PPM USPSC Solicitation 7200AA20R00027 Senior Technical Advisor.pdf

7200AA20R00027

USPSC- Senior Technical Advisor

ATTACHMENT 1

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 7200AA20R00027

2. ISSUANCE DATE: 3/02/2020

3. CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 4/02/2020 2PM EST

4. POINT OF CONTACT: Jonathan Bui, e-mail at Jbui@usaid.gov.

5. POSITION TITLE: Senior Technical Advisor

6. MARKET VALUE: This position has been designated at the GS-13 and GS-14 equivalent level, D.C.

locality pay (GS-13 $102,663 - $133,465 or GS-14 $121,316 - $157,709 per annum). Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value based upon qualifications, previous relevant experience and work history, salary and educational background. Salaries over and above the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated. Offerors who live outside the Washington, D.C. area will be considered for employment but no relocation expenses will be reimbursed.

If selected at the GS-13 equivalent grade level, following at least one (1) year at the GS-13 grade, the offeror may have the opportunity for advancement to the GS-14 equivalent grade. In order to be advanced to the higher grade, the incumbent must meet the minimum qualifications of the higher grade and receive an excellent performance rating in the most recent annual performance evaluation. The evaluation must include a statement by the supervisor that the employee is performing successfully at the current grade and is considered ready to perform at the higher grade level. Neither advancement nor extension of the contract is guaranteed.

Note: Offerors who submit an offer for the GS-14 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-13 position if they have not submitted a separate application offer for the GS-13 level. Similarly, offerors who apply for the GS-13 position even though they might meet the minimum qualifications for the GS-14 position will not be considered for the higher graded position if they have not submitted a separate offer for the GS-14 position. Offerors who are unsure of which grade level they meet the minimum qualifications for should submit separate offer for the GS-13 and the GS-14 positions. The Offeror will be considered for the lower grade level if the offeror does not specify the grade level in the submission.

7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One year, with up to four one-year option periods, estimated to start on within 45 days of receiving notification that required security clearance has been obtained. Based on the Agency need, the Contracting Officer may exercise (an) additional option period(s) for one year for the date(s) estimated as follows:

Base Period: 8/1/2020-7/31/2021 Option Period 1: 8/1/2021-7/31/2022 Option Period 2: 8/1/2022-7/31/2023 Option Period 3: 8/1/2023-7/31/2024 Option Period 4: 8/1/2024-7/31/2025

8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Washington, DC with possible travel overseas as stated in the Statement of Duties.

9. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret

10. STATEMENT OF DUTIES

BACKGROUND

The position is located in the Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) in the Office of Program, Policy and Management (PPM). The Senior Technical Advisor U.S. Personal Services Contractor (USPSC) will serve as a focal point and technical expert for technical assistance and programming support on prevention, conflict, violence, stabilization, countering violent extremism (CVE), or flexible programming and related monitoring, evaluation and learning activities supported by the DCHA Bureau, to include the Complex Crises Fund and other DCHA programs. In this position, the Senior Technical Advisor will support the application of state of the art technical expertise and evaluation and learning approaches to ensure that activities are consistent with Agency policies and international best practices.

The Senior Technical Advisor will serve in an advisory and capacity-building role for monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) and collaborating, learning, and adapting (CLA) within DCHA. The Senior Technical Advisor will fill a critical gap by working collaboratively with DCHA teams to develop high quality products and processes that will serve as solid examples, models and guidance for future staff, as well as build the capacity of the staff involved in the process so that they are prepared to take the lead.

The DCHA Bureau promotes democratic and resilient societies that are able to mitigate disasters and conflicts, and stay on a path toward peace and prosperity. With over 800 team members, the Bureau rapidly deploys expertise, resources, and capabilities to save lives and lay the groundwork for good governance and inclusive growth. The Bureau works to: Advance Democracy, Build Resilience, Tackle Fragility, Save Lives, and Support Our Team. Amidst growing restrictions against fundamental freedoms globally, USAID remains committed to bolstering the role of civil society. We build the capacity of local organizations and newly-formed or evolving governments to preserve and expand democratic and peaceful space in complex political environments.

