STOPS_RFP_Amendment_2.pdf

OMB Approval 2700-0042

1. CONTRACT ID CODE PAGE OF PAGES

AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION/MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT N/A

2. AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION NO. 3. EFFECTIVE DATE 4. REQUISITION/PURCHASE REQ. NO. 5. PROJECT NO. (If applicable)

02 12/12/2014 N/A N/A

6. ISSUED BY CODE 7. ADMINISTERED BY (If other than Item 6)

CODE N/A

National Institutes of Health Office of Acquisitions – NIDA Neuroscience COAC NIMH/NIA R&D Contracts Management Section 6001 Executive Boulevard, room 8154, MSC 9661 Bethesda, MD 20892-9661

8. NAME AND ADDRESS OF CONTRACTOR (No. Street, County, State and ZIP: Code) () 9A. AMENDMENT OF SOLICITATION NO.

TO ALL OFFERORS

TITLE: Scientific, Technical and Other Professional Support Services (STOPS)

X HHS-NIH-NIDA(MH)-RFP-14-004

9B. DATED (SEE ITEM 11)

11/7/2014

10A. MODIFICATION OF CONTRACT/ORDER NO.

10B. DATED (SEE ITEM 13)

CODE FACILITY CODE

11. THIS ITEM ONLY APPLIES TO AMENDMENTS OF SOLICITATIONS

The above numbered solicitation is amended as set forth in Item 14. The hour and date specified for receipt of Offers is extended, is not extended.

Offers must acknowledge receipt of this amendment prior to the hour and date specified in the solicitation or as amended, by one of the following methods:

(a) By completing Items 8 and 15, and returning one (1) copy of the amendment; (b) By acknowledging receipt of this amendment on each copy of the offer submitted;

or (c) By separate letter or telegram which includes a reference to the solicitation and amendment numbers. FAILURE OF YOUR ACKNOWLEDGMENT TO BE RECEIVED AT THE PLACE DESIGNATED FOR THE RECEIPT OF OFFERS PRIOR TO THE HOUR AND DATA SPECIFIED MAY RESULT IN REJECTION OF YOUR OFFER. If by virtue of this amendment you desire to change an offer already submitted, such change may be made by telegram or letter, provided each telegram or letter makes reference to the solicitation and this amendment, and is received prior to the opening hour and data specified.

12. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA (If required)

13. THIS ITEM APPLIES ONLY TO MODIFICATIONS OF CONTRACTS/ORDERS,

IT MODIFIES THE CONTRACT/ORDER NO. AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM 14.

() A. THIS CHANGE ORDER IS ISSUED PURSUANT TO: (Specify authority) THE CHANGES SET FORTH IN ITEM 14 ARE MADE IN THE CONTRACT ORDER NO. IN ITEM 10A.

B. THE ABOVE NUMBERED CONTRACT/ORDER IS MODIFIED TO REFLECT THE ADMINISTRATIVE CHANGES (such as changes in paying office, appropriation date, etc.) SET

FORTH IN ITEM 14, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY OF FAR 43.103(b).

C. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT IS ENTERED INTO PURSUANT TO AUTHORITY OF:

D. OTHER (Specify type of modification and authority)

E. IMPORTANT: Contractor is not, is required to sign this document and return _ copies to the issuing office.

14. DESCRIPTION OF AMENDMENT/MODIFICATION (Organized by UCF section headings, including solicitation/contract subject matter where feasible.)

THE PURPOSE OF THIS AMENDMENT IS:

1) To change the Offer Due Date to 01/05/2015 at 12:00 Noon, local (Rockville, Maryland) time;

2) To respond to offeror’s questions;

NOTE: Answers to questions by Offeror’s regarding Security Clearances, and, Labor Laws, will be addressed in a subsequent Amendment Three

(3) to be issued shortly.

Except as provided herein, all terms and conditions of the document referenced in Item 9A or 10A, as heretofore changed, remains unchanged and in full force and effect.

15A. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print) 16A. NAME AND TITLE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print)

Suzanne K. Stinson Contracting Officer, OA, NIDA Neuroscience COAC

15B. CONTRACTOR/OFFEROR 15C. DATE SIGNED 16B. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA 16C. DATE SIGNED

(Signature of person authorized to sign)

BY _____________________________________________

(Signature of Contracting Officer)

NSN 7540-01-152-8070 30-105 STANDARD FORM 30 (REV. 10-83)

PREVIOUS EDITION UNUSABLE Computer Generated Prescribed by GSA

FAR (48 CFR) 53.243

Amendment Number Two (2) 12/12/2014

Questions and Answers:

1. Could you award multiple suppliers IDIQ contracts?

A single-award IDIQ contract was justified in accordance with FAR 16.504(c)(1)(ii)(D)(1), and the contemplated contract does not exceed three years.

