Sol_140G0226R0003.pdf

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (WOSB)

SOLICITATION/CONTRACT/ORDER FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL SERVICES

1. REQUISITION NUMBER PAGE 1 OF

2. CONTRACT NUMBER 3.AWARD/EFFECTIVE

DATE

4. ORDER NUMBER 5. SOLICITATION NUMBER 6. SOLICITATION ISSUE

DATE

7. FOR SOLICITATION

INFORMATION CALL:

a. NAME b. TELEPHONE NUMBER (No collect calls)

8. OFFER DUE DATE/

LOCAL TIME

9. ISSUED BY

13b. RATING

14. METHOD OF SOLICITATION

CODE

15. DELIVER TO 16. ADMINISTERED BY CODE

18a. PAYMENT WILL BE MADE BY CODE17a. CONTRACTOR/

OFFEROR

CODE

FACILITY

CODE

CODE

TELEPHONE NUMBER

17b. CHECK IF REMITTANCE IS DIFFERENT AND PUT SUCH ADDRESS IN

OFFER

18b. SUBMIT INVOICES TO ADDRESS SHOWN IN BLOCK 18a UNLESS BLOCK

BELOW IS CHECKED

REQUEST

FOR QUOTE

(RFQ)

INVITATION

FOR BID

(IFB)

REQUEST

FOR

PROPOSAL

(RFP)

SEE ADDENDUM

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

(Use Reverse and/or Attach Additional Sheets as Necessary)

25. ACCOUNTING AND APPROPRIATION DATA 26. TOTAL AWARD AMOUNT (For Government Use Only)

28. CONTRACTOR IS REQUIRED TO SIGN THIS DOCUMENT AND RETURN 29. AWARD OF CONTRACT: REFERENCE

. YOUR OFFER ON SOLICITATION

(BLOCK 5), INCLUDING ANY ADDITIONS OR CHANGES WHICH ARE

SET FORTH HEREIN, IS ACCEPTED AS TO ITEMS:

30a. SIGNATURE OF OFFEROR/CONTRACTOR

30b. NAME AND TITLE OF SIGNER (Type or print) 30c. DATE SIGNED

31a. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SIGNATURE OF CONTRACTING OFFICER)

31b. NAME OF CONTRACTING OFFICER (Type or print) 31c. DATE SIGNED

AUTHORIZED FOR LOCAL REPRODUCTION

PREVIOUS EDITION IS NOT USABLE

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021)

Prescribed by GSA - FAR (48 CFR) 53.212

10. THIS ACQUISITION IS UNRESTRICTED OR

NORTH AMERICAN

INDUSTRY CLASSIFICATION

STANDARD (NAICS):

SIZE STANDARD:

13a. THIS CONTRACT IS A

RATED ORDER UNDER

THE DEFENSE PRIORITIES

AND ALLOCATIONS

SYSTEM - DPAS (15 CFR 700)

SET ASIDE: % FOR:

11. DELIVERY FOR FREE ON

BOARD (FOB) DESTINATION

UNLESS BLOCK IS MARKED

SEE SCHEDULE

12. DISCOUNT TERMS

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

ARE ARE NOT ATTACHED

27a. SOLICITATION INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE (FEDERAL ACQUISITION REGULATION) FAR 52.212-1, 52.212-4.

FAR 52.212-3 AND 52.212-5 ARE ATTACHED.

27b. CONTRACT/PURCHASE ORDER INCORPORATES BY REFERENCE FAR 52.212-4. FAR 52.212-5 IS ATTACHED.

8(A)

ECONOMICALLY

DISADVANTAGED

WOMEN-OWNED SMALL

BUSINESS (EDWOSB)

SERVICE-DISABLED

VETERAN-OWNED

SMALL BUSINESS

(SDVOSB)

HUBZONE SMALL

BUSINESS

SMALL BUSINESS

NOTE: OFFEROR TO COMPLETE BLOCKS 12, 17, 23, 24, AND 30.

COPIES TO ISSUING OFFICE. CONTRACTOR AGREES TO FURNISH

AND DELIVER ALL ITEMS SET FORTH OR OTHERWISE IDENTIFIED ABOVE AND

ON ANY ADDITIONAL SHEETS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS

SPECIFIED

DATED.

OFFER

ADDENDA

ADDENDA

140G0226R0003

See Schedule See Schedule

USGS OAG DENVER ACQUISITION BRANCH

PO BOX 25046

204 DENVER FEDERAL CENTER

DENVER CO 80225-0046

07/27/2026 1430 MD

0044020438

Lisa Williams 303-236-9327

GDB 100.00

GDB

Karen La Bouff-Kind

541990

$19.5

06/16/2026

0011277176

ADMINISTERED BY:

USGS OAG DENVER ACQUISITION BRANCH

PO BOX 25046

204 DENVER FEDERAL CENTER

DENVER CO 80225-0046 US

DELIVER TO:

Continued...

STOCK RECORD (S/R)

STANDARD FORM 1449 (REV. 11/2021) BACK

19.

ITEM NO.

20.

SCHEDULE OF SUPPLIES/SERVICES

21.

QUANTITY

22.

UNIT

23.

UNIT PRICE

24.

