Solicitation.pdf

ATTACHMENT 1 SOL-267-17-000005

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: SOL-267-17-000005

2. ISSUANCE DATE: August 30, 2017.

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: September 18, 2017 no later than 17:00 Baghdad time.

4. POSITION TITLE: IT Specialist (Intermittent).

5. MARKET VALUE: GS-14 equivalent ($62,722 – $81,541). Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value.

6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The period of performance is one year, with the possibility of extensions. The intermittent contract and extensions cannot exceed 5 years. The Personal Services Contractor hired under this intermittent contract will provide up to a maximum of 180 workdays of service on an annual basis.

7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Baghdad, Iraq.

8. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S. Citizens, U.S. Resident Aliens and Third Country Nationals.

9. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: The successful applicant shall be required to obtain a Secret level security clearance (if U.S. Citizen) or Moderate Risk Public Trust certificate (if Third Country National or U.S. Resident Alien), as a pre-condition for employment.

10. BACKGROUND

Since 2003, USAID has been a major contributor to the U.S. government (USG) relief, stabilization and reconstruction effort in Iraq. USAID works closely with other USG entities, the Government of Iraq (GOI), provincial and local governments, international institutions such as the United Nations (UN) and the World Bank, and a network of partners from non-governmental organizations, local community groups, and Iraqi citizens.

U.S. assistance to Iraq has changed substantially over the past years, especially since the Da’esh offensive beginning in 2014. From 2003 to 2006, USAID focused on restoring essential services, such as in health, education, water and electricity; improving economic opportunities; building the foundation of democracy and governance; and managing conflict. In 2007, the focus shifted to strengthening the effectiveness of government and civil society, expanding private sector opportunities, supporting focused stabilization activities, and providing humanitarian assistance and support for internally displaced persons. These types of activities continued until 2009 when USG assistance began shifting from reconstruction to enhancing Iraq’s capacity to rebuild itself and improving Iraq’s ability to govern itself effectively. In December 2012 the mission’s staffing profile changed dramatically when it was forced to reduce expatriate staff by 70 percent. Since October 2014, all projects are managed by one technical office, with support from in-country Executive and Program Offices and contracting and legal support from the Middle East Regional Platform (MERP) based in Frankfurt, Germany.

In 2014, Da’esh launched a brutal attack and secured an estimated 40 percent of Iraq’s territory. In response, the USG joined other coalition partners in the Integrated Campaign Strategy to rid Iraq and the Middle East of Da’esh. The glide path for the closure of the USAID Mission was reversed and the current portfolio targets humanitarian assistance, stabilization, and economic and governance reform. The Mission now plans assistance through 2020.

11. STATEMENT OF DUTIES

Within the Executive Office, the Intermittent Information Technology (IT) section is responsible for providing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services and support as well as overall management of USAID/IRAQ’s computer systems. These services include the following:

general systems administration; information security and data protection; organization of all data and vital records; computer advisory services; system integration between USAID systems and Department of State systems; facilitation of the sharing of programmatic information with sister agencies, implementing partners and the Government of Iraq (GOI).

The USAID Mission in Iraq is headquartered in Baghdad, has an active disaster recovery system in Basrah with AIDNet, and users working remotely. The Mission’s electronic infrastructure is a complex collection of equipment/systems: high availability data storage, server equipment, VSAT systems, microwave and VPN links, heterogeneous network equipment, and other advanced technologies.

The system architecture is a virtualized MS Windows platform and consists of the following basic elements: Domain Controllers, SCCM Servers, Firewalls, Intrusion Detection Systems, File and Print Servers, SQL and Oracle Database Servers, and IIS WEB Servers. The virtual environment is supported by VMware vSphere and NetApp HA data storage clusters. Due to the security environment, contingency planning, its implementation and regular testing is vital for business continuity of the Mission. In addition there are many peripherals and multi-functional devices supporting daily office operations.

The Contractor will provide all levels of IT systems support for USAID/IRAQ enterprise architecture to include: day-to-day operations, installation, maintenance of computer and network equipment, systems and application administration, troubleshooting and backups, user assistance and training, operation of the request tracking system and providing first-line IT user support, inventory maintenance of IT equipment and GFE mobile devices.