2. Will you award 5 task orders based on the “task areas” in the RFP only?

No.

3. My company is a (deleted) specializing in (deleted) Services. Task area 4 is right in our wheel house, was there consideration for breaking the 5 task areas into separate contracts to drive more small business and even socio-economic small business participation/set-a-side?

The procuring agency worked with the Small Business Administration Procurement Center Representative (PCR) and with the NIH Small Business Office (SBO) during acquisition planning. In the event that the prime contractor selected is not a Small Business, it should be noted that the Small Business subcontracting goals stated in the RFP are intended to provide a significant opportunity for Small Businesses.

4. Ref: RFP Part IV, Section L, 1. C. para. 1, “it is anticipated that one award will be made from this solicitation and that the award(s) will be made on/about March 2015”

Question: Will multiple awards be contemplated in accordance with FAR 52.215-1 and referenced in section L. (page 53)? Will the government consider the potential added value of competition created on individual task orders responses through a multiple award, IDIQ contract? A multiple award approach would reduce the cost of services, limit performance risks, and provide NIH customers with more than one service level and delivery approach.

No. Further, these comments speculate as to what is the more effective and cost-efficient approach.

5. Would the government please provide the current GS grade and steps equivalents for all the labor categories in the spreadsheet?

Contractor employees are not GS employees. Consequently, the relevance of the question is unclear.

6. Will all 1,700 employees need to be transitioned simultaneously?

The Government intends a full contract transition to occur as quickly as is practicable. However, regarding whether employees of the incumbent contractor start working for the newly awarded contractor is a determination to be made by the contractor and contractor employees involved, not the Government.

7. Will clusters of employees be transitioned to the new contract by task orders, or will the government issue CLINS under the main contract for each labor category?

All orders will be in the form of task orders which will state the CLIN number being ordered along with the number (of hours/units) being ordered under that specific CLIN. Multiple CLINS could be ordered on a single task order.

8. What is the current total number of task orders that have been issued under the current contract?

As of 11/13/2014, the total number of task orders issued is 348.

9. Will task orders be phased onto the new contract as the Period of Performance ends under current contracts?

Most current orders have the same end date for the period of performance under the old contract, which allows for a fairly consistent issuance of task orders under the follow-on contract.

10. Currently, there is only one employee listed in India; does the government anticipate an expansion of activities in India?

There is no way to anticipate future requirements in India. If the agency mission requires additional services in India, additional services shall be ordered.

11. If an expansion of activities in India, how many staff will be added?

Please see the answer to question 10.

12. Of those staff added in India, what number (or percent) are likely to be Indian nations?

Please see the answer to question 10.

13. How many program managers does the current incumbent contractor have onsite at the Bethesda campus, and in total?

The awarded contractor shall have to apportion its managers as it sees fit to effectively control its personnel (employees, subcontractors, consultants, etc.).

14. How many program managers does the current incumbent have on site at the Rockville campus?

The awarded contractor shall have to apportion its managers as it sees fit to effectively control its personnel (employees, subcontractors, consultants, etc.).

15. Please provide confirm that the incumbent is Kelly Government Services and provide the names of all approved subcontractors currently working on the contract.

Kelly Services, Inc. of Troy, MI is the current prime contractor.

16. Will the contracting office make public the last four quarterly reports that have been delivered?

No.

17. Will the contracting officer confirm that all deliverables under the current contract have been delivered on time?

This is a contract administration question about the incumbent contract. Its relevance to the current solicitation is unclear.

18. As there is only one current employee working in India and one in Canada, would the Government consider removing the recruitment requirement from India and Canada, as a large majority of the positions to be recruited are CONUS? This requirement would seem to favor the incumbent, as they have already recruited those two positions and can speak directly to the requirement.

There is currently an agency requirement for services in India and Canada. Therefore, the solicitation will continue to seek services in those locations. Further, the incumbent is not the only contractor capable of providing services in those locations.

19. In conjunction with the NIH Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, will the government confirm that the incumbent has met their proposed Small Business utilization targets under the current contract?

This is a contract administration question about the incumbent contract. Its relevance to the current solicitation is unclear.

20. Would the government make public and provide the current minimum standards for benefits packages that are provided to staff working under the current?

Recommended benefits are provided in the solicitation.

21. What is the current employee retention/turn-over rate for this contract?

This is a contract administration question about the incumbent contract. Its relevance to the current solicitation is unclear.

22. In attachment four, there are 17 portable Laptops listed as government furnished property; are these provided for the incumbent staff management team? Who currently uses this equipment and what is their relationship to the current contract?

Details as to who shall be utilizing any government-furnished property is provided in the solicitation.

23. How are requirements currently distributed? Is a VMS tool used? If so, who serves as the VMS administrator?

Requirements are distributed by the Government (Contracting Officer Representative (COR) and Contracting Officer (CO)) to the Contractor. Vender Management System (VMS) is not used.