PPM coordinates critical issues among DCHA’s eight offices supporting the Bureau’s global crisis prevention, response, recovery, and transition work. PPM assists in the day-to-day management of the Bureau and guides the Bureau’s policy formulation, strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation of programs, budgeting, financial management, staffing and professional development. PPM manages funding for crisis and conflict prevention and recovery and is a leader in the Bureau’s work to empower vulnerable populations, especially in crisis situations. PPM works with the Bureau’s other offices to build resilience in http://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do/working-crises-and-conflict http://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do/working-crises-and-conflict vulnerable populations by reducing over-exploitation of natural resources, improving environmental health, and strengthening partner-country environmental governance.

DCHA’s timely, flexible programming, including CCF interventions, improves the ability of the U.S.

Government to respond quickly during critical windows of opportunity by providing rapid solutions to specific, unforeseen political, social, or economic challenges that threaten stability or help create conditions necessary for longer-term development. The goal is to seize opportunities to advance peaceful transitions, promote stabilization, support democratic governance, and assist development progress.

For more information, see: https://www.usaid.gov/who-we-are/organization/bureaus/bureau-democracy-conflict-and-humanitarian-assistance

Position Description at the GS-13 Level

Responsibility for Decision Making

This PSC position will serve as a Senior Technical Advisor for USAID. The PSC will work closely with the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others. The supervisor for the position is the PPM Policy and Program Division Chief or his/her designee. The PSC will perform her/his duties under administrative direction, with some latitude for the exercise of independent judgment (e.g., in program/project management) in the oversight and management of the CCF account (including gathering relevant country reports and updates and preparation written analysis of countries being considered for CCF funding; and supporting in preparation of draft decision memos, summaries, agendas and other related documents) and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming, and monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) issues. As such, the PSC must have relevant subject matter knowledge.

Having knowledge in the field of global issues, the PSC will help inform but not make policy.

Knowledge Level

The PSC will be knowledgeable about prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming, and understand principles, best practices, and key trends associated with this field. The PSC will develop guidance for operating units receiving CCF to aggressively measure and learn from their results to extend the impact of their programs, ideas, and knowledge and provide guidance and technical assistance to operating units receiving CCF on Agency indicators and targets, and facilitate the utilization of these indicators and targets in the development of program planning documents such as the Operational Plan and the Performance Plan and Report.

The PSC will have a Master’s degree with study and/or experience in a pertinent field, including, but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology AND at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

OR

https://www.usaid.gov/who-we-are/organization/bureaus/bureau-democracy-conflict-and-humanitarian-assistance https://www.usaid.gov/who-we-are/organization/bureaus/bureau-democracy-conflict-and-humanitarian-assistance a Bachelor’s degree with study and/or experience in a pertinent field, including, but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology, AND at least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

Supervisory Controls

Working closely with the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others and under the formal supervision of the PPM Policy and Program Division Chief or his/her designee, the PSC will help to create a set of work objectives. The PSC and supervisor will jointly develop a work plan that outlines projects (with deadlines), which the PSC will work on with guidance. Such projects include efforts related to supporting CCF management and advising on bureau programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC may be asked to provide direct technical advice to Missions chosen to receive CCF or other bureau funds and should be available for international travel.

Performance Guidelines

The PSC will be expected to learn administrative policies, precedents, and guidelines related to the CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC will provide a range of services including, conducting background analysis, monitoring CCF and other activity implementation, assisting with the development and review of acquisition and assistance documents, providing advice on developing and selecting indicators and assuring data quality for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming, and developing and conducting trainings or workshops. Based on assignments provided, the PSC will be expected to contribute to technical guidance and support to USAID Missions and Operating Units (i.e., USAID Missions) in the form of planning, developing, designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating activities. The PSC will support preparation of draft decision memos, summaries and agendas and collect data on past proposals for CCF or other bureau funds.

Complexity

The PSC’s duties will be varied, requiring the ability to contribute to and collaborate on analysis, consultations, and guidance on the CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. As these interventions may take place in a range of country contexts, the PSC will be required to support and contribute to interventions in situations featuring uncertainty and continual change (e.g., in legislative realities, programming opportunities or limitations in countries of interest). The PSC will have the support of the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others and will be expected to support resolving problems related to the management of CCF and complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization. The PSC will link the bureau’s technical and sectoral areas with state of the art evaluation approaches to ensure monitoring and evaluation plans are consistent with Agency policies and international best practices.

