plan, and Bureau for Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) objectives as enunciated in the annual results reports/resource request submissions.

At the GS-14 equivalent level, the incumbent, in coordination with the supervisor, has greater latitude to define and carry out duties, prioritize overall objectives, and manage available resources. In consultation with the supervisor, the incumbent develops deadlines for activities and other specialized tasks. The incumbent is also responsible for planning and carrying out assignments, resolving most conflicts that arise, and coordinating work with others as necessary.

The supervisor evaluates work for technical soundness and effectiveness in meeting work objectives. Completed work is reviewed for effectiveness in advancing USAID's Food Security policy, FFP's Strategic Plan, and DCHA objectives as enunciated in the annual results reports/resource request submissions.

Guidelines:

Pertinent sources of information consist of the Title II Food for Peace Act, the Foreign Assistance Act, the Farm Bill, and other legislation; USAID, DCHA, other USG rules and regulations; and FFP rules, policies, guidelines, and information bulletins.

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent uses initiative and resourcefulness in deviating from traditional methods or in researching patterns and trends to develop new methods, criteria, or proposed policies as related to nutrition food assistance programs.

At the GS-14 equivalent level, judgement and ingenuity is required to interpret the intent of guides and to develop applications/guidelines. To achieve maximum impact of FFP resources, when necessary, the incumbent is expected to conceive and propose innovative program and/or policy changes that are consistent with existing legislation, regulations, and legal rulings.

Additionally, the incumbent is expected to identify and recommend solutions to inefficiencies or inconsistencies that serve as barriers to the accomplishment of assigned tasks and report them to the FFP Regional Team Leader and Division Chief.

Complexity:

At the GS-13 or GS-14 equivalent levels, the incumbent undertakes a wide range of duties that require the exercise of judgment, the interpretation of policies and practices and their relevance to a new problem or situation.

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent monitors programs by conducting field visits, reviewing reports from field staff, and analyzing information provided by implementing partners.

The incumbent reports on findings and recommends follow-up actions, when necessary, to ensure programs are implemented in a manner consistent with legislative, regulatory and policy guidelines and to maximize effectiveness.

At the GS-14 equivalent level, the incumbent applies his/her depth and breadth of knowledge and experience to make policy recommendations related to the implementation of emergency

8 | Page programs carried out by PIOs such as WFP, UNICEF, and NGOs. The recommended changes will be consistent with existing legislative, regulatory, and policy guidelines, but may require the formulation and application of new approaches and methodologies.

Scope and Effect:

At the GS-13 and GS-14 levels, the incumbent’s work typically includes planning, organizing, directing, designing, and coordinating programs and/or projects, requiring creativity and support from others. The incumbent’s work may entail conducting extensive field monitoring to determine the feasibility of various advanced approaches in order to define concepts and criteria for future programs. The incumbent reports on all food security issues, including changes in the food security situation and food assistance requirements, government policies and actions affecting food assistance programs, government food assistance programs, including donor pledges and programs.

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the work typically includes reporting on all food security issues, including changes in the food security situation and food assistance requirements. The incumbent also reports on government policies and actions affecting food assistance programs, as well as donor pledges.

At the GS-14 equivalent level, the incumbent serves as a point of contact to coordinate with the country team in order to increase the effectiveness of the ongoing humanitarian programs overall. The incumbent works to resolve critical problems or develop new theories affecting the work of other experts and/or the well-being of substantial numbers of people. The work of the incumbent directly affects the development of major aspects of food assistance and nutrition programs.

Personal Contacts:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, in coordination with the supervisor or his/her designee, the incumbent is responsible for liaising with a variety of agency and external actors in order ensure the efficacious use of FFP emergency food assistance resources. Contacts of the incumbent include PIOs, NGOs, other FFP Divisions and intergovernmental agencies on FFP commitments and priorities. The incumbent coordinates closely with FFP/Washington and field staff, USAID Mission and regional offices, U.S. Embassy, other U.S. Agencies, as well as NGO representatives.

At the GS-14 equivalent level, the incumbent coordinates with individuals from inside and outside the Agency. The incumbent is the primary point of contact with individuals and groups in contexts relating to ongoing FFP program issues or questions relating to USG emergency and nutrition food assistance programs. The incumbent is responsible for liaising with a variety of agency and external actors in order ensure the efficacious use of FFP emergency food assistance resources. Contacts of the incumbent include PIOs, NGOs, other FFP Divisions and intergovernmental agencies on FFP commitments and priorities. The incumbent coordinates closely with FFP/Washington and field staff, USAID Mission and regional offices, U.S.

Embassy, other U.S. Agencies, as well as NGO representatives.

