PWS_SOUTHCOM_OIE Service Contract_6.21.2024.docx

PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT (PWS)

October 2023 USSOUTHCOM Operations in the Information Environment (OIE) Service Contract

June 21, 2024

Part 1

General Information

1. GENERAL. This is a non-personal services contract under which the personnel rendering the services are not subject, either by the contract’s terms or by the manner of its administration, to the supervision and control usually prevailing in relationships between the Government and its employees. The Contractor shall ensure that all contractor employees and subcontractor employees are medically, dentally, and psychologically fit for performance of their duties. The United States Government shall not exercise any supervision or control over the Contractor’s employees performing the tasks herein. Such contract employees shall be accountable solely to the Contractor who, in turn shall be responsible to the U.S. Government.

1.1 Description of Services/Introduction: The Contractor shall provide all personnel, supervision, and other items and services necessary to perform the full range of operations in the information environment as defined in this Performance Work Statement (PWS) except for those items specified as government furnished property (GFP) and government furnished services (GFS). The Contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract. Contractor will support all USSOUTHCOM J39 IO division-wide tasks required to support and conduct day-to-day operations. The contractor shall provide all personnel, equipment, supplies, facilities, transportation, tools, materials, supervision, and other items and services necessary to perform information operations planning and execution as defined in this PWS except for those items specified as GFP and GFS. The contractor shall perform to the standards in this contract. Contractor will immediately notify COR if contractor believes other government personnel are tasking the contractor outside the scope of this contract. Contractor will report to the COR on any behavior by government personnel that is inappropriate (sexual or other workplace harassment, foul or suggestive language or actions, bullying, discriminator comments, etc.) in the workplace.

1.2 Background: USSOUTHCOM is one of six Combatant Commands responsible for the command and control of all military operations in the Latin America (LATAM) AOR. The missions of USSOUTHCOM are those military operations and security cooperation activities, outlined in the Guidance for Employment of the Force (GEF), National Defense Strategy (NDS), National Military Strategy (NMS), and USSOUTHCOM Campaign Plan (SCCP) that assure our allies and friends, dissuade adversaries, deter aggression, and protect and promote US national security interests and objectives. The Contractor shall provide planning support to USSOUTHCOM J39’s efforts ISO CCMD Campaign Objectives at Headquarters (HQ) USSOUTHCOM and in all countries in LATAM AOR as required by the Commander, USSOUTHCOM. Required coordination and synchronization of plans and operations may require travel to other world-wide locations.

1.3 Objectives: The Contractor shall provide USSOUTHCOM J39’s mission support primarily through coordination with USSOUTHCOM components, USG Agencies and Partner Nations, but may include business, educational and research institutions. The contractor will support USSOUTHCOM J39 and Components efforts in the AOR to shape the information environment, enable USSOUTHCOM partners to effectively conduct OIE, and when required, counter potential adversary information while protecting USSOUTHCOM information. Provide support to plan, coordinate, integrate, enable, and synchronize OIE with the USSOUTHCOM Information Operations Working Group (IOWG), Public Affairs Office (PAO), and other applicable offices through standing working groups and planning teams. The contractor will provide general support that includes but is not limited to the tasks to enable, prepare, and sustain the daily USSOUTHCOM J39 division-wide functions of meetings, briefings, administration, Video Teleconference (VTC), document preparation, accountability, equipment care and accountability, common area order and cleanliness, and other common-to-all Combatant Command (CCMD) staff office tasks.

1.4 Scope: The Contractor shall support with coordinating, training, planning, integrating, sustaining, enabling, supporting, and executing OIE in support of USSOUTHCOM operations world-wide, subordinate plans, operations orders, deliberate and contingency operations, and activities as required by Commander, U.S. Southern Command. It is foreseeable that changes in the requirements, publications, laws, software, and systems will occur during the performance period of this contract. Supporting efforts, tasks, and focus may vary given directed changes by the US Commander in Chief, the Secretary of Defense, or Commander, USSOUTHCOM or a crisis event requiring USSOUTHCOM to take immediate action. The Contractor and their workforce must have the ability to successfully adapt to these changes and accomplish all performance requirements.

1.5 Period of Performance: The period of performance shall be for one (1) Base Year of 11 months and four (4) 12-month option periods.

1.6 General Information

1.6.1 Quality Control Plan (QCP) The Contractor shall develop, implement, and maintain a QCP and program to ensure all work described in this contract is performed at or above the standard defined in the Performance Requirement Summary (PRS). The QCP is developed by the contractor for its internal use to ensure that it performs and delivers high-quality service. The contractor’s QCP is how the contractor ensures all work complies with the requirements of the contract. The QCP identifies and corrects potential and actual problem areas throughout the entire scope of the contract.