Scope and Effect

The PSC will work with others in the office to assess program effectiveness and contribute to analysis of how the bureau’s efforts are supporting USAID’s work. The PSC’s work outputs will support both Agency efforts as well as those of the broader development community, in particular around programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization. Assignments, particularly those related to providing technical guidance to central and Mission-based programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization efforts, will require the ability to work collaboratively on projects - liaising with stakeholders for inputs and support. The PSC will maintain technical expertise through in person or online trainings relating to Agency monitoring and evaluation (M&E) policy and developments, and share timely recommendations on M&E practices and guidance in a useable form with other staff in the bureau and operating units receiving CCF or other bureau funds or assistance. With support from the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others the PSC will work on multiple simultaneous work streams, many of which will require some project development responsibilities.

Level and Purpose of Contacts

The PSC will engage with individuals and groups from USAID - typically through meetings, calls, and consultations (on an as-needed, as-appropriate basis) - as an important step in advancing USAID’s approach, research agenda, and programmatic priorities related to CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC will join more senior staff in engagements with higher level professionals and technical representatives of USAID Missions, USAID Bureaus, development institutions (i.e., bilateral donor counterparts), private philanthropic foundations, and representatives of implementing partners. Through such engagements, the PSC will support and contribute to the CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC will be expected to thoughtfully and professionally encourage the cooperation of people or groups and the PSC will be expected to work with a variety of professional and technical personnel to thoughtfully advance this work.

Position Description at the GS-14 Level

Responsibility for Decision Making

This PSC position will serve as a Senior Technical Advisor for USAID. The PSC will work closely with the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others. The supervisor for the position is the PPM Policy and Program Division Chief or his/her designee. The PSC will perform her/his duties under administrative direction, with some latitude for the exercise of independent judgment (e.g.., in program/project management) in the oversight and management of the CCF account (including gathering relevant country reports and updates and preparation written analysis of countries being considered for CCF funding; and supporting in preparation of draft decision memos, summaries, agendas and other related documents) and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming, and monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) issues. As such, the PSC must have relevant subject matter knowledge.

Having knowledge in the field of global issues, the PSC will help inform but not make policy.

Knowledge Level

The PSC will be knowledgeable about prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming, and understand principles, best practices, and key trends associated with this field. The PSC will develop guidance for operating units receiving CCF to aggressively measure and learn from their results to extend the impact of their programs, ideas, and knowledge and provide guidance and technical assistance to operating units receiving CCF on Agency indicators and targets, and facilitate the utilization of these indicators and targets in the development of program planning documents such as the Operational Plan and the Performance Plan and Report.

The PSC will have a Master’s degree with study and/or experience in a pertinent field, including, but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology AND at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

OR

a Bachelor’s degree with study and/or experience in a pertinent field, including, but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology, AND at least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

Supervisory Controls

Working closely with the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others and under the formal supervision of the PPM Policy and Program Division Chief or his/her designee, the PSC will help to create a set of work objectives. The PSC and supervisor will jointly develop a work plan that outlines projects (with deadlines), which the PSC will work on with guidance. Such projects include efforts related to supporting CCF management and advising on bureau programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC may be asked to provide direct technical advice to Missions chosen to receive CCF or other bureau funds and should be available for international travel.

Performance Guidelines

The PSC will be expected to learn administrative policies, precedents, and guidelines related to the CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC will provide a range of services including, conducting background analysis, monitoring CCF and other activity implementation, assisting with the development and review of acquisition and assistance documents, providing advice on developing and selecting indicators and assuring data quality for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming, and developing and conducting trainings or workshops. Based on assignments provided, the PSC will be expected to contribute to technical guidance and support to USAID Missions and Operating Units (i.e., USAID Missions) in the form of planning, developing, designing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating activities. The PSC will support preparation of draft decision memos, summaries and agendas and collect data on past proposals for CCF or other bureau funds.

