95332419Q0060_Economist_PSC_Solicitation_and_Addendum_1.pdf

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Millennium Challenge Corporation

Combined Synopsis Solicitation

Economist PSC

Economic Analysis (EA) Division/Department of Policy & Evaluation (DPE)

Date Posted: Friday, May 10, 2019

Announcement Number: 95332419Q0060

Title: Economist PSC

Position Information: Full-time, Personal Services Contractor (PSC)

One (1) year (2,087 hours per year), renewable for up to four (4) additional years at the sole discretion of the Government

Pay Band: Equivalent to the following:

MCC Pay Band 4B ($36.90 – $52.17 per hour)

MCC Pay Band 4A ($43.60 – $61.81 per hour)

MCC Pay Band 3B ($46.48 – $73.46 per hour)

Note: The PSC will receive a pay supplement of 15% of the employee’s direct labor cost in lieu of fringe benefits.

Closing Date for Questions: Monday, May 20, 2019 at 1:00 PM Eastern Time

Submission Deadline: Monday, June 3, 2019 at 1:00 PM Eastern Time

Who May Be Considered: U.S. citizens

Duty Location: MCC Headquarters in Washington, DC. For PSCs at the 4A or 3B levels, there is the possibility to work at a remote location subject to the approval of MCC.1

Note: MCC intends to award one (1) contract at each pay band level, but reserves the right to adjust the number of final awards.

1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) is a United States government-owned corporation responsible for the stewardship of the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA). MCC works with developing countries to promote sustainable economic growth to reduce poverty. One of MCC's guiding principles is a focus on measurable results. After a country is selected as eligible for a compact with MCC, MCC and its country partners undertake a growth diagnostic to identify the binding constraints to broad-based economic growth in the national economy. Prior to signing a compact, MCC conducts cost-benefit

1 Per Section 11 below, a PSC at an approved remote duty station (i.e., not based at MCC Headquarters) must personally cover the cost of travel (including transportation, accommodations, meals, etc.) between their remote location and

Washington, DC, when required to be present at MCC Headquarters, and will not be subject to reimbursement. Additionally, a remote PSC must reimburse MCC for any increase in the cost of official travel due to departure from a home of record outside of the metropolitan DC area.

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 2 of 52 analysis to assess the proposed projects’ likely economic impact and cost-effectiveness. MCC also analyzes the likely poverty and distributional impacts of proposed projects as part of a beneficiary analysis.

During and after compact implementation, MCC conducts independent evaluations that seek to quantify the projects' actual impact on household welfare. MCC strives for transparency in all of its programs and posts many of these analyses on the agency's public website.

2. SCOPE OF POSITION

The Economic Analysis (EA) Division of MCC’s Department of Policy & Evaluation (DPE) is seeking a full-time Personal Services Contractor (PSC) to serve as an Economist specializing in growth diagnostics.

The Contractor must possess expertise in the field of economics, with an emphasis on macroeconomics and development economics, and knowledge of growth diagnostics (constraints analysis). The Contractor will work in collaboration with MCC Economists and technical staff under the direction of MCC’s

Managing Director for Economic Analysis and will provide leadership and technical oversight to members of the EA Division as requested. The Contractor will also work as a member of the DPE team and in cooperation with other MCC staff.

The Economist position is being solicited at the 4B, 4A, and 3B levels. Though the nature of the duties is similar across these levels, they differ in the amount of independence and leadership exercised in performing tasks, as well as in the required or desired years of relevant experience. Please see Section 5 for detailed responsibilities of each position level and Section 7 for required qualifications at each level.

A summary of the three levels can also be found in Addendum 3.

3. PERSONAL SERVICES CONTRACT

MCC is authorized to enter into a contract with an individual as a Personal Services Contractor (PSC) under the authority of Section 614(a) (8) of the Millennium Challenge Act of 2003.

A personal services contract is different from non-personal services Government contract, which establishes an independent contract relationship. Under a non-personal services contract, the contractor or employees of the contractor are subject to the technical direction but not the supervision of the MCC. As defined by the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 37.104, a personal services contract is characterized by the employer-employee relationship it creates between the Government and the contractor personnel.

Thus, the PSC is subject to the relatively continuous technical direction, supervision, and control of the

MCC. PSCs may be assigned inherently governmental duties (see FAR 7.502). By law and by the contract’s terms, the PSC is subject to most of the laws, rules and regulations applicable to the direct hire employee such as MCC regulations, conflict of interest, under some circumstances MCC authorized employment security clearances and financial disclosure. However, under the MCC personal services contract authority, PSCs are not employees for purposes of laws administered by the Office of Personnel

Management (OPM). The following elements apply to this contract:

(1) Performance in Washington, D.C., US, MCC eligible countries, other US and foreign cities (as required for outreach purposes), and/or at the PSC’s home of record.