1.6.1. The contractor shall develop and implement procedures to identify, prevent, and ensure non-recurrence of defective services. The contractor shall submit a QCP within 30 days after contract award. After acceptance of the quality control plan the contractor shall receive the contracting officer’s acceptance electronically or in writing. Updated QCP shall be submitted to the contracting officer (KO) through the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) within five working days.

1.6.1.2 The Quality Control Plan shall address as a minimum:

1.6.1.2.1 Inspection Program. Quality control inspections shall be conducted covering all general and specific tasks included in the contract scope of work. Inspections may be scheduled or unscheduled and capture a minimum of 18 percent of the tasks per month. The monthly inspection may be done at one time or broken out over multiple occasions. In developing this inspection program, the Contractor shall identify the key activities and associated characteristics in each process that have a significant influence on specific services and provide for methods for evaluation of the selected characteristics.

1.6.1.2.2 Deficiency Identification. The QCP shall include a method of identifying deficiencies in the quality of services performed before the level of performance becomes unacceptable as defined in the PRS. This shall contain processes for corrective action without dependence upon Government direction.

1.6.1.2.3 Deficiency Correction. The program shall contain process control and process performance measurement procedures that shall include how the Contractor shall implement preventive corrective actions. The Contractor shall demonstrate that it has designed quality into the delivery of services thereby mitigating the risk(s) associated with delivery of deficient or nonconforming services.

1.6.1.2.4 Documentation and Enforcement. The QCP shall include a method of documenting and enforcing quality control operations of both prime contractor and subcontractor work, including inspection and testing.

1.6.1.2.5 Trend Analysis. The QCP shall include a method of performing trend analysis and assessments using metrics.

1.6.1.2.6 Surveillance Methods. The QCP shall contain specific surveillance techniques for all contract services. The surveillance methods shall be comprehensive and adaptable to the reporting system of the plan.

1.6.2. Operations Security (OPSEC) SOP/Plan Requirements. The Contractor shall implement and maintain an OPSEC program for preventing the disclosure of critical information or sensitive information which could jeopardize the Government’s ability to execute its mission or to adequately protect its personnel and/or equipment. The Contractor shall develop an OPSEC Standing Operating Procedure (SOP)/plan within 90 calendar days of contract award to the Contracting Officer Representative (COR) or Contracting Officer (KO) to be reviewed and approved by the Government OPSEC Officer on the supporting installation. The SOP must contain a training plan that includes an initial OPSEC brief, continuous awareness, and annual OPSEC training. Awareness/training includes, but not limited to information disclosure via letters, conversations, photographs, resumes, electronic mail (e-mail), social media/networking sites, dissemination of information and documents disposal. OPSEC Program shall fully comply with the provisions of AR 530-1, Operations Security.

1.6.3 Quality Assurance (QA) The government shall evaluate the contractor’s performance under this contract in accordance with (IAW) the QA Surveillance Plan. This plan is primarily focused on what the Government must do to ensure that the contractor has performed IAW the performance standards and contract quality requirements are met. Contract quality requirements” means the technical requirements in the contract relating to the quality of the product or service and those contract clauses prescribing inspection, and other quality controls incumbent on the contractor, to ensure the product or service conforms to the contractual requirements. It defines how the performance standards will be applied, the frequency of surveillance, the performance threshold, and deductions, if applicable.

1.6.4 Recognized Holidays:

Independence Day

1.6.4.1 In addition to the above listed holidays, holidays directed through executive order by the President of the United States shall be honored.

1.6.5 Hours of Operation: The contractor is responsible for conducting business, between the hours of 0730 to 1630 and ensuring coverage during the same hours. This schedule will be adhered to Monday thru Friday, except Federal holidays or when the Government facility is closed due to local or national emergencies, administrative closings, or similar Government directed facility closings. The government may alter these hours to support crisis and contingency planning and for exercises or other requirements directed by USSOUTHCOM. From Monday thru Friday, the contractor will ensure that there is the required number of personnel available to respond to any tasks covered in Paragraph 5 of this document., During an exercise period, i.e. the week prior to exercise start (preparation), until the last day of the exercise, there will be no leave or time off planned. The calendar will be blacked out. The COR, by exception during these periods, may approve time off based on exercise requirements. The Contractor must always maintain an adequate workforce (80%) for the uninterrupted performance of all tasks defined within this PWS when the Government facility is not closed for the above reasons. When hiring personnel, the Contractor shall keep in mind that the stability and continuity of the workforce are essential. Contractor will support no-notice tasks from USSOUTHCOM leadership to meet mission requirements.

