SOL-72048624R00013 RH USPSC Communications and Coordination Specialist_signed.pdf

U.S. Agency for International Development Regional Development Mission for Asia (USAID/RDMA) Athenee Tower, 25th Floor, Wireless Road, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

SOLICITATION NUMBER : 72048624R00013

ISSUANCE DATE : July 18, 2024 CLOSING DATE/TIME : August 18, 2024 (11:59 PM Bangkok Time)

SUBJECT: Solicitation for Resident Hire U.S. Personal Services Contractor (USPSC) – Communications and Coordination Specialist

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified person 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.

USAID will evaluate all offerors based on the stated evaluation criteria. USAID encourages all individuals, including those from disadvantaged and under-represented groups, to respond to the 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 offer.

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

Sincerely, Joseph Curtain Executive Officer/Contracting Officer

USAID Regional Development Mission for Asia Bangkok, Thailand

SOL-72048624R00013

ATTACHMENT 1:

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 72048624R00013

2. ISSUANCE DATE: July 18, 2024

3. CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: August 18, 2024, at 11:59 PM Bangkok Time

4. POINT OF CONTACT: RDMArecruitment@usaid.gov

5. POSITION TITLE: Communications and Coordination Specialist

6. MARKET VALUE OF POSITION (Base Pay): $88,520 - $115,079 per annum equivalent to GS-13

Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value and will depend on experience, qualifications, and salary history.

The standard compensation package also includes a contribution for life and health insurance and a contribution to FICA.

7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Bangkok, Thailand

Overseas USPSCs may be authorized to telework or remote work only from location within the country of performance, in accordance with Mission policy. Telework or remote work from outside the country of performance may only be authorized in certain situations in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract.

8. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The base period will be one year, estimated to start in December

2024. Based on Agency need, availability of funds and satisfactory performance, the Contracting Officer may exercise additional option periods of up to four (4) years as follows:

Base Period o/a December 2024 - November 2025 Option Period 1 o/a December 2025 - November 2026 Option Period 2 o/a December 2026 - November 2027 Option Period 3 o/a December 2027 - November 2028 Option Period 4 o/a December 2028 - November 2029

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS:

• Eligible Family Members (USEFMs and EFMs with U.S. permanent residence status (Green Card Holders) of U.S. Mission in Thailand; or

• U.S-Thai Dual Citizens;

• Demonstrated ability to obtain a FACILITY ACCESS level security clearance;

• Demonstrated ability to obtain a Department of State medical clearance;

• Must not appear as an excluded party in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).

mailto:RDMArecruitment@usaid.gov

10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facility Access Clearance

11. WORK HOURS: 40 hours/week

12. STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

A. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

USAID’s Regional Development Mission for Asia (RDMA) is located in Bangkok, Thailand. RDMA manages three operating units - one regional portfolio and non-presence country programming in China and Thailand. With a FY 2023 budget of $84.7 million, the Mission has an active portfolio throughout the Southeast Asia region totaling over $589 million. As a regional service platform, RDMA supports 12 client missions in Asia, representing an annual combined budget of $1.4 billion, with a broad range of policy, technical, and operational support services. RDMA also manages the Asia Regional Training Center, the Agency’s largest such facility outside of Washington, DC, which trains 4,000 USAID employees and partners per year. The Mission operates under a 5-year Regional Development Cooperation Strategy (RDCS), aiming to improve and strengthen a more resilient, inclusive, and secure Southeast Asia. RDMA’s environment portfolio works to improve the region’s management of natural resources by addressing transboundary environmental challenges.

With a staff of 22, the USAID/RDMA Regional Environment Office (REO) manages a complex portfolio to tackle Asia’s biggest existential challenges, including the climate crisis and biodiversity loss. The portfolio contributes to the U.S. Government’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, the USAID Climate Strategy, the USAID Biodiversity Policy, the End, Neutralize, and Disrupt Wildlife Trafficking Act, the ASEAN-U.S Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and the Mekong-U.S.

Partnership. REO's innovative programs and activities address transnational environmental challenges, strengthen regional institutions and networks, and promote regional multi-country cooperation. With an active portfolio valued at $245 million, activities include energy, nature-based climate solutions, wildlife trafficking, Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate adaptation and resilience, natural resources management and environmental governance and safeguards.

