SOL-FFP-17-000002_PPCO_-_FINAL.pdf

Request for Personal Service Contractor

United States Agency for International Development

Bureau for Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance

Office of Food for Peace (FFP)

Position Title: Program and Policy Coordination Officer

Duty Office: DCHA/FFP

Solicitation Number: SOL-FFP-17-000002

Salary Level: GS-12 Equivalent ($79,720 - $103,639)

GS-13 Equivalent ($94,796 - $123,234)

(Incorporates a locality payment for Washington, D.C.)

Issuance Date: February 24, 2017

Closing Date: March 17, 2017

Closing Time: 4:00 P.M. EST

Dear Prospective Applicants:

The United States Government (USG), represented by the U.S. Agency for International

Development (USAID) Office of Food for Peace (FFP), is seeking applications from qualified

U.S. citizens to provide personal services as a Program and Policy Coordination Officer under a

United States Personal Services Contract (USPSC), as described in the attached solicitation.

Submittals must be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified.

Applicants interested in applying for this position MUST submit the following materials:

1. Complete resume. In order to fully evaluate your application, your resume must include:

(a) Paid and non-paid experience, job title, location(s), dates held (month/year), and hours worked per week for each position. Dates (month/year) and locations for all field experience must also be detailed. Any experience that does not include dates

(month/year), locations, and hours per week will not be counted towards meeting the solicitation requirements.

(b) Specific duties performed that fully detail the level and complexity of the work.

(c) Names and contact information (phone/email) of your current and/or previous supervisor(s). Current and/or previous supervisors may be contacted for a reference.

(d) Education and any other qualifications including job-related training courses, job-related skills, or job-related honors, awards or accomplishments.

(e) U.S. Citizenship

Your resume should contain sufficient information to make a valid determination that you fully meet the experience requirements as stated in this solicitation. This information should be clearly identified in your resume. Failure to provide information sufficient to determine your qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration.

Solicitation for a USPSC Program and Policy Coordination Officer SOL-FFP-17-000002

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2. Supplemental document specifically addressing the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) shown in the solicitation.

3. USPSC Application form AID 302-3. Applicants are required to complete sections A through

I. This form must be physically signed and scanned. Electronic signatures will not be accepted.

All USPSCs with a place of performance in the United States are required to have a Data Universal

Numbering System (DUNS) number and be registered in the System for Award Management

(SAM) database prior to receiving an offer. You will be disqualified if you either fail to comply with this requirement or if your name appears on the excluded parties list. Registration information is available at www.sam.gov and further guidance will be provided to the selectee regarding DUNS and SAM registration.

Additional documents submitted will not be accepted. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. FFP reserves the right to select additional candidates if vacancies become available during future phases of the selection process.

Applicants can expect to receive a confirmation email when application materials have been received. Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their applications. Your complete resume, scanned AID 302-3 forms and the supplemental document addressing the QRFs must be emailed to:

E-Mail Address: ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov

Any questions on this solicitation may be directed to FFP PSC Team via the email address provided above.

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.

Sincerely, Renee Newton

Contracting Officer http://www.sam.gov/ mailto:ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov

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1. SOLICITATION NO.: SOL-FFP-17-000002

2. ISSUANCE DATE: February 24, 2017

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR

RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: March 17, 2017, 4:00 P.M. EST

4. POSITION TITLE: Program and Policy Coordination Officer

5. MARKET VALUE: This position has been designated as a “tandem/ladder” position that, depending on the qualifications of the candidate, can be filled at the GS-12 ($79,720 -

$103,639) or GS-13 Equivalent ($94,796 - $123,234) equivalent level, including Washington, D.C. locality pay. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value and based upon the candidate's past salary, work history, and educational background. Applicants must indicate in their application which level(s) they want to be considered for in their initial two-year base contract. USAID/FFP reserves the right to place the applicant at the Grade level for which he/she is found qualified during the application process. Salaries over and above the top of the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated.

6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two (2) year base with three (3) one-year options based on obtaining at least a “fully successful” level of performance in the annual evaluation.