Complexity

The PSC’s duties will be varied, requiring the ability to contribute to and collaborate on analysis, consultations, and guidance on the CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. As these interventions may take place in a range of country contexts, the PSC will be required to support and contribute to interventions in situations featuring uncertainty and continual change (e.g., in legislative realities, programming opportunities or limitations in countries of interest). The PSC will have the support of the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others and will be expected to support resolving problems related to the management of CCF and complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization. The PSC will link the bureau’s technical and sectoral areas with state of the art evaluation approaches to ensure monitoring and evaluation plans are consistent with Agency policies and international best practices.

Scope and Effect

The PSC will work with others in the office to assess program effectiveness and contribute to analysis of how the bureau’s efforts are supporting USAID’s work. The PSC’s work outputs will support both Agency efforts as well as those of the broader development community, in particular around programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization. Assignments, particularly those related to providing technical guidance to central and Mission-based programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization efforts, will require the ability to work collaboratively on projects - liaising with stakeholders for inputs and support. The PSC will maintain technical expertise through in person or online trainings relating to Agency monitoring and evaluation (M&E) policy and developments, and share timely recommendations on M&E practices and guidance in a useable form with other staff in the bureau and operating units receiving CCF or other bureau funds or assistance. With support from the CCF Manager, the Division Chief, Policy Team and others the PSC will work on multiple simultaneous work streams, many of which will require some project development responsibilities.

Level and Purpose of Contacts

The PSC will engage with individuals and groups from USAID - typically through meetings, calls, and consultations (on an as-needed, as-appropriate basis) - as an important step in advancing USAID’s approach, research agenda, and programmatic priorities related to CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC will join more senior staff in engagements with higher level professionals and technical representatives of USAID Missions, USAID Bureaus, development institutions (i.e., bilateral donor counterparts), private philanthropic foundations, and representatives of implementing partners. Through such engagements, the PSC will support and contribute to the CCF account and programming in complex environments and crises and on prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization analysis and programming, and MEL issues. The PSC will be expected to thoughtfully and professionally encourage the cooperation of people or groups and the PSC will be expected to work with a variety of professional and technical personnel to thoughtfully advance this work.

Statement of Duties At the GS-13 Senior Technical Advisor level:

Conflict Prevention and Stabilization Programming and CCF Support:

● Support background analysis on issues related to CCF or its programs, to include gathering relevant country reports and updates, collecting data on past proposals, and preparing written analyses of countries being considered for CCF funding.

● Capture information from regional and technical bureaus at USAID, State and DoD related to relevant programming.

● Support the preparation of draft proposal summaries and meeting agendas.

● Advise on bureau programming in complex environments and crises, including approaches for integrating gender equality and women, peace, and security (WPS) objectives in bureau programs, and strengthen USAID’s ability to participate in assessments or other work in the field to determine potential need for CCF-funded and other bureau programs.

● Assist proponents/recipients to strengthen CCF proposals, program designs, work plans, monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) plans, and other related technical documents.

● Monitor CCF and other relevant activity implementation, including use of budget resources.

● Support bureau on new tools for tracking the CCF budget as well as a bi-annual crosswalk of obligations and expenditures.

● Support field and Washington-based mid-cycle portfolio reviews.

● Produce briefing materials on CCF and CCF-supported and other activities.

● Assist with the development and review of acquisition and assistance documents for the full project cycle including strategic planning, solicitations, scopes of work, budgets, and other materials as needed.

Technical Assistance:

● Support in the provision of direct technical advice to Missions chosen to receive bureau support, including CCF, and be available for temporary assignment duty to provide technical assistance to USAID Missions.

● Support the review and analysis of acquisition and assistance regulations and policies for supporting project design or management.

● Support in the provision of expert advice to USAID staff and implementing partners on MEL planning and methodology, as well as on collaborating, learning, and adapting (CLA) as it relates to prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization.

● Support operating units and offices in Program Cycle implementation, including developing performance management plans (PMPs) and project and/or activity MEL plans.

● Support in the provision of advice on developing and selecting indicators and assuring data quality for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming.

● Support the design monitoring tools for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization programming.

● Support the facilitation of planning, design and/or management of specific CLA strategies and activities.

● Assist in developing, capturing, sharing and testing methods, models and tools to further CLA in the program cycle for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence, and stabilization programming.

● Track post-evaluation actions and synthesize learning.

