DDI-DRG USPSC Sol_7200AA23R00065 KMOL Specialist-Advisor_5.4.23.pdf

SOLICITATION NUMBER: 7200AA23R00065

ISSUANCE DATE: May 4, 2023

CLOSING DATE AND TIME: June 3, 2023 at 4:00PM EDT

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

Dear Prospective Offerors:

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

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

At USAID, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) is a priority, and we are greater than the sum of our parts. When we integrate DEIA in our programs, policies, partnerships, and people (workforce), we are better able to understand and meet the needs of those we serve worldwide. USAID will evaluate all offerors based on the stated evaluation criteria. USAID encourages all individuals, including those from disadvantaged and under-represented groups, to respond to the 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.

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

Sincerely, Mir Ershadullah Contracting Officer

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

Solicitation #7200AA23R00065 USPSC – Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning (KMOL) Specialist/Advisor

Attachment 1

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 7200AA23R00065

2. ISSUANCE DATE: May 4, 2023

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: June 3, 2023 at 4:00PM EDT

4. POINT OF CONTACT: Casey Miskowski, email at cmiskowski@usaid.gov.

5. POSITION TITLE: Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning (KMOL) Specialist OR Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning (KMOL) Advisor

6. MARKET VALUE: $94,199-$122,529 per year, equivalent to GS-12, assuming Washington, D.C.

Locality Pay, for Specialist OR $112,015-$145,617 per year, equivalent to GS-13, assuming Washington, D.C. Locality Pay, for Advisor.

This position has been designated as a “tandem” position that can be filled at either the GS-12 or GS-13 level. The title of the position at the GS-12 level will be “Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning (KMOL) Specialist.” The title of the position at the GS-13 level will be “Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning (KMOL) Advisor.”

Note: Offerors who submit an offer for the GS-13 grade level, but do not meet the minimum qualifications as outlined in this solicitation and as reviewed by the Technical Evaluation Committee, will not be considered for the GS-12 position if they have not submitted a separate offer for each. Similarly, offerors who apply for the GS-12 position even though they might meet the minimum qualifications for the GS-13 position will not be considered for the higher graded position if they have not submitted a separate offer for each. Offerors who are unsure of which grade level they meet the minimum qualifications for should submit separate offers for the GS-12 and GS-13 positions.

Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value and will include Locality Pay for domestic USPSCs based on the location of the Official USAID Worksite. As this is a remote-eligible position, if the approved remote worksite is located outside of the DC Locality, compensation will be adjusted to the corresponding value as found in the GS Locality Pay Tables.

7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/Washington with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties. Relocation expenses will not be reimbursed.

This position has been designated as suitable for remote work. The contractor will be authorized to perform the services under this contract from an alternative worksite. For PSCs authorized to remote work, the alternative worksite determines the locality pay for compensation purposes. The alternative worksite is subject to approval. It should be based in the United States and allow the offeror to conform to the working hours of the local time zone of USAID/Washington.

8. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years, estimated to start on or about 10/01/23. Start date will be dependent on issuance of security clearance. The actual start date must be within 30 days of receiving notification that required security clearance has been obtained. Based on Agency need, the Contracting Officer may exercise (an) additional option period(s) for up to three additional years for the date(s) estimated as follows:

Base Period: 10/01/2023-09/30/2025 Option Period 1: 10/01/2025-09/30/2026 Option Period 2: 10/01/2026-09/30/2027 Option Period 3: 10/01/2027-09/30/2028 mailto:cmiskowski@usaid.gov https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/2023/general-schedule

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: U.S. citizens

10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret

11. STATEMENT OF DUTIES

Background

As the home base for USAID’s Democracy, Human Rights, and Governance (DRG) programs, the DRG Center focuses on advocating for democratic governance, driving important research, and supporting over 90 field Missions worldwide to develop programs. USAID currently manages over $1.7 billion a year on a broad range of democracy programs covering justice, human rights, citizen security, civil society, media, local government, legislatures, constitutional reform, political parties, elections, anti-corruption, and anti-trafficking in persons. These efforts are critical to improve government effectiveness, accountability, transparency and legitimacy, and to ensure citizens are empowered to play a role in public affairs and the decisions that affect their daily lives. They also underpin the sustainability of all of the Agency’s socio-economic development sectors. The DRG Center leads the Agency in supporting overall interagency USG efforts to advance democracy, human rights, and governance.

