RFP-CZ-2664-06012025 FINAL.pdf

Jet Propulsion Laboratory California Institute of Technology 4800 Oak Grove Drive Pasadena CA 91109-8099

Date: August 28, 2025

Attn: Prospective Bidders

Subject: SMALL BUSINESS SET-ASIDE

JPL Request for Proposal (RFP) No. CZ-2664-06012025 for MECHANICAL

ENGINEERING SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE (MESA)

Reference: Attachments

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) invites your organization to submit a written Cost Type and Fixed Price proposals in conformance with the instructions contained in this letter and its enclosures, which comprise the RFP for JPL’s acquisition of the subject effort. The awarded, small business subcontractors will provide the labor, materials, equipment, and facilities necessary to perform mechanical systems engineering tasks in support of non-flight and flight technology development, system engineering, hardware development, and integration and test activities. JPL intends to award both subcontract types to more than one (1) subcontractor. Each task effort against the subcontract will be directed on a Subcontract Work Order (SWO) basis.

This RFP does not commit JPL or the Government of the United States to pay any costs incurred in submitting your proposal. Proposers participate in this RFP process solely at their own risk and expense.

JPL reserves the right to cancel this RFP and to reject any or all proposals.

This Request for Proposal is a 100% set-aside for small business concerns:

The APEX Accelerators can provide guidance to small businesses in Government Contracting and other free services such as counseling, training, workshops, etc. APEX website: www.apexaccelerators.us

An additional resource for small businesses is the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). The SBDC program is the SBA’s largest small business development program and offers free services as well.

SBDC Website: https://pcrsbdc.org/

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code and description for this acquisition is 541715 Exception 3 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology). The size standard for this NAICS code is <1,300 employees.

Additional information can be found here: https://www.sba.gov/document/support-table-size-standards.

Provide your CAGE Code and the name of your cognizant Government Audit Agency (i.e. DCAA, etc.), if any, their phone number and point of contact, and a copy of the letter that indicates their approval of your organization’s direct and indirect rates.

This competitive solicitation may result in the award to multiple subcontractors. Awards will be issued to subcontractors with capabilities in the Core Mechanical and one or both Specialty Mechanical disciplines as described in the Subcontract Statement of Work and RFP Instructions. Proposers must respond to the instructions for both cost reimbursable and fixed price subcontracts or will otherwise be deemed non-responsive. A single award for one subcontract type will not be made. JPL intends to award each source the following two (2) SWO driven subcontract types:

1. Cost Reimbursable Plus Fixed Fee

2. Fixed Price

Note: This is not a Staffing Subcontract.

The subcontracts awarded as a result of this RFP will be in effect for three (3) years with the possible award of one option for two (2) additional years for a total of five (5) years. Funding for the work will be at the individual Subcontract Work Order level. It is anticipated that JPL will award each cost reimbursable subcontract an amount of $9M and each fixed price subcontract an amount of $2.25M.

In the unlikely event that the awarded subcontractors should default at any time, JPL reserves the right to consider their replacement with the runner-up proposer.

If a joint venture business is proposing, each joint venture partner must qualify as a Small Business under NAICS Code 541715 Exception 3. See 13 CFR § 125.8(a). Each entity that is a partner to the joint venture should complete the A-22 Small Business Joint Venture certificate set forth in the RFP. If an entity submits a proposal as a joint venture, JPL may consider and evaluate the relevant capabilities, past performance, experience, business systems, and certifications of each separate business entity forming the joint venture, as well as the joint venture itself.

A mentor-protégé joint venture consisting of a protégé Small Business and its SBA-approved mentor may also submit an offer, provided that the protégé is small under NAICS Code 541715 Exception 3. See 13 CFR § 121.103(h)(2)(ii). Each entity that is a partner to the joint venture should complete the A-22 Small Business Joint Venture certificate set forth in the RFP. Mentor-protégé joint ventures must also provide proof that they have been approved by SBA at the time they submit their proposal. See 13 C.F.R. § 125.9.

While there might be circumstances in which extensive experience by a mentor in an SBA-approved mentor protégé joint venture might offset critical requirements by a protégé, it would be best if both members of the joint venture meet the critical required experience. Any proposer who does not have the required experience will not be a viable competitor, has no reasonable chance of competing and is expressly discouraged from proposing.

PROPOSERS ARE ADVISED THAT JPL HAS IDENTIFIED A MANDATORY QUALIFICATION

FOR THIS RFP. THE MANDATORY QUALIFICATION IS TO PROVIDE THE PROSPECTIVE

PROPOSER WITH A BASIS FOR DETERMINING WHETHER OR NOT THEY MIGHT MEET THE

MINIMUM REQUIREMENT FOR CONSIDERATION OF AWARD. PROPOSERS MUST MEET

THE MANDATORY QUALIFICATION BY TIME OF THIS SOLICITATION IN ORDER TO BE

CONSIDERED A SELECTED SOURCE AND THEREBY ELIGIBLE FOR AWARD. THE

REQUIREMENTS FOR A PROPOSER ARE AS FOLLOWS:

Proposers must show verification by DCAA or other audit agency, of an accounting system that has been audited and determined adequate for determining costs applicable to this contract, in accordance with (Federal Acquisition Regulation) FAR 16.301-3(a)(1). Proposers must state if their accounting system is adequate for accumulating costs. They will provide one of the following:

o A Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) accounting system certification/report.

o A third-party accounting system certification/report (e.g., another government agency or prime contractor).

o A letter or report from the proposer’s independent accounting firm stating that the firm approves of the adequacy of the proposer’s accounting system.