● Support in the provision of technical assistance and other support to facilitate CLA in Mission programs and within the bureau.

● Develop and deliver written materials and briefings to familiarize staff and partners with evaluation study designs, CLA principles, methods, tools and approaches.

● Work closely with bureau offices to identify key program evaluation questions, design appropriate evaluations in focus countries.

● Work closely with bureau offices to identify CLA priorities and plan and develop relevant CLA activities.

● Support and/or lead internal/hybrid evaluation teams to bolster the technical evaluation skills of mission staff around conflict, violence and stabilization programming.

● Disseminate monitoring, evaluation, and learning findings and create communication products in various formats to inform decision makers, Mission staff and practitioners, and external stakeholders.

Capacity Development:

● Coordinate MEL efforts across bureau and ensure efforts align with Agency-wide policies, strategies, and initiatives.

● Provide support in organizational systems for MEL and/or CLA.

● Support the development of and conducting of trainings, workshops, facilitated learning conversations and other capacity-building opportunities around MEL and/or CLA around conflict, violence and stabilization.

● Support incorporation of recommendations from evaluations and technical, contextual, and experiential learning into program cycle processes.

● Convene community of practice or working group to share and encourage good practices in the conflict, violence and stabilization programming and activities.

● Seek out, understand, and map local expertise available to support field monitoring and evaluation tasks

(e.g., surveys, evaluations, data collection, analysis, etc.).

Additional:

● Perform services under this scope of work at physical locations other than Washington headquarters, including within other bureau offices/units not to exceed six (6) months.

At the GS-14 Senior Technical Advisor level:

Conflict Prevention and Stabilization Programming and CCF Support:

● Conduct background analysis on issues related to CCF or its programs, to include gathering relevant country reports and updates, collecting data on past proposals, and preparing written analyses of countries being considered for CCF funding.

● Capture information from regional and technical bureaus at USAID, State and DoD related to relevant programming.

● Support the preparation of draft proposal summaries and meeting agendas.

● Advise on bureau programming in complex environments and crises, including approaches for integrating gender equality and women, peace, and security (WPS) objectives in bureau programs, and strengthen USAID’s ability to participate in assessments or other work in the field to determine potential need for CCF-funded and other bureau programs.

● Assist proponents/recipients to strengthen CCF proposals, program designs, work plans, monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) plans, and other related technical documents.

● Monitor CCF and other relevant activity implementation, including use of budget resources.

● Support bureau on new tools for tracking the CCF budget as well as a bi-annual crosswalk of obligations and expenditures.

● Conduct field and Washington-based mid-cycle portfolio reviews.

● Produce briefing materials on CCF and CCF-supported and other activities.

● Assist with the development and review of acquisition and assistance documents for the full project cycle including strategic planning, solicitations, scopes of work, budgets, and other materials as needed.

Technical Assistance:

● Provide direct technical advice to Missions chosen to receive bureau support, including CCF, and be available for temporary assignment duty to provide technical assistance to USAID Missions.

● Support the review and analysis of acquisition and assistance regulations and policies for supporting project design or management.

● Provide expert advice to USAID staff and implementing partners on MEL planning and methodology, as well as on collaborating, learning, and adapting (CLA) as it relates to prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization.

● Guide operating units in Program Cycle implementation, including developing performance management plans (PMPs) and project and/or activity MEL plans.

● Provide advice on developing and selecting indicators and assuring data quality for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization related programming.

● Design monitoring tools for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence and stabilization programming.

● Facilitate the planning, design and/or management of specific CLA strategies and activities.

● Assist in developing, capturing, sharing and testing methods, models and tools to further CLA in the program cycle for CCF and other prevention, conflict, violence, and stabilization programming.

● Track post-evaluation actions and synthesize learning.

● Provide technical assistance and other support to facilitate CLA in Mission programs and within the bureau.

● Develop and deliver written materials and briefings to familiarize staff and partners with evaluation study designs, CLA principles, methods, tools and approaches.

● Work closely with bureau offices to identify key program evaluation questions, design appropriate evaluations in focus countries.

● Work closely with bureau offices to identify CLA priorities and plan and develop relevant CLA activities.

