SOL for F2F Strategic Advisor USPSC.pdf

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SOLICITATION NUMBER: 7200AA21R00040

ISSUANCE DATE: April 14, 2021

CLOSING DATE AND TIME: April 27, 2021 at 11:59 PM EST

SUBJECT: Solicitation for U.S. Personal Service Contractor (USPSC)

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation.

Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1 of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records.

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offer.

Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in Attachment 1.

Sincerely, Matthew Case Contracting Officer

Solicitation for USPSC Strategic Advisor 7200AA21R00040

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ATTACHMENT 1

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 7200AA21R00040

2. ISSUANCE DATE: April 14, 2021

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: April 27, 2021 AT

11:59 P.M. EST

4. POINTS OF CONTACT: Matthew Case, email at mcase@usaid.gov and Olivia Ricks, email at oricks@usaid.gov.

5. POSITION TITLE: Farmer-to-Farmer (F2F) Strategic Advisor

6. MARKET VALUE: GS-13 with a salary range, including locality pay, ranging from $103,690 to $134,798. The position is expected to be part-time, at 60% LOE. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value based upon the candidate’s past salary, work history and educational background.

Offerors who live outside of Washington, D.C. will be considered for employment, but no relocation expenses will be reimbursed.

7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: 1-year base period with 4 one-year options. The base year is estimated to start on/around May 31, 2021. The period of performance is not to exceed 5 years. Option years are contingent upon the continued need for the technical services, funding availability and satisfactory performance by the Contractor. The Contracting Officer has the sole authority to exercise an option period. The position is expected to be part-time, at 60% LOE, approximately three days per week, up to 24 hours per week, on average.

8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: The position is in Washington, D.C., with potentially up to 10% of time dedicated to traveling. Telework work is possible. Relocation costs are not allowable under the contract.

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: U.S. citizens

10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret

Base Period: June 1, 2021 to May 31, 2022 Option Period 1: June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023 Option Period 2: June 1, 2023 to May 31, 2024 Option Period 3: June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025 Option Period 4: June 1, 2025 to May 31, 2026 mailto:mcase@usaid.gov mailto:oricks@usaid.gov

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11. STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

Introduction The Congressionally-mandated John Ogonowski Farmer-to-Farmer Program (F2F) is housed in the Bureau for Resilience and Food Security (RFS), and is funded through Title V of the Food for Peace (P.L. 480) Act. RFS supports the sustainable reduction of hunger and poverty and improved food security through the development of more competitive global agricultural and food systems. The Bureau is responsible for technical leadership, strategic planning, field support, new technology development and implementation of other activities relating to resilience and global food security.

Background The objective of the F2F Program is to provide short term, U.S. agricultural technical assistance, on a people-to-people basis, to developing countries. As stated in the U.S.

Department of Agriculture Farm Bill, the purpose of the F2F Program is "to assist in increasing food production and distribution, and improving the effectiveness of the farming and marketing operations of farmers." F2F currently involves eight programs, implemented through cooperative agreements, that utilize the expertise of U.S. farmers, agriculturalists, land grant universities, private agribusinesses and non-profit farm organizations on a voluntary basis in response to local needs identified by host country farmers and organizations. A separate F2F Agricultural Volunteer Opportunities Project (AVOP) funds smaller specialized projects that involve new implementing partners. The F2F Program supports work on over 60 projects in approximately 40 countries, providing for up to 900 volunteer assignments annually with an annual obligation of $15 million. The current program covers Fiscal Years 2019 – 2023.

More Information on F2F is available at: https://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do/agriculture-and-food-security/supporting-agricultural-capacity-development/john-ogonowski

Position Objective The Center for Agriculture Led Growth in the Bureau (RFS/CA) requires the services of a part-time Strategic Advisor for the F2F Program. The position will be located in Washington, D.C with potentially up to 10% of the time traveling. Telework work is possible. Level of Effort is expected to be 60% (approximately 3 days per week, on average). The Strategic Advisor will provide continuity, training and on-going orientation for the new F2F Program Analysts, including support for technical, programmatic, and financial management activities of the F2F portfolio. S/he will provide guidance and support to the Program Analysts in coordinating communications and activities with USAID Missions, other offices and centers within RFS, and relevant operating units across the Agency. They will help to coordinate, align and integrate F2F Program activities with broader USAID agricultural and rural development programs across RFS in support of RFS objectives and may represent the F2F Program both internally and externally. Embedding this PSC with a more broad role in RFS/CA will further ensure the success of the F2F Program.

12. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

https://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do/agriculture-and-food-security/supporting-agricultural-capacity-development/john-ogonowski https://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do/agriculture-and-food-security/supporting-agricultural-capacity-development/john-ogonowski

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The part-time F2F Strategic Advisor will be a member of a broad technical team within RFS/CA and will provide significant technical and programmatic guidance to the Program Analysts and other staff members in the Center. The Strategic Advisor may have Agreement Officer’s Representative (AOR) responsibilities and will:

1. Provide necessary F2F-specific guidance and training, and support the Program Analysts in F2F management activities, developing reports and other materials, and compliance with authorizing legislation. May have supervisory responsibilities for F2F staff.

2. Assist the F2F Program Analysts in management of a suite of F2F activities, including eight LWAs and one cooperative agreement (AVOP). This may include:

a. Engaging with Missions, and serve as Mission POCs;

b. Advising and assisting with the integration of F2F activities with other RFS activities and programs;

c. Leadership and participation in trainings and F2F Community of Practice learning events;

d. The Strategic Advisor may serve as the AOR for one or more F2F agreements.

3. Train, advise and support the Program Analysts in management of program budgeting and financial monitoring, including the allocation of the annual budget among implementing partners, monitoring their expenditures, ensuring the maintenance of reasonable reserves of funds, and preparing internal USG documents and procedures needed to provide partners with required funds in a timely manner each year.

4. Support effective coordination within RFS and the Center for Agriculture-Led Growth, as well as with the office of Food for Peace (FFP), USAID Missions, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and compliance with USG regulations and implementing agreements.

5. Support the F2F Program Analysts with sub-award procurement activities through AVOP, including Mission engagement.

6. Support F2F Program Analysts on Mission engagement and other tasks related to development of buy-ins and associate awards, as well as technical support to Mission-funded activities.

7. Represent and serve as a liaison for the F2F Program internally (RFS) and externally to other agencies and stakeholders, particularly Congress, USDA, Peace Corps, Millennium Challenge Corporation, and the private sector. Internal contacts include, but are not limited to, the Office of Food for Peace, the Office of Acquisitions and Assistance, and centers and offices within RFS.

8. Support the F2F Program Analysts in design and procurement of F2F Program follow on activities, and complementary activities.

9. As needed, and as determined by the position’s supervisory and contract team, assist RFS and Missions with design of new and monitoring of on-going Feed the Future activities, focusing on extension, agricultural innovation, capacity development, and ways to maximize overall impact of F2F. Provide support and technical expertise to focus activities on more effective support to local capacity development for food security.

Serve on evaluation committees to identify successful applicants to F2F and other relevant USAID solicitations. (< 10% of LOE)

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The Strategic Advisor promotes diversity in the F2F Program.

Exercise of Judgment The work requires a high degree of independence, initiative, and judgment to ensure effective implementation of the F2F Program. The incumbent must have demonstrated initiative and an ability to manage competing work priorities. The incumbent works closely with RFS management.

Supervision The incumbent reports to a designated technical team leader within RFS/CA on a regular basis, advising her/him on the status and progress of awards and making recommended adjustments to ensure effective program implementation.

As stated above, the contractor works closely with and provides training, advice, and support to the F2F Program Analysts.

13. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE POSITION

Minimum Qualifications

The minimum qualifications determine basic eligibility for the position. Applicants who do not meet all the selection factors below are NOT considered qualified for the position.

1. Must be a U.S. citizen.

2. Ability to obtain a SECRET security clearance.

3. A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university preferably in the field of agriculture, international relations or international development

4. A relevant Master’s Degree preferably in the field of agriculture, international relations or international development OR ten years’ experience in responsible positions for international agricultural development programs.

5. Minimum of ten years of experience working in grant and/or contract management of overseas development projects.

6. Minimum of four years working at GS-13 equivalent or above level of responsibility.

7. Level IV English ability (fluent) or equivalent is required. The Contractor must possess a high degree of proficiency in both written and spoken English.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance for FAR 52.215-1. The CO reserves the right at any point in the evaluation process to establish a competitive range of offerors with whom negotiations will be conducted pursuant for FAR 15.30(c). In accordance with FAR 52.215-1, if the CO determines that the number of offers that would otherwise be in the competitive range exceeds the number at which an efficient

6 | P a g e competition can be conducted, the CO may limit the number of offerors in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The provisions referenced above are available at:

https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

Selection will be based on panel evaluation of the Technical Evaluation. Interviews, references and a writing exercise may be requested and used as part of the evaluation.