7. ADVANCEMENT: Those selected at the GS-12 level may advance to the GS-13 after two

(2) years at the GS-12 level and an annual evaluation rating of “commendable” or

“outstanding.” Those selected at the GS-13 level are not subject to the “Ladder Advancement” criteria stated above in the solicitation, but will be eligible for step increases within their grade with at least a “fully successful” rating in their annual performance evaluation.

8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Washington, D.C.

9. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret level security clearance

10. AREAS OF CONSIDERATION: U.S. Citizen

11. STATEMENT OF WORK:

BACKGROUND

The Office of Food for Peace (FFP) in the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) is the largest provider of food assistance in the world. FFP annually provides nearly $2 billion of food assistance, including approximately 1.5 million tons of in-kind Title II food assistance valued at more than $1.6 billion and reaching 46 million beneficiaries in 48 countries. Since 2010, FFP has complemented the provision of Title II in-kind food aid with a $300 million Emergency Food Security Program

(EFSP), which allows for local and regional purchase of food outside of the United States and closer to the emergency setting, as well as market-based approaches such as cash transfer or food

4 | P a g e voucher programs that facilitate access to food.

In addition to emergency response, FFP provides support for development food aid programs that aim to address the underlying causes of food security. Taken together, the in-kind food aid and cash-based programs provide an impressive array of tools to combat hunger and malnutrition overseas. Programming is facilitated by state of the art early warning systems, a changing in-kind food aid basket that includes more nutritious products, and a modern supply chain management system that allows for rapid movement of commodities. Programming approaches are evolving to focus increasingly on building the resilience of chronically vulnerable populations, especially those in arid lands who face increasing cycles of drought, and improving nutrition with a special focus on women and children under two.

FFP works closely with many other parts of USAID, especially the Bureau for Food Security

(BFS), which plays a key role in implementing the President’s Feed the Future initiative, and the

Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), which leads on disaster response around the world. FFP employs a staff of more than 100 in Washington and has officers posted overseas.

More Information on FFP is available at:

https://www.usaid.gov/who-we-are/organization/bureaus/bureau-democracy-conflict-and-humanitarian-assistance/office-food

INTRODUCTION

The incumbent will serve as a Program and Policy Coordination Officer and will be designated as a partnership representative and policy analyst for FFP’s emergency nutrition programming. Consequently, this position will support policy related to the implementation of emergency programs carried out by United Nations Agencies, especially UNICEF, other Public

International Organizations (PIO) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO). The policy recommendations created by the incumbent in this position will be primarily operational in nature, ultimately ensuring the timely and effective delivery of emergency food assistance through the development of strong partnerships.

12. CORE FUNCTIONAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

The work of the Program and Policy Coordination Officer requires teamwork and personal responsibility. The incumbent must have demonstrated an ability to perform analytical and evaluative work in support of the management of food assistance activities, especially emergencies. The necessary analytical skills require the ability to address matters of fact, regulatory and program requirements, and problem mitigation. The incumbent must also be able to coordinate with program managers and serve as an advocate for the use of dispute resolution tools such as mediation or interest-based problem solving techniques.

The work requires a high degree of initiative and judgment to ensure effective implementation of

FFP emergency resources. The incumbent must have the ability to interact with a broad range of internal and external partners and clients and function successfully as a member of a multi-functional team. The incumbent must also have demonstrated initiative and ability to manage competing work priorities and work independently when required.

https://www.usaid.gov/who-we-are/organization/bureaus/bureau-democracy-conflict-and-humanitarian-assistance/office-food https://www.usaid.gov/who-we-are/organization/bureaus/bureau-democracy-conflict-and-humanitarian-assistance/office-food

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Under the direct supervision of the Team Leader or his/her designee, the Program and Policy

Coordination Officer will perform the following duties:

At the GS-12 level:

With guidance from his/her supervisor, participate in developing recommendations on a wide range of policy questions relating to the use of FFP food assistance resources for emergency food and nutrition programs.