The DRG Center's annual budget is over $146 million, with a staff of over 90 comprised of U.S. Direct Hires (USDHs), contractors, and Fellows. The DRG Center has nine teams: Civil Society and Media (CSM); Democratic Elections and Political Processes (DEPP); Governance (GOV); Justice, Rights, and Security (JRS); Evidence and Learning (E&L); Democratic Resilience and Innovation (DRI); Policy, Coordination, and Integration (PCI); Program; and Cadre Care and Development (CCD). The DRG Center's goal is to promote peace, prosperity, and freedom around the globe through self-reliant, citizen-responsive governance that respects human dignity and the rule of law. The DRG Center achieves this through high quality support to USAID Missions, generating and disseminating knowledge on best practices, and providing leadership on DRG to the wider USG and the international development community.

In collaboration with USAID practitioners and academic experts, the E&L Team guides DRG learning initiatives, conducts impact and performance evaluations, advances measurement in the DRG sector, and commissions research to understand the most effective approaches to DRG assistance. To advance these efforts, the E&L Team provides technical assistance and training and currently manages two contracts worth over $60 million (with more in procurement). The team also facilitates learning communities of practice inside and outside of USAID. With this emphasis on learning, DRG/E&L Team is the focal point for USAID’s implementation of the DRG Learning Agenda, a dynamic collection of research questions that serve to guide the DRG Center’s and USAID field Missions’ analytical efforts.

The DRG Center produces and uses a large amount of information and knowledge. The Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning (KMOL) Specialist/Advisor will ensure that the DRG Center’s systems and processes, as well as staff’s utilization of them, enable the creation, organization, storage, accessibility, and dissemination of the needed and relevant DRG technical information to improve planning, decision making, and programmatic results. This will include working with other members of the Center to conceptualize, develop, analyze, and provide technical information to the main DRG audiences, including the USAID DRG cadre, implementing partners and other organizations working in the sector, and the public at large. The KMOL Specialist/Advisor will coordinate with DRG staff and leadership, the DRG Center’s Professional Development Advisor and training team, the DRG Center’s Communication and Outreach Specialist, and other USAID and outside experts. The E&L Team’s KMOL Specialist/Advisor will focus on DRG technical knowledge but may collaborate with staff focusing on administrative, operational, and human resource aspects of KMOL when appropriate.

The incumbent is expected to carry out work assignments using independent professional judgment to ensure the effective technical leadership and technical support for USAID’s DRG sector in Washington and overseas Missions. On TDY and in Washington, the KMOL Specialist/Advisor will work closely with

USAID and other U.S. Government colleagues, implementing partners, academics, and recognized experts in the DRG sector to advance DRG learning initiatives. The incumbent’s responsibilities will be geographically world-wide, varied, and dynamic to reflect changing circumstances facing USAID and the DRG Center.

Duties and Responsibilities

Under the direct supervision of the E&L Team Lead or his/her designee, the Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning Specialist/Advisor performs the following duties:

At the GS-12 Equivalent Level:

The KMOL Specialist’s tasks will require input, guidance and direction from the E&L Team Lead or his/her designee.