AMOUNT

32a. QUANTITY IN COLUMN 21 HAS BEEN

RECEIVED INSPECTED AND CONFORMS TO THE CONTRACT, EXCEPT AS NOTED:

41a. I CERTIFY THIS ACCOUNT IS CORRECT AND PROPER FOR PAYMENT

32b. SIGNATURE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32c. DATE

41b. SIGNATURE AND TITLE OF CERTIFYING OFFICER 41c. DATE

42a. RECEIVED BY (Print)

42b. RECEIVED AT (Location)

42c. DATE RECEIVED (MM/DD/YYYY) 42d. TOTAL CONTAINERS

40. PAID BY

32d. PRINTED NAME AND TITLE OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT

REPRESENTATIVE

32e. MAILING ADDRESS OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE 32f. TELEPHONE NUMBER OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

32g. EMAIL OF AUTHORIZED GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATIVE

33. SHIP NUMBER 34. VOUCHER NUMBER 35. AMOUNT VERIFIED

CORRECT FOR

PARTIAL FINAL

37. CHECK NUMBER

38. S/R ACCOUNT NUMBER 39. S/R VOUCHER NUMBER

36. PAYMENT

COMPLETE PARTIAL FINAL

ACCEPTED,

USGS OAG Denver Acquisition Branch

PO Box 25046

204 Denver Federal Center

Denver CO 80225-0046 US

Science and Technical Support Services (STSSC)

For Mid-Continent Region (MCR) including

Central Midwest Area of IL, Water Mission Area

(WMA), Laboratory and Analytical Services

Division (LASD), and National Water Quality

Laboratory (NWQL).

1. This solicitation is issued as a Request for

Proposals (RFP). This solicitation will utilize the policies contained in the Federal

Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Part 12, Acquisition of Commercial Products and

Commercial Services, and in conjunction with the policies and procedures for evaluation and award prescribed in FAR Part 15, Contracting by

Negotiation, as appropriate for this acquisition.

2. The solicitation document and incorporated provisions and clauses are those in effect through Federal Acquisition Circular (FAC)

2026-01.

3. The solicitation is 100% Competitive

8(a)set-aside. The North American Industry

Classification System (NAICS) code is 541990

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGES

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(B)

UNIT

(D)

UNIT PRICE

(E)

AMOUNT

(F)

OPTIONAL FORM 336 (4-86)

Sponsored by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.110

ITEM NO.

(A)

QUANTITY

(C)

NSN 7540-01-152-8067

(All Other Professional, Scientific and

Technical Services) and the size standard is

$19.5 Million.

4. Offerors are required to be registered in

System for Award Management (SAM) when submitting an offer or quotation. Register at https://www.sam.gov/index.html prior to submitting your offer. See FAR provision

52.204-7.

5. Please download attached Solicitation

140G0226R0003 for all Clauses and Provisions and attachments provided in this announcement.

00010 Science and Technical Support Services (STSSC)

Mid-Continent Region (MCR), Central Midwest of

IL (CMWSC), Water Mission Area (WMA), the

National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL), and the Earth System Processes Division (ESPD) under the Water Mission Area.

This line item represents a five (5) year base period IDIQ Contract.

Services, non-personal to provide all plant, equipment, supervision, labor and materials

(unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for on-site/off-site personnel to conduct services in accordance with the attached

Performance Work Statement, all Terms and

Conditions, and Attachment 3 - Pricing Schedule contained herein.

No funds are obligated by this contract. All funds shall be obligated by individual task orders citing applicable fiscal year and accounting data when issued.

Anticipated Award Type: Indefinite-quantity

Product/Service Code: R499

Product/Service Description: SUPPORT-

PROFESSIONAL: OTHER

Period of Performance: 12/01/2026 to

11/30/2031

00020 Science and Technical Support Services (STSSC)

Mid-Continent Region (MCR), Central Midwest of

IL (CMWSC), Water Mission Area (WMA), the

CONTINUATION SHEET

REFERENCE NO. OF DOCUMENT BEING CONTINUED PAGES

NAME OF OFFEROR OR CONTRACTOR

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(B)

UNIT

(D)

UNIT PRICE

(E)

AMOUNT

(F)

OPTIONAL FORM 336 (4-86)

Sponsored by GSA FAR (48 CFR) 53.110

ITEM NO.

(A)

QUANTITY

(C)

NSN 7540-01-152-8067

National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL), and the Earth System Processes Division (ESPD) under the Water Mission Area.

This line item represents an OPTION FOR UP TO

SIX MONTHS EXTENSION in accordance with FAR

52.217-8 - Option to Extend Services. (Nov

1999).

Services, non-personal to provide all plant, equipment, supervision, labor and materials

(unless otherwise provided herein) necessary for on-site/off-site personnel to conduct services in accordance with the attached

Performance Work Statement, all Terms and

Conditions, and Attachment 3 - Pricing Schedule contained herein.

No funds are obligated by this contract. All funds shall be obligated by individual task orders citing applicable fiscal year and accounting data when issued.

Anticipated Award Type: Indefinite-quantity

(Option Line Item)

Anticipated Exercise Date

Product/Service Code: R499

Product/Service Description: SUPPORT-

PROFESSIONAL: OTHER

Period of Performance: 12/01/2031 to

05/31/2032

Solicitation 140G0226R0003

Table of Contents

Performance Work Statement Contractor Employees Contractor Performance and Replacement of Contractor Employees Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (DEC 2015) DOI ELECTRONIC INVOICING Electronic Invoicing and Payment Requirements - Invoice Processing Platform (IPP) (February 2021) FISMA Information Technology Security Requirements Summary ICT Accessibility Requirements Statement per the Revised Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act INTERNET PROTOCOL INTERNET PROTOCOL version 6 (June 2012) SECURITY REQUIREMENTS: FACILITY ACCESS and INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (AUG 2016) Task Order Manager Task Request, Ordering, Acceptance Term of the Contract Transition Periods Phase Out

1452.201-70 AUTHORITIES AND DELEGATIONS (SEPT 2011)