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Purpose of Contacts:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, in coordination with the supervisor or his/her designee, the incumbent determines the appropriate approach in negotiating and persuading others and in establishing rapport in order to gain and relay information related to nutrition food assistance programs. The incumbent is responsible for influencing or motivating people or groups that may be fearful, skeptical, or uncooperative.

At the GS-14 equivalent level, the incumbent must be skillful in determining the appropriate approach in negotiating and persuading others, and in establishing rapport in order to gain and relay information, including decision makers. Individuals contacted by the incumbent typically have diverse viewpoints, goals, and objectives including U.S. Agencies (Department of State, U.S. Department of Agriculture, etc.). The incumbent is required to achieve a common understanding among the various parties and propose satisfactory solutions to better aid execution of emergency and nutrition food assistance programs.

10. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Work is primarily performed in an office setting. During long-term travel for FFP, 30 days or more in a calendar year, the work may additionally involve special safety and/or security precautions, wearing of protective equipment, and exposure to severe weather conditions. The work is generally sedentary and does not pose undue physical demands.

The requirement for field trip assignments to consult with cooperating sponsor managers of food assistance programs may expose the successful candidate to additional physical exertion including long periods of standing, walking over rough terrain, or carrying of moderately heavy items (less than 50 pounds).

11. START DATE: Immediately, once necessary clearances are obtained.

12. POINT OF CONTACT: See Cover Letter.

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MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THIS POSITION

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

(Determines basic eligibility for the position. Offerors who do not meet all of the education and experience factors are considered NOT qualified for the position.)

At the GS-13 Equivalent Level:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to, public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance, or other related field. The incumbent will have a total of at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which three (3) years must be with a background in food security programming or related sector (food assistance, mother and child health and nutrition, markets & livelihoods, early warning, disaster risk reduction, and/or agriculture and natural resources management). Two (2) years of overseas professional experience is required.

AND

Demonstrated knowledge of basic French Language skills are required; advanced skills desired.

OR

Master’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to, public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance, or other related field. The incumbent will have a total of at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which two (2) years must be with a background in food security programming or related sector (food assistance, mother and child health and nutrition, markets & livelihoods, early warning, disaster risk reduction, and/or agriculture and natural resources management). Two (2) years of overseas professional experience is required.

AND

Demonstrated knowledge of basic French Language skills are required; advanced skills desired.

At the GS-14 Equivalent Level:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to, public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance, or other related field. The incumbent will have a total of at least eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which four (4) years must be with a background in food security programming or related sector (food assistance, mother and child health and nutrition, markets & livelihoods, early warning, disaster risk reduction, and/or

11 | Page agriculture and natural resources management). Three (3) years of overseas professional experience is required.

AND

Demonstrated knowledge of basic French Language skills are required; advanced skills desired.

OR

Master’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to, public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance, or other related field. The incumbent will have a total of at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which three (3) years must be with a background in food security programming or related sector (food assistance, mother and child health and nutrition, markets & livelihoods, early warning, disaster risk reduction, and/or agriculture and natural resources management). Three (3) years of overseas professional experience is required.

AND

Demonstrated knowledge of basic French Language skills are required; advanced skills desired.

SELECTION FACTORS

(Determines basic eligibility for the position. Offerors who do not meet all of the selection factors are considered NOT qualified for the position.)

● Offeror is a U.S. Citizen;

● Submission of a current resume, with complete contact information. See cover page for resume requirements;

● Supplemental document specifically addressing the QRFs;

● USPSC Application form AID 309-2. Offerors are required to complete sections A through I.

This form must be physically signed and scanned. Electronic signatures will not be accepted;

● Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level clearance up to Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information level clearance within a nine month period after offer acceptance;

● Ability to obtain a Department of State medical clearance within a three month period after offer acceptance;

● Must not appear as an excluded party in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov); and

● Satisfactory verification of academic credentials.

Offerors not meeting minimum qualifications will not be evaluated further.

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QUALITY RANKING FACTORS (QRFs)

Offerors who meet the Education/Experience requirements and Selection Factors will be further evaluated based on the QRFs listed below. In 500 words or less, the offeror will address each factor on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately the experience, training, and/or education they have that is relevant to each factor. Please provide a word count after each response. Offerors must be sure to include their name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page.