Strengthen Technical KMOL Processes and Practices in DRG

a. Under the supervision of the E&L Team Lead or designee, support the implementation of the Agency’s KMOL Policy through the design, adaptation, and implementation of the DRG Center’s systems and processes to assist in enabling the creation, organization, storage, accessibility, and dissemination of the needed and relevant DRG technical information to improve planning, decision-making, and programmatic results. This effort will enable the DRG Center to effectively create, share, use, and manage knowledge to maximize organizational performance.

b. Review the KMOL Assessment of the DRG Center; and continuously review and provide recommendations for KMOL needs for collecting, storing, and accessing knowledge.

c. In collaboration with E&L Team members, develop and continuously revise a tailored, common vision for an effective KMOL system in the DRG Center.

d. Working closely with E&L Team members, develop a change management and socialization plan, working with key staff on methods to plan for and incorporate technical KMOL best practices into their day-to-day work.

e. Regularly communicate KMOL processes and successes to the various DRG audiences.

f. Support E&L Team members to develop pilot approaches for the capture of tacit and explicit project knowledge through network mapping, process flow diagrams, video blogging, podcasts, and process interviews activities.

g. Contribute to internal KMOL learning to include: supporting the creation and maintenance of a KMOL strategy and championing best practices among staff.

h. In collaboration with E&L Team colleagues, support the design of a KMOL feedback loop system, including the creation of a results framework, learning agenda, etc., for the DRG Center’s internal KMOL platform.

Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning Liaison

i. Support working group leaders in the facilitation and content support of existing DRG Center working groups.

j. Support DRG Center teams to explore, develop, and promote collaborative tools, including Communities of Practice and peer assistance, to facilitate sharing of ideas and work among DRG Center staff, the global cadre, and USAID.

k. Support the creation and ongoing development of KMOL champions, and provide targeted messaging to support their use and continued support of KMOL solutions.

Program Planning and Management:

l. Assist E&L Team members to manage internal and external knowledge management and curation of DRG evidence, including through the planned DRGLinks public-facing website.

m. Support the organization of DRG learning events, including the Annual Learning Forum, monthly speaker series, DRG Conference, etc.

n. Coordinate with E&L Team colleagues to identify learning products to support DRG program planning and evaluation needs.

o. Contribute to the management of DRG learning, evaluation, and research awards, including by serving as a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) or activity manager, and by serving on technical evaluation committees.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) All members of the DRG workforce are measured on how they foster a climate of respect in interactions with others, value differing perspectives, and treat others in a fair, equitable, and culturally sensitive manner. All employees are expected to adhere to equal employment opportunity (EEO) policies and value diversity and inclusion in performing everyday duties and responsibilities.

Degree of responsibility for decision-making assigned to the position:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent will serve as the DRG KMOL Specialist for USAID globally.

The incumbent will work under the supervision of the E&L Team Lead/designee. The incumbent will receive technical and administrative direction to perform their duties regarding knowledge management and organizational learning in the highly complex field of democracy, human rights, and governance. The incumbent must have professional or technical training and experience. Having recognized expertise in the field of knowledge management and organizational learning in DRG, the incumbent will help influence DRG programming and policy decisions.

Knowledge level required:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the KMOL Specialist will be knowledgeable about knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches. The incumbent will have a Bachelor’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches; OR a Master’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches.

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP: The incumbent will take direction from and will report to the E&L Team Lead or their designee. The E&L Team Lead sets the overall objectives of the work as well as the available resources.

Supervisory Controls:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the supervisor sets overall objectives and resources available and works with the incumbent to develop deadlines and the work to be done. The incumbent is responsible for planning and carrying out assignments, coordinating with others, and interpreting policy in terms of established objectives. The incumbent may also determine the approach to be taken and the methodology to be used, keeping the supervisor informed of progress.

Performance Guidelines:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the PSC will be expected to work based on specific administrative policies, precedents, and guidelines. Based on assignments provided in terms of objectives and tasks for knowledge management and organizational learning, the PSC will be expected to support the team’s contributions to technical guidance and resources and collaborate with E&L team members to guide USAID Missions and other DRG Center technical teams in evidence-based in the form of planning, developing, designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating activities and policies.

Level of complexity for work assignments:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent’s duties will be varied, requiring the ability to contribute to and collaborate on developing methods to resolve problems or cope with issues which directly affect the accomplishment of the DRG Center’s program goals and objectives related to KMOL. The incumbent will have the support of E&L Team colleagues, and will be expected to support the team’s joint problem-solving efforts related to knowledge management and organizational learning.