24. If a VMS is currently in place, who is it?

VMS is not used for this contract.

25. Is it the expectation of the NIH for vendors to bring a technology solution or will the current technology stay in place?

Assuming that this question is referring to how task orders shall be issued, it is projected that the current technology will be used.

26. Does NIH have an indication as to how many current contract employees will need to be transitioned and / or rebadged post award?

No. It is the awarded contractor, not NIH, that decides which, if any, of the incumbent contractor’s employees the newly awarded contractor shall employ.

27. Is the average 6-month contract consistent across all task areas?

The contemplated contract is a three (3) year period of performance contract, not a six (6) month period of performance contract.

28. Does the current program have KPIs in place? If so, can you share with us what they are?

Key Performance Indicators (KPI) are not specified in the RFP.

29. What skill categories are deemed mission critical under this program?

All of labor categories are important to providing services under the contract.

30. Does NIH expect to release a large volume of new requirements in 2015 or will workload remain consistent with the current headcount under this contract?

There is no indication at this time that a large volume of additional workload will be required.

31. Do we need to identify a sub vendor network as part of this RFP or is that part of the post-award implementation?

There is nothing in the RFP which expressly requires an offeror to identify its subcontractors in its proposal. The extent to which an offeror wants to do so is a matter of offeror discretion.

32. Section E 2. Security training: is this training to be done prior to the contract employee starting? On an annual basis is this training something that the NIH will not be allowing contractors to bill for?

Security training is done via the on-line NIH system and is performed during work hours.

33. Evaluation factors for award: Past performance and small business subcontracting plan are listed as evaluation criteria but are not scored. Why are they listed if there is no weighting?

The lack of a scoring value does not mean those evaluation criteria are not considered for an award determination. Ultimately, the substance of an evaluation does not hinge on number scores, color ratings, or adjectival ratings, which are mere guides to decision-making that do not replace the substance of an evaluation.

34. Past Performance: Will the government only evaluate past performance that is government related? Will that past performance have to be of the same size from a revenue and contractor perspective?

Please see Section L, pages 63-64 and Section M, page 66 of the RFP.

35. Multiple award. Commercially staffing contracts are usually awarded to multiple staffing partners to ensure that the company is getting the best value/candidate. Will the government be looking to make multiple awards?

Please see the answers to questions 1 and 4.

36. In column D of section 1 of Attachment 23, what does the number “1” represent?

One hour.

37. What do the numbers in the “Quantity” of section 2 of Attachment 23 represent? Is the number provided the amount of screenings required to be performed by the vendor?

The quantities are fixed numbers which an offeror must use to construct its evaluated price. This is being done to facilitate an apples-to-apples comparison amongst offerors for price. Consequently, do not adjust the quantities. However, the quantities provided in Attachment 23 are not guaranteed to be the quantities which the awarded contractor shall ultimately provide. Indeed, the awarded contract shall be for the value of the entire IDIQ, which is $585,125,274.

38. How many visas does NIH anticipate to be required for the scope of this project?

The historical information varies – currently there are approximately 60 + visas.

39. What percentage of placements will require security clearances?

When a security clearance is required shall be provided for in a task order.

40. If a sub vendor is used for clinical care positions, is the awarded firm required to have medical malpractice insurance as well?

Yes, the cost of which should be accounted for in an offeror’s loaded rates.

41. What percentage of positions require security clearances?

Please see the answer to question 39.

42. What percentage of sub-contracting companies are required to be small business (?NIH expectation?)

This information is provided in the RFP. See Attachment 10, pages 97-98.

43. Will statutory cost escalation that may be imposed over the 36 month (e.g. SUI) be able to be passed through?

The offeror must provide loaded hourly rates which will be fixed at award.

44. 508 certification: What formats are reporting requirements being provided in today? Adobe, Excel, Word?

Excel.

Question

Solicitation Section and Page Number

Question/Recommendation ANSWERS

45. H.11.E.5, page 33, paragraph 5.

Vulnerability Scanning Requirements

The RFP states, "This acquisition requires the Contractor to host an NIH webpage or database,” and requires vulnerability scans, hw/sw patching, and upgrades.

Please confirm that the requirement for hosting an NIH webpage or database and the Vulnerability Scanning Requirements will be directed by specific task orders.

The information security requirements for hosting an NIH webpage or database and the Vulnerability Scanning Requirements will be directed by specific task orders

46. C.2.b.2.b IT Security Plan (IT- SP), H.11.d.c.1 page 10, 28

The RFP requires an IT-SP within 30 days of contract award. Please confirm that the requirement for the IT-SP will be directed by specific task orders.

The requirement for the IT-SP will be directed by specific task orders.