Adequacy of the accounting system must have been completed within the last three years. Supporting documentation must be provided that any identified material deficiencies have been resolved and the degree to which the subcontractor’s accounting system has been deemed adequate for cost reimbursement subcontracts. Each proposer will be required to complete the RFP Attachment A-20 “Evidence of Adequacy of Accounting System”. Proposers must meet the mandatory qualification as of the release date of the subject RFP to be a qualified source.

JPL has defined the Standard Subcontract’s Statement of Work (SOW) scope in two categories: Core and Specialty. Proposers must demonstrate capabilities in all Core disciplines, as well as in one or both of the Specialty disciplines. Additionally, the prime subcontractor with a facility clearance is preferred but not required for award consideration.

All questions made to JPL after the official RFP release date must be submitted by email to the undersigned. When appropriate, responses to requests, as well as any JPL initiated changes, shall be posted on the RFP website. The questions and answers will be posted on the RFP website:

https://acquisition.jpl.nasa.gov/opportunities/ in addition to the SAM.gov site. The questioner will remain anonymous. Each website will contain the RFP and a continually updated set of all questions and answers pertaining to the RFP, in the form of an addendum. Review the websites on a weekly basis for updates. The final day to submit a request for clarification and/or additional information is October 11, 2025, 3:00 p.m. (Pacific Time).

No later than September 18, 2025, 12:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) as a convenience to JPL, provide to the undersigned, an email statement that you do or do not intend to submit a proposal; and, if you do, how will you structure your organizational response to the RFP (e.g., prime contractor-subcontractor teaming arrangement, sole proposer, SBA approved Mentor protégé joint venture or other joint venture). Submit with your intent statement the accounting system verification for meeting the mandatory qualification outlined above. Attachment A-14 “Past Performance” is also due September 18, 2025, by 12:00 p.m.

(Pacific Time).

Please note that phase 1 of your proposal is due at JPL no later than October 14, 2025, by 3:00 p.m.

(Pacific Time). Submit your proposal by email to the undersigned. All important dates pertaining to the RFP have been outlined below.

Failure to provide any of the data requested in this RFP may render the proposal nonresponsive. Should you have any questions, please address them to the undersigned by email.

Sincerely, Christine M. Zuro Subcontracts Manager Phone No.: (747) 261-8835 E-mail: Christine.M.Zuro@jpl.nasa.gov

Attachments: RFP consisting of:

• Cover Sheet and Table of Contents

• General Instructions

• Technical/Management Instructions

• Cost/Price Instructions

• RFP Attachments

Standard Subcontract consisting of:

• Standard Subcontract

• Referenced Exhibits

• Referenced GPs & AGPs

• Subcontract Form Set

Table 1: Phased Approach and Important Dates

Description Details

1 Email of Intent to Submit a Proposal

Mandatory Qualification

Past Performance

No later than September 18, 2025, 12:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) as a convenience to JPL an email statement that you do or do not intend to submit a proposal.

No later than September 18, 2025, 12:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) verification by DCAA or other audit agency, of an accounting system that has been audited and determined adequate for determining costs applicable to this contract.

Submit the completed Attachment A-20 “Evidence of Adequacy of Accounting System”. No page limitation.

No later than September 18, 2025, 12:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) submit your A- 14 “Past Performance” information. No page limitation.

2 Final Day to Submit Request for RFP Clarification

No later than October 11, 2025, 12:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) will be the final opportunity to request RFP clarification questions.

3 Proposal Volume I

Technical/Management

Resumes

Volume I proposal is due at JPL no later than October 14, 2025, by 12:00 p.m. (Pacific Time). Page limitation is 50.

Technical and Management proposal response addressing the RFP’s instructions and evaluation criteria – included in the 50 page limitation.

1 to 2 pages per person not less than font size 10 - NOT included in the page limitation

Related Experience

Cyber Security Template

COI Plan

Quality Assurance

Proposal Attachments

Related Experience proposal response addressing the RFP’s instructions and evaluation criteria - included in the 50-page limitation.

Cyber Review Template for Security Requirements for Unclassified Information Technology Resources Rev. 41 – NOT included in the 50-page limitation.

Organizational Conflict of Interest (COI) Avoidance Plan – NOT included in the 50-page limitation.

Quality Assurance Plan - NOT included in the 50-page limitation.

A-1 Acknowledgment, A-6 Notice of Small Business Set-Aside, and A-21 Supplier Information Request Proposal attachments are NOT included in the 50-page limit.

4 Proposal Volume II

Proposal Attachments

Proposers who are notified to move on after the evaluation of Volume I, will be provided with the proposal response date to submit Volume II and Volume III.

Volume II must include the Cost/Price proposal addressing the RFP’s instructions for Part I – Cost Plus Fixed Fee and Part II – Fixed Price. No page limitation.

A-15 Cost Element Breakdown for spreadsheets Cost Reimbursable (Tabs 1, 2, & 3) and Fixed Price (Tabs 1 & 2) – No page limitation.

A-17 Proposer Accounting System & Cost Accounting Standards Coverage & Disclosure Statement Information – No page limitation.

B-10 Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data not required for this RFP response but for will be required individual SWO proposals greater than $2.0M unless an exception applies B-13 Claims for Exceptions to Cost or Pricing Data – No page limitation.