USAID/IRAQ faces a variety of complex security challenges. The incumbent, together with the Systems Manager, supports a Contingency Planning, testing and implementation process which includes but is not limited to maintenance and update of the Contingency Plan as required; testing of customized recovery scenarios, maintenance and monitoring of data synchronization status between sites, etc.

DETAILED DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

LAN and WAN Operation and Administration (65% of time)

The primary objective of IT support work is ensuring the highest day-to-day information systems availability. The Intermittent Information Technology Specialist will work with the Network Operations Center (NOC) in Washington to maintain the Mission critical Information Communication Technologies such as corporate Virtual Private Network (VPN) which supports mission critical information system services and the Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telephone trunks.

The incumbent will be responsible for the Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) including management of a medium sized virtual “server farm” and a complex collection of LAN devices and equipment that supports near to 100% availability. The incumbent will be responsible for over $500,000 worth of information systems equipment. The incumbent will install and maintain additional servers, network software and clients (PCs), upgrade new software releases, patch operating systems, optimize network performance, upgrade client software and maintain backed up copies of server data to prevent accidental loss. The incumbent will also monitor the network and perform traffic analysis; and test and evaluate computer operating systems. Further, the incumbent will determine LAN and WAN effectiveness relative to systems in use and their support capability and compatibility with program applications.

The incumbent will provide support for video conferencing technology. S/he will support video streams so USAID/Iraq can participate in such events as Town Halls conducted from USAID/Washington.

To keep the computer services in a high availability status, LAN and WAN operation and administration will include troubleshooting of servers, PCs, and LAN devices by replacing broken parts and performing preventive maintenance as required; maintaining system images and antivirus software on both servers and clients (PCs); and controlling access to Mission devices by maintaining positive control of network devices.

To properly perform LAN and WAN Operations and Administration, all networked devices, data synchronization to Disaster Recovery sites and data integrity must be monitored on a daily basis.

The incumbent will be responsible to detect vulnerabilities and take corrective action, such as monitoring and deploying security patches and anti-virus updates to maintain USAID’s high standard of Information Systems Security. Information security is taken very seriously and assisting users to successfully navigate information security policy is also an important part of the job.

The incumbent is responsible for maintaining equipment inventories and proper disposal of equipment, including advising and assisting Implementing Partners with proper disposal. The incumbent will continually provide information technology solutions to a growing program staff.

Application Support/User Training (35% of time)

The incumbent will manage and provide support to all Mission staff on applications, such as: e-mail usage (including the sharing of calendars), spreadsheets, word processing, photo management, graphics, financial management, procurement, project administration, timekeeping, travel management and personnel records. Incumbent issues IT equipment as approved by the Supervisory Executive Officer and maintains inventories.

USAID/IRAQ has several data-driven websites and online collaboration portals built using ORACLE, MS SQL Server and Active Server Pages (ASP), as well as MySQL/PHP. The incumbent will update and integrate these tools into a single tool or application suite. The incumbent will update and further develop macros and queries already in use by Mission staff to achieve better results and maximize efficiency. Additionally, when software applications are upgraded, it is the responsibility of the incumbent to rewrite existing database linkages, macros and queries.

Supervisory Relationship: Reports directly to the Supervisory IT Specialist and receives guidance from him/her. The Supervisory IT Specialist establishes basic parameters of work and determines priorities.

Supervisory Controls: The Intermittent IT Specialist does not supervise employees.

12. PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requested is generally sedentary and poses few physical demands. The selected applicant must meet new fitness for duty standards for Iraq (stated in 15 State 11055) which includes: (1) a full medical evaluation, and (2) must obtain medical clearance from State/MED in order to deploy to post.

13. POINT OF CONTACT: Francisco Santos, Supervisory Human Resources Specialist, USAID/Iraq, frsantos@usaid.gov or Leslie C. Petersen, Supervisory Executive Officer, LPetersen@usaid.gov (inquiries only). Applications will NOT be accepted to these email addresses. Please see item IV for instructions on how and where to submit applications.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

1. Education: Bachelor’s degree in the fields of computer science, information systems management, or software engineering is required. Given the various titles of computer related degrees, other computer degrees may be considered.