1.6.5.1 Exercise, Crisis, and Contingency After Hours Surge/Overtime Support: In addition to normal duty hours, there is a requirement for contract personnel to work additional hours or provide after-hours support in the event of a crisis or contingency, a command exercise, or otherwise directed OPTEMPO increase. Any overtime, after-hours support, or surge hours must be approved in advance by the COR, or, if a no-notice tasking, within one week following the surge event. Surge hours will include periods of training for crisis and contingency operations. Contractor will ensure to bill the government for any overtime performed.

1.6.6 Place of Performance: Most of the work will be performed at Headquarters, United States Southern Command, 9301 NW 33rd St. Doral, Miami, Florida 33172. Additional locations at Bogota, Colombia, and Quito, Ecuador. When beneficial to the government, or when government computer systems do not permit contractor to access necessary websites for contract performance, and with government approval, contractor may work from their residence or another location that provides suitable internet access or is otherwise beneficial to resource or mission efficiency and effectiveness.

1.6.7 Type of Contract: Cost Reimbursement

1.6.8 Access and General Protection Policy and Procedures:

1.6.8.1 FPCON: In addition to the changes otherwise authorized by the changes of clause of contract, should the US Government Force Protection Condition (FPCON) at any individual installation change, the Government may require changes in contractor security matters or process in accordance with DoDI 2000.16. During FPCONs Charlie and Delta, only contract services that have been deemed “mission essential” by the Government will continue. Contract services will resume when the FPCON is reduced to Bravo or lower.

1.6.8.2 Physical Security: The contractor shall be responsible for safeguarding all government equipment, information, and property provided for contractor use. At the close of each work period, government facilities, equipment, and materials shall be secured IAW Army Regulation (AR) 190-13, “The Army Physical Security Program”.

1.6.8.3 Escorts: Contractors holding required security clearance may escort personnel as assigned by the government.

1.6.8.4 Personnel Security Clearance Requirements: Contractor personnel performing work under this contract must maintain Top Secret Special Compartmented Information (TS-SCI) level of security required for the life of the contract. Interim clearances of the same level described will be accepted, and if the clearance is not granted within 60 days the Contractor must be removed immediately. The security requirements are in accordance with the attached DD254. The Contractor shall ensure that contractor employees and sub-contractor employees performing services under this contract comply with FAR 52.204-2, Security Requirements when the employee has access to information classified “Confidential,” “Secret,” or “Top Secret.” The Contract will ensure the employee complies with the Security Agreement (DD Form 441), including the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (DOD 5220.22-M), and any revisions to DOD 5220.22-M, notice of which has been furnished to the Contractor.

1.6.8.5 The contractor shall follow DOD Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) clause 252.223-7004, Drug-free Work Force; and local USSOUTHCOM policies regarding drug testing. The contractor shall conduct drug tests, ensuring all top secret cleared contractor employees are tested at least once per year, each year of the contract, as well as when there is a reasonable suspicion that an employee uses illegal drugs. The drug testing shall be at the contractor’s expense. Positive drug test results shall be made available to both the KO and COR within 24 hours of known test results. Records of drug testing shall be made available to the COR.

1.6.8.6 Background Checks: The Contractor shall ensure contractor employees and subcontractor employees performing services under this contract have passed a security check conducted by the Host Nation Police Department of their residence or the State Police Department of their U.S. residence. Security checks that have been completed as part of a personnel security clearance background investigation, or a previous background check that was a condition of employment, meet this requirement. Documentation of these checks will be made available to the KO or COR upon request. The Government retains the right to exclude any employee from performance of duties under this contract if a background security check reveals an employee is a security risk. The exclusion of an employee for security reasons will not relieve the Contractor from performance of services required under this contract. If the Government determines additional background checks are required, at a minimum, and upon request from the Government, the Contractor shall provide to the KO or COR, the following information on any contractor or subcontractor employee performing services under this contract. Contractor personnel performing services under this contract shall possess a current Top Secret (TS) clearance based upon a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) completed within the past five (5) years and shall also be determined eligible for access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) by the Central Adjudication Facility (CAF) or other designated adjudication authority.

1.6.8.5.1 Background Check Notification Requirements: If a background check on any employee or subcontractor employee performing services under this contract, whether the check was conducted as a condition of employment or as part of the contract with the Government, reveals any information from any source (including host country law enforcement) of criminal activity by Contractor employees, subcontractors, or subcontractor employees, the Contractor shall immediately notify the KO and COR of that information. The Contractor shall make notification of:

(1) Traffic violations, other than parking, will be reported to the KO or COR only if the contract is for drivers for the Government.

(2) Any suspicious activity by Contractor employees, subcontractors, or subcontractor employees the Contractor believes may pose a risk to U.S. or host nation national security or imminent risk of deadly bodily harm to any person; and

(3) Any actions taken against Contractor employees, subcontractors, or subcontractor employees pursuant to this requirement.

