72DFFP20R00001 - FSMA - 11.19.pdf

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SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72DFFP20R00001

ISSUANCE DATE: November 7, 2019 CLOSING DATE AND TIME: November 29, 2019

4:00 P.M. Eastern Time

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

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 Security and Markets Advisor under a United States Personal Services Contract (USPSC), as described in the 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.

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.

http://www.ffpjobs.com/

Solicitation for a USPSC Food Security and Markets Advisor

72DFFP20R00001

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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.

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: ffprecruitmentteam@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:ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov http://www.ffpjobs.com/application/process.aspx

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ATTACHMENT 1

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 72DFFP20R00001

2. ISSUANCE DATE: November 7, 2019

3. CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS:

November 29, 2019, 4:00 P.M. Eastern Time

4. POINT OF CONTACT: FFP PSC Recruitment Team, ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov

5. POSITION TITLE: Food Security and Markets Advisor

6. 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-12 ($83,398- $108,422) or GS-13 ($99,172- $128,920) equivalent level, including Washington, D.C. 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. Candidates who live outside the Washington, D.C. area will be considered for employment but relocation expenses will not be reimbursed. 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-12 or GS-13 level commensurate with his/her overall experience, training, and qualifications as determined by the FFP Selection Committee.

7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One (1) year with four (4) one-year options.

8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Washington, D.C., with possible overseas and domestic travel.

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: U.S. Citizens

10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret up to Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information level clearance as provided by USAID.

11. 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

4 | Page 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 Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), which leads on disaster response around the world. FFP employs a staff of over 140 in Washington and also has officers posted abroad.

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

INTRODUCTION

The incumbent, based in FFP’s Policy and Technical Division, works as a Food Security and Markets Advisor. He/She provides technical leadership and guidance on the design, implementation, and evaluation of market-based and market-sensitive food security programming.

This includes analysis of potential risks to local market systems both from the supply side (e.g., distribution of in-kind food commodities) and the demand side (e.g., procurement of food on local and regional markets, cash transfers, and food vouchers). The incumbent also plays a critical role in ensuring the routine use of response analysis and the existing evidence base to consider the comparative effects of different modalities on food security at the household level.

The incumbent reviews market assessment information; participates in field assessments;

provides tools, guidance, and training to field missions and Washington FFP staff to enhance oversight of market-based programming; and supports efforts to incorporate evidence, learning and good practices pertaining to markets-based programming into FFP decision-making processes.

12. CORE FUNCTIONAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

As a member of the FFP Food Security Team, and under the direct supervision of the Team Leader or his/her designee, the incumbent performs the following duties:

At the GS-12 Equivalent Level:

• Provide markets related technical support to Washington FFP staff, FFP field officers and partners;

• Keep abreast of trends in markets issues, including livelihoods programming, and apply knowledge to improve FFP’s food assistance and to address the underlying causes of hunger;

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

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• Design and co-facilitate markets workshops, training and learning events for both internal and external stakeholders;

• Update and manage markets-related information systems;

• Support technical review of concept notes, applications and other documents as needed;

• Conduct market assessments, desk reviews and ad hoc analyses;

• Provide analyses of data from a variety of sources – including field assessments, technical data, early warning information, and reporting from USAID field staff, Private Voluntary Organizations (PVOs), and World Food Program (WFP) – to recommend appropriate food assistance or markets-related programs and strategies where needed;

• Provide technical input on funding priorities, review specific appeals and proposals, serve on proposal review panels, and recommend appropriate food assistance and markets programs;

• Monitor programs through field visits, field staff reports, and reports from implementing partners to maximize program effectiveness and ensure that programs adhere to legislative guidelines, while also recommending appropriate follow-up actions when necessary;

• Draft information products (e.g., updates, memoranda) and provide briefings on emergency food security grants; and

• Represent FFP in meetings and working groups with other USAID colleagues and representatives from other agencies.

In addition to the duties performed at the GS-12 equivalent level, the GS-13 incumbent also performs the following duties:

At the GS-13 Equivalent Level:

• Draft information products (e.g., updates, memoranda) and provide briefings internally and externally on market-based programs;

• Draft technical guidance and policy related to cash transfer, food vouchers, and local and regional procurement;

• Review and disseminate lessons learned and/or research related to market-based approaches, and develop this topic area within FFP’s emerging learning agenda; and

• Represent FFP to external audiences on market-based food assistance programs and policy issues.

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Supervisory Relationship:

At both the GS-12 and GS-13 equivalent levels, the incumbent takes direction from and reports to the Food Security Team Leader or his/her designee in FFP/Washington. The incumbent’s supervisor sets the overall work objectives and the incumbent consults with the Team Leader to develop deadlines, projects, and work to be performed.

Supervisory Controls:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent works under the supervision of the Team Leader and exercises independence and initiative in defining and carrying out duties, prioritizing overall objectives and managing available resources. The incumbent is responsible for independently planning and carrying out assignments, coordinating with others, and interpreting policy in terms of established objectives. Completed work is reviewed only in terms of overall feasibility, compatibility with other work, and effectiveness in meeting requirements.