Scope and effect of the work performed:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent will support knowledge management activities related to all DRG sub-sectors, including civil society and media, elections and political transitions, governance and rule of law, human rights, and others. The incumbent will support E&L and other DRG Center teams and Missions to plan, organize, direct, design, and coordinate KMOL activities. The incumbent’s work outputs will support both Agency efforts as well as those of the broader development community. Assignments will require the ability to work collaboratively on projects by liaising with stakeholders for inputs and support.

With support from the E&L Team, the incumbent will work on multiple workstreams, some of which will require project management responsibilities.

Level and purpose of contacts:

At the GS-12 equivalent level, the incumbent will engage with individuals and groups from USAID and outside of USAID - typically through meetings, calls, and consultations (on an as-needed, as-appropriate basis) - as an important step in advancing USAID’s approach to KMOL in the DRG sector. The incumbent will join and support more senior staff in engagements with high-level professionals and technical representatives of USAID Missions and Bureaus, as well as representatives of implementing partners.

Through such engagements, the incumbent will contribute to KMOL development and opportunities for increased partnership. With the guidance and support of E&L Team members, the incumbent will consult with a variety of professional and technical personnel to thoughtfully advance this work.

p. Supervision or oversight the position has over others: None, except perhaps occasional short-term interns or fellows.

q. Travel requirements, if any, including an estimate of the number or frequency of trips and locations: The KMOL Specialist may spend approximately four weeks of each year on TDY, including to restricted environments, such as Pakistan and Iraq, or limited/non-presence USAID countries.

r. Support Items: The KMOL Specialist will be provided with the support services, equipment, and supplies necessary to perform the work.

s. Physical Demands: The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

At the GS-13 Equivalent Level:

The KMOL Advisor’s tasks will be primarily performed independently with minimal or little input, guidance, and direction from the E&L Team Lead or his/her designee.

Strengthen Technical KMOL Processes and Practices in DRG

a. Lead the DRG Center’s implementation of the Agency’s KMOL Policy by ensuring that the DRG Center’s systems and processes assist in enabling the creation, organization, storage, accessibility, and dissemination of the needed and relevant DRG technical information to improve planning, decision-making, and programmatic results. This effort will enable the DRG Center to effectively create, share, use, and manage knowledge to maximize organizational performance.

b. Review and expand upon the comprehensive KMOL Assessment of the DRG Center; and continuously review and improve KMOL needs for collecting, storing, and accessing knowledge.

c. Develop and continuously revise a tailored, common vision for an effective KMOL system in the DRG Center.

d. Lead the development of a change management and socialization plan (that includes the long-term use and maintenance of files), working with key staff on methods to plan for and incorporate technical KMOL best practices into their day-to-day work.

e. Provide capacity building to DRG team members and the global cadre on KMOL best practices and methodologies and regularly communicate KMOL processes and successes to the various DRG audiences.

f. Collaborate with E&L Team members to develop pilot approaches for the capture of tacit and explicit project knowledge through network mapping, process flow diagrams, video blogging, podcasts, and process interviews activities.

g. Contribute to internal KMOL learning to include: supporting the creation and maintenance of a KMOL strategy and championing best practices among staff.

h. In collaboration with E&L Team colleagues, provide leadership and oversight during the design of a KMOL feedback loop system, including the creation of a results framework, learning agenda, etc., for the DRG Center’s internal KMOL platform.

Knowledge Management and Organizational Learning Liaison

i. Support working group leaders in the facilitation and content support of existing DRG Center working groups.

j. Guide DRG Center teams to explore, develop, and promote collaborative tools, including Communities of Practice and peer assistance, to facilitate sharing of ideas and work among DRG Center staff, the global cadre, and USAID.

k. Lead the creation and ongoing development of KMOL champions, provide coaching and targeted messaging to support their use and continued support of KMOL solutions.