Under the direction of his/her supervisor, perform review/analysis of PIOs policy and operational issues as they relate to the technical authority regarding the regulatory impact on sensitive or rapidly evolving programs related to emergency food and nutrition assistance.

Advocate, interpret, and explain FFP emergency food program guidance and policy positions in formal and informal interactions with staff of PIOs, NGOs, Agency bureaus, departments and offices, USAID field missions, and other USG agencies and bilateral or multilateral donor offices.

Work to ensure understanding by country-back stop officers and other USAID officials of key emergency food and nutrition assistance operational policy issues that will enable them to plan, manage, and evaluate FFP-funded programs.

Provide to FFP staff operational policy analysis for PIO proposal reviews to ensure that resources allocated for complex food and nutrition assistance programs working in the areas of general relief meet program objectives.

In close coordination with supervisor, consolidate interagency comments.

Closely review annual and/or biennium agreements with the PIOs to ensure that USG views on PIO costs are understood and agreed to, e.g., issues of nomenclature.

Maintain close working relations with the PIOs, regularly discuss FFP commitments, priorities, and policies.

Provide support to the Team Leader and Division Chief by attending office, inter-agency, PIO, and NGO meetings and consultations.

At the GS-13 level:

Serve as a primary point of contact for the USG, implementing partners, and others on emergency food and nutrition assistance policy and partnership issues.

Develop recommendations on a wide range of policy questions relating to the use of FFP food aid assistance resources for emergency food programs.

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Perform review/analysis of PIOs policy and operational issues as they relate to the technical authority regarding the regulatory impact on sensitive or rapidly evolving programs related to emergency food and nutrition assistance.

As necessary and practicable, evaluate alternative agency strategies to make recommendations to ensure that the PIOs comply with USG accepted practices in delivering humanitarian assistance consistent with Agency food aid policy guidance and other guidelines.

Advocate, interpret, and explain FFP emergency food program guidance and policy positions in formal and informal interactions with staff of PIOs, NGOs, Agency bureaus, departments and offices, USAID field missions, and other USG agencies and bilateral or multilateral donor offices.

Work to ensure understanding by country-back stop officers and other USAID officials of key emergency food and nutrition assistance operational policy issues that will enable them to plan, manage, and evaluate FFP-funded programs.

Provide to FFP staff operational policy analysis for PIO proposal reviews to ensure that resources allocated for complex food and nutrition assistance programs working in the areas of general relief meet program objectives.

Consolidate interagency comments and draft initial U.S. position papers in response to PIO documents in preparation for formal sessions and informal consultations in close collaboration with USUN Missions.

Closely review annual and/or biennium agreements with the PIOs to ensure that USG views on PIO costs are understood and agreed to, e.g., issues of nomenclature.

Maintain close working relations with the PIOs, regularly discuss FFP commitments, priorities, and policies, and maintain status reports of all USG donations in cash and in-kind contributions related to PIO operations.

Provide support to the Team Leader and Division Chief, such as strategic planning and evaluation, as well as attend office, inter-agency, PIO, and NGO meetings and consultations.

Design, develop, and maintain systems for tracking status reports of all USG in cash and in-kind contributions related to PIO operations.

Advise FFP managers and staff regarding policies, procedures, and guidelines during various phases of the program life cycle.

Give presentations or briefings on all aspects of existing policy or how upcoming changes to policy will affect emergency and nutrition food assistance programming.

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Guidelines:

At the GS-12 or GS-13 level, pertinent sources of information consist of the Food for Peace Act, the Foreign Assistance Act, and other legislation; USAID Agency, DCHA Bureau, and other USG rules and regulations; and FFP rules, policies, guidelines and information bulletins.

At the GS-12 level, under the direction of FFP leadership, the incumbent exercises judgment to determine the application of current legislative provisions and executive policies to assigned responsibilities. The incumbent is expected to identify and recommend solutions to inefficiencies or inconsistencies that serve as barriers to the accomplishment of assigned tasks and report them to the

Team Leader and FFP leadership.