REO partners with regional organizations and institutions as well as like-minded partners to address transboundary issues— forging connections across borders and at a scale that amplifies national partnerships among bilateral USAID Missions. Hence, REO aims to work more effectively with our existing USAID bilateral Mission counterparts in the region to coordinate programs for accelerating development impacts at scale. Similarly, REO aims to further develop and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders in the region from other U.S. Government (USG) agencies, country governments, civil society and the private sectors to enhance our development effectiveness.

The Communications and Coordination Specialist plays a critical role contributing to the achievement of REO’s Development Objective of “Regional Environmental and Energy Systems Strengthened” contributing to the Mission’s Regional Development Cooperation Strategy and multiple USAID and USG priorities and initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Strategy, Climate Strategy, and the Mekong-U.S. Partnership among others. As a leading technical office with the largest budget within RDMA, REO also has a significant role in providing technical advisory services to bilateral Missions in the Asia region.

B. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION

The Communications and Coordination Specialist serves as the principal focal point for REO on internal and external communication and coordination processes, including learning and outreach products, for the REO portfolio.

The incumbent will be tasked with managing and maintaining communications internal to USAID and the U.S. government (e.g. with USAID bilateral Missions and Embassies, other U.S. Government Agencies) as well as preparing communications and other materials in partnership with staff from REO and the RDMA Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) Team for external audiences. The incumbent will also be responsible for coordination with internal and external partners and stakeholders. This position requires excellent communication and organizational skills, the ability to manage communications with a wide variety of organizations and individuals, and the ability to react quickly to tasks and work under exceptionally tight timelines. The incumbent is expected to take initiative and act independently with little direction.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Internal USAID Communication and Coordination: (35%)

● Serve as the regional communications liaison between the REO portfolio and USAID bilateral Missions, US Embassies, and other USG agencies in the Asia region. Implement an effective communication plan for the office with all relevant bilateral and sub-regional Missions for regional activities. Ensure a strong element of Collaboration, Learning, and Adapting (CLA) in all cross-Mission communications products, meetings, and workshops so they are well informed of REO activities.

● Serve as a communication and coordination point of contact for bilateral missions’ engagement and support the bilateral missions, USAID Washington and/or US Embassies’ coordination calls to ensure they are properly apprised of relevant REO activities as well as services offered by REO.

● Support and advise REO leadership to ensure messaging for all activities is consistent with the office’s, the Mission’s and the Agency’s priorities.

● Lead events planning and coordinate efforts among all parties for REO conferences, press interviews, VIP visits, launches of project activities, or other events to ensure events run smoothly and meet USAID messaging goals.

● Engage REO staff to produce and disseminate information and updates about REO activities and events to USG stakeholders in Asia and Washington in close collaboration with the Mission’s DOC team.

● Develop, write and/or edit briefing checklists (BCLs), speeches, talking points, blogs, success stories, press releases and other communications materials as needed by REO staff, the USAID/RDMA, the U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, or other senior leadership as directed, in support of USAID-sponsored public events.

● Ensure all communications products for all program cycle planning and reporting, including but not limited to Annual Reports, Portfolio Reviews, Performance Plan and Report, Congressional Budget Justifications, and briefings are well written and delivered on time.

● Assist REO staff to periodically review implementing partner communication strategies and practices and provide guidance on USAID branding and marking requirements as required by each award.

External USAID Communication and Coordination: (35%)

● Coordinate with the USAID/RDMA DOC to leverage local, regional and international media relationships that will ensure REO events/stories are covered on a timely basis with appropriate content and that USAID and Embassy Bangkok staff are well informed of REO activities and events.

● Develop and maintain relationships with key USAID/RDMA stakeholders in the region from government, civil society, and the private sector to advance the effectiveness of REO programming.

● Develop written materials, visual media, and social media for the DOC team for dissemination to external audiences.

● Develop external communication materials for Agency-wide publications such as Impact Blog, Frontlines, case studies, success stories, and social media content.

● Design and implement relevant media and communications training to REO partners in collaboration with the DOC team.

● Compile, edit, and publish weekly REO updates for internal audiences and work with the DOC to make information available for external audiences.

● Provide guidance, under the supervision of the technical lead, to implementing partners providing communications support to RDMA and bilateral missions.

● Ensure procedures regarding outreach communications are strictly adhered to and that USG interests are protected.

● Organize and facilitate routine Implementing Partner coordination meetings.