5 Proposal Volume III

Representative Work Orders (RWOs)

Attachment

Supplemental Business Information Paragraph 7.0

Proposers who are notified to move on after the evaluation of Volume I, will be provided with the proposal response date to submit Volume II and Volume III.

Technical and Management response to RWOs 1 and 2 with a 10-page limitation for each RWO.

A-15 Cost Element Breakdown for spreadsheets RWO Cost Reimbursable Tab 4 and RWO Fixed Price Tab 3 - No page limitation

Financial Statement/Financial Responsibility: Only one submission needed for all RWOs - No page limitation

GENERAL INFORMATION

Note to all Proposers:

Under the JPL/NASA Prime Contract the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) operates the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). JPL is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) funded by NASA that conducts research and development in space science and other science areas specified or approved by NASA. See FAR 35.017 for description of FFRDC. JPL is also the name of an unincorporated subdivision of Caltech a private non-profit educational institution chartered under the laws of the State of California. JPL is not an agent of the Government.

In connection with research performed under JPL/NASA Prime Contract, JPL is frequently called upon to obtain and evaluate cost or pricing data submitted by subcontractors as required by FAR 15.402, 15.403- 4(b) and 15.404-2(a). JPL is authorized to obtain proposal evaluations and rates and factors from either DCMA or the appropriate contract administrative/audit activities as necessary to evaluate a prospective subcontractor’s proposal.

JET PROPULSION LABORATORY CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO.:CZ-2664-06012025

FOR:

MECHNICAL ENGINEERING SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE (MESA)

PROPOSALS ARE TO BE RECEIVED AT JPL NO LATER THAN:

Date: October 14, 2025

3:00 p.m. Pacific Time

COMMUNICATIONS IN REFERENCE TO THIS RFP

Any communication in reference to this RFP must be via email and directed to:

Name: Christine M Zuro Title: Subcontracts Manager Phone: (747) 261-8835

E-Mail Christine.M.Zuro@jpl.nasa.gov

California Institute of Technology Jet Propulsion Laboratory 4800 Oak Grove Drive Pasadena, CA 91109-8099

Date of Issuance: TBD

TABLE OF CONTENTS

RFP No.: CZ-2664-06012025

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS………………………………………………………………………. 1

1.0 GENERAL REQUIREMNTS/INFORMATION

2.0 LATE E-MAIL PROPOSALS

3.0 RESERVED

4.0 RESERVED

5.0 PROPOSAL FORMAT

6.0 SOURCE EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

7.0 RESTRICTIVE MARKINGS

8.0 EXCEPTIONS/DECLINATIONS/ASSUMPTIONS

TECHNICAL/MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS…………………………………5

1.0 MANDATORY QUALIFICATION

2.0 OPTION EVALUATION

3.0 TECHNICAL/MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS

OTHER FACTORS………………………………………………………………………………….11

1.0 PAST PERFORMANCE

COST/PRICE INSTRUCTIONS……………………………………………………………………12

1.0 DATA SUBMITTAL

2.0 VOLUME II: PROPOSAL PRICING

3.0 COST ELEMENTS SUPPORTING DATA

4.0 PROGRESS PAYMENTS

5.0 PROVISIONAL MILESTONE/PARTIAL PAYMENTS

6.0 RESERVED

7.0 SUPPLEMENTAL BUSINESS/COST INFORMATION

REPRESENTATIVE WORK ORDERS (RWOs)………………………………………………... 26

1.0 VOLUME III: REPRESENTATIVE WORK ORDER (RWO) INSTRUCTIONS

ATTACHMENTS TO THE SOLICITATION. See form JPL 2839 for a list of Attachments

• Group A Attachments must be completed and attached to your proposal.

• Group B Attachments consist of forms and documents for informational purposes only. Note that Group B Attachments are very important and may become requirements under the Subcontract.

• Both A and B Attachments can be found through the electronic address identified below as:

https://acquisition.jpl.nasa.gov/terms-conditions/

RFP No.CZ-2664-06012025

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

1.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS/INFORMATION

The effort to be performed will be in accordance with the Standard Subcontract. JPL reserves the right to retain all proposal information submitted in response to this RFP.

1.1 Proprietary Information

If the proposal contains Proprietary Information that is not to be disclosed, you must place the following wording on the cover sheet of each electronic file:

“Proprietary Information contained in pages _____________ of this proposal furnished in connection with RFP No. CZ-2664-06012025 shall not be used or disclosed, except for evaluation purposes, provided that if a subcontract is awarded to this offeror as a result of or in connection with the submission of this proposal, JPL and the Government shall have the right to use or disclose this Proprietary Information to the extent provided in the subcontract. This restriction does not limit JPL’s right to use or disclose any Proprietary Information obtained from another source without restriction.”

1.2 Requests for Clarification/RFP Addenda

During the proposal preparation period, all requests for clarification and/or additional information must be submitted by e-mail to the Subcontracts Manager referenced on the RFP cover page.

When appropriate, responses to requests, as well as any JPL initiated changes, will be provided to known prospective proposer(s) as addenda to the RFP.

1.3 Compliance with Export Control Laws and Regulations

In the performance of this RFP, JPL may exchange information or other technology which may be subject to the export control laws and regulations of the United States, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 22 C.F.R. 120-130 and the Export Administration Act Regulations (EAR), 15 C.F.R. 730-774. All proposing parties agree to fully comply with all such laws and regulations while participating in this RFP process.