At the GS-13 level, the incumbent exercises considerable independent judgment in determining the application of current legislative provisions and executive policies to assigned responsibilities. In order to achieve maximum impact of FFP resources, when necessary, the incumbent is expected to conceive of and propose innovative program and/or policy changes that are consistent with existing legislation, regulations, and legal rulings.

Supervisory Controls:

At the GS-12 or GS-13 level, the incumbent takes direction from and reports to their Team Leader and the Policy, Partnerships, Program and Communications (PPPC) Division Chief, in

DCHA/FFP. The incumbent’s supervisor will set the overall work objectives and the PSC will consult with the Team Leader to develop deadlines, projects, and work to be performed.

At the GS-12 level, the incumbent works under the supervision of a Team Leader or a Division

Chief in DCHA/FFP. With guidance from the Team Leader, the incumbent plans and carries out successive steps and handles problems and deviations in accordance with instructions, policies, previous training or accepted practices. In coordination with the Team Leader the incumbent plans and carries out assignments, prioritizes tasks so that assignments are completed on time, develops deadlines for activities and other specialized tasks, and resolves most conflicts that arise. With input from the Team Leader, the incumbent interprets policy in terms of established objectives.

The incumbent keeps his/her supervisor informed of progress in the achievement of objectives and advised of potentially controversial matters. The supervisor will evaluate work for technical soundness, appropriateness and conformity to policy requirements. Completed work is reviewed by the Team Leader in terms of effectiveness in advancing USAID's Food Security policy, DCHA/FFP's Strategic Plan, and Bureau objectives as enunciated in the annual results reports/resource request submissions

At the GS-13 level, the incumbent works under the supervision of a Team Leader or a Division

Chief in DCHA/FFP. With guidance from the Team Leader, the incumbent has greater latitude in defining and carrying out duties, prioritizing overall objectives, and managing available resources, while still consulting with the Team Leader on policy interpretations. In consultation with the

Team Leader, the incumbent develops deadlines for activities and other specialized tasks and is responsible for planning and carrying out assignments, resolving most conflicts that arise, and coordinating work with others as necessary. With input from the Team Leader, the incumbent interprets policy in terms of established objectives and keeps his/her supervisor informed of progress in the achievement of objectives and advised of potentially controversial matters. The

8 | P a g e supervisor will evaluate work for technical soundness and effectiveness in meeting work objectives. Completed work is reviewed by the Team Leader and Division Chief in terms of effectiveness in advancing USAID's Food Security policy, DCHA/FFP's Strategic Plan, and

Bureau objectives as enunciated in the annual results reports/resource request submissions. In certain instances, under the supervision of a Division Chief or a Team Leader, the incumbent may serve Acting Team Leader.

Complexity:

At the GS-12 or GS-13 levels, the incumbent undertakes a wide range of duties that require the exercise of judgment, the interpretation of policies and practices and their relevance to a new problem or situation. The incumbent must work with a range of people from the Operations

Division, Technical, Planning, and Learning Division, the Policy, Partnerships, Program and

Communications Division, and the Geographic Divisions, along with field personnel and other bureaus within USAID.

At the GS-12 level, the incumbent employs support services, such as reviewing FFP emergency and nutrition food assistance policy and maintaining status reports of all USG donations in both cash and in-kind contributions, in order to support accomplishing objectives set by the Team

Leader. Section of methodology to be used and the results of analysis are subject to review by the supervisor.

At the GS-13 level, the incumbent applies his/her depth and breadth of policy knowledge and experience to the analysis of FFP emergency and nutrition food assistance policy and exercises more independence in the provision of recommendations regarding existent policies. The recommended changes will be consistent with existing legislative, regulatory, and policy guidelines but may require the formulation and application of new approaches and methodologies.

The incumbent is expected to be innovative and original in recommending new or improved approaches to achieve problem resolution.