1.6.8.5.2 Remedies. In addition to other remedies available to the Government, the Contractor’s failure to comply with the requirements of this paragraph may result in requiring the Contractor to remove a contractor employee or employees from the performance of the contract.

1.6.8.5.3 Subcontracts. The Contractor shall include the substance of this paragraph and the preceding paragraph in all subcontracts.

1.6.8.6. Contractor Common Access Card (CAC) Eligible Requirements: Before CAC issuance, the Contractor employee requires, at a minimum, a favorably adjudicated National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI) or an equivalent or higher investigation in accordance with Army Directive 2014-05. The Contractor employee will be issued a CAC only if duties involve one of the following: (1) Both physical access to a DOD facility and access, via logon, to DOD networks on-site or remotely; (2) Remote access, via logon, to a DOD network using DOD-approved remote access procedures; or (3) Physical access to multiple DOD facilities or multiple non-DOD federally controlled facilities on behalf of the DOD on a recurring basis for a period of 6 months or more. At the discretion of the sponsoring activity, an initial CAC may be issued based on a favorable review of the FBI fingerprint check and a successfully scheduled NACI at the Office of Personnel Management.

1.6.8.6.1. Federal Installation/Facility Access: Contractor and all associated sub-contractor employees shall comply with applicable installation, facility and area commander installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures (provided by government representative). The employee performing services under this contract shall also provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to be accomplished by installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services, Security Office, or the host nation equivalent.

1.6.8.6.2. Contractor Non CAC Eligible Requirements for DOD Facility and Installation Access: Contractor and all associated subcontractor employees shall comply with adjudication standards and procedures using the National Crime Information Center Interstate Identification Index (NCIC-III) and Terrorist Screening Database (TSDB) (Army Directive 2014-05/AR 190-13), applicable installation, facility and area commander installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures (provided by government representative), or, at OCONUS locations, in accordance with status of forces agreements and other theater regulations. The employee performing services under this contract shall provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to the installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services, or Security Office.

1.6.8.7 Employment Eligibility: The Contractor shall ensure that all Contractor employees and sub-contractor employees performing services under this contract in the U.S. or its territories have been pre-screened for employment eligibility using the E-verify Program on the Department of Homeland Security website http://www.uscis.gov/e-verify. Personnel that have not met the employment eligibility requirement on this website are not authorized to perform services under this contract. Verification of the eligibility check will be made available to the KO or COR upon request. This requirement is not in lieu of and does not relieve the Contractor from the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification Forms for employment of personnel.

1.6.8.8 Access to Government Information Systems: All Contractor employees and subcontractor employees performing services under this contract who have access to a government information system must be registered in the ATCTS (Army Training Certification Tracking System) at commencement of services and must successfully completed the DoD Information Assurance Awareness training prior to access to the information system and then annually thereafter.

1.6.8.9 Key Control: The Contractor shall establish and implement methods of making sure all keys/key cards issued to the Contractor by the Government are not lost or misplaced and are not used by unauthorized persons. NOTE: All references to keys include key cards. Contractor shall not duplicate keys provided by the Government. The Contractor shall develop procedures covering key control that shall be included in the Quality Control Plan. Such procedures shall include turn-in of any issued keys by personnel who no longer require access to locked areas.

1.6.8.9.1 The Contractor shall report any occurrences of lost or duplicate keys/key cards to the KO and the COR (and physical property manager, if applicable) within two (2) hours or the next business day if after hours and to request key or lock(s) replacement. This notification and request for key(s) and lock replacement shall be submitted in writing. The total cost of the replacement may be at the Contractor’s expense.

1.6.8.9.2. Only authorized Contractor personnel shall use Government issued key(s) and/or key card(s). Contractor personnel shall follow security access requirements when entering secure areas. Contractor shall receive appropriate security clearance approval to allow visitor(s) access in secure areas.

1.6.9 Post Award Conference/Contract Periodic Progress Meetings: The Contractor shall attend the post award conference convened by the contracting activity or contract administration office IAW Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Subpart 42.5. The KO, COR, with other Government personnel, as appropriate, may meet periodically with the Contractor to review the Contractor's performance. At these meetings the KO will apprise the contractor of how the government views the Contractor's performance and the Contractor will apprise the Government of problems, if any, being experienced. Appropriate action shall be taken to resolve outstanding issues. These meetings shall be at no additional cost to the government.

1.6.10 Contracting Officer Representative (COR): The (COR) will be identified by separate letter. The COR monitors all technical aspects of the contract and assists in contract administration. The COR is authorized to perform the following functions: ensure the Contractor performs the technical requirements of the contract; perform inspections necessary in connection with contract performance; maintain written and oral communications with the Contractor concerning technical aspects of the contract; issue written interpretations of technical requirements, including Government drawings, designs, specifications; monitor Contractor's performance and notifies both the KO and Contractor of any deficiencies; coordinate availability of government furnished property; and provide site entry of Contractor personnel. A letter of designation issued to the COR, a copy of which is sent to the Contractor, states the responsibilities and limitations of the COR, especially about changes in cost or price, estimates, or changes in delivery dates. The COR is not authorized to change any of the terms and conditions of the resulting order.