1452.204-70 Release of Claims - Department of the Interior (JUL 1996) 1452.228-70 Liability Insurance (JUL 1996) GS0199 Prevention of Malicious Code (JUN 2018) GS0301 General Requirements. (JUL 2001) GS0905 Place of Performance – Multiple Locations, Task Orders – Modified (JUL 2001) GS0919 Legal Holidays (JUN 2021) GS0925 Unscheduled Closures - Fixed Price (MAR 2003) GS0931 Monthly Progress Report - Fixed Price (JUL 2001) GS1101 Contract Administration Office. (JUL 2001) GS1131 Unilateral Deobligation of Unexpended Funds. (MAY 2013) GS1330 Key Personnel. (JUL 2001) GS1332 Contractor’s Representative. (JUL 2001) GS1338 Notice to the Government of Delays (JUL 2001) (MODIFIED) GS1346 Compliance With Occupational Safety and Health Act – Government-Owned Facilities/Equipment. (APR 2003) GS1348 Accident Reporting. (APR 2003) GS1359 Travel and Transportation (JULY 2001) GS1364 Nonpersonal Services and Supervision of Contractor’s Employees (SEP 2017) GS1396 Release of Information. (JUL 2001) GS1397 Contractor Reports. (JUL 2002) GS1406 Confidentiality of Data (OCT 2005) GS1413 Government Property - Use at Government Facility – Modified (JUL 2001) GS1420 Use of Government Computers (September 2018) GS1430 Ordering Authority and Procedures (JUL 2001) GS1431 Contract Maximum. (JUL 2001) GS1432 Contract Guaranteed Minimum (JAN 2020) GS1440 Wage Determination Applicable (JUL 2001) (Modified) 52.212-4 Contract Terms and Conditions - Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (NOV 2023) (Deviation

MAR 2026)

52.216-18 Ordering. (AUG 2020) 52.216-19 Order Limitations. (OCT 1995) 52.216-22 Indefinite Quantity. (OCT 1995) 52.217-8 Option to Extend Services. (Nov 1999) 52.219-17 Section 8(a) Award. (OCT 2019) 52.219-18 Notification of Competition Limited to Eligible 8(a) Participants. (OCT 2022) 52.222-90 Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors (Deviation April 2026) 52.232-19 Availability of Funds for the Next Fiscal Year (APR 1984) 52.240-91 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions (Deviation MAR 2026)

List of Documents, Exhibits and Other Attachments 52.252-2 Clauses Incorporated by Reference. (FEB 1998)

52.252-6 AUTHORIZED DEVIATIONS IN CLAUSES (NOV 2020)

GS2101 Inquiries (NOV 2020) GS2115 Independent Review of Protests to the Agency (MAY 2024) 52.209-7 Information Regarding Responsibility Matters. (OCT 2018) (Deviation MAY 2026) 52.209-11 Representation by Corporations Regarding Delinquent Tax Liability or a Felony Conviction under any Federal Law. (FEB 2016) (Deviation MAY 2026) 52.212-1 Instructions to Offerors—Commercial Products and Commercial Services (SEPT 2023) (Deviation MAR 2026) 52.216-1 Type of Contract. (APR 1984) 52.219-1 Small Business Program Representations. (FEB 2024) (Deviation JAN 2026) 52.229-11 Tax on Certain Foreign Procurements-Notice and Representation. (JUN 2020) 52.233-2 Service of Protest Department of the Interior (SEPT 2006) (Deviation) 52.240-90 Security Prohibitions and Exclusions Representations and Certifications (RFO DEVIATION MAR 2026).

52.212-2 Evaluation - Commercial Products and Commercial Services. (NOV 2021) (Deviation MAR 2026) Joint Venture Agreements Price Evaluation Basis for Award Evaluation Process Submission of Offer – Proposal Organization and Format Proposal Instructions Electronic Submission of Proposals – Required Questions – Cutoff 52.252-1 Solicitation Provisions Incorporated by Reference. (FEB 1998) 52.252-5 Authorized Deviations in Provisions (Nov 2020)

Performance Work Statement

Science and Technical Support Services (STSSC) Mid-Continent Region (MCR), Central Midwest of IL (CMWSC), Water Mission Area (WMA), the National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL), and the Earth System Processes Division (ESPD)

1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND:

Background: The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a science organization that provides impartial science about the natural hazards that threaten lives and livelihoods; the water, energy, minerals, and other natural resources we rely on; the health of our ecosystems and environment; and the impacts of climate and land-use change. USGS scientists develop new methods and tools to supply and deliver timely, relevant, and valuable information about the Earth and its processes to the public.

The USGS requires non-personal science and technical support services necessary for mission support. Services anticipated under this requirement are primarily to be performed on-site but may include off-site requirements as needed.

The Midcontinent Region (MCR) of the US Geological Survey performs single-discipline and interdisciplinary science and operational activities in the geographic area (Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Wyoming). The Midcontinent Region consists of 10 science centers (54 total locations), including the operation of over 100 labs supporting science efforts. The MCR conducts science to inform resource managers on aquatic invasive species, water quality and availability, wildlife disease, and restoration of fish/wildlife and their habitat.

The USGS Central Midwest Water Science Center (CMWSC) offers information on streamflow, water quality, water-use, and groundwater data for Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri. CMWSC conducts unbiased, scientific hydrologic investigations and research projects to effectively manage CMWSC and our Nation's water resources through joint efforts with our partners. Specific water resources activities of the CMWSC include maintenance and analysis of long-term (prior to the turn of the Century) quantitative and qualitative data for streams, reservoirs, estuaries, and groundwater; and short-term interpretive investigations of specific water-resources issues on a local, State, regional, and national level. Such investigations include the study of groundwater availability, urbanization and flooding, water quality of Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri's major river basins, sedimentation of rivers and lakes, and contamination of surface water and groundwater by hazardous waste. CMWSC research is used by other Federal agencies, State and local entities, private organizations, and the public to make informed decisions about the use and protection of Nation’s water resources.