(2) Principal tools and equipment furnished by the Government.

(3) Services are applied directly to the integral effort of agencies or an organizational subpart in furtherance of assigned function or mission.

(4) Comparable services, meeting comparable needs, are performed in the same or similar agencies using civil service personnel.

https://www.acquisition.gov/?q=browsefar

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(5) The need for the type of service provided can reasonably be expected to last beyond 1 year.

(6) The inherent nature of the service, or the manner in which it is provided, reasonably requires directly or indirectly, Government direction or supervision of contractor employees in order to—

(i) Adequately protect the Government’s interest;

(ii) Retain control of the function involved; or

(iii) Retain full personal responsibility for the function supported in a duly authorized Federal officer or employee.

4. KEY REQUIREMENTS

U.S. citizenship.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance.

For PSCs at the 4B level, performance is at MCC Headquarters in Washington, DC. For PSCs at the

4A or 3B levels, performance is at MCC Headquarters in Washington, DC, or at a remote location subject to the approval of MCC (See Section 11 for travel implications for remote PSCs). Relocation expenses will not be paid.

Domestic and international travel may be required.

Statement of Employment & Financial Interest (i.e. Office of Government Ethics “OGE Form-450”, or similar statement) may be required.

Active System for Award Management (SAM) (www.sam.gov) registration and be listed as sole-proprietor before the contract is awarded. See Addendum 6 for a Quick Start Guide on the SAM registration process. An active SAM registration is not required at the time of application (although candidates are highly encouraged to initiate the registration process before submission), but must be complete and active before the contract is awarded.

Designated and/or random drug testing required.

5. DUTIES

Major Duties and Responsibilities – 4B Level

Summary: Conducts research and analysis in support of activities within the EA Division and DPE.

Assists Lead Economists with the interpretation and application of economic analysis findings. Provides input to recommendations in a complex and critical area of economic analysis with recommendations for action within the area of assignment. Communicates summary complex findings and associated methodologies to Lead Economists and Country Teams.

Detailed Duties:

Researches economic, development, and programmatic issues related to MCC’s investments.

Assists in the analysis of the primary constraints to growth in partner countries and the economics and policy frameworks in the sectors under consideration, and makes recommendations on sector requirements and reforms that will stimulate both public and private investment and optimize impact on productive assets.

https://www.sam.gov/portal/SAM/

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Provides input to evaluation of proposals of eligible countries and analyzes the quality of the economic logic in compact proposals including the potential impact on growth, implicit subsidies, economic return of proposed projects, and quantitative reasoning behind economic development proposals.

Supports Lead Economist in the development and coordination of economic analysis plans for country compacts.

Based on conditions and factors that are related to the subject program and related programs, assists in the determination of what information is required, and collects data from multiple sources.

Reviews information, reconciles conflicting data, and devises new or modified methods to analyze findings. Develops recommendations and proposals for resolving issues that are identified in the research and analysis process.

Analyzes relevant data and conveys results of analysis clearly to Lead Economist, Management, and Country Teams.

Works closely with colleagues during project development and provides input into program design processes to enhance the cost-effectiveness and targeting of investment proposals under consideration. Conducts economic analysis of proposed interventions, to include data-driven estimation of an economic rate of return and projection of the distribution of benefits.

During implementation, works closely with lead economist, Resident Country Director (RCD) and sector leads to maintain a current profile of the economics of ongoing projects, including the maintenance of current Economic Rate of Return (ERR) models, and provides timely analysis of the economic implications of possible changes in project design. Recalculates economic rates of return resulting from changes in projects due to unforeseen economic or other conditions.

Works closely with Millennium Challenge Account colleagues and implementers in the field to strengthen their understanding of MCC’s use of economics in priority identification, project appraisal, and independent and rigorous evaluation.

Participates as a member of the Practice Group to share experiences and discuss issues of MCC operational policies and programs.

Assists in the formulation and carrying out of research plans, including data collection, that inform and advance the agency’s goals, objectives and programs.

Evaluates data and findings generated by other studies and advises Lead Economist and

Management on issues identified.

Applies advanced techniques to generate and interpret findings.

Provides solution-oriented advice and recommendations to management officials. Identifies reasons for the nature and /or extent of program-related problems that arise and investigates areas in need of improvements. Recommends options that remedy problematic situations. Writes comprehensive resolution recommendations.

Actively supports (MCC program) Evaluation Management Committees in elaborating key research questions, comments on evaluation approaches, data to be utilized, learning opportunities, and clarity of findings.

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Seeks and recommends ways to improve upon MCC’s approaches to economic analysis and monitoring and evaluation.

Coordinates and assists the procurement of contractors and consultants contributing to the activities of the Economics Analysis Division when necessary and provides active support in the management of contractual resources.