47. C.2.b.2.c IT Risk Assessment (IT- RA) H.11.d.c.2 page 10, 29

The RFP requires an IT-RA within 30 days of contract award. Please confirm that the requirement for the IT-RA will be directed by specific task orders.

The requirement for the IT- RA will be directed by specific task orders.

48. C.2.b.2.d FIPS Assessment, H.11.d.c.3 page 10, 29

The RFP requires a FIPS 199 assessment within 30 days of contract award. Please confirm that the requirement for the FIPS 199 assessment will be directed by specific task orders.

The requirement for the FIPS 199 assessment will be directed by specific task orders.

49. C.2.b.2.e IT Security Certification and Accreditation (IT- SC&A), H.11.d.c.4 page 10, 29

The RFP requires written proof of the performance of an IT-SC&A within 3 months after contract award. Please confirm that the requirement for the IT-SC&A will be directed by specific task orders.

The requirement for the IT- SC&A will be directed by specific task orders.

50. Section L; g. Past Performance Information; page 63;

The RFP states "Additionally, for each example, the offeror shall send to the Federal, state, or local government agency a copy of Attachment 27, the past performance information security questionnaire...”. Should this be changed to read, “Additionally, for each example, the offeror shall send to the Federal, state, or local government agency a copy of Attachment 26, the Past Performance Information Survey Questionnaire..."

Yes – that is correct, the attachment number for the past performance questionnaire is 26 not 27.

51. Section L; G Past Performance Information; page

The RFP states "Along with descriptions of the three contracts, in its business proposal the offeror must make the following representation:

“[INSERT COMPANY NAME]

certifies that a copy of Attachment 27, the past performance information security questionnaire, was sent to the purchasing agencies for the proposal-cited past performance examples no later than one calendar week before the proposals were due.”

Should this be changed to read:

“[INSERT COMPANY NAME]

certifies that a copy of Attachment 26, the past performance information survey questionnaire, was sent to the purchasing agencies for the proposal-cited past performance examples no later than one calendar week before the proposals were due.”

Yes – that is correct, the attachment number for the past performance questionnaire is 26 not 27.

52. Attachment Three

(3) SOW, page 74

The reference states …"the contractor shall maintain medical liability insurance which is not less that the prevailing amount of coverage for practitioners within the local community for the medical specialty covered. Will the government provide a list of the labor categories that require medical liability insurance?

The company should determine this based on the medical titles, but they are generally Physician, Dentist, Nurse Practitioner, Registered Nurse, Research Nurse, Medical Assistant, and Nursing Assistant.

53. Section B, page 6 paragraph 5.a

The reference states, "the contractor shall maintain medical liability insurance which is not less than the prevailing amount of

This is the Offeror’s own business decision based on their own research on prevailing coverage.

coverage for practitioners within the local community…” What is the government source for determining the prevailing amount of coverage for practitioners?

54. Attachment 23 Table of Labor Rates and Unit Pricing

The instructions at the top of Attachment 23 states "An offeror is to return an excel file with the completed spreadsheet in a CD with the offeror's business proposal."

Question: Is the offeror required to include a paper copy of Attachment 23 in the Business Proposal or is the CD the only requirement for submission of this attachment? Also, if a paper copy of Attachment 23 is required may we use 11X17 foldouts for these and other charts and tables in the Business Proposal?

Yes, please return both a paper copy and a CD.

Use of a paper size of 11x17 is acceptable

55. Section J - List of Attachments

The link provided for Attachment 19: Information regarding background checks/badges http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/ser/dps ac/Pages/Home.aspx does not provide the information regarding background checks. It provides the OMB Form SF-LLL.

Please provide the correct URL.

This link worked when we re-checked it.

http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/ser/ dpsac/Pages/Home.aspx

56. Section J - List of

Attachments Attachment 20, Commitment to Protect Non-Public Information Contractor Agreement could not be located at the link provided.

Please provide the referenced attachment or the web link.

Try this link:

http://irtsectraining.nih.gov/NI H_Non- Disclosure_Agreement.pdf

57. Attachment 23 and 27:

In Attachment 23, Offerors are asked to price CLINs 369, 370 and 371 (Contracts and Grants Specialist 1, 2, and 3). However, there is no labor category description for those three labor categories in Attachment 27.

Please provide the labor category descriptions.

IMPORTANT: It should be noted that Attachment 27, descriptions in the labor qualifications catalog, is subject to updating and editing over the life of the contract.

http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/ser/dpsac/Pages/Home.aspx http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/ser/dpsac/Pages/Home.aspx http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/ser/dpsac/Pages/Home.aspx http://www.ors.od.nih.gov/ser/dpsac/Pages/Home.aspx http://irtsectraining.nih.gov/NIH_Non-Disclosure_Agreement.pdf http://irtsectraining.nih.gov/NIH_Non-Disclosure_Agreement.pdf http://irtsectraining.nih.gov/NIH_Non-Disclosure_Agreement.pdf

Note: The subject descriptions are hereby added to Attachment 27 labor catalog and can be found right below this chart.