Program Planning and Management:

l. Manage internal and external knowledge management and curation of DRG evidence, including through the planned DRGLinks public-facing website.

m. Lead and coordinate E&L staff contributions to DRG learning events, including the Annual Learning Forum, monthly speaker series, DRG Conference, etc.

n. Coordinate with E&L Team colleagues to identify learning products to support DRG program planning and evaluation needs.

o. Contribute to the management of DRG learning, evaluation, and research awards, including by serving as a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) or activity manager, and by serving on technical evaluation committees.

Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) All members of the DRG workforce are measured on how they foster a climate of respect in interactions with others, value differing perspectives, and treat others in a fair, equitable, and culturally sensitive manner. All employees are expected to adhere to equal employment opportunity (EEO) policies and value diversity and inclusion in performing everyday duties and responsibilities.

Degree of responsibility for decision-making assigned to the position:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent will serve as the DRG KMOL Advisor for USAID globally.

The incumbent will work under the supervision of the E&L Team Lead/designee. The incumbent will perform their duties regarding knowledge management and organizational learning under administrative direction, with latitude for the exercise of independent judgment in the highly complex field of democracy, human rights, and governance. As such, the incumbent must have extended professional or technical training and experience. Having recognized expertise in the field of knowledge management and organizational learning in DRG, the incumbent will help influence DRG programming and policy decisions.

Knowledge level required:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the KMOL Advisor must demonstrate expertise in knowledge management and organizational learning. The incumbent will have a Bachelor’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches; OR a Master’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches.

SUPERVISORY RELATIONSHIP: The incumbent will take direction from and will report to the E&L Team Lead or their designee. The E&L Team Lead sets the overall objectives of the work as well as the available resources.

Supervisory Controls:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the supervisor sets the overall work objectives and the incumbent consults with the supervisor to develop deadlines, projects, and work performed. The incumbent is responsible for recommending approaches or methodologies used in carrying out assignments. The incumbent carries out assignments and keeps his/her supervisor informed on progress toward achieving those objectives and/or potential controversial matters. The supervisor evaluates for technical soundness and effectiveness in successfully meeting the work objectives. The incumbent does not supervise personnel (except perhaps short-term fellows or interns) but is expected to coach DRG KMOL staff in Missions.

Performance Guidelines:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the 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 identifies and recommends solutions to inefficiencies or inconsistencies that serve as barriers to accomplish assigned tasks and report them to the E&L Team Lead/designee.

Level of complexity for work assignments:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent identifies and develops methods to resolve problems or cope with issues which directly affect the accomplishment of the DRG Center’s program goals and objectives related to KMOL. The incumbent reports on findings and recommends follow-up actions, when necessary, to ensure KMOL is implemented in a manner consistent with legislative, regulatory, and policy guidelines, and to maximize effectiveness. The incumbent undertakes a wide range of duties that require the exercise of judgment and the interpretation of policies and practices with relevance to new problems or situations as it relates to KMOL.

Scope and effect of the work performed:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent’s work includes providing leadership and technical input for the design, development, and implementation of KMOL activities for the entire DRG sector. The incumbent is responsible for recommending practices and instituting quality control standards for the DRG Center. The incumbent participates in designing KMOL support strategies for technical teams and Missions in addition to assessing gaps and needs for all teams. The incumbent is responsible for assessing and monitoring KMOL in DRG programming by reviewing technical data, and communicating with technical teams, Missions, and implementing partners. This work will require independent analysis, defining conditions and criteria, and resolving problems using creative approaches.

Level and purpose of contacts:

At the GS-13 equivalent level, the incumbent will engage with individuals and groups from USAID and outside of USAID - typically through meetings, calls, and consultations (on an as-needed, as-appropriate basis) - as an important step in advancing USAID’s approach to KMOL in the DRG sector. These meetings will include, but not be limited to, engagements with high-level professionals and technical representatives of USAID Missions and Bureaus, development institutions (i.e., bilateral donor counterparts), private philanthropic foundations, and representatives of implementing partners. Through such engagements, the incumbent will advise on KMOL efforts to meet the needs of the DRG sector and further partnerships to advance learning in the sector. This may include efforts to change KMOL behaviors, such as information withholding, with those skeptical of past KMOL efforts. The incumbent will be skillful in determining the appropriate approach in negotiating and persuading others and in establishing a rapport in order to gain and relay information.