Attends meetings with country teams, host country stakeholders, US government officials, and other partners in host countries and from headquarters. Maintains frequent contacts with coworkers both overseas and in the U.S. to render advice, consultation, and assistance.

Travels to MCC eligible countries as necessary.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Major Duties and Responsibilities – 4A Level

Summary: Conducts research and analysis in support of activities within the EA Division and DPE.

Assumes, with some oversight, technical responsibility for the planning, conduct, interpretation and application of economic analysis findings. Provides recommendations in a complex and critical area of economic analysis with recommendations for action within the area of assignment. Communicates summary complex findings and associated methodologies to officials and professionals.

Detailed Duties:

Researches economic, development, and programmatic issues related to MCC’s investments or participation in interagency initiatives.

Analyzes the primary constraints to growth in partner countries and the economics and policy frameworks in the sectors under consideration, and makes recommendations on sector requirements and reforms that will stimulate both public and private investment and optimize impact on productive assets.

Evaluates proposals of eligible countries and analyzes the quality of the economic logic in compact proposals including the potential impact on growth, implicit subsidies, economic return of proposed projects, and quantitative reasoning behind economic development proposals.

Supports Lead Economist in the development and coordination of economic analysis plans for country compacts.

Based on conditions and factors that are related to the subject program and related programs, determines what information is required, and instigates and guides or conducts the collection of data from multiple sources.

Reviews information, reconciles conflicting data, and devises new or modified methods to analyze findings. Develops recommendations and proposals for resolving issues that are identified in the research and analysis process.

Analyzes relevant data and keeps abreast on the extent to which compacts raise the economic growth of developing countries.

Works closely with colleagues during project development and provides input into program design processes to enhance the cost-effectiveness and targeting of investment proposals under

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 6 of 52 consideration. Conducts economic analysis of proposed interventions, to include data-driven estimation of an economic rate of return and projection of the distribution of benefits. During implementation, works closely with RCD and sector leads to maintain a current profile of the economics of ongoing projects, including the maintenance of current ERR models, and provides timely analysis of the economic implications of possible changes in project design. Recalculates economic rates of return resulting from changes in projects due to unforeseen economic or other conditions.

Works closely with Millennium Challenge Account colleagues and implementers in the field to strengthen their understanding of MCC’s use of economics in priority identification, project appraisal, and independent and rigorous evaluation.

Participates as a member of the Practice Group to share experiences and discuss issues of MCC operational policies and programs.

Formulates and carries through research plans, including data collection, that inform and advance the agency’s goals, objectives and programs.

Evaluates data and findings generated by other studies and advises Lead Economist and

Management on issues identified.

Applies advanced techniques to generate and interpret findings.

Provides solution-oriented advice and recommendations to management officials. Identifies reasons for the nature and /or extent of program-related problems that arise and investigates areas in need of improvements. Recommends options that remedy problematic situations. Writes comprehensive resolution recommendations. Formally presents findings before large and diverse audiences, such as Federal government representatives, host country counterparts, special interest groups, the community, the media, etc.

Actively supports (MCC program) Evaluation Management Committees in elaborating key research questions, comments on evaluation approaches, data to be utilized, learning opportunities, and clarity of findings.

Seeks and recommends ways to improve upon MCC’s approaches to economic analysis and monitoring and evaluation.

Coordinates and assists the procurement of contractors and consultants contributing to the activities of the Economics Analysis Division when necessary and provides active support in the management of contractual resources.

Attends meetings with country teams, host country stakeholders, US government officials, and other partners in host countries and from headquarters. Maintains frequent contacts with coworkers both overseas and in the U.S. to render advice, consultation, and assistance.

Participates in workshops, seminars, and conferences involving cooperating agencies, donors, academics, and representatives of other development organizations.

Travels to MCC eligible countries as necessary.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Major Duties and Responsibilities – 3B Level

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Summary: Conducts research and analysis in support of activities within the EA Division and DPE.

Assumes full technical responsibility for the planning, conduct, interpretation and application of economic analysis findings. Provides recommendations in a complex and critical area of economic analysis with recommendations for action within the area of assignment. Communicates complex findings and associated methodologies to officials and professionals.

Detailed Duties:

Researches economic, development, and programmatic issues related to MCC’s investments or participation in interagency initiatives.

Analyzes the primary constraints to growth in partner countries and the economics and policy frameworks in the sectors under consideration, and makes recommendations on sector requirements and reforms that will stimulate both public and private investment and optimize impact on productive assets.

Evaluates proposals of eligible countries and analyzes the quality of the economic logic in compact proposals including the potential impact on growth, implicit subsidies, economic return of proposed projects, and quantitative reasoning behind economic development proposals.

Develops and coordinates economic analysis plans for country compacts.

Based on conditions and factors that are related to the subject program and related programs, determines what information is required, and instigates and guides or conducts the collection of data from multiple sources.