• QRF 1. Knowledge of the key policy and technical issues related to development and emergency food assistance programming in developing countries, ideally in conflict-affected countries, in 500 words or less. (20 points)

• QRF 2. Knowledge of the functioning of non-government organizations (NGOs), UN agencies, and USG agencies involved in humanitarian assistance, and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with personnel from these organizations on highly sensitive issues, in 500 words or less. (20 points)

• QRF 3. Demonstrated ability to review proposals, analyze budgets, manage USG or other agency financial agreements, and work through the USG (or other agency) grant award process, in 500 words or less. (15 points)

• QRF 4. Ability to communicate complex technical issues effectively to non-specialists both orally and in writing, in 500 words or less. (15 points)

Total Possible QRF Points: 70 points Total Possible Interview Points: 30 points Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks: Pass/Fail

Total Possible Points: 100

BASIS OF RATING: Offerors who meet the Education/Experience requirements and Selection Factors will be further evaluated based on scoring of the QRF responses. Those offerors determined to be competitively ranked will be evaluated on interview performance and satisfactory professional reference checks.

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

The most qualified candidates will be interviewed. Professional references and academic credentials will be evaluated for offerors being considered for selection. FFP will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. FFP reserves the right to select additional candidates to fill possible future vacant positions.

NOTE: Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror.

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

NOTE: If the full medical clearance package is not submitted within one month after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded. If a Department of State medical clearance is not obtained within three months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded.

DOCUMENT SUBMITTALS:

Where and How to Apply

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

Offerors are required to submit:

1. Complete, current resume. See cover page for resume requirements.

2. Supplemental document specifically addressing the QRFs shown in the solicitation.

3. USPSC Application form AID 309-2. Offerors are required to complete sections A through

I. This form must be physically signed and scanned. Electronic signatures will not be accepted.

Additional documents submitted will not be accepted.

By submitting your offer materials, you certify that all of the information on and attached to the offer is true, correct, complete, and made in good faith. You agree to allow all information on and attached to the offer to be investigated.

False or fraudulent information on or attached to your offer may result in you being eliminated from consideration for this position, or being terminated after award, and may be punishable by fine or imprisonment.

To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number and the position you are applying for on your offer, and as the subject line in any email.

NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION

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.

NOTE REGARDING DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS)

NUMBERS AND THE SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT

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All USPSCs with a place of performance in the United States are required to have a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to receiving an offer. You will be disqualified if you either fail to comply with this requirement or if your name appears on the excluded parties list. The selectee will be provided with guidance regarding this registration.

NOTE: Registration for a DUNS number is FREE.

For general information about DUNS Numbers, please refer to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.204-6, Data Universal Numbering System Number at https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html and FAR 52.204-7, System for Award Management at https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html or www.sam.gov.

Interested offerors are highly encouraged to initiate the registration process early in the offer stage to avoid any delays during contract award.

LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs:

Forms outlined below can found at:

http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ or at http://www.forms.gov/bgfPortal/main.do

1. Complete, current resume.

2. Supplemental Document addressing QRFs.

3. USPSC Application Form (AID 309-2).

4. Medical History and Examination Form (DS-6561).

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

6. Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85).

7. Finger Print Card (FD-258).

8. Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9 Form).

**Forms 4-8 shall be completed ONLY upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an offeror is the successful candidate for the job.

CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) and ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs

CIBs and AAPDs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs to determine which CIBs and AAPDs apply to this contract.

AIDAR Appendix D can be found at: https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar

ADS 309 – Personal Services Contracts can be found at:

https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/309.pdf https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ http://www.forms.gov/bgfPortal/main.do https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/309.pdf

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AAPD 06-10 – PSC MEDICAL PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY

AAPD No. 06-10 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 1 to the solicitation.

AAPD 15-02 – Authorization of Family and Medical Leave for U.S. Personal Services Contractors (USPSCs) AAPD No. 15-02 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 2 to the solicitation.

AAPD 18-02 - Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) Services AAPD No. 18-02 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 3 to the solicitation.

FAR 52.222-50 – COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

FAR Clause 52.222-50 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 4 to the solicitation.

BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES/TAXES:

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

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 & Sick Leave

ALLOWANCES (if Applicable) *

The following allowances may be provided for PSCs located in foreign countries using rates prescribed under the Department of State Standardized Regulations (Government Civilian Foreign areas) available at https://aoprals.state.gov/:

(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)

(j) Danger Pay Allowance (Section 650) https://aoprals.state.gov/

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TAXES:

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

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 http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs.

[The CO must check http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs to determine which AAPDs/CIBs apply and insert the relevant text as required.]

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.

ALL QUALIFIED OFFERORS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE,

RACE, COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL

AFFILIATION, NON-DISQUALIFYING DISABILITY, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL

ORIENTATION, AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR

OTHER NON-MERIT FACTOR.

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 http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations

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ATTACHMENT 1

MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY (OCTOBER 2006) (AAPD06-10)

(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.

(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

18 | Page 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 General Provision 10, 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 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. If the contractor is insured, he or she must provide proof to the Contracting AAPD 06-10 PSC Medical Expense Payment Responsibility 7 Officer that those insurance claims have been submitted to the insurance carrier(s) and sign a repayment agreement to repay to USAID any amounts paid by the insurance carrier(s).