58. Attachment 23 and 27:

In Attachment 23, Offerors are asked to price CLIN 402 (Database Administrator 1).

However, there is no labor category description for that labor category in Attachment 27.

Please provide the labor category description.

IMPORTANT: It should be noted that Attachment 27, labor qualifications catalog, is subject to updating and

Note: The descriptions are hereby added to Attachment 27 labor catalog and can be found right below this chart.

59. Attachment 23 and 27

In Attachment 23, Offerors are asked to price Scientific Policy Analyst 1 through 10 (CLINs 1166 through 1175). However, we could not find the labor category descriptions in Attachment 27.

Please provide the descriptions to allow for Offeror to price appropriately.

IMPORTANT: It should be noted that Attachment 27, labor qualifications catalog, is subject to updating and

Note: The descriptions are hereby added to Attachment 27 labor catalog

Please see the descriptions for CLINS 1166 to 1175 directly below this table.

60. Attachment 12:

Certificate of Current Cost of Pricing Data (if applicable)

Since adequate price competition is expected on this procurement, will the Government remove Attachment 12 “Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data” from the initial submission?

Attachment 12 was listed in Section J as Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data (if applicable). To confirm, this Certificate is not applicable/not required.

61. Attachment 23:

Labor Rate and Unit Prices

Please confirm that column D (Bill Rate Regular Time) and column N (E. Loaded hourly rate Year 1) are to be the same rate (fully loaded bill rate, inclusive of all cost and profit). If this is not correct, please clarify the difference between the two columns.

Disregard the hidden excel spreadsheet column D. You have unhidden excel columns in the excel spreadsheet that were hidden. Please re-hide the excel spreadsheet columns D, E, and F. You should follow the instructions in the spreadsheet. Looking at the top of the excel spreadsheet you will only be filling out columns that appear as: A, B, C, G, H, L, M, N, O

P, Q, R, S.

Attachment 23 has also been attached to this amendment as a .pdf file in order to further demonstrate which columns you should be concerned with, and, avoid further confusion.

62. Attachment Three

(3) SOW; page 81 Transition and Succession

The reference states, "As part of its proposal, the Contractor shall provide a transition and succession plan which demonstrates the capability to ensure a smooth transition from the current contract, and to one or multiple successor contracts, with minimal service disruptions and degradations to service quality.

Question: What is the expected duration of the transition?

The Transition and Succession Plan language is hereby removed from the Statement of Work. Please DELETE the following language:

“TRANSITION AND

SUCCESSION

As part of its proposal, the Contractor shall provide a transition and succession plan which demonstrates the capability to ensure a smooth transition from the current contract, and to one or multiple successor contracts, with minimal service disruptions and degradations to service quality.”

63. Attachment 23, Section Two

Reference requests pricing for the EBV Panel - Please provide the associated components needed for this panel?

Please refer to definition on page 109 of the RFP

64. Attachment 23, Section Two

Reference requests pricing for the Herpes B Ab - Is this for Herpes 2 testing?

No it is for Herpes B Ab

65. Reference RFP, Attachment Three

(s) – SOW, page 75, Contractor Management of Its Own Employees, Subcontractors, and Consultants, paragraph 3.

The reference states “To facilitate the Contractor’s management of its own employees, subcontractors, and consultants, NIH shall provide office space for approximately 17 Contractors on-site in the Bethesda and/or Rockville, Maryland area to oversee the project. The amount of space will be determined prior to contract award based on the Contractor’s proposed support staff.

In addition, NIH will provide office space for 1 on-site Contractor staff each in Baltimore, MD and Raleigh/Durham, NC. Question: Will the government issue a funded task order for the proposed support staff to be located in the Bethesda and/or Rockville Maryland area, Baltimore MD and Raleigh/Durham NC?

Only space and equipment is provided by the Government

– this does not include payment for program management staff. Costs of these type should be included as part of the fully burdened rates.

66. Attachment 27: Instrumentation Electrical Engineer levels 1 through 4 do not have any years of experience listed in the "Minimum/General Experience.”

Further, the Minimum education all require a Master's degree. However, the substitution of experience for education is different for each labor category. Questions: A. Please provide years of experience requirements so that Offeror may propose the appropriate rates for each of the four categories. B.

Recommend that the substitution of experience for a degree remain consistent for the four categories, such that two years of experience and a BA/BS degree is equivalent of a Master's degree.

The catalog will be further adjusted to add years of experience. For the purposes of your proposal, please consider that it will be set at 3 years for level 1, 4 years for level 2, 5 years for level 3 and 6 years for level

4. Substitution levels will be corrected to be identical.

NOTE: An updated edition of the catalog is attached to this amendment for your ease of reference.