Reviews information, reconciles conflicting data, and devises new or modified methods to analyze findings. Develops recommendations and proposals for resolving issues that are identified in the research and analysis process.

Analyzes relevant data and keeps abreast on the extent to which compacts raise the economic growth of developing countries.

Works closely with colleagues during project development and provides input into program design processes to enhance the cost-effectiveness and targeting of investment proposals under consideration. Conducts economic analysis of proposed interventions, to include data-driven estimation of an economic rate of return and projection of the distribution of benefits. During implementation, works closely with RCD and sector leads to maintain a current profile of the economics of ongoing projects, including the maintenance of current ERR models, and provides timely analysis of the economic implications of possible changes in project design. Recalculates economic rates of return resulting from changes in projects due to unforeseen economic or other conditions.

Works closely with Millennium Challenge Account colleagues and implementers in the field to strengthen their understanding of MCC’s use of economics in priority identification, project appraisal, and independent and rigorous evaluation.

Serves as an active member of the Practice Group to share experiences and contribute to methodological guidance.

Formulates and carries through research plans, including data collection, that inform and advance the agency’s goals, objectives and programs.

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Evaluates data and findings generated by other studies and advises Economic Analysis

Management on issues identified.

Applies advanced techniques to generate and interpret findings.

Provides solution-oriented advice and recommendations to management officials. Identifies reasons for the nature and /or extent of program-related problems that arise and investigates areas in need of improvements. Recommends options that remedy problematic situations. Writes comprehensive resolution recommendations. Formally presents findings before large and diverse audiences, such as Federal government representatives, host country counterparts, special interest groups, the community, the media, etc.

Provides intellectual leadership in support of (MCC program) Evaluation Management

Committees in elaborating key research questions, comments on evaluation approaches, data to be utilized, learning opportunities, and clarity of findings.

Seeks and recommends ways to improve upon MCC’s approaches to economic analysis and monitoring and evaluation.

Coordinates and leads the procurement of contractors and consultants contributing to the activities of the Economics Analysis Division when necessary and provides active support in the management of contractual resources.

Attends meetings with country teams, host country stakeholders, US government officials, and other partners in host countries and from headquarters. Maintains frequent contacts with coworkers both overseas and in the U.S. to render advice, consultation, and assistance.

Participates and presents analyses or research in workshops, seminars, and conferences involving cooperating agencies, donors, academics, and representatives of other development organizations.

Travels to MCC eligible countries as necessary.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

6. DELIVERABLES

Deliverables are associated with the tasks identified in DUTIES to include reports as required by the

Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

The Contractor will provide a monthly progress report as a regular deliverable. Monthly progress reports will consist of the following format to measure the progress of each task:

Task: XXXXXX

Status: XXXXXXXX

Recommendations: XXXXXXX

Monthly reports are due the first workday of each month.

In addition to monthly progress reports, the Contractor will submit biweekly timesheets on a schedule and format determined by MCC. Timesheets will include a list of hours worked per compact or country program, along with a brief description of the tasks undertaken for each program during the pay period.

The Contractor will also produce other reports and analyses as requested by MCC. Examples of such

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 9 of 52 reports and analyses may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Core Economic Analysis reports and analyses, including constraints analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and detailed beneficiary analysis

Reports providing technical feedback on constraints analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and other deliverables

Reports containing economic research and analysis related to MCC’s investments

Proposed work plans for all official travel and post-trip reports upon return

Cost-benefit analysis, beneficiary analysis or impact evaluation data and documentation for web posting

Memoranda to DPE or MCC management, detailing the status of various program support tasks

7. REQUIRED & DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Offerors must meet all the required qualifications described below by the closing date of this announcement. Desired qualifications will only be considered once all required qualifications are met.

Candidates must demonstrate that they possess the following:

At the 4B level:

(a) Required Qualifications:

Offerors must hold, at a minimum, a Master’s degree in economics, public policy or a closely related field that has a significant quantitative analysis component. Doctoral degree strongly preferred.

o Education may only be substituted in accordance with the Office of Personnel Management

(OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order to be credited towards qualifications.

o Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click here for a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials.

Demonstrated knowledge of relevant sub fields of development economics, statistics and econometrics.

At least 2 years of combined experience in applied policy analysis or equivalent thesis work.

Familiarity with issues related to economic growth or micro economic topics relevant to growth and poverty reduction.

Experience with data analysis, including the analysis of household and/or firm surveys.

Excellent communication skills with the ability to discuss complex economic and policy issues orally and in writing.

Knowledge of statistical software.

Proficiency in using Microsoft Excel, to include understanding and creating complex formulas, building graphs and charts, and manipulating large amounts of data.

http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation http://www.naces.org/members.htm

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(b) Desired Qualifications:

At least 3 years of experience in relevant fields of economics as applied to developing countries.