(i) Before departing post or terminating the contract, the contractor must settle all medical expense and medical travel costs. If the contractor is insured, he or she must provide proof to the Contracting Officer that those insurance claims have been submitted to the insurance carrier(s)

19 | Page and sign a repayment agreement to repay to USAID any amounts paid by the insurance carrier(s).

[END PROVISION]

20 | Page

ATTACHMENT 2

AUTHORIZATION OF FAMILY AND MEDICAL LEAVE FOR U.S. PERSONAL

SERVICES CONTRACTORS (USPSCs)

GP 5. LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS (DEC 2017)

(Pursuant to class deviation #M/OAA-DEV-AIDAR-18-1c)

(a) Annual Leave.

(1) The contractor is not entitled to annual leave if the period of performance of this contract is 90 days or less. If the contract period of performance is more than 90 days, the contractor shall earn annual leave as of the start date of the contract period of performance as specified in paragraph (a)(2) below.

(2) The contractor shall accrue annual leave based on the contractor’s time in service according to the following table:

Time in Service Annual Leave (AL) Accrual Calculation 0 to 3 years Four hours of leave for each two week period over 3, and up to 15 years

Six hours of AL for each two week period (including 10 hours AL for the final pay period of a calendar year) over 15 years Eight hours of AL for each two week period

USAID will calculate the contractor’s time in service based on all the previous service performed by the contractor as a: 1) USAID PSC (i.e., the contractor has served under any USAID personal services contracts of any duration covered by Sec. 636(a)(3) of the FAA or other statutory provision applicable to USAID); and/or 2) former U.S. Government (USG) direct-hire, under either civilian and/or military service.

(3)

(i) AL is provided under this contract for the purposes of affording necessary rest and recreation during the period of performance. The contractor, in consultation with the USAID Mission or USAID/Washington, as appropriate, shall develop an AL schedule early in the contractor's period of performance, taking into consideration project requirements, employee preference, and other factors. All AL earned by the contractor must be used during the contractor’s period of performance. All AL earned by the contractor, but not taken by the end of the contract, will be forfeited. However, to prevent forfeiture of AL, the Contracting Officer may approve the contractor taking AL during the concluding weeks of the contractor's period of performance.

(ii) As an exception to 3(i) above, the contractor may receive a lump-sum payment for leave not taken. To approve this exception, the contractor's supervisor must provide the Contracting Officer with a signed, written Determination and Findings (D&F). The D&F must set out the facts and circumstances that prevented the contractor from taking AL, and the Contracting Officer must find that these facts and circumstances were not caused

21 | Page by, or were beyond the control of, the contractor. This leave payment must not exceed the number of days which could be earned by the contractor during a twelve-month period.

(4) With the approval of the Mission Director or cognizant AA, as appropriate, and if the circumstances warrant, a Contracting Officer may grant the contractor advance AL in excess of the amount earned, but in no case may the Contracting Officer grant advance AL in excess of the amount earned in one year or over the life of the contract, whichever is less. The contractor agrees to reimburse USAID for any outstanding balance of advance AL provided during the contractor’s assignment under the contract.

(5) Offerors for PSC positions will provide evidence of their PSC and/or USG direct-hire service - civilian and/or military experience, as applicable, on their signed and dated application form required under USAID policy. By signing the appropriate form, the offeror attests to the accuracy of the information provided. Any offeror providing incorrect information is subject to the penalty provisions in the form. If required to satisfy due diligence requirements on behalf of the Contracting Officer, the contractor may be required to furnish evidence that verifies length of service, e.g., SF 50, DD Form 214, and/or signed contracts.

(b) Sick Leave.

The contractor may use sick leave on the same basis and for the same purposes as USAID U.S.

direct hire employees. Sick leave is earned at a rate not to exceed four (4) hours every two (2) weeks for a total of 13 work-days per year. Unused sick leave may be carried over under an extension or renewal of this contract with the same individual for the same work. Otherwise, sick leave will not be carried over from one post to another or from one contract to another. The contractor will not be compensated for unused sick leave upon completion of this contract.

(c) Home Leave.

(1) Home leave is leave earned for service abroad for use only in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions and territories.

(2) A USPSC who has served at least two years overseas at the same USAID Mission, under the same contract, as defined in paragraph (c)(4) below, and has not taken more than 30 work days leave (annual, sick or LWOP) in the U.S. may be granted home leave in accordance with the following:

(i) if the USPSC returns to the same overseas post upon completion of home leave for an additional two (2) years under the same contract, the USPSC will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of 30 work days; or if the USPSC…