Scope and Effect:

At the GS-12 level, work typically includes reviewing policies and annual and/or biennium agreements with PIOs to ensure that USG’s views on PIO costs are communicated to the appropriate parties. The incumbent supports the Team leader in his/her needs regarding strategic planning or evaluation of a variety of policies and by attending a range of meetings and consultations with stakeholders. The incumbent establishes and maintains positive relationships with members of PIOs, NGOs, from other bureaus in USAID, intergovernmental agencies, and other stakeholders, encouraging the sharing of best practices.

At the GS-13 level, the incumbent establishes criteria, formulates projects, assesses policy effectiveness, or analyzes a variety of policy related conditions, problems, or questions, the results of which affect a range of agency activities. The incumbent analyzes the effectiveness of existing processes and procedures, making recommendations to his or her supervisor. The incumbent develops and facilitates presentations, both informal and formal, based upon the supervisor’s discretion. The incumbent must determine the feasibility of various approaches to define concepts and criteria for the execution of policy changes. The incumbent advises FFP leadership on new guidelines, protocols and procedures.

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Personal Contacts:

At the GS-12 or GS-13 level, the incumbent is responsible for liaising with a variety of agency and external actors in order to regularly discuss and update partners, PIOs, NGOs, other FFP

Divisions and intergovernmental agencies on FFP commitments, priorities and policies. The incumbent coordinates closely with FFP/Washington and field staff, the USAID Mission and regional offices, U.S. Embassy, other US agencies as well as NGO representatives.

At the GS-13 level, the incumbent is responsible for serving as the primary point of contact with individuals or groups in contexts relating to policy issues or questions relating to USG emergency and nutrition food assistance programs.

Purpose of Contacts:

At the GS-12 and GS-13 levels, the incumbent must justify, defend, negotiate and settle matters involving controversial issues among decision makers involved in making changes to a range of policies applied to emergency and nutrition food assistance programs. The people contacted by the incumbent typically have diverse viewpoints, goals and objectives including U.S Government agencies (State Department, U.S. Department of Agriculture, PIOs, etc.). The PSC is required to achieve a common understanding among the various parties and propose satisfactory solutions that address their various objectives to interpretations of existing policy or the provision of recommendation to change policy to better aid execution of emergency and nutrition food assistance programs.

13. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work is primarily performed in an office setting. On travel for FFP, the work may additionally involve special safety and/or security precautions, wearing of protective equipment, and exposure to severe weather conditions.

The work is generally sedentary and does not pose undue physical demands. During deployment on DARTs (if required), and during site visits, there may be some additional physical exertion including long periods of standing, walking over rough terrain, or carrying of moderate heavy items (less than 50 pounds).

14. START DATE: Immediately, once necessary clearances are obtained.

15. POINT OF CONTACT: See Cover Letter.

* Application Process: Applicants must indicate in their application the solicitation number to which they are applying and the salary grade to be considered for in their initial two-year base contract.

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MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

A. Minimum Qualifications:

At the GS-12 Level:

At the GS-12 level the incumbent will have a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance or other related field. The incumbent will also have a total of at least five (5) years of progressively responsible professional experience of which three (3) years must be related to international development and/or humanitarian assistance.

OR

A Master’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance or other related field. The incumbent will also have a total of at least four (4) years of progressively responsible professional experience of which two (2) years must be related to international development and/or humanitarian assistance.

At the GS-13 Level:

A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance or other related field. The incumbent will have a total of at least seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional experience, of which at least (3) years must be related to humanitarian assistance and/or international development.

OR

A Master’s degree from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution with significant study in, but not limited to public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance or other related field. The incumbent will have a total of at least six (6) years of progressively responsible professional experience, of which two (2) years must be related to humanitarian assistance and/or international development.

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B. Selection Factors: Applicants must possess the minimum qualifications for the position.

Applicants who do not meet all of the selection factors are considered NOT qualified for the position. Selection factors include:

• Applicant is a U.S. Citizen.

• Submission of a recent and complete resume, with current contact information. See cover page for resume requirements;

• Supplemental document specifically addressing the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs);

• USPSC Application form AID 302-3. Applicants are required to complete sections A through I. This form must be physically signed and scanned. Electronic signatures will not be accepted;

• Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET level security clearance within six-months following job offer acceptance;

• Ability to obtain a U.S. Department of State medical clearance;

• Must not appear as an excluded party in the System for Award Management

(SAM.gov).