p. Supervision or oversight the position has over others: None, except perhaps occasional short-term interns or fellows.

q. Travel requirements, if any, including an estimate of the number or frequency of trips and locations: The KMOL Advisor may spend approximately four weeks of each year on TDY, including to restricted environments, such as Pakistan and Iraq, or limited/non-presence USAID countries.

r. Support Items: The KMOL Advisor will be provided with the support services, equipment, and supplies necessary to perform the work.

s. Physical Demands: The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

At the GS-12 Equivalent Level:

● Bachelor’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches;

OR

● Master’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of three (3) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches.

AND

● At minimum, interest in (and preferably, knowledge of) democracy, human rights, and governance assistance programming and approaches in USAID partner country contexts and/or with marginalized communities in other country contexts.

● Demonstrated strong oral and written communication, organizational, analytical, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.

At the GS-13 Equivalent Level:

● Bachelor’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches.

OR

● Master’s degree with significant study in, or pertinent to, the specialized field (including, but not limited to the social sciences, public administration, international development, library sciences, knowledge management and organizational learning, etc.) and a minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible experience using and designing knowledge management processes, systems or tools, facilitating organizational development/learning, strategic collaboration and/or adaptive management approaches.

AND

● At minimum, experience in development assistance and interest in (and preferably, knowledge of) democracy, human rights, and governance assistance programming and approaches in USAID partner country contexts and/or with marginalized communities in other country contexts.

● Demonstrated strong oral and written communication, organizational, analytical, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

Selection Factors

Selection factors determine 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;

● 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;

● Satisfactory verification of academic credentials;

● Professional references;

● Supplemental document specifically addressing the Quality Ranking Factors;

● Ability to obtain a SECRET level security clearance as required by USAID;

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

Evaluation 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. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

Note: The order of preference for hiring is the GS-13 KMOL Advisor, followed by the GS-12 KMOL Specialist. Offerors at the GS-13 level will be evaluated first and offerors at the GS-12 level will only be considered if there are no qualified offerors from the preferred position.

The technical evaluation committee (TEC) will select candidates to interview based on a preliminary review of applications. References will be checked only for those candidates interviewed. The technical evaluation committee may conduct reference checks from individuals who have not been specifically identified by the offeror, and may do so before or after a candidate is interviewed.

The following Quality Ranking Factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified offerors in comparison to other offerors:

At the GS-12 Equivalent Level:

1. Technical Expertise, including experience in designing, managing and implementing KMOL systems in democracy, human rights, and governance (DRG) (45 points)

1. Demonstrated ability to provide high-level support in knowledge management processes and systems for varied users and audiences working in complex environments.

2. Demonstrated experience in implementing strategies and knowledge management procedures and assessments.

3. Demonstrated experience supporting knowledge management initiatives at the team or division level, including experience with change management and socialization.

4. Demonstrated experience in event and/or activity management (planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation).

5. Demonstrated interest in (and preferably, knowledge of) democracy, human rights, and governance assistance programming and approaches in USAID partner country contexts and/or with marginalized communities in other country contexts.

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

2. Communication (25 points)

1. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with minimal editing or supervision.

2. Proven track record of quickly gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing information for use by colleagues.

3. Demonstrated productive and positive working relationships and communication with colleagues and peers.

4. Proven ability to translate the importance of knowledge identification, collection, dissemination, and use to a variety of stakeholder groups: staff, leadership, and partners within a broader organization.

3. Teamwork and Professionalism (30 points)

1. Proven track record of working effectively and collaboratively on diverse, multi-cultural teams.

2. Demonstrated ability to work with staff at all levels; known for high levels of interpersonal respect and for being a team player.

3. Has sound judgment and collegiality when working in environments with colleagues of diverse backgrounds and opinions as evidenced by specific work experience.