67. Attachment 3 – Sow, Page 76, Recruitment and Retention

The reference states, “The Contractor shall employ hiring and retention practices that ensure the Contractor is able to identify, screen, place, monitor, train, and retain qualified candidates to fulfill service requirements under this contract.”

Will the government estimate the average monthly number of open positions requirements so we can ensure that our management approach meets the expected workload?

Historically, recruitments per month averages 40 plus individuals.

IMPORTANT: It should be noted that Attachment 27, descriptions in the labor qualifications catalog, is subject to updating and editing over the life of the contract.

Note: The below descriptions are hereby added to Attachment 27 labor catalog

CONTRACT AND GRANTS SPECIALIST 1

Functional Responsibilities:

Provides resolutions and guidance regarding complex and unique contract and grants administration issues.

Understands and interprets federal acquisition regulations. Develops and maintains tracking system for the contract and grant process. Implements process and procedures for grant/contract tracking systems. Processes and review grant applications. Responds to inquiries regarding contracts/grants. Creates, analyzes and resolves management of tracking system and other spreadsheets with regards to future inquiries and uses. Trains and educates staff on contracts/grants. Monitors controlled correspondence (such as Congressional inquiries). Provides data input into various databases relative to contract manager.

Minimum/General Experience:

Two (2) years of experience in contracts and grants management or a related field. Demonstrates the ability to assess, manage and resolve contract and grant processes and procedures.

Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, finance or a related discipline. Four (4) years of specialized experience plus a High School diploma is equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree.

CONTRACT AND GRANTS SPECIALIST 2

Provides resolutions and guidance regarding complex and unique contract and grants administration issues.

Understands and interprets federal acquisition regulations. Develops and maintains tracking system for the contract and grant process. Implements process and procedures for grant/contract tracking systems. Processes and review grant applications. Responds to inquiries regarding contracts/grants. Creates, analyzes and resolves management of tracking system and other spreadsheets with regards to future inquiries and uses. Trains and educates staff on contracts/grants. Monitors controlled correspondence (such as Congressional inquiries). Provides data input into various databases relative to contract manager.

Minimum/General Experience:

Three (3) years of experience in contracts and grants management or a related field. Demonstrates the ability to assess, manage and resolve contract and grant processes and procedures.

Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, finance or a related discipline. Four (4) years of specialized experience plus a High School diploma is equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree.

CONTRACT AND GRANTS SPECIALIST 3

Functional Responsibilities:

Functional Responsibilities:

Provides resolutions and guidance regarding complex and unique contract and grants administration issues.

Understands and interprets federal acquisition regulations. Develops and maintains tracking system for the contract and grant process. Implements process and procedures for grant/contract tracking systems. Processes and review grant applications. Responds to inquiries regarding contracts/grants. Creates, analyzes and resolves management of tracking system and other spreadsheets with regards to future inquiries and uses. Trains and educates staff on contracts/grants. Monitors controlled correspondence (such as Congressional inquiries). Provides data input into various databases relative to contract manager.

Minimum/General Experience:

Four (4) years of experience in contracts and grants management or a related field. Demonstrates the ability to assess, manage and resolve contract and grant processes and procedures.

Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, finance or a related discipline. Four (4) years of specialized experience plus a High School diploma is equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree.

PARALEGAL 7

Provides legal administrative support to attorneys. Resolves routine legal issues under the direction of an attorney.

Researches and analyzes law sources such as statuses, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, treaties, constitutions and legal codes. Prepares legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, contracts, etc. Reviews legal references and databases to extract relevant data for reports and projects. Organizes and participates in meetings addressing current legal projects or initiatives. Prepares reports that analyze precedents for specified legal topics.

Minimum/General Experience:

Five (5) years of experience in paralegal studies or a related field.

Associate’s degree in paralegal studies or a related discipline.

PARALEGAL 8

Provides legal administrative support to attorneys. Resolves routine legal issues under the direction of an attorney.

Researches and analyzes law sources such as statuses, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, treaties, constitutions and legal codes. Prepares legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, contracts, etc.

Minimum/General Experience:

Six (6) years of experience in paralegal studies or a relate field.

Associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies or a related discipline.

PARALEGAL 9

Provides legal administrative support to attorneys. Resolves routine legal issues under the direction of an attorney.

Researches and analyzes law sources such as statuses, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, treaties, constitutions and legal codes. Prepares legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, contracts, etc.

Minimum/General Experience:

Seven (7) years of experience in paralegal studies or a relate field.

PARALEGAL 10

Provides legal administrative support to attorneys. Resolves routine legal issues under the direction of an attorney.