Applicants not meeting minimum qualifications will not be evaluated further.

QUALITY RANKING FACTORS (QRFs)

Applicants who meet the Education/Experience requirements and Selection Factors will be further evaluated based on the Quality Ranking Factors (QRF) listed below. Applicants are strongly encouraged to address each of the factors on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately the experience, training, and/or education they have that is relevant to each factor. Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page.

Knowledge of the key laws, policies and regulations applicable to the administration of

FFP-funded emergency food and nutrition assistance programs. (30 points)

Demonstrated ability to review PIO policy and operational issues as they related to FFP funding and applicable rules and regulations. (25 points)

Knowledge of the functioning of PVOs, UN agencies, and U.S. Government agencies involved in development and/or humanitarian aid, and a demonstrated ability to work effectively with personnel from these organizations on highly sensitive issues. (20 points)

Ability to communicate complex technical issues effectively to non-specialists both orally and in writing. (15 points)

Knowledge of key issues and priorities in implementing international humanitarian food and nutrition assistance programs. (10 points)

Total Possible Points: 100

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BASIS OF RATING: Applicants who meet the Education/Experience requirements and Selection

Factors will be further evaluated based on scoring of the Quality Ranking Factor (QRF) responses.

Those applicants determined to be competitively ranked may also be evaluated on interview performance and satisfactory professional reference checks. Failure to address the selection and/or quality ranking factors may result in your not receiving credit for all your pertinent experience, education, training, and/or awards.

FFP reserves the right to make additional selections from this solicitation.

The most qualified candidates may be interviewed and required to provide a writing sample. FFP will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. Professional references and academic credentials may be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. FFP may select additional candidates from this solicitation to fill possible future vacant positions.

DOCUMENT SUBMITTALS

Where and How to Apply

Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified in the cover letter via e-mail:

ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov.

Qualified individuals are required to submit:

1. A complete, current resume. See cover page for resume requirements.

2. Supplemental documentation specifically addressing the Selection Factors and the

QRFs shown in the solicitation.

3. USPSC Application form AID 302-3. Applicants are required to complete sections A through I. This form must be physically signed and scanned. Electronic signatures will not be accepted.

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.

FFP reserves the right to make additional selections from this solicitation.

Additional documents submitted will not be accepted.

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 six months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded.

mailto:ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov

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NOTE: If the full medical clearance package is not submitted within two months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded. If a Department of State medical clearance is not obtained within six months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded.

To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number and the position you are applying for 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

AND THE SYSTEM FOR AWARD MANAGEMENT

All USPSCs with a place of performance in the United States are required to have a Data Universal

Numbering System (DUNS) number and be registered in the System for Award Management

(SAM) database prior to receiving an offer. You will be disqualified if you either fail to comply with this requirement or if your name appears on the excluded parties list. The selectee will be provided with further guidance regarding DUNS and SAM registration.

For general information about DUNS Numbers, please refer to Federal Acquisition Regulation

(FAR) Clause 52.204-6, Data Universal Numbering System Number at https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html and FAR 52.204-7 , System for

Award Management at https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html or www.sam.gov.

Interested applicants are highly encouraged to initiate the registration process early in the application stage to avoid any delays during contract award.

https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html%20and%20FAR%2052.204-7 https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html http://www.sam.gov/

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LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs

Forms outlined below can found at:

http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ or at http://www.forms.gov/bgfPortal/main.do

a) USPSC Application Form, (AID 302-3)

b) Medical History and Examination Form (DS-6561).

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

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

e) Finger Print Card (FD-258).

f) Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9 Form).

These forms shall be completed ONLY upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.

CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) and ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE

POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs

CIBs and AAPDs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to http://transition.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/subject.html#psc to determine which CIBs and AAPDs apply to this contract.

AAPD 06-10 – PSC MEDICAL PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY

AAPD No. 06-10 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 1 to the solicitation.