1.4 Proposals via Email Only

Proposals are to be submitted only as an attachment(s) to an e-mail, and must:

• Have a scanned signature or an e-signature.

• Provide files in the following format: Microsoft Office family, Adobe (text-searchable), or a compatible format. For cost/price data, the format should be Excel or compatible.

• Not be an “.exe” or encrypted file or have multiple file extensions (e.g., doc.pdf). JPL IT Security system may reject multiple file extensions for suspected malicious content.

• Be sent to the Subcontracts Manager referenced by “Attention:” on the RFP cover page.

• BE 20MB OR LESS in total size for the entire e-mail (including all attachments, signatures, text contained in the body of the e-mail, company logos, etc.). If your email exceeds 20MB, the proposal must be sent in more than one email or using a mutually agreeable large file transfer system.

• NOTE: If you received this RFP via JPL’s large file transfer system, you may create an account by following the link in the original RFP email and use it to submit your proposal. (Please note JPL’s large file transfer tool has a limit of 80GB per transfer).

• Notify the Subcontracts Manager referenced on the JPL RFP Cover Page if multiple e-mails are needed for a given volume of your proposal (e.g., technical/Management, Cost, or Past Performance).

• If the submission of more than one email or large file transfer is required, then ALL emails and large file transfers must be received on the JPL server by the time and date stated on the RFP cover sheet. Allow sufficient time for electronic submission.

2.0 LATE E-MAIL PROPOSALS:

Any proposal, portion of a proposal, or proposal revision received at JPL after the date and time specified on the cover page of this RFP may not be considered for evaluation and award, except under any of the following circumstances:

2.1 JPL determines that the proposal was late due solely to mishandling by JPL or infrastructure disruption at JPL after receipt at JPL, provided that the timely receipt at JPL is evidenced by JPL email server time stamp.

2.2 No acceptable proposals are received as of the proposal due date and time.

2.3 If an emergency or unanticipated event interrupts normal JPL operation thereby affecting timely receipt of proposals nor can an amendment to extend be issued, the time specified for receipt of proposal will be extended to the same time on the first workday of normal operations.

2.4 JPL may, at its sole discretion to enhance competition, extend the due date for proposals after the due date currently set forth in the RFP or in any extension thereto has passed.

3.0 RESERVED

4.0 RESERVED

5.0 PROPOSAL FORMAT

This competition will have two phases. Your proposal shall consist of three volumes:

Volume I Phase I – Technical/Management Proposal Volume II Phase II – Cost/Price Proposal Volume III Phase II - Representative Work Orders (RWOs) Exercise

The first phase requires the submission of Volume I – Technical/Management Proposal, Related Experience, Cyber Security Template, Conflict of Interest Plan, and Quality Assurance Plan as specified in Section 3.0 Technical/Management RFP Instructions.

JPL will evaluate the responses and will make a competitive range determination. Only companies that are determined to be in the competitive range will receive notification to submit the second phase RFP responses for Volumes II and III. This second phase requires the submission of Cost/Price Information and the technical responses and cost estimates for two Representative Work Orders (RWOs). The volumes of your proposal are to be submitted in accordance with the instructions of this RFP.

The required documents, as set forth in Attachments A and B to this RFP, must be included in the proposal submission of Volumes I, II, and III. See Table 1: Phased Approach and Important Dates above. In the second phase, JPL may request a facility tour.

6.0 SOURCE EVALUATION AND SELECTION PROCESS

NOTE: JPL, at its discretion, may waive minor informalities and minor irregularities in proposals received, and will not complete the initial evaluation of any proposal when it is determined that the proposal is unacceptable per NASA Far Supplement 1815.305-70.

Source selection will be based on best overall value determination, considering cumulative scoring across all evaluation criteria. This process includes both cost reimbursable and fixed price subcontract requirements in the overall score.

6.1 Proposal Evaluation

Proposals will be evaluated and scored according to the criteria described in the Technical/Management Proposal Instructions of the RFP.

• Although cost/price will not be scored, the proposed cost/price shall be a substantial factor in source selection and is of lesser importance than the combined technical and management areas.

• The closer the proposers are in the qualitative (evaluated) technical and/or management areas, the more important cost/price can become.

• JPL may select a source whose qualitative merits are lower but whose lower cost/price is commensurate with providing the best overall “value.” Conversely, a source may be selected whose cost/price is higher, but its higher qualitative merits are commensurate with providing best overall “value.”

The proposal evaluation process is as follows:

6.1.1 Initial Evaluation: Proposals are evaluated against the pre-set areas of evaluation outlined in the Technical/Management Proposal instructions of the RFP. An analysis of the cost/price details (if applicable) is performed and proposed costs/prices are compared.

6.1.2 Cost/Price Proposal Adjustments: Cost/price proposals are reviewed for mathematical accuracy, rate application, omissions, and reasonableness. If the Buy American Act or rent-free use of Government-furnished property applies, the cost/price will be adjusted as required for the purpose of evaluation.

6.1.3 Pre-Competitive Range Communications: JPL may, at its discretion, conduct clarification communications with one or more proposer(s) for the purpose of determining whether the proposer(s) should be included in the competitive range. Such communications may be conducted to address:

(i) Ambiguities in the proposal or other concerns (e.g., errors, omissions or mistakes)

(ii) Information relating to relevant past performance.