The USGS Water Mission Area (WMA) Decision Support Branch (DeSB) within the Integrated Information Dissemination Division is leading a new development effort in serving out national-scale modeled water information (water supply and use and interpretations of each). To meet the requirements of the Secure Water Act (2009) and provide a mechanism to meet fundamental science practices for the USGS, the WMA is developing a data delivery platform called National Water Availability Data Companion (NWDC). A growing user base accesses NWDC through multiple access methods to download data and metadata and visualize information with maps. Typical support areas include user engagement to improve user-interface design and user experience, prototyping to represent needed functionality for software development using human-centered design, and maintaining data extraction, transformation, and load pipelines for use in cloud storage. Mission success depends on engagement with broad national audiences, interpretation of user feedback, prototyping, and integration into development efforts.

The National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL) and the Earth System Processes Division (ESPD) under the Water Mission Area of the USGS plays a crucial role in supporting water science decisions nationwide by providing specialized laboratory, scientific, research, and technical services. Operates several mission-critical laboratories, including the National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL) in Denver, Colorado, and satellite locations in Boulder, Colorado. The division handles various activities, including sample receipt, preparation, routine trace-level environmental analysis, method development, and quality assurance programs. By leveraging advanced laboratory capabilities and cutting-edge technology, these laboratories ensure the integrity and responsiveness of national water quality science, directly supporting USGS efforts to address critical environmental challenges and inform decision-making processes at local, national, and international levels.

2. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE AND PERFORMANCE HOURS:

Perform science and technical support services at USGS science centers and other locations within the Mid- Continent and the Laboratory and Analytical Services Division.

Mid-Continent Servicing Area:

These servicing areas are identified below to include, but not limited to:

Dakota Water Science Center: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/dakota-water Rapid City, SD

National Wildlife Health Center: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc Madison, WI

Northern Rocky Mountain Science Center: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/norock Bozeman, MT

Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/npwrc Jamestown, ND

Upper Midwest Environmental Science Center: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/umesc La Crosse, WI

Upper Midwest Water Science Center: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/umid-water Madison, WI

Water Mission Area Integrated Information Dissemination Division: https://www.usgs.gov/mission-areas/water-resources/integrated-information-dissemination-division Madison, WI

Wyoming-Montana Water Science Center: https://www.usgs.gov/centers/wyoming-montana-water-science-center

For the Mid-Continent Servicing area, the normal workdays and duty hours under this contract are Monday through Friday, between 6:00 am and 7:30 pm. The Contractor must schedule work hours for all personnel to ensure maximum responsiveness to the Government’s requirements. Any work performed by Contractor employees, outside the normal business hours, must receive prior approval from the Task Order Manager (TOM) or Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR). On a case-by-case basis, overtime may be authorized; however, prior approval shall be obtained from the Contracting Officer (CO). If work is required off-site, the Contractor must ensure compliance with all Government Information Technology (IT) security requirements, which will be evaluated and approved on an individual basis as needed by the CO.

Central Midwest Water Science Center servicing area:

The Contractor shall provide scientific and technical support services primarily at the CMWSC locations in DeKalb and Urbana, IL.

For the CMWSC servicing area, the normal workdays and duty hours under this contract are from Monday to Friday, between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm. The Contractor must schedule work hours for all personnel to ensure maximum responsiveness to the Government’s requirements. Any work performed by Contractor’s employees, outside these normal business hours, must receive prior approval from the TOM or COR. On a case-by-case basis, overtime may be authorized; however, prior approval shall be obtained from the CO. If work is required off-site, the Contractor must ensure compliance with all Government Information Technology (IT) security requirements, which will be evaluated and approved individually as needed by the CO.

CMWS URL Link: Central Midwest Water Science Center | U.S. Geological Survey https://www.usgs.gov/centers/dakota-water https://www.usgs.gov/centers/nwhc https://www.usgs.gov/centers/norock https://www.usgs.gov/centers/npwrc https://www.usgs.gov/centers/umesc https://www.usgs.gov/centers/umid-water https://www.usgs.gov/mission-areas/water-resources/integrated-information-dissemination-division https://www.usgs.gov/mission-areas/water-resources/integrated-information-dissemination-division https://www.usgs.gov/centers/wyoming-montana-water-science-center https://www.usgs.gov/centers/cm-water

ESPD and NWQL Servicing Area:

The Contractor shall provide scientific and technical support services primarily at the NWQL and ESPD locations in Denver and Boulder, Colorado, Moffett, California, or Reston, Virginia. These locations include the National Water Quality Laboratory (NWQL) in Denver and the Strategic Laboratory Science Branch (SLSB) within ESPD in Boulder, Colorado; Moffett, California; or Reston, Virginia.

For the ESPD and NWQL servicing area, the normal workdays and duty hours under this contract are from Monday to Friday, between 7:00 am and 5:00 pm. The Contractor must schedule work hours for all personnel to ensure maximum responsiveness to the Government’s requirements. Any work performed by Contractor’s employees, outside these normal business hours, must receive prior approval from the TOM or COR. On a case-by-case basis, overtime may be authorized; however, prior approval shall be obtained from the CO. If work is required off-site, the Contractor must ensure compliance with all Government Information Technology (IT) security requirements, which will be evaluated and approved individually as needed by the CO.