AAPD 15-02 LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS

AAPD No. 15-02 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 2 to the solicitation.

FAR 52.222-50 – COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

FAR Clause 52.222-50 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 3 to the solicitation.

BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES/TAXES:

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

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 & Sick Leave http://www.forms.gov/bgfPortal/main.do http://transition.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/subject.html#psc

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ALLOWANCES (if Applicable)*

The following allowances may be provided for PSCs located in foreign countries using rates prescribed under the Department of State Standardized Regulations (Government Civilian Foreign areas) available at https://aoprals.state.gov/:

a) Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120).

b) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130).

c) Post Allowance (Section 220).

d) Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230).

e) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260).

f) Education Allowance (Section 270).

g) Education Travel (Section 280).

h) Post Differential (Chapter 500).

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

j) Danger Pay (Section 650).

* Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas).

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

ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE,

COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL AFFILIATION, NON-

DISQUALIFYING DISABILITY, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION,

AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR OTHER NON-MERIT

FACTOR.

https://aoprals.state.gov/

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ATTACHMENT 1

MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY (OCTOBER 2006) (AAPD06-10)

(a) Definitions. Terms used in this General Provision are defined in 16 FAM 116 (available at http://www.foia.state.gov/REGS/fams.asp?level=2&id=59&fam=0). Note: personal services contractors are not eligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Programs.

(b) The regulations in the Foreign Affairs Manual, Volume 16, Chapter 520 (16 FAM 520), Responsibility for Payment of Medical Expenses, apply to this contract, except as stated below.

The contractor and each eligible family member are strongly encouraged to obtain health insurance that covers this assignment. Nothing in this provision supersedes or contradicts any other term or provision in this contract that pertains to insurance or medical costs, except that section (e) supplements General Provision 25. “MEDICAL EVACUATION (MEDEVAC) SERVICES.”

(c) When the contractor or eligible family member is covered by health insurance, that insurance is the primary payer for medical services provided to that contractor or eligible family member(s) both in the United States and abroad. The primary insurer’s liability is determined by the terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions of the insurance policy. When the contractor or eligible family member is not covered by health insurance, the contractor is the primary payer for the total amount of medical costs incurred and the U.S. Government has no payment obligation

(see paragraph (f) of this provision).

(d) USAID serves as a secondary payer for medical expenses of the contractor and eligible family members who are covered by health insurance, where the following conditions are met:

(1) The illness, injury, or medical condition giving rise to the expense is incurred, caused, or materially aggravated while the eligible individual is stationed or assigned abroad;

(2) The illness, injury, or medical condition giving rise to the expense required or requires hospitalization and the expense is directly related to the treatment of such illness, injury, or medical condition, including obstetrical care; and

(3) The Office of Medical Services (M/MED) or a Foreign Service medical provider (FSMP) determines that the treatment is appropriate for, and directly related to, the illness, injury, or medical condition.

(e) The Mission Director may, on the advice of M/MED or an FSMP at post, authorize medical travel for the contractor or an eligible family member in accordance with the General Provision

10, Travel and Transportation AAPD 06-10 PSC Medical Expense Payment Responsibility 6

Expenses (July 1993), section (i) entitled “Emergency and Irregular Travel and Transportation.”

In the event of a medical emergency, when time does not permit consultation, the Mission Director may issue a Travel Authorization Form or Medical Services Authorization Form DS-3067, provided that the FSMP or Post Medical Advisor (PMA) is notified as soon as possible following such an issuance. The contractor must promptly file a claim with his or her medevac insurance provider and repay to USAID any amount the medevac insurer pays for medical travel, up to the

17 | P a g e amount USAID paid under this section. The contractor must repay USAID for medical costs paid by the medevac insurer in accordance with sections (f) and (g) below. In order for medical travel to be an allowable cost under General Provision 10, the contractor must provide USAID written evidence that medevac insurance does not cover these medical travel costs.