Experience conducting growth diagnostics (constraints analysis) using the methodology of

Hausmann, Rodrik and Velasco2 or other similar analyses.

Experience in the economic analysis of development projects in low income and/or lower middle income countries.

Publications or working papers on topics related to economic and development policy.

Experience working in developing countries.

Experience interacting with foreign governments, international donors, and other stakeholders.

Proficiency in Spanish or French (include reference to level of proficiency for reading, writing, and oral communications).

Proficiency in STATA.

At the 4A level:

(a) Required Qualifications:

Offerors must hold, at a minimum, a Master’s degree in economics, public policy or a closely related field that has a significant quantitative analysis component. Doctoral degree strongly preferred.

o Education may only be substituted in accordance with the Office of Personnel Management

(OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order to be credited towards qualifications.

o Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click here for a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials.

Demonstrated knowledge of relevant sub fields of development economics, statistics and econometrics.

3-5 years of experience in applied policy analysis or equivalent thesis work.

Knowledge of growth diagnostics (constraints analysis) using the methodology of Hausmann, Rodrik and VelascoError! Bookmark not defined., or of micro economic topics relevant to growth diagnostics.

Experience with data analysis, including the analysis of household and/or firm surveys.

Excellent communication skills with the ability to discuss complex economic and policy issues

2 Hausmann, Ricardo, Dani Rodrik and Andrés Velasco (2005): “Growth Diagnostics”. Harvard University.

http://www.hks.harvard.edu/fs/drodrik/Research%20papers/barcelonafinalmarch2005.pdf http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation http://www.hks.harvard.edu/fs/drodrik/Research%20papers/barcelonafinalmarch2005.pdf

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Knowledge of statistical software.

Proficiency in using Microsoft Excel, to include understanding and creating complex formulas, building graphs and charts, and manipulating large amounts of data.

(b) Desired Qualifications:

Either Ph.D. in Economics with relevant sub-specialties or 5-8 or more years of demonstrated experience in relevant fields of economics as applied to developing countries.

Experience conducting growth diagnostics (constraints analysis) using the methodology of

Hausmann, Rodrik and VelascoError! Bookmark not defined. or other similar analyses.

Experience in the economic analysis of development projects in low income and/or lower middle income countries.

Publications or working papers on topics related to economic and development policy.

Experience working in developing countries.

Experience interacting with foreign governments, international donors, and other stakeholders.

Proficiency in Spanish or French (include reference to level of proficiency for reading, writing, and oral communications).

Proficiency in STATA.

At the 3B level:

(a) Required Qualifications:

Offerors must hold, at a minimum, a Master’s degree in economics, public policy or a closely related field that has a significant quantitative analysis component. Doctoral degree strongly preferred.

o Education may only be substituted in accordance with the Office of Personnel Management

(OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook. Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order to be credited towards qualifications.

o Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements if you can show that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click here for a list of accredited organizations recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials.

Demonstrated knowledge of relevant sub fields of development economics, statistics and econometrics.

5 or more years of experience in applied policy analysis or equivalent thesis work.

Knowledge of growth diagnostics (constraints analysis) using the methodology of Hausmann, Rodrik and VelascoError! Bookmark not defined., or of micro economic topics relevant to growth diagnostics.

http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation

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Experience with data analysis, including the analysis of household and/or firm surveys.

Excellent communication skills with the ability to discuss complex economic and policy issues orally and in writing.

Knowledge of statistical software.

Proficiency in using Microsoft Excel, to include understanding and creating complex formulas, building graphs and charts, and manipulating large amounts of data.

(b) Desired Qualifications:

Either Ph.D. in Economics with relevant sub-specialties or 8 or more years of demonstrated experience in relevant fields of economics as applied to developing countries.

Experience conducting growth diagnostics (constraints analysis) using the methodology of

Hausmann, Rodrik and VelascoError! Bookmark not defined. or other similar analyses.

Experience in the economic analysis of development projects in low income and/or lower middle income countries.

Publications or working papers on topics related to economic and development policy.

Experience working in developing countries.

Experience interacting with foreign governments, international donors, and other stakeholders.

Proficiency in Spanish or French (include reference to level of proficiency for reading, writing, and oral communications).

Proficiency in STATA.

NOTE: All experience must be well-documented on the resume and within the submission. All aspects of the submission must specifically show how the Candidate meets the required qualifications.

Credit may be given for appropriate unpaid and/or part-time work. To receive credit, submissions must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours worked per week.

8. REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION

Interested Candidates must submit all required documents to include, but not limited to:

Copy of transcript or transcripts (unofficial copies are acceptable for offer submission purposes).

Completed and signed BIO-DATA FORM (Addendum 4) with proposed salary, pay band, and duty station. Typed signature is not acceptable. Physical signature or electronic signature are acceptable.

Curriculum vitae or resume (limit 10 pages).