NWQL URL Link: National Water Quality Laboratory | U.S. Geological Survey

ESPD URL Link: Earth System Processes Division | U.S. Geological Survey

Based on FAR 7.108, limited work may be performed off-site only upon prior approval from the Government. This will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, depending on the requirements of the task order. When the Contractor employee does not work on-site, the Contractor shall be responsible for ensuring that all Government Information Technology (IT) security requirements are met.

The government reserves the right to add additional locations within the Mid-Continent Region or greater Denver, Colorado locations, including the Water Mission Area, the National Health Centers, and the Earth System Processes Division, within the original scope of the work, to meet the USGS mission needs.

3. PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT:

Independently, and not as an agent of the Government, the Contractor shall provide all plant, equipment, labor, supervision, and materials (unless otherwise provided herein) necessary to provide Science and Technical Support Services essential to accomplish the mission of the USGS. The Contractor shall perform work under this contract only as directed in task orders authorized by the USGS Contracting Officer. It is impossible to determine the number or duration of task orders, and there is no assurance of a steady stream of work. Task orders will specify the specific scope of work, materials, performance schedules, deliverables, and support services required.

The Contractor shall provide the science and technical support services required, as outlined under the major requirements listed below:

1. Administrative

2. Program Management

3. Research/Science

4. Data and Information Management

5. Geospatial Applications, Modeling, and Associated Technologies

6. Technical Project Management

7. Facilities and Building Management Support Services

8. Data Entry Services

9. Accessioning Support Services

10. LIMS Support Services

11. Warehouse Services

12. Physical Science Technical Laboratory Services

13. CoLabs and Contract Lab Data Coordination Services

14. Quality Assurance and Data Integrity Support Services

15. Subject Matter Expertise and Method Validation

16. Instrument Specialist https://www.usgs.gov/labs/national-water-quality-laboratory https://www.usgs.gov/mission-areas/water-resources/earth-system-processes-division

1. Administrative:

The Contractor shall provide technical, administrative, and clerical support to fulfill the administrative requirements of this contract. This support shall include the following tasks:

a. Perform administrative and clerical support duties associated with science and technical support services.

b. Use computers and various software packages, such as the USGS Standard Office Software, including word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, database, and email, to effectively carry out the administrative and clerical support functions.

c. Provide word processing, data entry, forms preparation, telephone assistance, record filing, and file maintenance tasks.

d. Prepare, maintain, and distribute correspondence and end products, such as reports, manuals, training materials, and documentation.

e. Prepare reports on cost, schedule, and technical progress related to contract performance.

f. Greeting visitors, coordinating building maintenance, and managing office resources.

2. Program Management:

The Contractor shall provide the following tasks:

a. If additional Program Management Services are required, a separate task order may be issued. Any on-site Program Management would be responsible for the overall management and supervision of Contractor staff carrying out the work authorized by task orders issued under the contract. The Program Management shall serve as liaison between Contractor staff and the TOM, ensuring contract objectives and operational requirements are met.

b. The Contractor shall provide the necessary experienced personnel to accomplish tasks as needed.

Responsibilities shall include organizing, managing, and administering the contract, recruitment, retention, track deliverables, and assignment/supervision of staff.

c. Organize, direct, coordinate and schedule all Contractor support task and support functions. Duties include the formulation and review of project feasibility studies; review of work performed for all tasks;

consolidation and submission of job estimates; implementation of standard operating procedures, security measures, safety regulations; recruitment of technical personnel needed for task order support; preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual reports and logs; and organization, direction, and coordination of off-site tasks performed at secondary sites. Database management skills are required to develop and maintain an automated system of tracking contract personnel, task orders, due dates, and financial data to be provided to the TOM. Will interface with Government management personnel and user representatives as well as act as the liaison between the Government and Contractor personnel. Shall exercise overall management responsibility for contract efforts, receive technical direction, and handle problems arising under the contract. Responsible for coordinating matters of mutual concern with the TOM.

d. The Program Manager(s) shall be responsible for the recruitment, hiring, and performance of all supervisory duties necessary to maintain qualified staff to complete task orders used under this contract.

Program management is responsible for employee training and career development; assuring conformance with Government security requirements; assisting in the maintenance of a safe and secure environment; and providing information and assistance to employees regarding benefits. The Program Manager will be presented with various types of task orders, the role as Program Manager shall be to review and analyze the task order requirements, determine appropriate Contractor support categories, level of effort, projected timeframes, and related costs. This information is then provided, in writing, to the Contracting Officer and the TOM. The Program Manager shall participate in negotiations by offering counter proposals and justifications. The Program Manager assures that all legal requirements are met and that projects are managed according to the terms of the contract, the statements of work and Government policies.

3. Research/Science:

USGS conducts basic and applied research and develops and transfers new methods and tools so that the users can better understand, manage, and monitor fish and wildlife resources, habitats, and their ecosystems. In addition, research is conducted and needed in the areas of maps, databases and descriptions and the analyses of water, energy, and mineral resources, land surface, underlying geologic structures, and dynamic processes of the Earth. In order to support the research activities being conducted by USGS, the Contractor shall provide the following services:

a. Participate in field research activities to advise, consult, coordinate, and assist with data collection, analyses and interpretation of proposed and completed research.

b. Conduct, direct, and supervise contracted research that describes the interrelation among physical, social, or biological parameters.

c. Collect, synthesize, evaluate, and analyze data obtained from a variety of sources.

d. Develop sampling design for photo and field plot allocation.

e. Develop multi-stage sampling design for mapping, inventory, and verification.

f. Develop, test, transfer, and refine methods and models for natural resource management.

g. Conduct economic analyses for use in wildlife conservation and economic development decisions.

h. Conduct analyses of project-related data, review project reports, evaluate pertinent literature, and provide advice on appropriate statistical tests and procedures, research designs, and data interpretation.

i. Participate with Government staff and scientists in conducting and accomplishing research assignments.

j. Conducts research in biology, geology, hydrology, social science, mapping and related science.

k. Produces and updates biographic, geographic, cartographic, and remotely sensed information in graphic and digital forms.

l. Describes onshore and offshore geologic framework and develops an understanding of its formation and evolution.

m. Assesses energy and mineral resources, determines their origin and manner of occurrence, and develops techniques for their discovery.

n. Collects and analyzes data on the quantity and quality of surface water and groundwater, on water use, and on quality of precipitation.

o. Assesses water resources and develops an understanding of the impact of human activities and natural phenomena on hydrologic systems.

p. Evaluates hazards associated with earthquakes, volcanoes, floods, droughts, toxic materials, landslides, subsidence’s, and other ground failures, and develops methods for hazards prediction.

q. Participates in the exploration of space and prepares geologic and other maps of the planets and their satellites.

r. Publishes reports and maps, establishes and maintains earth science data bases, and disseminates earth science data and information.

s. Provides scientific and technical assistance for the effective use of earth science techniques, products, and information.

t. Coordinates topographic, geologic and land use mapping, digital cartography, and water data activities.

u. Develops new techniques for the collection, coordination and interpretation of earth science data.

v. Provides scientific support and technical advice for legislative, regulatory, and management decisions.

4. Data and Information Management:

The Contractor shall provide the following tasks:

a. Perform technical writing, including the writing and editing of USGS products for targeted technical and lay audiences, proofreading of draft and final documents, abstracting, entering, and editing information into computer databases, attending meetings and workshops to record, synthesize, and document meeting discussions, results, and technical information that relate to USGS products, reports, and publications, and developing, revising, and implementing documentation standards and procedures to comply with Government policy and regulations.

b. Coordinate and report on media contacts, compile Center highlights and news items, and prepare information articles on USGS activities.

c. Perform library and information services, including the maintenance of an in-house library, document location and delivery (including interlibrary loans), on-line access to in-house and off-site information data bases, new literature alerts, utilization of local and national library resources, maintenance of in-house cataloging tracking processes, and maintenance of USGS publication archives.

d. Comply with established standard operating procedures and guidelines for performing information management functions.

e. Provide support for the USGS implementation of science data life cycle management in terms of science information standards; content acquisition and management strategies; metadata creation services; using appropriate standards and best practices; use and adoption of digital object identifiers; adoption and best practices for data citations; use and management of controlled vocabularies and thesauri; information governance strategies; and distributed science content management within a Federal Agency.

f. Provide support for information science research related to the analysis, collection, classification, management, and dissemination of USGS science data, publications, and other digital media.

g. Provide administrative and logistical support to government-sponsored training events.

5. Geospatial Applications, Modeling, and Associated Technologies:

The Contractor shall provide support to geospatial applications, modeling, and associated technology as follows:

a. Perform a complete suite of GIS tasks and technical support using GIS software such as ArcGIS, ArcGIS Extensions, ERDAS, Geoserver, and other open source and commercial supporting software. Install, update, and manage software for GIS and related tasks (e.g. GPS, image processing, modeling, scientific computer data processing, etc.).

b. Acquire, evaluate, create, edit, and manage vector and raster GIS datasets.

c. Perform data entry and verification for vector and raster datasets (e.g. tablet digitizing, on-screen digitizing, and raster-to-vector conversion) spreadsheets (e.g. Microsoft Excel), databases (e.g. Microsoft Access), tables, charts, classification schemes, soft-copy and hard-copy map products, and other formats for spatial and non-spatial data.

d. Perform field verification of vector and raster GIS datasets for accuracy assessments.

e. Utilize existing software and recommend and implement new software concepts and programs to further

GIS-related data acquisition, analysis, modeling, management, metadata development, and use.

f. Develop, access, implement, use, and make available for general use image servers, map services, and related technologies to provide quick and efficient use of large datasets external and internal.

g. Perform all levels of GIS data analysis and modeling including those that may require the use of high throughput computing and high-performance computing for efficient execution.

h. Perform programming using the appropriate language for the task (e.g. C++, C#, Python, MapObjects, R, .NET, VBA) with complete and detailed internal and external documentation using standard programming protocols. Adapt analyses and models to execute in high throughput and/or high-performance computing as required.

i. Provide the full range of statistical support including spatial statistics using programs such as R, S-Plus, and SAS.

j. Provide the full range of relational database management implementation including design, development, maintenance, analysis, documentation, and support utilizing programs such as Microsoft Access, MySQL, and PostgreSQL for spatial and non-spatial applications including managing data; defining database file descriptors; structuring, building, merging, and documenting database files; transferring database files to a variety of formats and media; and archive.

k. Design and implement GPS data collection, data dictionaries, and standard operating procedures on a wide variety of GPS receiver systems. Actively acquire GPS data in the field. Perform differential correction and conversion of data between GPS and GIS formats. Maintain GPS equipment.

l. Design, implement, and execute in the field all aspects of data acquisition and data processing via telemetry technology.

m. Perform the full range of image processing tasks (e.g. orthorectification; supervised, unsupervised, and hybrid classification) utilizing software such as ERDAS Imagine and ENVI +IDL, and imagery of varying spatial, spectral, radiometric, and temporal resolutions including panchromatic, multi-spectral, hyper-spectral, and ultra-spectral imagery. Perform automated image feature extraction using software such as ENVI EX and Feature Analyst.

n. Perform the full suite of tasks for aerial-photo interpretation from project design to development of the final overlays for vectorization including demarking the effective area on aerial-photos, developing classification schemes, developing metadata, and producing overlays of interpreted data with neat and legible attributing.