Researches and analyzes law sources such as statuses, recorded judicial decisions, legal articles, treaties, constitutions and legal codes. Prepares legal documents such as briefs, pleadings, appeals, contracts, etc. Review legal references and databases to extract relevant data for reports and projects. Organize and participate in meetings addressing current legal projects or initiatives. Prepares reports that analyze precedents for specified legal topics.

Validates legal references on legal documents.

Minimum/General Experience:

Eight (8) years of experience in paralegal studies or a relate field.

SHUTTLE DRIVER/COURIER 4

Provides shuttle service necessary to transport clients, trainees, company personnel, etc. to appropriate destination according to assigned daily schedule. May operate radio or similar device to communicate with base station as well as other vehicles. Assist passengers into and out of vehicle; assist with loading, unloading and carrying luggage. Pick up and deliver mail, parcels, small equipment, etc. Clean and service vehicle with fuel, lubricants, fluids and other accessories. Report disruption of service as well as any necessary repairs. Provide all services in accordance with local, state and federal laws and regulations and standard operating procedures.

Minimum/General Experience:

Four (4) years of specialized experience in shuttle driver / courier services. Must possess a valid state driver’s license with an excellent record. Demonstrates ability to communicate effectively with various types of people. Demonstrates excellent customer service skills. Demonstrates ability to adapt to a changing work environment.

High School diploma or equivalent.

SHUTTLE DRIVER/COURIER 5

Provides shuttle service necessary to transport clients, trainees, company personnel, etc. to appropriate destination according to assigned daily schedule. May operate radio or similar device to communicate with base station as well as other vehicles. Assist passengers into and out of vehicle; assist with loading, unloading and carrying luggage. Pick up and deliver mail, parcels, small equipment, etc. Clean and service vehicle with fuel, lubricants, fluids and other accessories. Report disruption of service as well as any necessary repairs. Provide all services in accordance with local, state and federal laws and regulations and standard operating procedures.

Minimum/General Experience:

Five (5) years of specialized experience in shuttle driver / courier services. Must possess a valid state driver’s license with an excellent record. Demonstrates ability to communicate effectively with various types of people. Demonstrates excellent customer service skills. Demonstrates ability to adapt to a changing work environment.

SHUTTLE DRIVER/COURIER 6

Provides shuttle service necessary to transport clients, trainees, company personnel, etc. to appropriate destination according to assigned daily schedule. May operate radio or similar device to communicate with base station as well as other vehicles. Assist passengers into and out of vehicle; assist with loading, unloading and carrying luggage. Pick up and deliver mail, parcels, small equipment, etc. Clean and service vehicle with fuel, lubricants, fluids and other accessories. Report disruption of service as well as any necessary repairs. Provide all services in accordance with local, state and federal laws and regulations and standard operating procedures.

Minimum/General Experience:

Three (3) years of specialized experience in shuttle driver /courier services. Must possess a valid state driver’s license with an excellent record. Demonstrates ability to communicate effectively with various types of people.

Demonstrates excellent customer service skills. Demonstrates ability to adapt to a changing work environment.

SHUTTLE DRIVER/COURIER 7

Provides shuttle service necessary to transport clients, trainees, company personnel, etc. to appropriate destination according to assigned daily schedule. May operate radio or similar device to communicate with base station as well as other vehicles. Assist passengers into and out of vehicle; assist with loading, unloading and carrying luggage. Pick up and deliver mail, parcels, small equip-ment, etc. Clean and service vehicle with fuel, lubricants, fluids and other accessories. Report disruption of service as well as any neces-sary repairs. Provide all services in accordance with local, state and federal laws and regulations and standard operating procedures.

Minimum/General Experience:

Four (4) years of specialized experience in shuttle driver /courier ser-vices. Must possess a valid state driver’s license with an excellent record. Demonstrates ability to communicate effectively with various types of people. Demonstrates excellent customer service skills. Demonstrates ability to adapt to a changing work environment.

Minimum Education:

High School diploma or equivalent.

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 1/2

Functional Responsibilities:

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Advises upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reports as requested.

Minimum/General Experience:

One (1) year of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Bachelor’s degree in a science related field.

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 3

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Advises upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reports as requested.

Minimum/General Experience:

Two (2) years of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Bachelor’s degree in a science related field.

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 4/5

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Advises upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reports as requested.

Minimum/General Experience:

One (1) year of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Minimum Education:

Master’s degree in a science related field. Two (2) years of specialized experience plus a bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a Master’s degree.

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 6

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Provides leadership to upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reports as requested. Coordinates the daily workload of junior staff. Plans and leads meetings regarding current and new initiatives.

Minimum/General Experience:

Two (2) years of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Minimum Education:

Master’s degree in a science related field. Two (2) years of specialized experience plus a bachelor’s degree is

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 7

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Provides leadership to upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reportsas requested. Plans and leads meetings regarding current and new initiatives.