1.6.11. Key Personnel: The following personnel are considered key personnel by the government and will have resumes accompanying a contract bid:

1.6.11.2. Strategic Information Operations Planning, Coordination, and Integration Support.

1.6.11.2.1 Minimum requirements: Two (2) years as a combatant command or service component headquarters, or higher, IO strategic planner with the following courses: JPME II, JIOPC, and any service IO planning course with a two (2) years minimum of joint service. Minimum of a both a BA and MA with at least one of the two in one of the following (general humanities, law, literature or literary theory/criticism, foreign languages and literature, social and behavioral sciences, advertising, philosophy, political science, marketing, statistics, trend analysis, economics, media and mass communications, public relations and communications, journalism, social media, computer science) or related degrees.

1.6.11.3. Strategic MISO Planning Support:

1.6.11.3.1. Minimum requirements: Two (2) years as a combatant command, or higher, service component headquarters MISO Senior strategic planner with the following courses: JPME II, JIOPC, Army Psychological Operations Qualification course (POQC) with a two (2) years minimum of joint service. Experience as qualified 37A with a minimum three years on MIS battalion or group-level staff or operational detachment and an additional three years on a JTF or higher joint staff (JTF, COCOM, Joint Staff, OSD). Minimum of a both a BA and MA with at least one of the two in one of the following (general humanities, law, literature or literary theory/criticism, foreign languages and literature, social and behavioral sciences, advertising, philosophy, political science, marketing, statistics, trend analysis, economics, media and mass communications, public relations and communications, journalism, social media, computer science) or related degrees.

1.6.11.3.2. Contractor will designate one individual from the Key Personnel positions as Contractor’s Site Lead. This individual will be the senior representative on-site to deal with the government.

1.6.11.3.3 COR retains the right to waive above minimum requirements, in whole or in part, if potential contractor retains unique skills or experience.

1.6.11.4 IA/IT Training Certification: All Contractor employees and subcontractor employees supporting IA/IT functions must be certified upon contract award as directed in DoD 8570.01-M, DFARS 252.239.7001, and AR 25-2. Baseline certification as stipulated in DoD 8570.01-M must be completed upon contract award.

1.6.12 Identification of Contractor Employees: Contractor employees shall identify themselves as Contractor personnel and shall avoid representing themselves as Government employees. This identification includes meeting attendance, answering Government telephones, email communications, and working in other situations where Contractor status is not obvious. Contractor personnel identification shall be easily identifiable through the display of badges, name tags, lanyards, etc. Contractors will require CACs and security badges.

1.6.12.1 Badging of Contractor Employees If required by the Government, contract personnel and all associated subcontractors employees accessing U.S. facilities or activities, shall present a valid picture ID provided by the Government while accessing Government owned or contracted facilities and shall adhere to facility security policies and restrictions. If applicable, Government issued access badges will not be worn outside designated facility where visible to the general public. Contractor personnel shall return all U.S. Government issued identification to appropriate U.S. Government authorities within 5 day of the end of their contractual duties.

1.6.12.2 Uniform: The Contractor shall adhere to the USSOUTHCOM dress code for civilian personnel.

1.6.13 Contractor Travel: Contractor shall be required to travel to all USSOUTHCOM AOR locations including any global location in performance of their duties and when directed by the COR during the performance of this contract to attend meetings, conferences, support operations and planning, and training. The Contractor may be required to travel to off-site training locations and to ship training aids to these locations in support of this PWS. Contractor will be authorized travel expenses consistent with the substantive provisions of the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR) and the limitation of funds specified in this contract. All travel requires COR approval/authorization NLT five days prior to travel. Contractor will ensure travel funds are available prior to seeking travel approval. Government will not reimburse contractor if travel is conducted without available funds.

1.6.14 Other Direct Costs (ODC) Contractor may be required to purchase office supply material, document reproduction, referenc.e publications, or ship materials. ODC will be for these items only and any other necessary items with prior approval of the government. All receipts and proof of payment will be required for reimbursement.

1.6.15 Data Rights: The Government has unlimited rights to all documents/material produced under this contract. All documents and materials, to include the source codes of any software, produced under this contract shall be Government owned and are the property of the Government with all rights and privileges of ownership/copyright belonging exclusively to the Government. These documents and materials may not be used or sold by the Contractor without written permission from the Contracting Officer. All materials supplied to the Government shall be the sole property of the Government and may not be used for any other purpose. This right does not abrogate any other Government rights.