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent carries out assignments and consults with the supervisor on policy interpretations. The incumbent keeps his/her supervisor informed of progress in the achievement of objectives and advised of potentially controversial matters. The supervisor will evaluate work for technical soundness and effectiveness in achieving FFP strategic objectives.

Guidelines:

Pertinent sources of information consist of the Food for Peace Act, the Foreign Assistance Act, other legislative initiatives, FFP issued guidelines, information bulletins, and USAID Agency and Democracy Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) Bureau rules and regulations.

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent uses initiative and resourcefulness in deviating from traditional practices to develop new methods, criteria, or proposed policies. The incumbent is expected to provide recommendations to his/her supervisor on how to collaborate with United States Government (USG) partners, bilateral donors, multilateral organizations, foundations, and other stakeholders, in efforts to capture and apply lessons learned in ongoing and future programming.

In addition to the scope of the GS-12 equivalent level, the GS-13 equivalent incumbent exercises considerable independent judgment in determining the application of guidelines to assigned responsibilities. 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. The incumbent is expected to identify and recommend solutions to inefficiencies or inconsistencies that serve as barriers to accomplishing assigned tasks and report them to the Food Security Team Leader or his/her designee.

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Complexity:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, duties vary, requiring different processes, methods, and substantial depth of analysis. The incumbent must be able to work independently to conduct technical reviews, apply operational learning, and make recommendations. He/she must also be able to communicate effectively across units within the Geographic Divisions and Policy Team to ensure that analysis feeds properly into joint processes. The incumbent conducts analysis in support of engagement with agency, interagency, and community of practice on food security and market-based approaches. Selection of methodology, results of analysis, and prioritization of competing demands are subject to review for non-routine tasks including: assessments featuring unusual constraints or conflicting data, originating new techniques, and establishing new criteria or guidance.

At the GS-13 equivalent level, duties vary, requiring many different and unrelated processes and methods applied to a broad range of activities and substantial depth of analysis. The incumbent must be able to work independently to conduct technical reviews, apply operational learning, and make recommendations. He/she must also be able to communicate effectively across units within the Geographic Divisions and Policy Team to ensure that analysis feeds properly into joint processes. He/she may be called upon to revise or formulate new office level policies and provide leadership from a technical perspective in agency, interagency, and community of practice initiatives to develop new guidance, tools, and standards related to food security and market-based approaches. The incumbent must demonstrate initiative and ability to manage competing work priorities and work independently when required.

Scope and Effect:

At the GS-12 and GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent provides technical program support to ensure that FFP’s food security portfolios are sensitive to market conditions, strengthen local systems, and utilize appropriate modalities based on context and evidence.

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent participates in application review, interpretation, and oversight of operational documents for ongoing programming. He/She is responsible for assessing and monitoring programs through technical data review, field visits, and communication with field staff and implementing partners. The incumbent also contributes when the Food Security Team updates FFP internal policies and external guidance related to food security approaches and market-based programming.

In addition to the scope of the GS-12 equivalent level, the GS-13 equivalent level incumbent is responsible for contributing to trend analysis, sharing evidence, and learning across the office on food security, markets, and livelihoods. He/she supports the development of new tools and guidance, while also managing processes to update FFP internal policies and external guidance related to food security approaches and market-based programming.

Personal Contacts:

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At the GS-12 equivalent level, contacts are within FFP and USAID to provide recommendations to his/her supervisor on controversial issues among decision makers including U.S. Government agencies (Department of State, U.S. Department of Agriculture, the National Security Council, etc.). The incumbent is required to work with colleagues towards a common understanding among the various parties and propose satisfactory solutions to his/her supervisor that address various objectives regarding FFP priorities.

In addition to the scope of the GS-12 equivalent level, the GS-13 equivalent level contacts are with individuals and groups outside of USAID in a moderately unstructured setting. The incumbent liaises with food security and markets points of contact of PVOs and public international organizations (PIOs). The purpose of contact is to influence and motivate persons or groups by persuasion or negotiation. Additionally, the incumbent communicates with academics and independent researchers to stay abreast of current evidence. The incumbent is responsible for providing technical advice to FFP staff, Missions, field staff and to PVO and PIO staff receiving FFP funding, and for liaising with relevant counterparts with other parts of USAID, including OFDA.

Purpose of Contacts:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent may be called upon to participate in activities with FFP staff from the Policy Team. The incumbent may also participate in meetings with external implementing partners, FFP Geographic Divisions, USAID Missions, other USAID/Washington bureaus, representatives of foreign governments, international and non-governmental organizations, and private sector companies.

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent must influence and motivate people or groups as it relates to food security and markets. The people contacted may be fearful, skeptical or uncooperative. 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 as it applies to food security and markets in FFP programming.

13. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

The work is primarily performed in an office setting. During long-term travel for FFP, thirty (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. During deployment on Disaster Assistance Response Teams (DARTs) (if required), and during site visits, there may be some additional physical exertion including long periods of standing, walking over rough terrain, or carrying of moderate heavy items (less than 50 pounds).

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

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II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED 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-12 Equivalent Level:

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to, agriculture, human nutrition, agricultural economics, international development, or other related field, plus a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which one (1) year must be related to international food assistance (which may include humanitarian in-kind food aid, local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs, and/or development food security programming targeted to reduce food insecurity among vulnerable populations and help build resilience in communities facing chronic poverty and recurrent crises such as drought).

OR

A Master’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution, with significant study in, but not limited to, agriculture, human nutrition, agricultural economics, international development, or other related field, plus a minimum of four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which one (1) year must be related to international food assistance (which may include humanitarian in-kind food aid, local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs, and/or development food security programming targeted to reduce food insecurity among vulnerable populations and help build resilience in communities facing chronic poverty and recurrent crises such as drought).

At the GS-13 Equivalent Level:

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution, with significant study in, but not limited to, agriculture, human nutrition, agricultural economics, international development, or other related field, plus a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which two (2) years must be related to international food assistance (which may include humanitarian in-kind food aid, local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs, and/or development food security programming targeted to reduce food insecurity among vulnerable populations and help build resilience in communities facing chronic poverty and recurrent crises such as drought).

OR

A Master’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution, with significant study in, but not limited to, agriculture, human nutrition, agricultural economics, 10 | Page international development, or other related field, plus a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which two (2) years must be related to international food assistance (which may include humanitarian in-kind food aid, local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs, and/or development food security programming targeted to reduce food insecurity among vulnerable populations and help build resilience in communities facing chronic poverty and recurrent crises such as drought).

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

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 offers 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 offers. FAR provisions of this solicitation are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

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.

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

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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: Ability to apply principles of market systems, economic policy, and resilience in imperfect markets to enhance the design and delivery of assistance to populations in crisis conditions and/or vulnerable populations exposed to chronic hunger and recurring shocks, in 500 words or less. (20 points)

• QRF 2: Demonstrated knowledge of the key issues and priorities in implementing international development and/or relief programs addressing food insecurity, in 500 words or less. (15 points)

• QRF 3: Demonstrated knowledge of the interaction and mode of operation among PVOs, UN agencies and USG agencies involved in development and/or humanitarian relief and demonstrated ability to work effectively across agencies on a range of issues related to coordination, funding, and program implementation, in 500 words or less. (15 points)

• QRF 4: Demonstrated knowledge of and application of market assessment tools, in 500 words or less. (10 points)

• QRF 5: Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, including well developed social/interpersonal and problem solving skills, in 500 words or less. (10 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 factors 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

12 | Page 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.

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.

IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER

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.

DOCUMENT SUBMITTALS

Via email: ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov

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

13 | Page obtained within nine months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded. If Top Secret is required, and clearance is not obtained within nine months after award, USAID may terminate the contract at the convenience of the government. If Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access is not obtained within nine months after Top Secret clearance is granted, USAID may terminate the contract at the convenience of the government.

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

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

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.

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs

The CO will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award.

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).

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

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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

AAPD 06-10 – PSC MEDICAL PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY

AAPD No. 06-10 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 2 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 3 to the solicitation.

AAPD 18-02 – Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) Services AAPD No. 18-02 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 4 to the solicitation.

FAR 52.222-50 – COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

FAR Clause 52.222-50 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 5 to the solicitation.

FAR 52.204-24 – Representation Regarding Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment (Aug 2019) FAR Clause 52.204-24 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 6 to the solicitation.

FAR 52.204-25 – Prohibition on Contracting for Certain Telecommunications and Video Surveillance Services or Equipment (Aug 2019) FAR Clause 52.204-25 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 7 to the solicitation.

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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VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES

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)

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.

https://aoprals.state.gov/ https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf

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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/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 2

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]

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ATTACHMENT 3

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 returns to the same overseas post upon completion of home leave for such shorter period of not less than one year, as approved in writing by the Mission Director prior to the USPSCs departure on home leave, the USPSC will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of 30 work days.

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(ii) if the USPSC is returning to a different USAID Mission under a USAID personal services contract immediately following completion of the USPSC's home leave, for an additional two (2) years under contract, or for such shorter period of not less than one (1) year, as approved by the Mission Directors of the "losing" and "gaining" Missions, the contractor will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of not more than 20 work days. When the PSC is returning to a different USAID Mission, the former Mission will pay for the home leave regardless of what country the PSC will be working in following the home leave;

(iii) if home leave eligibility is based on (c)(2)(ii) above, the USPSC must submit written verification to the losing Mission at the time home leave is requested that the USPSC has accepted a USAID personal services contract at another USAID Mission following…