Communication Management: (25%)

● Assess current communications products; implement, and as needed revise, the current strategic communications plan in coordination with the USAID/RDMA DOC and support messaging to highlight the progress of REO-funded activities towards the achievement of their overall goals and the USAID/RDMA regional strategy. Ensure that the REO strategic communications plan supports USAID/RDMA objectives while integrating collaboration, learning and adapting into the office communications strategy.

● Establish excellent working relationships and strategic engagement with a wide range of contacts within the public, private, and USG community related to communications, including communications officials in other USAID Missions, AID/Washington, the USAID/RDMA DOC team, the U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section (PAS) in Thailand, the bilateral and regional donor community, and REO partners throughout the Asia region.

● Maintain a current database with all relevant communications contacts that are involved in the implementation of REO activities (i.e. spokespersons and programmatic focal points from implementing partners, USAID Missions in Asia, AID/Washington, Embassy Bangkok agencies, and other donors).

● Maintain a virtual repository of publications, photos, factsheets and briefers. Design, develop, and manage a virtual portal of information to assist with bilateral communication and technical support. Contribute to the REO calendar of events.

Customer Service: (5%)

● Provide on-demand communications expertise and other advisory services to support bilateral USAID client Missions in the region with energy, infrastructure, and natural resource management portfolios. Both TDY and remote support is anticipated.

C. POSITION ELEMENTS

i. Degree of responsibility for decision-making assigned to the position: The incumbent is expected to work independently with broad guidance and direction from the REO Deputy Director. The incumbent is expected to resolve most communication and coordination issues independently and is expected to establish priorities, adhere to and meet established deadlines, and perform responsibilities and duties with minimal guidance.

The incumbent must be proactive as well as self-motivated and self-directed. The incumbent must demonstrate ingenuity, diplomacy, and creativity to resolve communication challenges and achieve objectives.

ii. Level of complexity for work assignments and the work environment or its potential effect on the position’s responsibilities: The REO portfolio is high-profile and involves continual coordination with various USG and external stakeholders. The incumbent must be able to engage diplomatically with various internal and external audiences, ensuring RDMA’s equities are adequately represented. The incumbent is expected to generate novel solutions to continually evolving and changing communication and coordination challenges. The incumbent is expected to lead REO in designing a system to more effectively and efficiently share information in the Asia region to ensure the most efficient adoption of best practices to improve development outcomes.

iii. Supervisory Controls: The position is directly supervised by the REO Deputy Director, USAID/RDMA/REO, who will provide guidance on USAID/RDMA strategic objectives and goals. The supervisor sets overall performance goals. The incumbent is expected to establish priorities with minimal guidance to independently plan, design, and carry out projects, studies, and programs. The incumbent is expected to develop a strategic communications plan and products in coordination with the REO team, and the USAID/RDMA DOC and support messaging to highlight the progress of REO-funded activities towards the achievement of their overall goals and USAID/RDMA objectives. The incumbent must be proactive as well as self-motivated and self -directed.

iv. Guidelines for the required work, including reporting requirements: Guidelines on administrative and communication policies and precedents are applicable but are stated in general terms (i.e., agency policy). The incumbent is expected to use initiative and resourcefulness in deviating from traditional methods or and trends to develop new methods, criteria or proposed policies. The incumbent will report to the REO Deputy Director in USAID/RDMA/REO while working closely with the REO Program Management and Operations Team and USAID/RDMA DOC to ensure that the REO strategic communications plan supports USAID/RDMA objectives and that Collaborating, Learning and Adapting is embedded in the office communications strategy.

v. Scope and effect of the work performed: The incumbent plays a critical role to the achievement of REO’s development objective, the Mission’s and the Agency’s priorities and initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Strategy, Climate Strategy, and the Mekong-U.S.

Partnership by serving as the principal focal point for REO internal and external communication and coordination processes for the REO portfolio ranging from energy, nature-based climate solutions, wildlife trafficking, Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate adaptation and resilience, natural resources management and environmental governance and safeguards. As a leading technical office with the largest budget within RDMA, REO also has a significant role in providing technical advisory services to bilateral Missions in the Asia region. The incumbent develops communication plans, strategies and materials for Agency-wide publications, designs and implements relevant media and communications training to REO partners, and written materials, visual media, and social media for the DOC team for dissemination to external audiences.