1.6.16. Non-Disclosure Requirements Non-Disclosure Requirements: Performance under this contract may require the Contractor to access data and information proprietary to a government agency, another Government Contractor, or of such nature that its dissemination or use other than as specified in this work statement would be averse to the interests of the Government or others. Neither the Contractor, nor Contractor personnel, shall divulge, nor release data or information developed, or obtained under performance of this work statement, except to authorize Government personnel or upon written approval of the KO. The Contractor shall not use, disclose, or reproduce proprietary data, which bears a restrictive legend, other than as specified in this PWS. All documentation showing individual names or other personal information shall apply and shall be controlled and protected under the provisions of the Privacy Act of 1974, Public Law 93-579, 5 United States Code (U.S.C.) Section 552a.

1.6.16.2 Advertisement and Social Media: Advertisement and social media: The Contractor shall NOT post information to public website or social media locations, personal or professional, that in any way disclose names, locations, hotel data, participants, discussions, pictures, etc. before, during or after the contract period of performance without the express consent of the Government. The use of propaganda violates DOD Commercial Use of Imagery Guidelines stated at http://www.defenseimagery.mil/products/DODimagery/commercialuse.html). The Contractor shall not cite any information (e.g., contract information, pictures, locations, etc.) obtained through this contract on any marketing tools to include its company website.

1.6.16.3 Information Assurance: At no time will the Contractor or associated sub-contractor employees transmit government documents or information over using methods that do not meet the security requirements specified in the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication (SP) 800-171, "Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in Nonfederal Information Systems and Organizations" such as personal electronic mail accounts, public digital data storage sites (cloud storage), social media platforms or instant messaging. Approved government sites such as U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Research Development and Engineering Center (ARMDEC) Safe Exchange at https://safe.amrdec.army.mil/SAFE/About.aspx, or All Partners Access Network (APAN) at https://community.apan.org/, or other transmission means determined by the government must be used.

1.6.17 Organizational Conflict of Interest (OCI Contractor and subcontractor personnel performing work under this contract may receive, have access to, or participate in the development of proprietary or source selection information (e.g., cost or pricing information, budget information or analyses, specifications or work statements, etc.) or perform evaluation services which may create a current or subsequent Organizational Conflict of Interests (OCI) as defined in FAR Subpart 9.5. The Contractor shall notify the KO immediately whenever it becomes aware that such access or participation may result in any actual or potential OCI and shall promptly submit a plan to the KO to avoid or mitigate any such OCI. The Contractor’s mitigation plan will be determined to be acceptable solely at the discretion of the KO and in the event the KO unilaterally determines that any such OCI cannot be satisfactorily avoided or mitigated, the KO may affect other remedies as he or she deems necessary, including prohibiting the Contractor from participation in subsequent contracted requirements which may be affected by the OCI.

1.6.18 Phase-in/Phase-Out (PIPO) Period: To minimize any decreases in productivity and to prevent possible negative impacts on additional services, the Contractor shall have personnel on board, during the 30-day phase in/ phase out periods. During the phase in period, the Contractor shall become familiar with performance requirements in order to commence full performance of services at the end of the phase-in period.

1.6.19 General Training Requirements:

1.6.19.1 Anti-Terrorism (AT) Level I Training The Contractor shall complete AT Level I Training within 30 calendar days after contract start date or effective date of incorporation of this requirement into the contract, whichever applies, or 30 calendar days after employment of new personnel, all Contractor employees, including subcontractor employees, who are employed under the contract shall complete AT Level I awareness training within 30 calendar days after contract start date or effective date of incorporation of this requirement into the contract, whichever applies. The contractor shall submit certificates of completion for each affected Contractor employee and subcontractor employee to the COR or KO within 10 calendar days after completion of training by all employees and subcontractor personnel. For Common Access Card (CAC) holders, AT Level I awareness training is available at https://jkodirect.jten.mil, course number “JS-US007-14”. For non-CAC holders, AT Level I awareness training is available at http://jko.jten.mil/courses/atl1/launch.html (this standalone version is intended for non-CAC users without a JKO account only). Training must have been completed within the last 12 months and maintained yearly thereafter. If training cannot be conducted on the website, the Contractor will coordinate with the local AT Officer at their assigned location for classroom training by a Level 2 trained AT Officer and a copy of either the training certificate or the training attendance roster signed by the AT Officer will be maintained by the Contractor. Verification of the training will be provided to the COR or KO within 10 calendar days after completion of the training.

1.6.19.2 OPSEC Awareness: If the Contractor, or employees of either disclose any information that disrupts or harms the Government's operations or activities, then the Government retains the right to exclude any employee from performance of duties under this contract. The exclusion of an employee for security reasons will not relieve the Contractor from performance of services required under this contract. By way of example, personnel shall not sketch or take photos of government facilities or activities, unless related to service to be provided. All government paper products and removable digital storage material that is received, generated, or stored during the contract will be destroyed completely when no longer needed to preclude recognition of information.