A written narrative of up to five (5) pages clearly describing relevant experience and knowledge related to each of the “Required Qualifications” and any “Desired Qualifications” for the applicable pay band(s) (see Section 7). Include proposed duty station (MCC Headquarters or remote location) if applicable.

List of publications and/or a writing sample not to exceed ten (10) pages on a subject related to

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 13 of 52 economic analysis and development economics.

No less than three (3) and no more than five (5) professional references with current contact information.

Desired Documentation:

A cover letter, not to exceed one page, to highlight your suitability for this position. The cover letter is NOT included in the required written narrative.

9. COMPENSATION

PSCs for the services of individual experts or consultants are limited by the Classification Act. In addition, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has established requirements which apply in acquiring the personal services of experts or consultants in this manner (e.g., benefits, taxes, conflicts of interest).

This is a full-time position for an Economist PSC and the maximum number of hours allowed is 2,087 per year. The contract will have a one-year base period and four (4) one-year option periods that may be exercised at the sole discretion of MCC, for a total potential contract length of five (5) years.

Overtime is NOT authorized on this contract.

The pay range for each position level is as follows: Pay Band 4B ($36.90 - $52.17 per hour); Pay Band

4A ($43.60 - $61.81 per hour); Pay Band 3B ($46.48 - $73.46 per hour), inclusive of Washington, DC locality pay. Final compensation will be negotiated within these pay ranges based upon the successful

Candidate’s salary history, work experience and educational background. A salary above this pay range will NOT be entertained or negotiated.

MCC issues W-2s to the PSC. For U.S. citizens, MCC makes the employer contribution to FICA and

Medicare for the PSC. MCC withholds FICA, Medicare, federal tax and state tax on behalf of the PSC.

The PSC is not eligible for the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion.

10. BENEFITS

Under the MCC personal services contracting authority, PSCs are not employees for purposes of laws administered by OPM, such as Federal Retirement Benefits and health and life insurance. As such, the

PSC is not eligible for participation in the Civil Service Retirement System or the Federal Employees

Retirement System. Moreover, the PSC is ineligible to receive Federal Health and Life Insurance or participate in the Federal Thrift Savings Plan.

Notwithstanding the above, the full-time PSC will receive a pay supplement of 15% of the employee’s direct labor cost in lieu of fringe benefits.

a) Sick Leave

The full-time PSC earns sick leave on the same basis as direct-hire MCC employees, that is, maximum four (4) hours for every biweekly pay period.

b) Annual Leave

The full-time PSC earns four, six, or eight hours of annual leave for each biweekly pay period depending on the number of years of previous federal government employment based upon determination made by MCC.

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c) Parking & Transit Subsidy

The full-time PSC working at MCC Headquarters in Washington, DC is eligible for parking or transit subsidy, subject to the availability of funds. The full-time PSC whose duty station is overseas is not eligible for this subsidy.

d) Credit Hours

The full-time PSC is eligible for credit hours (up to 24 hours earned) under the MCC Credit Hour

Program. PSCs may not receive credit hours for time spent in travel status. The PSC shall be compensated for the credit hour balance upon termination, subject to availability of funds.

11. TRAVEL

For official travel, the PSC is subject to the Federal Travel Regulations and MCC travel policies and procedures to the same extent as MCC direct-hire employees.

NOTE: A PSC at an approved remote duty station (i.e., not locally based at MCC Headquarters) must personally cover the cost of travel (including transportation, accommodations, meals, etc.)

between their remote location and Washington, DC, when required to be present at MCC

Headquarters, and will not be subject to reimbursement. Additionally, a remote PSC must reimburse MCC for any increase in the cost of official travel due to departure from a home of record outside of the metropolitan DC area. MCC estimates that each year, the PSC may expect to make 6-8 trips to MCC countries and 4-6 trips to MCC Headquarters in Washington, DC.

12. INSTRUCTIONS TO PSC CANDIDATES

In accordance with FAR 52.214-34 & 52.214-35, all submissions are to be in the English language and

US Dollars. Submissions in other languages or monetary denominations shall not be considered.

The REQUIRED & DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS (Section 7) are the basis for evaluating all submissions. Candidates must separately address each listed qualification requirement and demonstrate how s/he meets each. Unless stated otherwise, all qualification elements will be weighted equally.

(a) Qualified individuals must be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) before the contract is awarded. Award of a contract cannot occur until the registration is in “Active” status.

Candidates are highly encouraged to register in SAM before submitting their application, as the registration process can take several weeks. See Addendum 6 for a Quick Start Guide on the registration process.

(b) Submissions shall be formatted to fit on 8 ½ x 11 paper only. Suggested margins are 1” x 1”. Font to be TIMES NEW ROMAN no larger than 12 point, no smaller than 10 point. Hourly rates shall not be mentioned anywhere in your submission other than on the Bio-data Form (Addendum 4). It is the responsibility of the Candidate to ensure that all pages are properly formatted to fit and that all information properly fits within the margins of each page.