4. Has strong emotional intelligence as evidenced by specific work experience.

5. Proven ability to effectively and diplomatically promote increased coordination, knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and collegiality across a team. Demonstrated ability to generate consensus around new ideas.

6. Track record of providing professional, timely, and responsive teamwork-related products.

At the GS-13 Equivalent Level:

1. Technical Expertise, including experience in designing, managing and implementing KMOL systems in democracy, human rights, and governance (DRG) (45 points)

1. Demonstrated ability to provide high-level leadership and support in knowledge management processes and systems for varied users and audiences working in complex environments.

2. Demonstrated experience in conceptualizing strategies and designing knowledge management procedures and assessments.

3. Demonstrated experience leading and supporting knowledge management initiatives at the team or division level, including experience with change management and socialization.

4. Demonstrated experience in event and/or activity management (planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation), preferably DRG-related.

5. Demonstrated experience in enhancing sharing of KMOL best practices and lessons learned to increase the effectiveness of DRG-related interventions.

6. Demonstrated experience in development assistance and interest in (and preferably, knowledge of) democracy, human rights, and governance assistance programming and approaches in USAID partner country contexts and/or with marginalized communities in other country contexts.

2. Communication (25 points)

1. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing, with senior officials and in public forums with minimal editing or supervision.

2. Proven track record of quickly gathering, analyzing, and synthesizing information for use by colleagues, leaders, and partner organizations.

3. Demonstrated productive and positive working relationships and communication with colleagues and peers both within one’s own organization as well as with partner organizations and entities.

4. Proven ability to translate the importance of knowledge identification, collection, dissemination, and use to a variety of stakeholder groups: staff, leadership, and partners within a broader organization.

5. Experience providing formal and informal training in multicultural settings.

3. Teamwork and Professionalism (30 points)

1. Proven track record of working effectively and collaboratively on diverse, multi-cultural teams, as a team leader.

2. Demonstrated ability to work with staff at all levels; known for high levels of interpersonal respect and for being a team player.

3. Has sound judgment and collegiality when working in environments with colleagues of diverse backgrounds and opinions as evidenced by specific work experience.

4. Has strong emotional intelligence as evidenced by specific work experience.

5. Proven ability to effectively and diplomatically promote increased coordination, knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and collegiality across an organization as well as between organizations/entities. Demonstrated ability to generate consensus around new ideas.

6. Demonstrated ability to provide expert-quality, professional, timely, and responsive teamwork-related products.

BASIS OF RATING: Eligible offerors who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be further evaluated based on scoring of the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs). Offerors are required to address each of the QRFs in a separate document describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards they have received that are relevant to each factor. Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each additional page. Failure to specifically address the QRFs may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training, and/or awards. Responses must be limited to 500 words per factor. Any additional words above the limit will neither be read nor scored.

The evaluation of the QRFs based on the offeror’s responses to the QRFs as well as information provided in other written offer materials (e.g., form AID 309-2, resume) will be used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified offerors. The most qualified offeror(s) will be interviewed. Interviews conducted in person will be held at USAID offices in the Washington, D.C. region. Interviews may be conducted in person, by telephone, or by video. USAID will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews.

The interview and professional reference checks will be considered in the overall final scoring of the QRFs.

In the event that USAID is unable to obtain any information from references, the lack of reference information will not be evaluated favorably or unfavorably in the scoring of the QRFs.

Total rating system is as follows:

1. Technical Expertise: 45 points

2. Communication: 25 points

3. Teamwork and Professionalism: 30 points

Total Possible Points: 100 points

Satisfactory verification of academic credentials is required prior to award. The selected offeror will be required to submit unofficial transcripts for the academic degree for which the offeror qualified for the position. If the selected offeror fails to submit the required academic credential documentation within the time period specified by the Contracting Officer, the offeror may be disqualified from further consideration for award. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the education requirements. Transcripts from foreign educational institutions must be accompanied by an official Evaluation of Educational Credentials. It is the offeror’s responsibility to provide evidence that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. If you are qualifying based on foreign education, you must submit proof of creditability of education as evaluated by a credentialing agency. USAID will not pay for expenses related to obtaining transcripts or proof of creditability of foreign education. Click on the following link for a list of accredited organizations

(https://www.naces.org/members) recognized as specializing in interpretation of foreign education credentials. More information may be found at https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

The selected offeror will be required to obtain a Secret Level Security Clearance provided by USAID prior to contract award. Dual citizens may be asked to renounce second-country citizenship. If a full security investigation package is not submitted by the selected offeror within 30 days after it is requested, the offer may be rescinded. If a Secret level security clearance is not obtained within nine months after offeror acceptance, the offer may be rescinded.