● Support and/or lead internal/hybrid evaluation teams to bolster the technical evaluation skills of mission staff around conflict, violence and stabilization programming.

● Disseminate monitoring, evaluation, and learning findings and create communication products in various formats to inform decision makers, Mission staff and practitioners, and external stakeholders.

Capacity Development:

● Coordinate MEL efforts across the bureau and ensure efforts align with Agency-wide policies, strategies, and initiatives.

● Provide support in organizational systems for MEL and/or CLA.

● Develop and conduct trainings, workshops, facilitated learning conversations and other capacity-building opportunities around MEL and/or CLA around conflict, violence and stabilization.

● Support incorporation of recommendations from evaluations and technical, contextual, and experiential learning into program cycle processes.

● Convene community of practice or working group to share and encourage good practices in the conflict, violence and stabilization programming and activities.

● Seek out, understand, and map local expertise available to support field monitoring and evaluation tasks

(e.g., surveys, evaluations, data collection, analysis, etc.).

Additional:

• Perform services under this scope of work at physical locations other than Washington headquarters, including within other bureau offices/units, not to exceed six (6) months.

11. PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

At the GS-13 Senior Technical Advisor level:

Education/Experience Required:

1. Master’s degree or higher with significant study in a pertinent field, including but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology (verification required upon request for transcripts and/certificates) AND at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

OR

2. A Bachelor’s degree in a pertinent field, including but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology (verification required upon request for transcripts and/certificates) AND at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

At the GS-14 Senior Technical Advisor level:

Education/Experience Required:

1. Master’s degree or higher with significant study in a pertinent field, including but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology (verification required upon request for transcripts and/certificates) AND at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

OR

2. A Bachelor’s degree in a pertinent field, including but not limited to law, political science, government, international affairs, international development, or anthropology (verification required upon request for transcripts and/certificates) AND at least nine (9) years of progressively responsible experience related to community development, democracy, human rights, governance, economic development, conflict, political analysis, and/or complex crises environments, one (1) year of which must be with a U.S. Government foreign affairs agency, international or domestic assistance organization, or non-governmental organization.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance with FAR 52.215-1. The CO reserves the right at any point in the evaluation process to establish a competitive range of offerors with whom negotiations will be conducted pursuant to FAR 15.306(c). In accordance with FAR 52.215-1, if the CO determines that the number of offers that would otherwise be in the competitive range exceeds the number at which an efficient competition can be conducted, the CO may limit the number of offerors in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

Each sub-factor will be weighted equally within the rating factor. 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 TEC can request references from others who know the candidate’s work in addition to the references provided by the candidate. Upon completion of interviews and reference checks, TEC members will revise their scores for those candidates.

The Evaluation Factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified offerors in comparison https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far to other offerors.

Offerors should cite specific, illustrative examples for each factor. Responses must be limited to 500 words per factor. Any additional words above the limit will neither be read nor scored.

The candidate with the highest overall score will be selected based on the criteria below:

1. Technical Expertise (30 points)

● Demonstrated ability to provide high-level analysis and technically sound recommendations on complex crises issues and/or dynamic country contexts.

● Demonstrated technical expertise in conceptualizing strategies and designing evidence-based programs and MEL activities to address complex crises, prevention, conflict, violence, and stabilization issues.

2. Mediation and Conflict/Problem Resolution and Teamwork (20 points)

● Demonstrated ability to identify potential problems or obstacles to achieving mission objectives, mediate or mitigate the effects of, and resolve those problems. Type of problems/conflicts mediated or resolved can include conflicts due to personalities, organizational cultural differences, shift in political priorities, changes in funding levels, others.

● Proven track record of working effectively and collaboratively on diverse teams, as a team leader (if applicable) and as a team member.

● Sound judgment and collegiality when working in environments with colleagues of diverse backgrounds, diverse opinions, and diverse roles and responsibilities.

3. Communication (20 points)

● Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing with high-level officials with minimal editing or supervision.

● Proven track record of quickly gathering, analyzing and synthesizing information for use by principals.

● Demonstrated productive and positive communication with colleagues and peers.

4. Interview (30 points)

● Offeror should demonstrate his/her knowledge and capabilities of the position requirements through his/her responses to the interview questions.