The work requires creativity and support efforts from others.

vi. Level and purpose of contacts: To effectively function in this position, the incumbent will be required to establish and maintain professional and effective working relationships and senior level contacts with internal and external stakeholders, including USAID and other USG officials (bilateral Missions in Asia, U.S. Embassy staff, USAID Washington, in particular the Asia Bureau), senior managers and leaders of host government counterparts, regional institutions (such as ASEAN, APEC, and Mekong-U.S. Partnership), other international organizations and donors (Asian Development Bank, World Bank), and NGOs. External contacts also include regional environment organizations, think tanks, both in Asia and worldwide, private sector, as well as other regional environment related organizations, such as universities. The purpose of contact includes influencing and motivating people through communication strategies and products. The incumbent must be skillful in determining the appropriate approach in negotiating and persuading others, and in establishing rapport in order to gain and relay information.

vii. Supervision or oversight the position has over others: The incumbent will not have supervisory responsibilities.

D. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

Regional travel may be required up to 15% based on Mission requests for communications support.

E. SUPPORT ITEMS:

The PSC will be provided with the adequate support services, equipment, and supplies necessary to perform the work.

13. PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THE POSITION

Education: A bachelor’s degree is required.

Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in communication and outreach and/or natural resources management, international development or related field. At least two (2) years of international experience or work on international issues.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance with FAR 52.215-1. The Contracting Officer (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 to FAR 15.306(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 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 FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

The technical evaluation committee may conduct reference checks, including references from individuals who have not been specifically identified by the offeror, and may do so before or after a candidate is interviewed.

Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified offerors in comparison to other offerors. Offerors must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided.

The rating factors are as follows:

Education (15 points)

• Additional points will be awarded for educational degrees above the established minimum and for education in the field of public relations, environment, energy, or a related international https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far development and communication area.

Professional Experience (15 points)

• Additional points will be awarded for educational degrees above the established minimum and for education in the field of public relations, environment, energy, or a related international development and communication area.

• Previous work experience or familiarity with energy or environment programming, interagency collaboration, and partnership development is desirable.

• Prior overseas work experience and working with the U.S. government or with other international development organizations is preferred.

Technical Knowledge (30 points)

• Demonstrated knowledge of the communications and outreach field and ability to craft effective communications.

• Demonstrated knowledge of environmental issues (natural resources management, counter wildlife trafficking, fisheries, climate change, energy, environmental safeguards, environmental law, environmental policy or related field.) and/or demonstrated knowledge of the development field.

Skills and Abilities (40 points)

• Outstanding interpersonal skills and the proven ability to develop and maintain strong working relationships with USAID staff and managers and USAID/RDMA stakeholders including government officials, civil society and the private sector.

• Excellent verbal communication skills and proven record of excellent writing and editing skills, especially the ability to convey technical information to general audiences.

• Excellent presentation skills.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to collaborate with USAID bilateral Missions and U.S. Embassies as well as other donors, partners and representatives of civil society.

• Ability to design, implement and manage communications processes and systems in a complex implementation environment.

• Proven record of establishing effective, team based working relationships with a wide range of individuals.

• Demonstrated ability to design and facilitate meetings and workshops.

• Ability to build and maintain partnerships with a wide variety of stakeholders.

• Ability to exercise independent judgment in resolving complex communications issues on a regional scale.

• Ability to clearly communicate complex ideas to the public.

Offerors who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors. The qualified offerors may also be evaluated on writing test and interview performance. Only offerors who are in the competitive range will be contacted. No responses will be sent to unsuccessful offerors who are excluded or otherwise eliminated from the competitive range.

Offerors should address the Evaluation and Selection Factors in their application package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.

The qualified offerors may be invited to be interviewed, either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion. USAID/RDMA will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.

Reference checks will be conducted for the highly ranked offeror(s).

Note: Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If an offeror does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the offeror’s cover letter, and USAID will delay such reference check pending communication with the offeror.

IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER

Email submissions must be sent to RDMArecruitment@usaid.gov with the subject line “SOL- 72048624R00013”. To ensure delivery by the due date, it is recommended that offers be sent in as email attachments.

Eligible offerors are required to submit the following:

1. Fully completed and signed copy of the offer form AID 309-2, “Offeror Information for Personal

Services Contracts with Individuals,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms. Offerors should note that the salary history for the purposes of the AID 309-2 is the base salary paid, excluding benefits and allowances such as housing, travel, educational support, vehicle use, etc.

2. A current resume or curriculum vitae (CV);

3. Written statement that responds to the requirements of the position (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors);

4. A minimum of two writing samples. These samples should be 500 to 1,500 words and should demonstrate the offeror’s ability to clearly communicate complex ideas to the public. Samples must be by the offeror. Co-written articles are not accepted.

5. A minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including two references which must be from direct supervisors who can provide information regarding the offeror’s past performance.

6. For USEFMs of U.S. Mission in Thailand – A copy of sponsor’s orders showing your sponsor’s assignment in the U.S. Mission Thailand and/or approved OF-126, and a copy of U.S. Passport biographical page;

mailto:RDMArecruitment@usaid.gov https://www.usaid.gov/forms

7. For EFMs with U.S. permanent residence status (Green Card Holder) of U.S. Mission in Thailand

– A copy of sponsor’s orders showing your sponsor’s assignment in the U.S. Mission Thailand and/or approved OF-126, and a copy of Green Card;

8. For U.S.-Thai Dual Citizens – A valid Thai ID card and a copy of U.S. Passport biographical page.

NOTE: Submission of a resume/CV alone IS NOT a complete offer. This position requires the completion of all forms and supplemental materials as described in this section. Failure to provide the required information and/or materials may result in your not being considered.

Late offers may not be considered. Please note all offers must be signed (hand-signed or digitally)

– unsigned offers will NOT be considered. Please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in your email and any cover letter.

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD

The CO will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award.

1. Medical History and Examination (DS-1843)

2. Declaration for Federal Employment (OF-306)

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

4. Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)

5. Finger Print Card (SF-87). (NOTE: Form is available from the requirements office.)

VI. BENEFITS

As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a Resident Hire USPSC is normally authorized the following 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) Leave and Holidays

Note: U.S. Resident Hire PSCs are not eligible for any fringe benefits (except contributions for FICA, health insurance, and life insurance), including differentials and allowances.

VII. TAXES

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

VIII. 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/ads/policy/300/aidar

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:

LINE ITEMS

ITEM

NO

(A)

SUPPLIES/SERVICES

(DESCRIPTION)

(B)

QUANTITY

(C)

UNIT

(D)

UNIT PRICE

(E)

AMOUNT

(F)

0001 Compensation and Fringe Benefits/Other Direct Costs (ODCs) Award Type: Cost Product Service Code: R497 Accounting Info: TBD

1 LOT $ TBD $ TBD

1001 Option Period (OP) 1 – Compensation and ODCs Award Type: Cost Product Service Code: R497 Accounting Info: TBD

1 LOT $ TBD $ TBD

2001 OP 2 – Compensation and ODCs Award Type: Cost Product Service Code: R497 Accounting Info: TBD

1 LOT $ TBD $ TBD

3001 OP 3 – Compensation and ODCs Award Type: Cost Product Service Code: R497 Accounting Info: TBD

1 LOT $ TBD $ TBD

4001 OP 4 – Compensation and ODCs Award Type: Cost Product Service Code: R497 Accounting Info: TBD

1 LOT $ TBD $ TBD

3. Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for

Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs.

https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar https://www.usaid.gov/forms http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs

4. Ethical Conduct. By the acceptance of a USAID personal services contract as an individual, the contractor will be acknowledging receipt of the “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/resources_standards-of-conduct.

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 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.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/resources_standards-of-conduct https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman mailto:PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov

External USAID Communication and Coordination: (35%)

SOL-72048624R00013

SOLICITATION NUMBER : 72048624R00013

ISSUANCE DATE : July 18, 2024 CLOSING DATE/TIME : August 18, 2024

(11:59 PM Bangkok Time)

SUBJECT: Solicitation for Resident Hire U.S. Personal Services Contractor (USPSC) – Communications and Coordination Specialist

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified person 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.

USAID will evaluate all offerors based on the stated evaluation criteria. USAID encourages all individuals, including those from disadvantaged and under-represented groups, to respond to the 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 offer.

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

Sincerely, Joseph Curtain

Executive Officer/Contracting Officer

USAID Regional Development Mission for Asia

Bangkok, Thailand

ATTACHMENT 1:

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 72048624R00013

2. ISSUANCE DATE: July 18, 2024

3. CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: August 18, 2024, at 11:59 PM Bangkok Time

4. POINT OF CONTACT: RDMArecruitment@usaid.gov

5. POSITION TITLE: Communications and Coordination Specialist

6. MARKET VALUE OF POSITION (Base Pay): $88,520 - $115,079 per annum equivalent to GS-13

Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value and will depend on experience, qualifications, and salary history.

The standard compensation package also includes a contribution for life and health insurance and a contribution to FICA.

7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Bangkok, Thailand

Overseas USPSCs may be authorized to telework or remote work only from location within the country of performance, in accordance with Mission policy. Telework or remote work from outside the country of performance may only be authorized in certain situations in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract.

8. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The base period will be one year, estimated to start in December 2024. Based on Agency need, availability of funds and satisfactory performance, the Contracting Officer may exercise additional option periods of up to four (4) years as follows:

Base Period o/a December 2024 - November 2025

Option Period 1 o/a December 2025 - November 2026

Option Period 2 o/a December 2026 - November 2027

Option Period 3 o/a December 2027 - November 2028

Option Period 4 o/a December 2028 - November 2029

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS:

· Eligible Family Members (USEFMs and EFMs with U.S. permanent residence status (Green Card Holders) of U.S. Mission in Thailand; or

· U.S-Thai Dual Citizens;

· Demonstrated ability to obtain a FACILITY ACCESS level security clearance;

· Demonstrated ability to obtain a Department of State medical clearance;

· Must not appear as an excluded party in the System for Award Management (SAM.gov).

10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facility Access Clearance

11. WORK HOURS: 40 hours/week

12. STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

A. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

USAID’s Regional Development Mission for Asia (RDMA) is located in Bangkok, Thailand. RDMA manages three operating units - one regional portfolio and non-presence country programming in China and Thailand. With a FY 2023 budget of $84.7 million, the Mission has an active portfolio throughout the Southeast Asia region totaling over $589 million. As a regional service platform, RDMA supports 12 client missions in Asia, representing an annual combined budget of $1.4 billion, with a broad range of policy, technical, and operational support services. RDMA also manages the Asia Regional Training Center, the Agency’s largest such facility outside of Washington, DC, which trains 4,000 USAID employees and partners per year. The Mission operates under a 5-year Regional Development Cooperation Strategy (RDCS), aiming to improve and strengthen a more resilient, inclusive, and secure Southeast Asia. RDMA’s environment portfolio works to improve the region’s management of natural resources by addressing transboundary environmental challenges.

With a staff of 22, the USAID/RDMA Regional Environment Office (REO) manages a complex portfolio to tackle Asia’s biggest existential challenges, including the climate crisis and biodiversity loss. The portfolio contributes to the U.S. Government’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, the USAID Climate Strategy, the USAID Biodiversity Policy, the End, Neutralize, and Disrupt Wildlife Trafficking Act, the ASEAN-U.S Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and the Mekong-U.S. Partnership. REO's innovative programs and activities address transnational environmental challenges, strengthen regional institutions and networks, and promote regional multi-country cooperation. With an active portfolio valued at $245 million, activities include energy, nature-based climate solutions, wildlife trafficking, Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate adaptation and resilience, natural resources management and environmental governance and safeguards.

REO partners with regional organizations and institutions as well as like-minded partners to address transboundary issues— forging connections across borders and at a scale that amplifies national partnerships among bilateral USAID Missions. Hence, REO aims to work more effectively with our existing USAID bilateral Mission counterparts in the region to coordinate programs for accelerating development impacts at scale. Similarly, REO aims to further develop and maintain relationships with key external stakeholders in the region from other U.S. Government (USG) agencies, country governments, civil society and the private sectors to enhance our development effectiveness.

The Communications and Coordination Specialist plays a critical role contributing to the achievement of REO’s Development Objective of “Regional Environmental and Energy Systems Strengthened” contributing to the Mission’s Regional Development Cooperation Strategy and multiple USAID and USG priorities and initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Strategy, Climate Strategy, and the Mekong-U.S. Partnership among others. As a leading technical office with the largest budget within RDMA, REO also has a significant role in providing technical advisory services to bilateral Missions in the Asia region.

B. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POSITION

The Communications and Coordination Specialist serves as the principal focal point for REO on internal and external communication and coordination processes, including learning and outreach products, for the REO portfolio.

The incumbent will be tasked with managing and maintaining communications internal to USAID and the U.S. government (e.g. with USAID bilateral Missions and Embassies, other U.S. Government Agencies) as well as preparing communications and other materials in partnership with staff from REO and the RDMA Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) Team for external audiences. The incumbent will also be responsible for coordination with internal and external partners and stakeholders. This position requires excellent communication and organizational skills, the ability to manage communications with a wide variety of organizations and individuals, and the ability to react quickly to tasks and work under exceptionally tight timelines. The incumbent is expected to take initiative and act independently with little direction.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Internal USAID Communication and Coordination: (35%)

· Serve as the regional communications liaison between the REO portfolio and USAID bilateral Missions, US Embassies, and other USG agencies in the Asia region. Implement an effective communication plan for the office with all relevant bilateral and sub-regional Missions for regional activities. Ensure a strong element of Collaboration, Learning, and Adapting (CLA) in all cross-Mission communications products, meetings, and workshops so they are well informed of REO activities.

· Serve as a communication and coordination point of contact for bilateral missions’ engagement and support the bilateral missions, USAID Washington and/or US Embassies’ coordination calls to ensure they are properly apprised of relevant REO activities as well as services offered by REO.

· Support and advise REO leadership to ensure messaging for all activities is consistent with the office’s, the Mission’s and the Agency’s priorities.

· Lead events planning and coordinate efforts among all parties for REO conferences, press interviews, VIP visits, launches of project activities, or other events to ensure events run smoothly and meet USAID messaging goals.

· Engage REO staff to produce and disseminate information and updates about REO activities and events to USG stakeholders in Asia and Washington in close collaboration with the Mission’s DOC team.

· Develop, write and/or edit briefing checklists (BCLs), speeches, talking points, blogs, success stories, press releases and other communications materials as needed by REO staff, the USAID/RDMA, the U.S. Ambassador to Thailand, or other senior leadership as directed, in support of USAID-sponsored public events.

· Ensure all communications products for all program cycle planning and reporting, including but not limited to Annual Reports, Portfolio Reviews, Performance Plan and Report, Congressional Budget Justifications, and briefings are well written and delivered on time.

· Assist REO staff to periodically review implementing partner communication strategies and practices and provide guidance on USAID branding and marking requirements as required by each award.

External USAID Communication and Coordination: (35%)

· Coordinate with the USAID/RDMA DOC to leverage local, regional and international media relationships that will ensure REO events/stories are covered on a timely basis with appropriate content and that USAID and Embassy Bangkok staff are well informed of REO activities and events.

· Develop and maintain relationships with key USAID/RDMA stakeholders in the region from government, civil society, and the private sector to advance the effectiveness of REO programming.

· Develop written materials, visual media, and social media for the DOC team for dissemination to external audiences.

· Develop external communication materials for Agency-wide publications such as Impact Blog, Frontlines, case studies, success stories, and social media content.

· Design and implement relevant media and communications training to REO partners in collaboration with the DOC team.

· Compile, edit, and publish weekly REO updates for internal audiences and work with the DOC to make information available for external audiences.

· Provide guidance, under the supervision of the technical lead, to implementing partners providing communications support to RDMA and bilateral missions.

· Ensure procedures regarding outreach communications are strictly adhered to and that USG interests are protected.

· Organize and facilitate routine Implementing Partner coordination meetings.

Communication Management: (25%)

· Assess current communications products; implement, and as needed revise, the current strategic communications plan in coordination with the USAID/RDMA DOC and support messaging to highlight the progress of REO-funded activities towards the achievement of their overall goals and the USAID/RDMA regional strategy. Ensure that the REO strategic communications plan supports USAID/RDMA objectives while integrating collaboration, learning and adapting into the office communications strategy.

· Establish excellent working relationships and strategic engagement with a wide range of contacts within the public, private, and USG community related to communications, including communications officials in other USAID Missions, AID/Washington, the USAID/RDMA DOC team, the U.S. Embassy Public Affairs Section (PAS) in Thailand, the bilateral and regional donor community, and REO partners throughout the Asia region.

· Maintain a current database with all relevant communications contacts that are involved in the implementation of REO activities (i.e. spokespersons and programmatic focal points from implementing partners, USAID Missions in Asia, AID/Washington, Embassy Bangkok agencies, and other donors).

· Maintain a virtual repository of publications, photos, factsheets and briefers. Design, develop, and manage a virtual portal of information to assist with bilateral communication and technical support. Contribute to the REO calendar of events.

Customer Service: (5%)

· Provide on-demand communications expertise and other advisory services to support bilateral USAID client Missions in the region with energy, infrastructure, and natural resource management portfolios. Both TDY and remote support is anticipated.

C. POSITION ELEMENTS

i. Degree of responsibility for decision-making assigned to the position: The incumbent is expected to work independently with broad guidance and direction from the REO Deputy Director. The incumbent is expected to resolve most communication and coordination issues independently and is expected to establish priorities, adhere to and meet established deadlines, and perform responsibilities and duties with minimal guidance. The incumbent must be proactive as well as self-motivated and self-directed. The incumbent must demonstrate ingenuity, diplomacy, and creativity to resolve communication challenges and achieve objectives.

ii. Level of complexity for work assignments and the work environment or its potential effect on the position’s responsibilities: The REO portfolio is high-profile and involves continual coordination with various USG and external stakeholders. The incumbent must be able to engage diplomatically with various internal and external audiences, ensuring RDMA’s equities are adequately represented. The incumbent is expected to generate novel solutions to continually evolving and changing communication and coordination challenges. The incumbent is expected to lead REO in designing a system to more effectively and efficiently share information in the Asia region to ensure the most efficient adoption of best practices to improve development outcomes.

iii. Supervisory Controls: The position is directly supervised by the REO Deputy Director, USAID/RDMA/REO, who will provide guidance on USAID/RDMA strategic objectives and goals. The supervisor sets overall performance goals. The incumbent is expected to establish priorities with minimal guidance to independently plan, design, and carry out projects, studies, and programs. The incumbent is expected to develop a strategic communications plan and products in coordination with the REO team, and the USAID/RDMA DOC and support messaging to highlight the progress of REO-funded activities towards the achievement of their overall goals and USAID/RDMA objectives. The incumbent must be proactive as well as self-motivated and self directed.

iv. Guidelines for the required work, including reporting requirements: Guidelines on administrative and communication policies and precedents are applicable but are stated in general terms (i.e., agency policy). The incumbent is expected to use initiative and resourcefulness in deviating from traditional methods or and trends to develop new methods, criteria or proposed policies. The incumbent will report to the REO Deputy Director in USAID/RDMA/REO while working closely with the REO Program Management and Operations Team and USAID/RDMA DOC to ensure that the REO strategic communications plan supports USAID/RDMA objectives and that Collaborating, Learning and Adapting is embedded in the office communications strategy.

v. Scope and effect of the work performed: The incumbent plays a critical role to the achievement of REO’s development objective, the Mission’s and the Agency’s priorities and initiatives such as the Indo-Pacific Strategy, Climate Strategy, and the Mekong-U.S. Partnership by serving as the principal focal point for REO internal and external communication and coordination processes for the REO portfolio ranging from energy, nature-based climate solutions, wildlife trafficking, Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, climate adaptation and resilience, natural resources management and environmental governance and safeguards. As a leading technical office with the largest budget within RDMA, REO also has a significant role in providing technical advisory services to bilateral Missions in the Asia region. The incumbent develops communication plans, strategies and materials for Agency-wide publications, designs and implements relevant media and communications training to REO partners, and written materials, visual media, and social media for the DOC team for dissemination to external audiences. The work requires creativity and support efforts from others.

vi. Level and purpose of contacts: To effectively function in this position, the incumbent will be required to establish and maintain professional and effective working relationships and senior level contacts with internal and external stakeholders, including USAID and other USG officials (bilateral Missions in Asia, U.S. Embassy staff, USAID Washington, in particular the Asia Bureau), senior managers and leaders of host government counterparts, regional institutions (such as ASEAN, APEC, and Mekong-U.S. Partnership), other international organizations and donors (Asian Development Bank, World Bank), and NGOs. External contacts also include regional environment organizations, think tanks, both in Asia and worldwide, private sector, as well as other regional environment related organizations, such as universities. The purpose of contact includes influencing and motivating people through communication strategies and products. The incumbent must be skillful in determining the appropriate approach in negotiating and persuading others, and in establishing rapport in order to gain and relay information.

vii. Supervision or oversight the position has over others: The incumbent will not have supervisory responsibilities.

D. TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

Regional travel may be required up to 15% based on Mission requests for communications support.

E. SUPPORT ITEMS:

The PSC will be provided with the adequate support services, equipment, and supplies necessary to perform the work.

13. PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THE POSITION

Education: A bachelor’s degree is required.

Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience in communication and outreach and/or natural resources management, international development or related field. At least two (2) years of international experience or work on international issues.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance with FAR…