1.6.19.3 Information Assurance (IA) Training Contractor employees, including subcontractors, requiring access to Government information systems shall complete the DOD IA Cyber Awareness Training. All employees working information technology (IT)/IA functions must comply with DOD and Army training requirements per DOD Directive (DODD) 8570.01, Information Assurance Training Certification and Workforce Management, DOD 8570.01-M, Information Assurance Workforce Improvement Program, and AR 25-2, Information Assurance, within 30 days of employment. Training is available at https://ia.signal.army.mil/DODIAA/default.asp.

1.6.19.4 Information Assurance (IA)/Information Technology (IT) Training: All Contractor employees and subcontractor employees requiring access to Government information systems must complete the DoD IA awareness training before issuance of network access and annually thereafter. All employees working IA/IT functions must comply with DoD and Army training requirements in Per DoD 8570.01, DOD 8570.01-M, and AR 25-2, within 30 days of employment. Training is available at https://ia.signal.army.mil/DoDIAA/default.asp.

1.6.19.5 Threat Awareness Reporting Program (TARP Training): Within 30 calendar days after contract start date or effective date of incorporation of this requirement into the contract, whichever applies, or 30 calendar days after employment of new personnel, all Contractor employees, including subcontractor employees, who are employed under the contract and require a security clearance, shall complete TARP training within 30 calendar days after contract start date or effective date of incorporation of this requirement into the contract, whichever applies. The Contractor shall submit certificates of completion for each affected Contractor employee and subcontractor employee to the Government Representative within 10 calendar days after completion of training by all employees and subcontractor personnel. TARP training is available at the Army Learning Management System (ALMS) https://www.lms.army.mil/. Training must have been completed within the last 12 months and maintained yearly thereafter. If training cannot be conducted on the website, the Contractor will coordinate with the local Counter Intelligence (CI) Officer at their assigned location for classroom training and a copy of either the training certificate or the training attendance roster signed by the CI Officer will be maintained by the Contractor. Verification of the training will be provided to the Contracting Officer (KO) or Contracting Officer Representative (COR) within 10 calendar days after completion of the training.

1.6.19.6 iWATCH Training: The Contractor will ensure that all Contractor employees and sub-contractor employees performing services under this contract have been briefed on the iWATCH Program, or equivalent for their supporting DoD Agency, within 30 days of employment under the contract. The Contractor will coordinate with the supporting DoD Agency AT Officer through the COR or KO for the briefing. This training will be updated as required by the supporting installation AT policies. A copy of the training attendance will be maintained by the Contractor and made available to the COR or KO within 24 hours of the request.

1.6.19.7 OPSEC Training: All Contractor employees and sub-Contractor employees performing services under this contract will complete Level I OPSEC training within 30 calendar days of employment under this contract. OPSEC Level I training is available at https://jkodirect.jten.mil, course number “EUC-ECJ6-110-N-LB”. Training must have been completed within the last 12 months and maintained yearly thereafter. If training cannot be conducted on the website, the Contractor will coordinate with the local OPSEC Officer at their assigned location for classroom training by a Level 2 trained OPSEC Officer and a copy of either the training certificate or the training attendance roster signed by the OPSEC Officer will be maintained by the Contractor. Verification of the training will be provided to the COR or KO within 5 days of the request.

1.6.20 Overseas Training Requirements:

1.6.20.1 Antiterrorism (AT) Awareness Training for Contractor Personnel Traveling: Upon award of the contract, or within 30 days of employment of new personnel performing services under this contract, the Contractor will coordinate with the supporting DoD Agency AT Officer through the COR or KO, for AOR specific AT awareness training for U.S. based Contractor employees and associated subcontractor employees. This training will be updated as required by the supporting installation AT policies. Verification of the training will be made available to the COR or KO upon request.

1.6.20.2 SERE Training: All Contractor employees and subcontractor employees must complete the computer based SERE 100.1 Code of Conduct training course prior to theater entry. Training is available at http://jko.jten.mil. Completed training meets the requirement for three (3) years. Verification of the training will be made available to the KO or COR within 24 hours of the request.

1.6.21 Foreign (OCONUS) Requirements: All U.S. citizen or resident, and TCN contractor personnel not normally residing in the USSOUTHCOM AOR, must comply with the training requirements listed in the Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG). Verification of the training shall be made available to the COR or KO upon request. Additionally, they must receive personal security training that includes at a minimum:

1.6.21.1 Theater and Country Clearance Requirements: Contractor shall ensure all U.S. citizen or U.S. resident Contractor employees and sub-contractor employees performing services under this who are traveling in the USSOUTHCOM AOR follow the requirements identified in the electronic Foreign Clearance Guide (FCG) at https://www.fcg.pentagon.mil/fcg.cfm and must have all necessary passports, visas, and other documents required to enter, exit, or work in the USSOUTHCOM AOR; must have the appropriate DOD identity credential(s); must have the appropriate special area, country, and theater clearance as required in DOD Directive 4500.54E.