2. Prior Work Experience: A minimum of five years of responsible experience in system administration, PC support, system development and programming is required. Experience with Windows 2003/2008 Servers, Exchange 2003/2010 Servers, and WEB Servers (IIS) is required.

Limited experience with VMware infrastructure and NAS/SAN Data storage is required. Database administration in MS SQL Server and/or Oracle, and the ability to create and customize SQL queries is required. Ability to administer laser printers, digital senders, scanners, and modems is required.

3. Language Proficiency: Level IV English (fluent) reading/speaking/writing is required.

4. Knowledge: A thorough knowledge and understanding of generally accepted accounting and auditing principles, theories, and terminology. Skilled in the preparation of budgets, reports, and in conducting financial and risk management assessments. Extensive skills in the use of accounting systems and Microsoft Office suite. Broad knowledge of U.S. Government rules, regulations, guidance and procedures as related to accounting practices and requirements.

5. Skills and Abilities: The incumbent must possess excellent analytical skills and be able to exercise sound independent judgment. Effective people skills and management ability. Able to judge the mailto:frsantos@usaid.gov mailto:LPetersen@usaid.gov adequacy of accounting systems, procedures and controls, and recommend improvements. Strong oral and written communication skills. Demonstrated high level of proficiency in the use of automated systems and computer software. Ability to compile and visualize data and deliver presentations to a wide range of stakeholders.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

Applicants must submit a summary statement of no more than one letter-size page, which describes how their relevant professional experience and education has prepared them to meet the specific challenges of the duties and responsibilities described above. Following the interview, those applicants ranked highest may be required to submit a timed writing sample on a topic provided.

The selection committee may conduct reference checks at any time during the selection process.

Applications that do not meet the required minimum qualifications will not be scored.

- Work experience (35 points)

- Skills and abilities (25 points)

- Knowledge (15 points)

- Language (15 points)

- Education (10 points)

Total possible points: 100

Candidates meeting the above required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented in the application and reference checks. References will be asked to assess the applicant’s technical knowledge, work performance, communication skills, and group dynamics, using the above criteria. USAID reserves the right to conduct interviews with the top ranked short-listed applicants. The interview will be one of the determining factors in the final selection.

IV. APPLYING

1. Qualified applicants are requested to submit:

A. Most current Curriculum Vitae or resume;

B. Completed and signed USPSC Application Form, a302-3 (Offeror Information for Personal

Services Contracts), which can be found at the following website: https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1866/a302-3.doc ;

C. Three professional references, who are not blood-related, with telephone and e-mail contacts;

D. Brief appendix of no more than one letter-size page to demonstrate how prior experience and/or training have prepared them to meet the specific challenges of the duties and responsibilities described in the solicitation.

2. Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted electronically to: IraqUSPSCjobs@usaid.gov.

3. To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, Applicants must prominently reference the Solicitation number in the application submission.

https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1866/a302-3.doc mailto:IraqUSPSCjobs@usaid.gov

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSC HIRES

Once the CO informs the successful Applicant about being selected for a contract award, the CO will provide the successful Applicant instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms.

1. Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)

2. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions for National Security (SF-86), or

3. Questionnaire for non-Sensitive Positions for National Security (SF-85),

4. Finger Print Card (FD-258)

5. OF-306

VI. BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES

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

1. BENEFITS:

(a) Employer's FICA Contribution

(b) Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance

(c) Pay Comparability Adjustment

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

(e) Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

(f) Annual and Sick Leave

2. ALLOWANCES:

Section numbers refer to rules from the Department of State Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas)

(a) Post Allowance (Section 220)

(b) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)

(c) Education Allowance (Section 270)

(d) Education Travel (Section 280)

(e) Post Differential (Chapter 500)

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

(g) Danger Pay Allowance (Section 650)

VII. TAXES

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

VIII. ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDS) AND CONTRACT

INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBS) PERTAINING TO PSCs

Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertain to Personal Services Contracts can be found at:

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

Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D and J that apply to PSCs can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf