SOL-391-16-000003_NEW_Partner_Liaison_Safety_and_Vetting_Specialist _GS-0080-14.pdf

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ATTACHMENT TO SOLICITATION NUMBER: SOL-391-16-000003

SOLICITATION NUMBER: SOL-391-16-000003

ISSUING DATE: July 19, 2016

CLOSING DATE: August 18, 2016 (5pm local time)

POSITION TITLE: USAID Security Specialist (Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support)

MARKET VALUE: $87,263 – $133,444 (GS-14). Final

ORGANIZATIONAL LOCATION POSITION: Islamabad, Pakistan

DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Director, Office of Executive Management, Islamabad, USAID/Pakistan

SUPERVISORY CONTROL: Minimum. Incumbent receives supervision, policy direction and guidance from the Director, Office of Executive Management but is expected to act independently

PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The US/TCN PSC contract will be for an initial two year period, with possibility of extension

SECURITY ACCESS: Top Secret/SCI Security clearance

AREA OF CONSIDERATION: US Citizens only

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USAID SECURITY SPECIALIST (PARTNER LIAISON, SECURITY AND VETTING SUPPORT)

A. BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist manages and supervises up to 6 PLSVS staff members (3 to 4 FSN-7 Vetting Assistants, 1 FSN-7 Administrative Assistant, and 1 GS-12 Security Specialist (Partner Liaison) in the provision of safety, security, vetting, information analyses, and information distribution functions in support of operational activities of USAID/Pakistan and its implementing partners. The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist is responsible for providing high level safety, security, and operational support to USAID/Pakistan IPs and grantees through proactive engagement, including regular partner meetings, site visits, and through written and oral communication on safety and security matters affecting IP operations. The incumbent liaises with the RSO, USAID/Washington Office of Security (SEC), and other operational activities ancillary to ensure that safety and security plans for all IPs are in place for their operations throughout the country. Secondarily, the position serves as USAID/Pakistan’s subject matter expert on Mission Pakistan security policies and practices, ensuring that USAID/Pakistan personnel are in compliance with RSO policies, procedures, and guidelines. Thirdly, the Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist will operationalize USAID/Pakistan’s vetting function by serving as the main point of contact for the vetting of key IP personnel and entities through the relevant Vetting Centers.

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist reports directly to the Supervisory Executive Officer (Director, Office of Executive Management) but coordinates closely with the Director of the Office of Acquisition and Assistance (OAA) and the designated Deputy Mission Director.

B. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. USAID Partner Liaison Safety and Security 25%

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist is responsible for developing security strategies to enhance operations for USAID-funded projects throughout Pakistan. The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist is responsible for monitoring critical security information, understanding and ensuring compliance with Mission safety and security policies, and ensuring that all USAID/Pakistan personnel and IPs follow USAID, Mission Pakistan, and relevant Government of Pakistan (GoP) rules and regulations in order to ensure their maximum safety and security. The Specialist responds to USAID IP safety and security needs and serves as a subject matter expert providing appropriate guidance to USAID staff and IPs on safety, security, and operational affairs.

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist reviews, provides detailed feedback on all security plans provided by IPs and grantees, upon receipt of plans from the Office of Acquisition and Assistance (OAA), the COR or the Implementing Partner (IP). The Specialist works in coordination with OAA to develop processes for the required submission and review of IP security plans in accordance with award language and to ensure IP security incidents are reported. The Specialist receives and consolidates all incident and spot reports as they are provided by IPs and maintains a database cataloging critical incidents by date, type, and provincial location. The Specialist develops an IP incident tracking system to be used in conjunction with existing USAID/Pakistan Geographic Information System (GIS) tools. The Specialist is responsible for developing and managing a cascade system for USAID IPs to ensure all IP employees are accounted for during emergency situations.