6.1.4 Competitive Range Discussions: JPL may make source selection after the initial proposal evaluation or may conduct discussions with the proposers determined to be within the competitive range. The purpose of the discussions is to assist the evaluators in fully understanding each proposal by verifying strengths and weaknesses, discussing any omissions and ambiguities, verifying the validity of the proposed cost/price, assessing the proposed personnel and examining the proposer’s capabilities for performing the work.

JPL may also request cost/price proposal clarifications in order to correct errors, omissions, or ambiguities in the proposal. NOTE: Only those cost/price clarifications specifically requested by JPL will be accepted.

6.1.5 Cost Realism: JPL’s final evaluation may include completing a thorough assessment of the cost/price realism of each proposal. In performing this assessment, JPL may develop a “probable cost” for each proposer. “Probable cost” is defined as JPL’s best estimate of the cost/price of any subcontract that is most likely to result from the offeror’s proposal.

6.1.6 Final Evaluation: Upon completion of the initial evaluation findings, any discussions, and any cost/price clarifications, a final evaluation is conducted resulting in subcontractor selection for negotiations or award.

7.0 RESTRICTIVE MARKINGS

7.1 JPL’s Prime Contract with NASA contains important requirements regarding the protection and preservation of the Government’s technical data rights. The attached Standard Subcontract may require the delivery of technical and/or confidential-proprietary data. Limited rights data can be used by the Government and JPL in furtherance of Government contract obligations.

7.2 In your proposal, include a list of any technical and/or confidential-proprietary data that you expect to deliver to JPL in performance of the Standard Subcontract that will be marked with restrictive markings per the General Provisions entitled “Rights in Data – General” and “Limitation on Restrictive Markings.”

8.0 EXCEPTIONS/DECLINATIONS/ASSUMPTIONS

Any exceptions to either the RFP and/or Standard Subcontract (including its exhibits), or equivalent assumptions, or a declination to provide the rate information requested in the Cost/Price Instructions, may make your proposal unacceptable for evaluation. For each and every exception, declination or assumption you must provide a detailed explanation and associated full rationale. Additionally, for each exception taken, provide the alternative language proposed. Place all this information in a special section of your proposal entitled “Exceptions/Declinations/Assumptions.”

PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS

Present and organize your proposal in accordance with the following:

1.0 MANDATORY QUALIFICATION

1.1 Proposers must show verification by DCAA or other audit agency, of an accounting system that has been audited and determined adequate for determining costs applicable to this contract, in accordance with (Federal Acquisition Regulation) FAR 16.301-3(a)(1). Proposers must state if their accounting system is adequate for accumulating costs. They will provide one of the following:

A Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) accounting system certification/report.

A third-party accounting system certification/report (e.g., another government agency or prime contractor).

A letter or report from the proposer’s independent accounting firm stating that the firm approves of the adequacy of the proposer’s accounting system.

Adequacy of the accounting system must have been completed within the last three years.

Supporting documentation must be provided that any identified material deficiencies have been resolved and the degree to which the subcontractor’s accounting system has been deemed adequate for cost reimbursement contracts.

Each proposer will be required to complete the RFP Attachment A-20 “Evidence of Adequacy of Accounting System”. Proposers must meet the mandatory qualification prior to the release date of the subject RFP to be a qualified source.

2.0 OPTION EVALUATION

2.1 The Standard Subcontract contains an Option Article. Both the basic Subcontract requirements and the Subcontract Option Article will be evaluated for source selection purposes as follows:

[x ] The cost/price data and probable cost/price realism thereof.

[x] Technical/Management merit (as determined by the below Section 3.0).

3.0 VOLUME I PHASE I: TECHNICAL/MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL INSTRUCTIONS

JPL will evaluate Volume I of your proposal based on the requested information in the table below and subsequent “Technical/Management Criteria and Factors,” with respect to how your proposal meets the requirements of the Standard Subcontract.

JPL has defined the Standard Subcontract’s Statement of Work (SOW) scope in two categories: Core and Specialty, as shown in the figure below. Proposers must demonstrate capabilities in all Core disciplines, as well as in one or both of the Specialty disciplines.

Prime subcontractor with a facility clearance is preferred but not required for award consideration.

Figure 1 - Statement of Work Scope Categories

TECHNICAL/MANAGEMENT EVALUATION CRITERIA AND ORGANIZATION

TECHNICAL/MANAGEMENT CRITERIA AND THEIR WEIGHTING PROPOSAL ORGANIZATION

Criteria Weighting No. of Copies

Maximum Page Limit Required

1 electronic copy

See Phased Approach and

Important Dates Table 1

TECHNICAL CRITERIA

The extent to which the proposer possesses the capabilities, skill mix of personnel, partnering utilization, processes, and facilities to successfully perform all Core and one or both Specialty SOW disciplines (Figure 1 - Statement of Work Scope ).

Criterion T1 - Technical Capabilities of Team and Personnel Factor 1: Technical approach and description of capabilities Factor 2: Key personnel of Program Manager Factor 3: Technical expertise through partnerships Factor 4: Technical personnel for SOW disciplines Factor 5: Evidence of Quality Management System points

Criterion T2 - Technical Capabilities of Facilities, Equipment, and Tools Factor 1: Facilities and Equipment Factor 2: Tools points

Criterion T3 – Cybersecurity and Facility Clearance Factor 1: Cybersecurity Factor 2: Facility Clearance points

MANAGEMENT CRITERIA

The extent to which the proposer has the organizational structure, management controls, and partnering relationships necessary to effectively manage, execute, and ensure the successful technical completion of Subcontract Work Orders (SWOs) within budget and on schedule.

Criterion M1 – Team Structure Factor 1: Partnering strategy Factor 2: Work-split management compliance points

Criterion M2 – Task Order Management Controls Factor 1: SWO procedure execution Factor 2: SWO performance management points

Criterion M3 – Organizational Structure and Management Plan Factor 1: Organizational authority and reporting Factor 2: Staffing Factor 3: Policy, procedure, and training compliance points

RELATED EXPERIENCE CRITERIA

The extent to which the proposer’s past performance demonstrates relevant experience with projects similar in scope and complexity to the Standard Subcontract.

Criterion R1 - Related Experience Factor 1: Related Technical Experience Factor 2: Related Management Experience points

REPRESENTATIVE WORK ORDERS (RWOs)

The extent to which the proposer addresses each RWO with completeness, clarity, rigor, accuracy, and a sound approach.

Criterion W1 Factor 1: RWO 1 Cost Reimbursable Factor 2: RWO 2 Fixed Price points

Total Score Possible: 1,000

*If “Page Limit” is checked: Any required page limitations included in an RFP shall be strictly enforced. A page is each face of a piece of paper containing substantive, evaluable information; page size: 8 ½” x 11”; any drawings/photos are included (foldouts will be considered 2 or more pages); single spacing minimum; font size not less than 10; all margins ½” or greater. If “Required” page limit, no pages beyond the number specified will be evaluated. Unless requested, mockups, models, samples, hardware, or software of any kind must not be furnished and will not be considered.

TECHNICAL/MANAGEMENT CRITERIA AND FACTORS

Factors are not assigned weightings. All factors for a given criteria are not listed in any order of importance and are accounted for when scoring that criterion.

1.0 Introduction

This portion of the proposal instructions sets forth the requirements to be followed in preparing the Volume 1 - Technical/Management Proposal. The following information must be provided concisely in Volume 1 to permit an evaluation of your technical and management qualifications, and the effectiveness of the methods proposed to perform the effort required by the RFP Standard Subcontract. Organize your proposal contents by addressing each criterion and factor as instructed below, in the specified order.

Ensure any sample reports, reviews, papers, or memos reference the corresponding criterion or factor(s).

2.0 Technical Capabilities

The extent to which the proposer possesses the capabilities, skill mix of personnel, partnering utilization, processes, and facilities to successfully perform all Core and one or both Specialty SOW disciplines (Figure 1 - Statement of Work Scope ).

Criterion T1 - Technical Capabilities of Team and Personnel Factor 1: Technical approach and description of capabilities Provide a clear and comprehensive overview of your technical approach, demonstrating how it meets or exceeds the requirements of the Standard Subcontract. Include a description of your capabilities, products, and services that align with the Core disciplines, as well as those in one or both Specialty disciplines, as defined in the Statement of Work and shown in Figure 1 above.

Factor 2: Key personnel of Program Manager Provide a resume for the proposed Key Personnel of Program Manager. Key Personnel must have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering or related technical field with at least ten (10) years experience. Requires a background in supporting NASA, Department of Defense, or equivalent flight programs. Describe technical, management, personnel, and organizational experience including the number of personnel supervised, along with educational background, security clearance level, and the individual’s knowledge of the SOW technical disciplines.

Factor 3: Technical expertise through partnerships Discuss where technical expertise will be obtained through partnerships or subcontracts and how it will be organized. Identify which technical disciplines will be augmented through these partnerships or subcontracts.

Factor 4: Technical personnel for SOW disciplines Identify and provide resumes for personnel with expertise in the technical disciplines defined in the Statement of Work in the Standard Subcontract. Clearly identify prime subcontractor personnel in the technical disciplines. Provide no more than five (5) resumes for any one (1) technical discipline. Identify organization, current assignment, and location of proposed personnel. Discuss educational background and related work experience in both managerial and technical areas, security clearance level, and any other information that may support qualifications for assignment to this effort.

Factor 5: Evidence of Quality Management System Describe how you will comply with JPL classifications of hardware and delivery of the work in accordance with the quality requirements for Quality Critical Items (QCI), both flight and non-flight.

Provide evidence of your ISO 9000 or AS9100C certification and date of the most recent Quality Management System (QMS) audit. Provide a copy of the Quality Management Plan (not included in page limit).

Criterion T2 - Technical Capabilities of Facilities, Equipment, and Tools Factor 1: Facilities and Equipment Describe the facilities and equipment available to support the requirements defined in the SOW. Identify and provide details on the capabilities of facilities located within a 150-mile radius of JPL’s Oak Grove Drive facility, including the locations and relevant information for any partner or lower-tier subcontractor sites.

Factor 2: Tools Describe primary engineering application tools available for use on this subcontract. Include your knowledge and experience of data translation protocols used for sharing engineering data. Specifically address your proficiency and experience with the following tools and list any additional analysis models, manufacturing models, design tools or translation tools you have used:

1. Mechanical Design (CAD)

a. NX (Siemens)

b. SolidWorks

2. Structural Analysis:

a. MSC or Simcenter Nastran

b. FEMAP

c. Dynamics: MSC Adams

d. Impact: LS Dyna

3. Thermal Engineering

a. Thermal Desktop

4. CFD

a. STAR CCM+

5. Opto-mechanical analysis

a. SigFit

b. CodeV

c. Zemax

Note: JPL will provide licenses and software included with the JPL provided computers. If the subcontractor decides to use their own computers, then it will be their responsibility to acquire the licenses.