Minimum/General Experience:

Three (3) years of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Minimum Education:

Master’s degree in a science related field. Two (2) years of specialized experience plus a bachelor’s degree is

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 8

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Provides leadership to upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reports as requested. Coordinates the daily workload of junior staff. Plans and leads meetings regarding current and new initiatives.

Minimum/General Experience:

One (1) year of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Minimum Education:

Ph.D. degree in a science related field. Three (3) years of specialized experience plus a Master’s degree is equivalent to a Ph.D. Five (5) years of specialized experience plus a Bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a Ph.D.

degree.

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 9

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Provides leadership to upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reports as requested. Coordinates the daily workload of junior staff. Plans and leads meetings regarding current and new initiatives.

Minimum/General Experience:

Two (2) years of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Ph.D. degree in a science related field. Three (3) years of specialized experience plus a Master’s degree is equivalent to a Ph.D. Five (5) years of specialized experience plus a Bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a Ph.D.

SCIENTIFIC POLICY ANALYST 10

Analyzes complex scientific variables used to prepare various reports that impact the planning and outcome of the research program. Collects, analyzes and assimilates data to provide a rational basis for research, health, and social policy and program decisions relating to ethical, legal, and social implication. Provides leadership to upper management about public policy issues and provides recommendations for appropriate action. Attends various staff and scientific meetings providing reports as requested. Plans and leads meetings regarding current and new initiatives.

Minimum/General Experience:

Three (3) years of experience in a related field. Computer skills to include MS Office Suite. Demonstrates experience in performing skilled data analysis.

Minimum Education:

Ph.D. degree in a science related field. Three (3) years of specialized experience plus a Master’s degree is equivalent to a Ph.D. Five (5) years of specialized experience plus a Bachelor’s degree is equivalent to a Ph.D.

68. Reference Technical Proposal Instructions on page 58: Will proposal material submitted in excess of the recommended page limits be considered in the evaluation process identified in Section M?

Please see the RFP, page 58, for the recommended page limits.

69. Consultants are referenced in a variety of sections throughout the RFP. In utilizing the term consultant in the RFP language, does this terminology correspond to management of Independent Contractors commonly referred to as 1099’s? Please clarify the use of this term and any impact this may have on requested pricing?

It is the offeror’s/contractor’s own business decision whether to use an Independent Contractor/Consultant to fulfill any of the requirements of the task orders. This should not have any impact on the fixed price, fully burdened labor rates established at award.

70. Page 67 of the RFP states that original and copies of the proposal should be unbound. Is submission of an offerors proposal in a 3-ring binder acceptable?

A 3-ring binder is acceptable.

71. Page 52 of the RFP states that disclosure statements must appear on the "cover sheet" of the proposal. On page 50, it states requirements for the "first page" of the proposal. Please clarify the cover sheet vs. first page. Do disclosure statements need to be on the binder cover or is the first page inside the binder acceptable?

We recommend that you re-read Section L of the solicitation to understand which statements are required in the proposal, and the instructions regarding placement of those statements.

72. Article H.11, Section E, Item 5 requires the contractor to host an NIH webpage or database. Please clarify this requirement.

The referenced article is standard language for possible IT requirements contemplated by NIH solicitations. Task Area 4 of the SOW does encompass IT requirements, including possibly maintaining a website; however, that shall be determined at the task order level. Overall, NIH currently contemplates few task orders for IT services under the contemplated contract.

73. Reference Section J – List of Attachments: Please advise if Attachment 12 Certificate of Cost or Pricing Data is required with the offerors Business Proposal submission.

Attachment 12 was listed in Section J as Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data (if applicable). To confirm, this Certificate is not applicable/not required.

74. Reference Section L – Proposed Total Price, Labor Rates, and Task/Unit Prices: It is not entirely clear as to whether or not NIH wants offerors to provide back-up or supporting pricing information in addition to the completed Attachment 23 with their Business Proposals. Please advise if supporting pricing information is required.

The RFP does not require supporting pricing information, only the information sought in attachment 23 or on the small and small disadvantaged business subcontracting form, if applicable.

75. Reference Section L – Proposed Total Price, Labor Rates, and Task/Unit Prices: Does the language provided in this section preclude contractors from providing discounted pricing to NIH in response to task order requests?

The pricing and rates which an offeror provides in its proposal at attachment 23 shall be the menu of pricing and rates which, if awarded, the offeror must provide in response to task orders. However, if an offeror later wants to further reduce its pricing or rates in response to a specific task order, that is something the Government can look at if that circumstance should arise; however, generally speaking, the awarded contractor shall not be contractually obligated to later reduce its pricing.

76. The solicitation states at Section L.13.h. (p. 64) that the Government will perform a price reasonableness analysis on at least the price of the presumptive awardee. Given the complexity and importance of the required services to the NIH mission, will the Government consider including a requirement to evaluate the realism of proposed prices to ensure that the pricing reflects the offeror’s…