(c) Qualified individuals must submit a completed and formally signed Bio-data Form (Addendum 4).

Typed signatures are not acceptable. Either physically sign or save the Bio-data Form as a PDF and electronically sign it. Please ensure that you provide a current, valid e-mail address and telephone number for notification purposes. The Bio-data Form must be fully completed and signed, including a proposed hourly rate for the submission to be considered. Candidates must also indicate which position level they’re applying to; if applying to 4A or 3B position levels, the Bio-

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 15 of 52 data Form must also indicate proposed duty location. A Bio-data Form without a proposed hourly rate and/or signature may cause the offer to not be considered.

(d) Qualified individuals must submit a resume (or a curriculum vitae) which clearly demonstrates their education, experience, knowledge, and skills and abilities as they relate to the qualification elements. Resume must indicate: the earliest possible start date for the Candidate; as well as formal title, and duration (start date/end date) for each listed position. RESUME IS LIMITED TO

10 PAGES AND MUST NOT CONTAIN A PHOTO OR ANY SALARY INFORMATION.

(e) Describe your experience and knowledge in regards to the qualification requirements in no more than five pages. Clearly demonstrate how your prior experience is relevant to the duties and qualification requirements of this position. The responses should describe specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards you have received that are relevant to each factor. Cite specific examples where appropriate. If applicable, also include your proposed duty station (MCC Headquarters or remote city name).

(f) In addition to the CV/resume and written narrative, candidates must submit a list of publications and/or a writing sample not to exceed ten (10) pages on a subject related to economic analysis and development economics.

(g) Qualified individuals must submit no fewer than three and no more than five professional references, who are not relatives or family members. Submitted references MUST include current information, as follows:

Name of reference

Candidate’s relationship to reference

Title of reference at current job

Reference current telephone number (work or personal)

Reference e-mail address (work)

(h) Submissions must be signed and received prior to the closing date and time specified above to be considered for this position. Typed signatures are not acceptable.

To ensure consideration of submission for the intended position, please reference the position title and announcement number on the subject line of your submission email and on supporting documentation and any cover letter.

13. RESPONSE DEADLINE

Electronic submission is required. Mailed copies of any submission shall not be accepted. Electronic packages shall be submitted by e-mail to Ms. Cindy Guo (guoc@mcc.gov) and Ms. Jacqueline Naranjo

(naranjoj@mcc.gov) before the deadline stated on page 1 of this Combined Synopsis Solicitation.

Submission shall reference the position title AND the announcement number in the e-mail subject line.

MCC does not accept responsibility for delays in transmission or receipt of any submission. Candidates are responsible for submitting their package so as to reach the designated Government office by the closing date and time specified on page one (1) of this Combined Synopsis Solicitation. Submissions received after the closing date and time will not be considered, unless there is acceptable evidence to establish that it was indeed received by the Government installation prior to the time and date specified in this announcement. Receipt of submissions in response to this announcement does not constitute an award commitment. The U.S. Government will not reimburse any costs incurred in the preparation of a mailto:guoc@mcc.gov mailto:naranjoj@mcc.gov

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 16 of 52 submission. Any submission is at the sole risk and expense of the Candidate.

14. QUESTION DEADLINE

Any questions regarding this announcement shall be submitted in writing via email only (no phone calls) to guoc@mcc.gov, and naranjoj@mcc.gov before the deadline as given on page 1 of this Combined

Synopsis Solicitation.

15. SELECTION PROCESS

In order to be considered for the requirement, a Candidate must meet the qualifications listed above.

Consideration and selection will be based on a panel evaluation in accordance with Section 7, REQUIRED

& DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS. In addition to the materials listed above, Candidates are strongly encouraged to write a cover letter, not to exceed one page, to highlight their suitability for this position.

The cover letter is NOT included in the required written narrative.

All submissions will be evaluated based on the documentation submitted, the Candidate’s evidence of the above qualification requirements, performance in a potential interview, if conducted, and information provided by references, if contacted. Please note that for evaluation purposes, MCC will take into consideration your proposed labor rate. For 4A and 3B candidates, MCC will additionally take into account your proposed duty station and divergence from the Eastern time zone. Preference will be given to Candidates proposing a local duty station of Washington, DC. All submissions will receive one of three scores for each of the required and desired qualifications: Does Not Meet, Meets, or Exceeds. MCC reserves the right to conduct interviews with the most qualified Candidates and/or conduct a reference check on those individuals.

Candidates are strongly encouraged to ensure the work history portion thoroughly documents the duties, responsibilities and accomplishments that are directly related to this requirement in order to verify specialized experience. Errors or omissions may affect your evaluation.