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist is expected to develop an annual schedule for travel to IP project sites. The purpose of these visits is to meet with Chiefs of Party and their security staff, conduct assessments of security plans, review site security measures, and address IP security concerns or questions. The Specialist is responsible for preparing detailed written reports for all PLSVS site visits. The

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Specialist is required to formulate agendas, soliciting topics of interests from IPs, and arranging guest speakers for the facilitation of quarterly IP meetings. The Specialist serves on various working groups related to security issues, and is responsible for providing professional input to the Contracting Officer on partner security-related issues.

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist will provide the USAID/Pakistan designated Deputy Mission Director, the Director of the Office of Acquisition and Assistance, the Supervisory Executive Officer, the Pakistan Desk at Office of Afghanistan and Pakistan Affairs (OAPA) in Washington, DC, and USAID/SEC with a weekly activity report containing pertinent information regarding support provided to IPs, and any security-related issues or concerns communicated by IPs.

The Specialist is responsible for facilitating IP participation in security training classes with a local training institution.

2. USAID/Pakistan Staff Movements and Security 25%

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist monitors and updates USAID safety and security policies and practices, ensuring all USAID/Pakistan personnel are in compliance with USAID, Mission Pakistan and RSO procedures and guidelines, both in Islamabad and in the field. The Specialist serves as the USAID/Pakistan liaison to the Embassy RSO for security and safety matters. In coordination with the RSO, the Specialist will establish, assess, and update security procedures and protocols for USAID VIP visits, TDY housing, and shelter-in-place scenarios. The Specialist participates in Emergency Action Committee meetings and other contingency planning groups, as required. The Specialist serves as the Senior Floor Warden for USAID, and maintains oversight for USAID participation in the Embassy Floor Warden System. The Specialist develops and manages a 24/7 Duty Officer Schedule for PLSVS staff to allow for appropriate PLSVS response to information and incidents during off-duty hours.

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist will assist USAID/Pakistan personnel with the travel request clearance process to facilitate approval by the RSO. The Specialist will provide a weekly report of all planned in-country travel by USAID staff. The Specialist will assess needs and develop security training programs for USAID staff, including security incident recognition for OAA staff, and incident reporting procedures for FSN staff.

3. Vetting of Partners 40%

U.S. law requires USAID to take all reasonable and appropriate steps to ensure USG funds are not inadvertently diverted to benefit inappropriate, or “prohibited parties.” USAID/Pakistan programs carry an elevated risk for USG funds inadvertently benefitting prohibited parties due to the ongoing presence of terrorist organizations, drug traffickers, and their affiliates in Pakistan. USAID/Pakistan guards against this elevated risk by further scrutinizing prospective award recipients during the pre-award process. The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist is responsible for operationalizing and implementing enhanced vetting procedures in coordination with USAID/OAPA and USAID’s Office of Security (USAID/SEC) in Washington. The incumbent will oversee and manage USAID/Pakistan’s vetting process from receipt of the vetting request through the issuance of vetting determination notices to the relevant offeror or applicants. In addition, the Specialist is responsible for leading the process of establishing a formalized inter-agency system of communications in order to facilitate the exchange of information needed by the USAID/Pakistan Mission management to make vetting-related decisions.

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist is responsible for updating the USAID/Pakistan Mission Order on the vetting of partners process, ensuring full-compliance with the Mission Order, and implementing USAID/Pakistan’s enhanced vetting procedures in coordination with USAID/OAPA and USAID/SEC. Vetting duties will include ensuring the completeness and accuracy of information provided by prospective award recipients, submitting the information to USAID/SEC for review, and providing

V training to staff and implementing partners on vetting procedures and their applicability. The Specialist will train USAID IPs in the procedures to collect required information, review for completeness the Partner Information Forms (PIF) submitted by IPs and forward the information to the vetting unit in SEC. In cases of an ineligible recommendation by USAID/SEC, the incumbent will report the recommendation to the USAID/Pakistan’s designated Deputy Director who will determine the best course of action to take. The Specialist will establish and maintain a system that tracks USAID/Pakistan’s vetting priorities, communicate with the Vetting Centers on those priorities, and will establish and maintain a system that tracks when awardees are subject to re-vetting. S/he will compile statistics on vetting results in Pakistan, ensure that updates of the vetting results are recorded in the PVS, and will create (and/or generate) and present reports on vetting issues.