1.6.21.2 Vetting: The Contractor company and all associated sub-contractor companies, must have been vetted by the US Embassy in the country which the contract will be performed. For the purposes of this contract, the company is considered vetted if the company is located in the country which the contract will be performed unless the company has been previously barred from performing services for the Government. If during a previous vetting process the company was barred from performing service for the Government, then that is grounds for termination of the contract. If the company is located outside of the country which the contract will be performed, the company must be vetted by the US Embassy in the country of performance. Vetting will coordinated through the US Embassy's DOD Security Cooperation Office (SCO) in the country of performance. If during any previous vetting process in other countries, the company is found to be barred from performing services for the Government; this finding is grounds for termination of the contract.

1.6.21.2.1 The Contractor shall provide a fully qualified workforce who possesses the training, skills, licenses, clearances, certifications and experience to successfully perform the services required in this PWS. Contractor employees remain under the direct supervision of the contractor and will not be considered employees of the Government. All contractor personnel shall be cleared by the Regional Security Office (RSO) prior to employment and at the contractor’s expense (see Para 1.6.7.1 for more information). The contractor shall not employ any person whose employment results in a conflict of interest under DoD 5500.7-R, Joint Ethics Regulation. The contractor must demonstrate registry or other certification which authorizes the company to perform and do business in the country of Colombia.

1.6.21.3 Installation Access to DOD Facility or Host Nation Installation: Contractor and all subcontractor employees performing services under this contract shall comply with adjudication standards and procedures using the National Crime Information Center Interstate Identification Index (NCIC-III) (U.S. citizen and residents only), and Terrorist Screening Database (TSDB) (Army Directive 2014-05/AR 190-13), applicable installation, facility and areas commander installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures (provided by the COR or KO), and status of forces agreements or other diplomatic agreements. The employee performing services under this contract shall provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to the installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services, Security Office, or host nation equivalent.

1.6.21.4 Host Nation Installation Access with No DOD Facility: Contractor and all associated subcontractor employees shall comply with applicable installation, facility and area commander installation/facility access and local security policies and procedures. The employee performing services under this contract shall also provide all information required for background checks to meet installation access requirements to be accomplished by installation Provost Marshal Office, Director of Emergency Services, Security Office or the host nation equivalent.

1.6.21.5 Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Samples. The Contractor shall collect a DNA record for all U.S. citizen Contractor and subcontractor personnel traveling to the USSOUTHCOM AOR and shall have arrangements for storage of the DNA referenced specimen through a private facility or arrange for the storage of the specimen by contacting the Armed Forces Repository of Specimen Samples for the Identification of Remains (AFRSSIR) at http://www.afmes.mil/index.cfm?pageid=afdil.afrssir.overview or phone: (302) 346-8800. In addition, U.S. citizen Contractor and subcontractor personnel shall comply with the requirements of DODI 3020.41, Enclosure 3, paragraph 8.b., or its successor.

1.6.21.6 Medical Travel Requirement: Contractor shall ensure that all Contractor employees and subcontractor employees are medically, dentally, and psychologically fit for performance of their duties. All U.S. citizen and third country national (TCN) Contractor and subcontractor personnel must meet the medical screening requirements established by the USSOUTHCOM Commander in the Medical Suitability Screening Regulation (SC Reg 40-501), as well as the requirements identified in FORCE HEALTH PROTECTION (FHP) GUIDANCE FOR DEPLOYMENT in the USSOUTHCOM AOR or their successors and follow immunization and health protection guidelines outlined therein. All immunizations must be obtained prior to traveling to the USSOUTHCOM AOR. U.S. citizen and TCN Contractor and subcontractor personnel traveling from a country outside of the USSOUTHCOM AOR must travel into the USSOUTHCOM AOR with a current copy of the Public Health Service Form 791, “International Certificate of Vaccination”. In addition, U.S. citizen and TCN Contractor and subcontractor personnel traveling to the USSOUTHCOM AOR are required to be beneficiaries of a medical evacuation plan and service through an insurance plan provided by their employer or paid for individually.

1.6.22 Synchronized Pre-deployment and Operational Tracker (SPOT): Upon award of this contract, or employment of new personnel, the Contractor shall enter Contractor employees and subcontractor employees performing services under this contract into the SPOT database who meet one of the following conditions:

(1) All U.S. citizen and resident, and third country national (TCN) personnel who travel…