The U.S. Government and MCC are not obligated to make any award or pay for any costs associated with the preparation and submission of a proposal in response to this announcement. Award of this contract is contingent on availability of funds. MCC reserves the right to not award any contract – or to award more than one contract – as a result of this announcement.

16. CONTRACT AWARD

This contract shall be awarded solely to an individual, not to a firm. The individual must have an active

DUNS # and an active record in the System for Award Management (SAM). The approval of your record in SAM may take a few weeks, so early registration is highly encouraged. Award will only be made once the SAM record is active. MCC reserves the right to award to the next-in-line Candidate if the successful

Candidate is not active in SAM at the time of award.

See Addendum 6 for a Quick Start Guide on the SAM registration process.

17. CONTRACT AND PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE

The successful Candidate(s) may be offered a full-time, personal services type contract for a one-year base period, plus four (4) 12-month option periods, to be exercised based upon performance, agency requirements and available funding.

mailto:guoc@mcc.gov mailto:naranjoj@mcc.gov

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 17 of 52

The base period of performance shall be from date of award through 12 months. All option periods are exercised at the sole discretion of MCC. The contract will be full-time with a maximum of 2,087 hours per year.

Overtime is not authorized on this contract.

18. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE

The Contractor’s primary duty station will be MCC headquarters in Washington, DC, or at a remote location subject to the approval of MCC. On an as-needed basis, work may also be required in MCC-eligible countries or other U.S. and foreign cities (as required for outreach purposes). If located at MCC headquarters, the Contractor may also perform work at his/her home of record (i.e., telework) as approved.

19. ADDENDA

Addendum 1: Additional Clauses

Addendum 2: Position Descriptions – 4B 4A 3B

Addendum 3: Summary of Position Levels

Addendum 4: MCC Bio-data Form

Addendum 5: How to Apply

Addendum 6: SAM Quick Start Guide

(CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE)

ADDENDUM 1: Additional Clauses

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 18 of 52

1. FAR 52.252-1 -- Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference (Feb 1998)

This solicitation incorporates one or more solicitation provisions by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. The offeror is cautioned that the listed provisions may include blocks that must be completed by the offeror and submitted with its quotation or offer. In lieu of submitting the full text of those provisions, the offeror may identify the provision by paragraph identifier and provide the appropriate information with its quotation or offer. Also, the full text of a solicitation provision may be accessed electronically at this address: https://www.acquisition.gov/?q=browsefar

The following provision(s) are incorporated by reference:

52.204‐16 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY CODE

REPORTING

JUL 2016

52.212-1 INSTRUCTIONS TO OFFERORS – COMMERCIAL

ITEMS

JAN 2017

52.216-31 TIME-AND-MATERIALS/LABOR-HOUR PROPOSAL FEB 2007

REQUIREMENTS—COMMERCIAL ITEM

ACQUISITION

(End of Provision)

2. FAR 52.252-2 -- Clauses Incorporated by Reference (Feb 1998)

This contract incorporates one or more clauses by reference, with the same force and effect as if they were given in full text. Upon request, the Contracting Officer will make their full text available. Also, the full text of a clause may be accessed electronically at this address: https://www.acquisition.gov/?q=browsefar

The following clause(s) are incorporated by reference

FAR Clause Title Date

52.204‐9 PERSONAL IDENTITY VERIFICATION OF

CONTRACTOR PERSONNEL

JAN 2011

52.204-18 COMMERCIAL AND GOVERNMENT ENTITY CODE

MAINTENANCE

JUL 2016

52.204-19 INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE OF

REPRESENTATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

DEC 2014

52.212-4/Alt I CONTRACT TERMS AND CONDITIONS –

COMMERCIAL ITEMS / ALTERNATE I

OCT 2018 /

JAN 2017

52.232-39 UNENFORCEABILITY OF UNAUTHORIZED

OBLIGATIONS

JUN 2013

52.232‐40 PROVIDING ACCELERATED PAYMENTS TO SMALL

BUSINESS

DEC 2013

SUBCONTRACTORS

52.237-1 SITE VISIT APR 1984

52.237-2 PROTECTION OF GOVERNMENT BUILDINGS,

EQUIPMENT,VEGETATION

APR 1984

52.245-1 GOVERNMENT PROPERTY JAN 2017

52.245-9 USE AND CHARGES APR 2012

(End of Clause)

95332419Q0060 – Economist PSC Page 19 of 52

3. FAR 52.204-1 – Approval of Contract (Dec 1989)

This contract is subject to the written approval of the Contracting Officer and shall not be binding until so approved.

(End of Clause)

4. FAR 52.212-2 – Evaluation – Commercial Items (Oct 2014)

(a) The Government will award a contract resulting from this solicitation to the responsible offeror whose offer conforming to the solicitation will be most advantageous to the Government, price and other factors considered. The following factors shall be used to evaluate offers:

See Paragraph 7 – Required and Desired…