The Specialist will be responsible for overall management in distributing workload related to vetting and logistics amongst staff performing these functions, including data quality oversight for completeness and accuracy of the packages transmitted to the Vetting Centers and tracking the eligibility of prospective award recipients and their “key individuals.” The Specialist will closely interact with USAID/Pakistan staff at all levels including CORs, AORs, Office Directors, the RLO, the Front Office, State Department, USAID/OAPA and USAID Vetting Centers on issues affecting vetting system operation and integrity, and issues arising from vetting results. The Specialist will lead the efforts in formalizing the information flow related to vetting from USAID Vetting Centers to USAID/Pakistan’s Mission Management.

4. Management of the PLSVS Division 10%

The Partner Liaison, Security and Vetting Support Specialist will supervise and manage all other PLSVS staff, including a subordinate GS-12 Partner Safety Coordinator who serves as the primary liaison with the host-country and international donor security elements. The Specialist will supervise the FSN 7 PLSVS Administrative Assistant, who is responsible for providing basic administrative support functions to PLSVS team members. Other PLSVS team members include 3-4 FSN-7 Vetting Assistants responsible for performing vetting functions. The Specialist will ensure all PLSVS team members are in compliance with all position requirements as described in their individual job descriptions. The Specialist will hold PLSVS staff meetings, as determined appropriate, to receive updates on activities of team members and give additional assignments, as needed.

C. SECLECTION CRITERIA:

Applicants must submit three written references with complete contact information. Applicants are required to address each of the Selection Criteria on a separate sheet, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards or recognition they have received relevant to each criteria described below, and any related considerations. Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each additional page. Candidates will be evaluated and ranked based on the following selection criteria (maximum of 100 points):

1. Education (15 Points):

A Master’s Degree in a relevant field of study including, but not limited to, international development, administration, transportation logistics, disaster response, safety and security operations, crisis management, law enforcement, or development planning is required.

2. Work Experience (40 Points):

At least seven to ten years of specialized experience in managing the safety and security operations of a USG entity, donor agency, bilateral or multilateral organization, international non-governmental organization, or a private company is required, with demonstrated ability to work effectively and efficiently with clients and with host-country counterparts and international donors on developing risk management strategies. A minimum of five years of this experience must include working in developing countries, preferably one year of which will be working in post-conflict and/or post-disaster programs for emergency relief, humanitarian

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assistance, or reconstruction. The successful candidate must have experience in designing and delivering security-related training programs and briefings to a wide variety of audiences; designing, reviewing, and providing feedback on comprehensive organizational security plans; and experience in planning and developing effective conferences and meetings. Experience with the State Department Office of Diplomatic Security (DS) is preferred, but not required. Work experience in Pakistan or in the region is also preferred, but not required. Experience using GIS or similar mapping software is desired.

3. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (40 Points):

Specialized expert knowledge and skills in managing the safety and security operations of a USG agency, bilateral or multilateral organization, international non-governmental organization, or private company is required. The successful candidate must possess demonstrated leadership skills, with the ability to work independently and with little oversight. The successful candidate should have the ability to work effectively and make sound decisions in high-stress and crisis situations. Demonstrated skill in effectively collecting, synthesizing, and presenting information from diverse sources is required. Meticulous attention to detail is an essential skill to function effectively in this position. The successful candidate should possess the ability to build networks with internal and external entities, Embassy personnel, other USG agencies, the host-country government, NGOs, and local officials. The successful candidate must possess the ability to manage personal and sensitive information for Team members and IPs in a professional manner. The successful candidate must possess the ability to act proactively and creatively to meet the security needs of organizations operating in non-permissive and insecure environments.