Produce flight line indexes, maps, field data sheets, reports, and other related products. Maintain the Bausch & Lomb binocular stereo scopes.

o. Perform data entry tasks essential for creating FGDC and ISO-compliant metadata which meets sanctioned

Content Standards; analyze metadata for quality and enhance as needed using manual or automated procedures; interview scientists as needed to create metadata that is suitable for and is served in USGS metadata portals; maintain data, code, and documentation of relational databases that facilitate metadata tasks; provide programming expertise (e.g. Python, VBA, .NET) for the evaluation and enhancement of metadata; and provide training and support for metadata development and maintenance.

p. Maintain hard-copy records, emails, plot files (e.g. ArcGIS service definitions and .msd/.mxd files), unique datasets, and associated documentation for use in Scientific Case Files and archives.

q. Perform group training, individual instruction, demonstrations, and other support activities in the use and implementation of GIS, GPS, image processing, modeling, and related tools, methods, applications, and standard operating procedures as described in items 5a through 5p above.

r. Use and maintain supplies and equipment (e.g. scanners, plotters, printers, screen digitizers, and GPS equipment) required for the wide variety of GIS and GIS-related tasks.

s. Comply with established standard operating procedures, guidelines, user manuals, and quality control standards.

6. Technical Project Management:

In collaboration with subject matter experts, document project scope, goals, objectives and functional requirements;

develop the set of tasks, dependencies, and schedule required to complete a given objective and identify risks and mitigation. Project management experience, Project Management Professional certification, and excellent communication skills are required.

7. Facilities and Building Management Support Services:

The contractor shall assist with the operation and maintenance of USGS on-site facilities and infrastructure in direct support of the science mission. Support services will be provided in efforts to operate and maintain the facility’s wide variety of vital infrastructure systems. The contractor shall provide the following support services:

a. Work involves performing standardized or prescribed assignments involving a sequence of related operations, following standard work methods on recurring assignments but receives explicit instructions on unfamiliar assignments. Assists facility staff or receive specific instructions of assigned work. Typical duties would be to assist in one or more of the areas of constructing, repairing or troubleshooting components, subunits, or systems; may assist in troubleshooting and correcting malfunctions following specific layout and technical diagrams to construct and package simple devices and subunits of equipment, preventative maintenance of facility mechanical and electrical equipment. Other duties supporting the maintenance of the research facility and the associated science mission may be required. Upon completion, the work of this technician will be reviewed for adequacy by supervisor and/or higher-level facility staff.

b. The Contractor shall be responsible for utilizing operating system manuals and system hardware manuals, procedures, guidelines and logs in performing the specified work.

c. Supporting document management and assisting with facility operations.

8. Data Entry Services:

a. ASR Data Entry: Transcribing Analytical Service Requests (ASRs) into the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS).

b. ASR Sorting: Sorting, scanning, and organizing sample-related documents for proper categorization.

Identify ASR errors and track for intervention and/or resolution.

c. ASR Scanning: Scan ASRs and attach them to the corresponding order in LIMS.

d. ASR Amendments: Upon COR request, amend ASR entries to correct customer errors.

e. ASR Metadata Entry: Entering metadata daily for samples, assisting with corrections and updates.

f. Supporting quality assurance to maintain data accuracy.

9. Accessioning Support Services:

a. Receiving and reconciling shipments, ensuring compliance with chain-of-custody procedures.

b. Transporting and logging samples into LIMS for tracking and analysis.

c. Opening and processing coolers containing customer samples and accompanying ASRs.

d. Obtaining the cooler temperature and recording it on ASR.

e. Unpacking the coolers and reconciling the bottle contents with the corresponding ASR orders.

Highlighting/identify ASRs with incomplete/incorrect orders for troubleshooting and correction.

f. Pre-logging samples by affixing barcodes to bottles and scanning them into the LIMS.

g. Obtain ASR number for the order from LIMS.

h. Repacking the coolers for return to customers. Removing ice or water, adding shipping label to the cooler, taping the cooler.

i. Delivering the final ASRs for subsequent data entry.

j. Transporting samples to storage facilities/refrigeration as instructed in Standard Operating Procedures.

k. Check bottles for acidification according to Standard Operating Procedures and noting in laboratory information system. Using pH strips to check the acidified bottles are a pH < 2.

l. Acidifying samples with the required acid if they arrive unacidified with hydrochloric acid, nitric acid, or sulfuric acid.

m. Removing bottles from storage facilities and moving to disposal per standard operating procedures.

n. Removing bottles 180 days old to the SHE office for disposal.

o. Wash and burn new bottles\NWQL glassware for USGS OneStop per standard operating procedures.

p. Preparing Q615FLD bottle packets following bottle assembly procedures for the field.

q. Assist QA with exceptions that are reported during the Login process.

10. LIMS Support Services/IT Computer Programming Technician:

a. Providing technical support for LIMS and other laboratory software.

b. Supporting IT infrastructure including servers, databases, and networks.

c. Ensuring compliance with IT security protocols.

d. Develop or contribute to the development of a variety of routine and non-standard computer applications, database interfaces and applications, and customer reports that require extensive scientific operator intervention to ensure that all of the methods, standards and applicable SOPs are complied with.

e. Make modifications to existing codebase(s), database procedures, database structures, applications and reports with minimal assistance from other members of the development team.

f. Document work done on all codebase(s), application and database for both the user and developer within the week to ensure records of systems are kept current, accurate and complete.

g. Actively participate as part of an agile DevOps development team and provide recommendations, evaluation, analysis, and often verbally during team practice activities.