BASIS OF RATING: Offerors who clearly meet the Education/Experience Requirements and Selection Factors will be further evaluated based on scoring of the Evaluation Factor responses. Offerors are required to address each of the Evaluation Factors 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 announcement number at the top of each additional page. Failure to specifically address the Selection and/or Evaluation Factors may result in your not receiving credit for all of your pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.

Evaluation Factors have been assigned the following points:

i. Technical Expertise: 30 points

ii. Mediation and Conflict/Problem Resolution and Teamwork: 20 points

iii. Communication: 20 points

iv. Interview: 30 points

Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned)

Total possible points: 100

The most qualified offeror may be interviewed, required to provide a writing sample, and demonstrate an ability to operate commonly used office applications. USAID will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. In addition, offers (written materials and interviews) will be evaluated based on content as well as on the offerors writing, presentation, and communication skills. In the event that an offeror has fully demonstrated his/her qualifications and there are no other competitive offerors USAID reserves the right to forego the interview process. Professional references and academic credentials will be evaluated for offerors being considered for selection. USAID reserves the right to contact previous employers to verify employment history.

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.

To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, please clearly reference the solicitation number in the offer, and in the email subject line of the submission.

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. Any experience that does 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.

http://www.usaid.gov/forms

(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. Any additional words above the limit will neither be read nor scored.

Additional documents submitted will not be accepted. Incomplete or late 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.

NOTE REGARDING DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBERS AND

THE SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT: All USPSCs with a place of performance in the United States are required to have a Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number and be registered in the System for Award Management (SAM) database prior to receiving an award. You will be disqualified if you either fail to comply with this requirement or if your name appears on the excluded parties list. Registration information is available at www.sam.gov and further guidance will be provided to the selectee regarding DUNS and SAM registration.

NOTE: Registration for a DUNS number and registration in SAM is FREE.

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

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 as appropriate, a USPSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:

1. BENEFITS:

(a) Employer's FICA Contribution

(b) Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance

(c) Pay Comparability Adjustment

(d) Annual Increase (pending a satisfactory performance evaluation)

(e) Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

(f) Annual and Sick Leave

2. ALLOWANCES:

Section numbers refer to rules from the Department of State Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas), available at https://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=282&menu_id=101

(a) Temporary Quarter Subsistence Allowance (Section 120)

(b) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)

(c) Cost-of-Living Allowance (Chapter 210)

(d) Post Allowance (Section 220)

(e) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)

(f) Education Allowance (Section 270)

(g) Education Travel (Section 280)

(h) Post Differential (Chapter 500)

(i) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600), and

(j) Danger Pay Allowance (Section 650)

VII. TAXES

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

VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

PERTAINING TO PSCs

USAID regulations and policies governing USPSC awards are available at these sources:

1. USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix D, “Direct USAID Contracts with a U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Resident Alien for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf.

2. Contract Cover Page form AID 309-1 available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms.

Pricing by line item is to be determined upon contract award as described below:

http://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=231&menu_id=92 http://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=231&menu_id=92 https://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=282&menu_id=101 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf https://www.usaid.gov/forms

LINE ITEMS

ITEM

NO

(A)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(DESCRIPTION)

(B)

QUANTI

T Y (C)

UNI

T (D)

UNIT

PRIC

E (E)

AMOUNT

(F)

0001 Base Period - Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service Code: [e.g. R497]

- Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS]

1 LOT $ _TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiation s with

Contractor

1001 Option Period 1 – Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service Code: [e.g. R497]

- Accounting Info: [insert from

Phoenix/GLAAS]

1 LOT $ _TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiation s with

Contractor

2001 Option Period 2 – Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service Code: [e.g. R497]

- Accounting Info: [insert from

Phoenix/GLAAS]

1 LOT $ _TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiation s with

Contractor

3001 Option Period 3 – Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service Code: [e.g. R497]

- Accounting Info: [insert from

Phoenix/GLAAS]

1 LOT $ _TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiation s with

Contractor

4001 Option Period 4 – Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service Code: [e.g. R497]

- Accounting Info: [insert from

Phoenix/GLAAS]

1 LOT $ _TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiation s with

Contractor

3. Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins

(AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs.

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

AAPD 15-02, REVISED – Continuation of Deviation from the ‘Leave and Holidays’ clause,…