Demonstrated knowledge regarding what a comprehensive safety and security operations plan should contain and how it should be managed on a day-to-day basis, is required. Knowledge of generic safety and security protocols in high-risk environments is required. The successful candidate should have the ability to identify and forecast future safety and security trends and concerns which may affect IP operations, and proactively address those whenever required. An advanced knowledge of the political situation and security risks particular to Pakistan is desired. The successful candidate should have familiarity with private security company operations as they relate to IP security profiles. The ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing is required. Proficiency in the Microsoft suite of products, specifically including Word, Excel and PowerPoint is required. Ability to use and manage a database is required. Completion of certified first aid, safety, and security training programs (OFDA, Red Cross, etc.) is highly desired. Knowledge of US State Dept. RSO operations, policies and procedures, knowledge of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Vehicle Anti-Terrorism, and Security Driving is strongly desired.

4. Language (5 Points):

Fluent (level IV) English language proficiency, both written and spoken, is required. Knowledge of Urdu is beneficial but not required. Fluency in English and proven ability to communicate quickly, clearly, and concisely, both orally and in writing, including technical reports is required.

NOTE: USAID/Pakistan reserves the right to test prospective candidates to determine their relative skills and abilities prior to or after the interview process. These tests may be used to disqualify someone from further consideration. Candidates meeting the above required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented in the application and reference checks.

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.

D. TERM OF PERFORMANCE:

The term of the contract will be for two (2) years. Based upon contractor performance, continued Mission requirements and the continued availability of funds, the contract may be extended annually to a maximum of three (3) more years. Within 2 weeks after written notice from the Contracting Officer that all clearances have been received, or unless another date is specified by the Contracting Officer in writing, and receipt of a valid

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Pakistan entry visa, the incumbent shall proceed to Islamabad, Pakistan to perform the above services, which may be extended upon mutual agreement and subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds.

This position has been classified as equivalent to a GS-14 position in the USG Civil Service.

In addition, Islamabad has a 25% Post Differential allowance and 35% Danger Pay, housing, and other benefits per USAID regulations. Basic household furnishings will be available in quarters to be provided by USAID.

FICA and federal income tax will be withheld by USAID. Pakistan is a no-dependent post.

E. MEDICAL AND SECURITY CLEARANCE:

The selected applicant must be able to obtain USG Top Secret level security clearance and a Department of State Class I medical clearance.

F. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the benefits and allowances listed in this section.

1. BENEFITS:

• Employer’s FICA and Medicare Contribution

• Contribution toward Health & life insurance

• Pay Comparability Adjustment

• Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

• Annual & Sick Leave

• Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service as per post policy

2. ALLOWANCES (If Applicable)*:

(1) Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120)

(2) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)

(3) Post Allowance (Section 220)

(4) Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230)

(5) Post Differential (Chapter 500)

(6) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) and

(7) Danger Pay (Section 650)

(8) Education Allowance (Section 270)

(9) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260) (10)Education Travel (Section 280)

* Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas).

3. FEDERAL TAXES: USPSCs are required to pay Federal Income Taxes, FICA, and Medicare.

G. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) or ACQUISITION AND ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs:

AAPDs and CIBs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contract. Those documents can be found at this website:

http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/subject.html#psc http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/subject.html#psc

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H. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

IMPORTANT: All qualified individuals are requested to submit a signed U.S. Government AID-302-3 form which is available at the USAID website: https://www.usaid.gov/forms/aid-302-3 . Applicant’s CVs may also be included as an attachment.

All applications should be submitted electronically to:

Attention: Rizwana Khan Lead Human Resources Specialist USAID/Pakistan, C/o U.S. Embassy Diplomatic Enclave, Islamabad, Pakistan hrislamabad@usaid.gov

To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application and on the subject line of cover letter. The highest ranking applications may be selected for an interview. Applicants may submit an application against this solicitation at any time by 5:00 PM Islamabad time on August 18, 2016, unless revised.

https://www.usaid.gov/forms/aid-302-3 mailto:hrislamabad@usaid.gov