Criterion T3 - Cybersecurity and Facility Clearance Factor 1: Cybersecurity Submit the JPL Cyber Review Template Rev 41.xlsx as specified in the AGP entitled “Security Requirements for Unclassified Information Technology Resources” for your network and facility.

Explain in your proposal response the reasons if unable to utilize JPL managed care and how you will ensure protection of JPL data. Your Security Plan, as approved by JPL’s Enterprise Tech, will become an Exhibit to the executed subcontract.

Describe how you will protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of NASA and JPL information and IT resources, as well as protect NASA and JPL information from unauthorized disclosure. Address the flow down to partners and lower-tier subcontractors.

Factor 2: Facility Clearance Identify the prime subcontractor’s facility clearance level and ability to work in a classified environment and hold personnel clearances. Identify number of personnel cleared at each level and technical expertise as related to SOW disciplines. Discuss whether the proposed Program Manager has experience with managing cleared work.

3.0 Management Approach

The extent to which the proposer has the organizational structure, management controls, and partnering relationships necessary to effectively manage, execute, and ensure the successful technical completion of Subcontract Work Orders (SWOs) within budget and on schedule.

Criterion M1 – Team Structure Factor 1: Partnering strategy Provide a description of your teaming and partnering strategy, including the history and nature of your relationships with partners and lower-tier subcontractors. Specify the types of contractual arrangements utilized with these partners and subcontractors. Additionally, outline your process for screening, vetting, and selecting partners and lower-tier subcontractors to ensure capability, reliability, and alignment with performance objectives.

Factor 2: Work-split management compliance Define your strategy for ensuring that the prime contractor or prime contractor combined with similarly situated partners perform at least 51% of the work, measured by cost, over the life of the subcontract.

Describe your approach to work allocation and monitoring to maintain compliance with this requirement throughout the subcontract period.

Criterion M2 – Task Order Management Controls Factor 1: SWO procedure execution Describe your approach for processing and managing Subcontract Work Orders (SWOs) in alignment with Exhibit 1, "Subcontract Work Order Procedure," as outlined in the Standard Subcontract. Detail your internal workflow for reviewing and responding to SWO Requests for Proposals (RFPs) within a 3 to 5 business day turnaround. Explain how workflow will be coordinated with lower-tier partners. Include any best practices you may employ for effectively managing a high volume of SWOs.

Factor 2: SWO performance management Describe the prime contractor’s approach to technical and management oversight of task orders, including processes for managing those involving partners and lower-tier subcontractors.

Technical – Explain how your organization will ensure that all work performed under each SWO complies with requirements and meets the highest standards of technical excellence. Include any quality control processes, oversight mechanisms, and performance review practices.

Schedule – Outline your approach to meeting all agreed-upon SWO schedules, including resource allocation, progress tracking, and corrective action procedures to address potential delays.

Cost – Describe the measures to effectively monitor, manage, and control costs of each SWO. Include strategies for risk identification, proactive mitigation, and cost monitoring to ensure financial accountability throughout the life of each SWO

Criterion M3 - Organizational Structure and Management Plan Factor 1: Organizational authority and reporting Describe your proposed organizational structure, including the lines of authority from the Subcontract’s Program Manager to the corporate organization. Include the corporate names and titles of the lines of authority to whom the Program Manager may interface or report to regularly. Discuss the Program Manager’s authority vs. responsibilities, and when, and to whom, he/she must report for issues/problems beyond his/her authority to resolve.

Factor 2: Staffing Describe your approach to maintaining continuity of personnel and consistent staffing of essential roles, including continuity of personnel assigned to task-based efforts. Discuss your ability to scale staffing levels in response to surge requirements. Provide examples where your organization successfully deployed additional support within ten (10) business days or less. Finally, describe your ability to provide qualified personnel onsite at JPL on short notice.

Factor 3: Policy, procedure, and training compliance Discuss your procedure for managing two subcontract types and ability to segregate costs between subcontracts in addition to tasks within subcontracts. Describe the process for monitoring and verifying staff and lower-tier subcontractors comply with policies, procedures and training requirements as outlined in Article 1 of the Subcontract.

4.0 Related Experience

The extent to which the proposer’s past performance demonstrates relevant technical and management experience with projects similar in scope and complexity to the Standard Subcontract.

Criterion R1- Related Experience Factor 1 – Related Technical Experience Describe your related experience in supporting the development and delivery of space flight hardware or associated support hardware with JPL, NASA, Department of Defense or other similar government or commercial organizations. Include a description of your knowledge of NASA standards, requirements, and analysis methodologies.

Factor 2 – Related Management Experience Describe your experience in leading diverse teams composed of both small and large businesses. Provide evidence of prior performance as a prime contractor, detailing your role, responsibilities, and outcomes.

Also, specify the number and size (e.g., small or large business) of lower-tier subcontractors you have managed in past efforts.

5.0 REPRESENTATIVE WORK ORDERS (RWOs)

Criterion W1 – Review the Phase II Volume III RWO Instructions section below.

Factor 1: RWO 1 Cost Reimbursable Factor 2: RWO 2 Fixed Price

OTHER FACTORS

1.0 PAST PERFORMANCE

1.1 Attachment A-14 “Past Performance” (Form JPL 0358-A14) sets forth the requirements to be followed in preparing information on your Past Performance and shall be submitted with your proposal.

Phase 2 Volume II – Part I Cost/Price Instructions Cost Plus Fixed Fee Subcontract with SWOs

Failure to provide the cost or pricing data requested below may render the proposal nonresponsive.

1.0 DATA SUBMITTAL

1.1 A proposal cover sheet, signed by the proposer’s authorized representative, stating the proposed cost, fee, and total price shall be provided with each individual SWO proposal submittal. A separate cover sheet is not required for the initial proposal submittal.

1.2 Provide the information requested in Sections 1, 2, and 3 of Attachment A-17, “Proposer, Accounting System and Cost Accounting Standards Coverage & Disclosure Statement Information” and submit with the proposal.

1.2.1 Attachment A-17 Section 2

As indicated on the cover letter to this RFP, and in compliance with RFP Attachment A- 20 Evidence of Adequacy of Accounting System, the proposer shall provide one or more of the following documents:

1) A Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) accounting system certification.

2) A third-party accounting system certification (e.g., another government agency or prime contractor).

3) A letter from the proposer’s accounting firm stating that the firm approves of the adequacy of the proposer’s accounting system for accumulating costs under a cost reimbursement subcontract.

The determination that the proposer’s accounting system is adequate for determining costs applicable to this contract, shall be in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 16.301-3(a)(1).

1.2.2 Attachment A-17 Section 3

In the event that a future SWO proposal is greater than $2.0 million, the proposer shall provide the Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) Coverage and Disclosure Statement information requested in Section 3 of Attachment A-17.

Note: The proposer is required to fill out Section 3 of Attachment A-17 and provide the information with the initial proposal submittal for documentation purposes. As the subcontract is a small business set-aside, at a minimum the small business exemption to CAS compliance shall apply for any SWO greater the $2M.

1.3 Provide the pricing and business data requested in paragraphs 2.0 and 3.0 below.

1.4 Provide the supplemental business information requested in paragraph 7.0 below.

1.5 If the proposer elects to provide a cost sharing proposal, such a proposal may be submitted in addition to, or instead of, the basic proposal. The cost sharing proposal shall provide all required cost information for the complete effort and clearly indicate which part of the effort is to be funded by the proposer and which part is to be funded by JPL.

1.6 For SWO proposals greater than $2.0 million, upon completion of the SWO negotiation, the pricing data requested below must be certified in accordance with Attachment B-10, “Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data” unless an exception applies (see note below).

If any exception per Attachment B-13, “Claims for Exceptions to Cost or Pricing Data” is applicable, the proposer shall provide a written request in accordance with Attachment B- 13 to qualify for an exception to the requirement for submission of certified pricing data.

If an exception does apply, the pricing data requested in paragraphs 2.0 and 3.0 below is still required for proposal evaluation purposes (including but not limited to assessing technical understanding and determining reasonableness of cost) but does not need to be certified.

Note: As this cost type subcontract will include Subcontract Work Orders, RFP Attachment B-10 Certificate of Current Cost or Pricing Data has been provided for information purposes so the proposer is aware that if the negotiated price of a single SWO is greater than $2M, then Attachment B-10 shall be required for that specific SWO.

1.6.1 For each individual item included in an SWO proposal for which the price exceeds $2.0 million and is based on catalog or market prices, or prices set by law or regulation, a written request for an exception to the submission of certified cost or pricing data in accordance with Attachment B-13Claims for Exceptions to Cost or Pricing Data is required. If an item qualifies for an exception but is priced at less than or equal to $2.0 million, state the basis of the price and provide appropriate reference documentation. A written request for an exception is not required.

2.0 PROPOSAL PRICING

Provide the cost/price information requested below in accordance with Attachment A-15 MESA CPFF CEB (Mechanical Engineering Support and Assistance Cost Plus Fixed Fee Cost Element Breakdown). Per section 3.4.3 below, if the cost proposed for any single subcontract (i.e. lower-tier subcontract to JPL) exceeds $250,000, provide an additional, supplemental Attachment A-15 detailing the cost for that lower-tier subcontractor. As required in section 3.4 Subcontract Detail below, all lower-tier subcontract cost shall be included within the proposer’s Attachment A-15 even if a supplemental Attachment A-15 is provided for a lower-tier subcontractor.

Note: No expense (direct or indirect) shall be included for IT equipment to be used within JPL’s firewall (e.g. laptops or cell phones). JPL shall provide this equipment as needed.

2.1 Attachment A-15 shall be provided in an Excel or Excel-compatible format, including the following worksheets as applicable. Proposers may use their own template as long as all the data required in Attachment A-15 is included.

Tab 1 – Labor Rates Provide the proposed labor category detail and corresponding FY’26 though FY’30 hourly direct labor rates.

For each labor category proposed in support of the Standard Subcontract provide the following.

Labor category title

Code or number (if any)

Description of the roles and responsibilities

Typical education and experience requirements

Security clearance level (note “none” or security clearance level assigned)

FY’26 through FY’30 direct labor rates

For fee calculation purposes a negotiated direct labor rate table, covering the complete period of performance, will be included in the Standard Subcontract, Article 2 Payment Provisions.

The negotiated direct labor rates will be used for the calculation of fee for each negotiated SWO. Reference Tab 3 – SWO Fee Calculation below.

For information purposes only, Tab 1 includes a chart showing the requested information for two sample labor categories.