NOTE REGARDING UNIQUE ENTITY IDENTIFIER (UEI) AND THE SYSTEM FOR AWARD

MANAGEMENT: All USPSCs with a place of performance in the United States are required to be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to receiving an award. This will assign you a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI). You will be disqualified if you either fail to comply with this requirement or if your name appears on the excluded parties list in www.sam.gov or on the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) list of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons. Registration information is available at www.sam.gov.

NOTE: Registration in SAM and assignment of a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) is FREE. Interested offerors are highly encouraged to initiate the registration process early to avoid any delays during contract award.

USAID reserves the right to select additional offerors to fill possible future vacant positions if vacancies become available during the selection process.

IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER

Offers must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted electronically via e-mail to the Point of Contact specified in Section I, item 4. Late offers will not be considered.

To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, please clearly reference the solicitation number and GS-level you are applying for in the email subject line of the submission. Offeror submissions must clearly reference the Solicitation number on all offeror submitted documents.

Note: If you are applying for both the GS-13 Advisor and GS-12 Specialist position, you must submit two different emails, one for each position. The subject line of each should clearly identify which position you are applying for and have all required attachments specific to that position.

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

1. Eligible offerors are required to complete and submit the offer form AID 309-2, “Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals,” available at http://www.usaid.gov/forms. This form must be physically signed (hand-written signature).

Unsigned forms will not be accepted. Electronic signatures will not be accepted.

2. Complete resume. Your resume should contain sufficient information to make a valid determination that you fully meet the education and experience requirements as stated in the 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.

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

(a) Paid and non-paid experience, job title, location(s), dates held (month/year), and hours worked per week for each position if not full-time. Any experience that does https://www.naces.org/members https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.sam.gov/ http://www.usaid.gov/forms not include dates (month/year), locations, and hours per week may not be counted towards meeting the solicitation requirements.

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

(c) Education and any other qualifications including job-related training courses, job-related skills, or job-related honors, awards, or accomplishments. Upon request, transcripts and/or certifications must be submitted.

3. List of References. Offerors must submit three (3) professional references, who are not family members or relatives, who have knowledge of the offeror’s ability to perform the duties set forth in this solicitation. At least one (1) reference must be from a direct supervisor (current or prior).

Submitted references MUST include the following information:

(a) Name of reference;

(b) Offeror’s relationship to the reference;

(c) Title of reference at current job;

(d) Reference current telephone number; and

(e) Reference current email address.

4. Supplemental document specifically addressing the Quality Ranking Factors. Responses are limited to no more than 500 words per factor and should be submitted as a Word or PDF document. Any additional words above the limit will neither be read nor scored.

Submitted materials must be in English. Additional documents submitted will not be accepted.

Incomplete offers will not be considered.

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.

Ensuring Adequate COVID-19 Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors – Please be advised that upon award, the contractor will be required to show proof that the contractor is fully vaccinated against COVID- 19 on or before the first date of onboarding, or submit an approved reasonable accommodation to the CO.

If the contractor does not meet this requirement the contract may be terminated.* USPSCs/TCNPSCs performing overseas must follow the Mission policies and/or directives from the U.S. Department of State regarding COVID-19 requirements.

* See Notice Regarding Any Court Order Affecting the Implementation of E.O. 14042 in Section VIII below.

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD

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

1. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security) (SF-86), or Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)

2. Finger Print Card (FD-258)

3. Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9 Form)

VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES

As a matter of policy, and…