1. Demonstrated experience and specific examples in strategic planning, program management and implementation, especially within a developing country context. Evidence of proficiency in agricultural production systems and related international agricultural development issues, particularly as they relate to, technical assistance, international trade and agri-business development in developing countries. Significant experience in technical support to and management of volunteer programs and/or volunteer-based programming and management, particularly Farmer-to-Farmer. (30 points)

2. Specific examples of effective oral and written communication skills, preparing and presenting analyses and reports, providing guidance or training, and the ability to communicate and interact effectively with others, including interpersonal skills. Examples of experience with AOR/COR or similar program related responsibilities and processes are preferred. (25 points)

3. Specific examples of experience in international agricultural development, extension and technical assistance activities in a developing country or countries, and particularly in cross-country extension and exchange. Include examples of work with USAID Missions and U.S.

private, public and non-profit constituencies in this context. (25 points)

4. Specific examples of your ability to exercise independent judgment, work effectively with a team, work under pressure and meet deadlines, liaise with multiple partners at all levels and adapt to rapidly changing needs. (15 points)

5. Demonstrate in specific examples the level of excellence of your computer skills,including proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint applications, databases, Google Suite.

(5 points)

IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER

1. Eligible offerors are required to complete and submit the offer form AID 309-2, “Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals,” available at http://www.usaid.gov/forms.

2. Offers must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted to the Point of Contact in Section I (mcase@usaid.gov and oricks@usaid.gov).

3. Offeror submissions must clearly reference the Solicitation number on all offeror submitted documents.

https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far http://www.usaid.gov/forms mailto:mcase@usaid.gov mailto:oricks@usaid.gov

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IV. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD

Offerors are required to submit:

1. Cover letter providing a brief rationale supporting your selection.

2. A current resume, with complete contact information.

3. Supplemental documentation specifically addresses the Evaluation and Selection Factors shown in this solicitation.

1. AID 302-3.

The most qualified candidates may be interviewed and required to provide a writing sample.

USAID will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. Professional references and academic credentials will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. USAID reserves the right to select additional candidates if vacancies become available during future phases of the selection process.

NOTE: If the full security application package is not submitted within 30 days after the Office of Security determines eligibility, the offer may be rescinded. If a Secret security clearance is not obtained within nine months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded.

To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in any email.

NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application.

NOTE REGARDING DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBERS

All individuals contracted as US PSCs are required to have a DUNS Number. USAID will provide a generic DUNS Number and PSCs are not required to register with CCR.

For general information about DUNS Numbers, please refer to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.204-6, Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number (10/2003) https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html

V. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a USPSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:

1. BENEFITS

a. Employer’s FICA Contribution

b. Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html

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c. Pay Comparability Adjustment

d. Annual Increase (pending a satisfactory performance evaluation)

e. Eligibility for Worker’s Compensation

f. Annual and Sick Leave

VI. TAXES

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

VII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES, AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING

TO PSCs

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

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

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

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

ITEM NO

(A)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(DESCRIPTION) (B)

QUANTITY

(C)

UNIT (D) UNIT

PRICE (E)

AMOUNT

(F)

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

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service

Code:

- Accounting Info:

3 LOT $TBD $TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor

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

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service

Code:

- Accounting Info:

1 LOT $TBD $TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor

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

- Award Type: Cost

1 LOT $TBD $TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf https://www.usaid.gov/forms

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- Product Service Code:

Accounting Info:

3001 Option Period 3 –

Compensation, Fringe Benefits, and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service

Code:

- Accounting Info:

1 LOT $TBD $TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor

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

- Award Type: Cost

- Product Service

Code:

- Accounting Info:

1 LOT $TBD $TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor

3. Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins

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

a. AAPD 18-05: DESIGNATION OF USPSCS AND CCNPSCS AS

CONTRACTING AND AGREEMENT OFFICERS

b. AAPD 18-01: WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION FOR CONTRACTOR

EMPLOYEES

c. AAPD 16-02: CLAUSES AND SPECIAL CONTRACT REQUIREMENTS

FOR FACILITIES ACCESS, SECURITY, AND INFORMATION

TECHNOLOGY

d. AAPD 15-02 REVISED 2: LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS

e. AAPD 10-01: CHANGES IN USG REIMBURSEMENT AMOUNTS FOR

HEALTH INSURACNE AND PHYSICAL EXAMINATION COSTS

f. AAPD 06-08: AIDAR, APPENDICES D AND J: USING THE OPTIONAL

SCHEDULE TO INCREMENTALLY FUND CONTRACTS

4. Ethical Conduct. By the acceptance of a USAID personal services contract as an individual, the contractor will be acknowledging receipt of “Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch” available from the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, in accordance with General Provision 2 and 5 CFR 2635. See https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations

5. PSC Ombudsman

The PSC Ombudsman serves as a resource for any Personal Services Contractor who has entered into a contract with the United States Agency for International Development and is https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations

10 | P a g e available to provide clarity on their specific contract with the agency. Please visit our page for additional information: https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman

The PSC Ombudsman may be contacted via: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.

[END OF ATTACHMENT 1]

https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman mailto:PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov

Minimum Qualifications