11. Warehouse Services:

a. Managing inventory and logistics for laboratory supplies and sample shipments.

b. Coordinating shipments and ensuring samples are processed and dispatched on time.

c. Receiving shipments from FedEx and other transportation sources and verifying contents against packing lists.

d. Unpacking shipments and transporting contents to appropriate location within warehouse.

e. Reviewing internal (NWQL) requests for materials, pulling stock, and updating Warehouse inventory management system.

f. Reviewing external orders for National Field Supply Service (NFSS) materials, pulling stock, updating inventory management system, packaging for shipment, and coordinating pickup with shipper.

g. Reconciles inventory in Warehouse with the Warehouse inventory management system on weekly basis.

h. Receives shipments of sample coolers and coordinates transfer to Login unit.

i. Assists Login unit with processing samples in accordance with established SOPs during peak season.

j. Ships empty sample coolers back to originator based on return shipping information provided.

k. Additional packaging for shipments and coordinator pickups with shippers.

l. Wash and burn new bottles\NWQL glassware for USGS OneStop per standard operating procedures.

m. Wash and burn glassware from NWQL analytical services.

12. Physical Science Technical Laboratory Services:

a. Assisting in sample preparation and analysis (including extractions, digestions, etc.), instrument operation, and result uploading. Preparation and analysis of environmental samples with short expiration/holding times.

b. Ensuring strict documentation and safety protocols in sample handling and analysis, following applicable SOPs per method being performed along with Safety, Hazardous Waste, NELAC, NWQL, USGS, and DOI policies, procedures, requirements, and guidelines.

c. Daily tasks include:

a. Batch samples in computing system (LIMS).

b. Retrieve samples associated with each batch.

c. Follow sample preparation procedures per NWQL SOPs and guidelines.

d. Operate entry-level instruments to test environmental samples per USGS method Standard

Operating Procedures.

e. Monitor the run and reprepare/re-run QC samples if needed to rule out random errors

f. Notify management if QA/QC criteria are not met for troubleshooting of the instrument.

g. Provide reports of completed analytical testing and attest to the validity of the data in compliance with the USGS methods/SOPs.

h. Document work, this includes documentation in electronic laboratory notebooks. Ensure all documentation follows appropriate SOP guidelines and established QA and Quality Management System (QMS) policy at the USGS.

i. Upload the data in LIMS.

j. Perform sample disposal.

k. pH checks for all samples.

l. Secondary data review for assigned lines.

m. Digestions and extractions

n. Preparing and qualifying organic and inorganic standards and reagents.

13. CoLabs and Contract Lab Data Coordination:

a. Managing and verifying contract lab data, including reviewing ASRs and Electronic Data Deliverables (EDDs). Uses EDD corrector spreadsheets to note any corrections needed to the EDDs.

b. Upload complete and correct EDDs, sample results (CSV and PDF versions), and data review sheets to CoLab Data Drop SharePoint site as stated in the CoLab’s desk guides.

c. Receive ASR from NWQL customers: Monitor CoLabHelp JIRA ticketing inbox where CoLabs ASRs are received daily. ASRs to be checked for accuracy and completeness as listed in the CoLab Desk Guides and/or SOPs, then transported to the NWQL login unit.

d. ASR Return to NWQL customers: Upon successful log-in of ASR into LIMS by the login unit, the contractor is to return the ASRs with a NWQL sample ID generated by LIMS computing system, and recorded on the ASR by the Login unit, to the customer utilizing the CoLab JIRA ticketing system. Enters the Project Name, User Code, Sample Count, Sample Matrix, CINs ordered, ASR receiving date, CoLabHelp ticket number, the return date of the ASR to the customer, and the NWQL ASR ID into the CoLab-specific Excel tracking sheet.

e. SRC Confirmation: The contractor is to review Sample Review Checklists (SRC) which confirms delivery and login of ASRs and samples at the contracting lab.

a. Enters the contracting laboratory’s Work Order number, date received by the contract laboratory, and the date the SRC documents were received by the CoLab’s unit into the CoLab-specific Excel tracking sheet.

b. Discrepancies are elevated to the COR or Federal CoLab’s staff.

f. Third Party Lab Document Review:

a. Enters the invoice number and invoice amount into the CoLab-specific Excel tracking sheet.

b. For each invoice, uses the current contract CIN pricing list to confirm the amount invoiced by the contract laboratory matches the cost of each CIN listed on the ASR.

c. Confirms electronic data deliverables (EDDs) were received for each CIN listed on the ASR and the results received are consistent with the method listed on the ASR.

d. Notifies the COR of any discrepancies.

14. Quality Assurance and Data Integrity Support:

a. Performing QA testing on field supplies and ensuring compliance with SOPs.

b. Monitoring and verifying documentation for accuracy and completeness.

c. NFSS Testing: Ensure supplies are tested on time and according to appropriate standard operation procedure (SOP).

d. NWIS numbers: Create, enter and update various documents, databases with data obtained from sample results.

e. Queries: obtain data from the laboratory information system (LIMS).

f. Verify data queries meet customer/NWQL specifications.

g. Verification: Verify the NFSS supplies pass the DL/RL requirements for OneStop sale.

h. Documentation: Verify documentation of the NFSS supplies and COA, post the completed COAs to the

NWQL intranet webpage.

i. pH Testing: Testing all new lots of pH standards that are received in the warehouse before sending to

OneStop for sale.

j. Field Error Checking: Verifying field standards if errors are noticed during usage.

15. Subject Matter Expertise and Method Validation:

a. Providing expertise in method development, troubleshooting, and validation.