(f) If the contractor or eligible family member is not covered by primary health insurance, the contractor is the primary payer for the total amount of medical costs incurred. In the event of a medical emergency, the Medical and Health Program may authorize issuance of Form DS-3067, Authorization for Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents, to secure admission to a hospital located abroad for the uninsured contractor or eligible family member.

In that case, the contractor will be required to reimburse USAID in full for funds advanced by

USAID pursuant to the issuance of the authorization. The contractor may reimburse USAID directly or USAID may offset the cost from the contractor’s invoice payments under this contract, any other contract the individual has with the U.S. Government, or through any other available debt collection mechanism.

(g) When USAID pays medical expenses (e.g., pursuant to Form DS-3067, Authorization for

Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents), repayment must be made to USAID either by insurance payment or directly by the contractor, except for the amount of such expenses USAID is obligated to pay under this provision. The Contracting Officer will determine the repayment amount in accordance with the terms of this provision and the policies and procedures for employees contained in 16 FAM 521. When USAID pays the medical expenses, including medical travel costs (see section (e) above), of an individual (either the contractor or an eligible family member) who is covered by insurance, that individual promptly must claim his or her benefits under any applicable insurance policy or policies. As soon as the individual receives the insurance payment, the contractor must reimburse USAID for the full amount that USAID paid on the individual’s behalf or the repayment amount determined by the Contracting Officer in accordance with this paragraph, whichever is less. If an individual is not covered by insurance, the contractor must reimburse USAID for the entire amount of all medical expenses and any travel costs the contractor receives from his/her medevac provider.

(h) In the event that the contractor or eligible family member fails to recover insurance payments or transfer the amount of such payments to USAID within 90 days, USAID will take appropriate action to collect the payments due, unless such failure is for reasons beyond the control of the

USPSC/dependent. (i) Before departing post or terminating the contract, the contractor must settle all medical expense and medical travel costs. If the contractor is insured, he or she must provide proof to the Contracting AAPD 06-10 PSC Medical Expense Payment Responsibility 7 Officer that those insurance claims have been submitted to the insurance carrier(s) and sign a repayment agreement to repay to USAID any amounts paid by the insurance carrier(s).

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ATTACHMENT 2

Authorization of Family and Medical Leave for U.S. Personal Services Contractors (USPSCs) (AAPD 15-02)

GP 5. LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS (DEC 2015) (Pursuant to class deviation #M/OAA-DEV-

AIDAR-16-1c)

(a) Annual Leave

(1) The contractor is not entitled to annual leave if the period of performance of this contract is 90 days or less. If the contract period of performance is more than 90 days, the contractor shall earn annual leave as of the start date of the contract period of performance as specified in paragraph

(a)(2) below.

(2) The contractor shall accrue annual leave based on the contractor’s time in service according to the following table: Time in

Service

Annual Leave (AL) Accrual Calculation

0 to 3 years Four hours of leave for each two week period over 3, and up to 15 years Six hours of AL for each two week period

(including 10 hours AL for the final pay period of a calendar year) over 15 years Eight hours of AL for each two week period

(4) With the approval of the Mission Director or cognizant AA, as appropriate, and if the circumstances warrant, a Contracting Officer may grant the contractor advance AL in excess of the amount earned, but in no case may the Contracting Officer grant advance AL in excess of the amount earned in one year or over the life of the contract, whichever is less. The contractor agrees to reimburse USAID for any outstanding balance of advance AL provided during the contractor’s assignment under the contract.

(5) Applicants for PSC positions will provide evidence of their PSC and/or USG direct-hire service

- civilian and/or military experience, as applicable, on their signed and dated application form required under USAID policy. By signing the appropriate form, the applicant attests to the accuracy of the information provided. Any applicant providing incorrect information is subject to the penalty provisions in the form. If required to satisfy due diligence requirements on behalf of the Contracting Officer, the contractor may be required to furnish evidence that verifies length of service, e.g., SF 50, DD Form 214, and/or signed contracts.

(b) Sick Leave. The contractor may use sick leave on the same basis and for the same purposes as

USAID U.S. direct hire employees. Sick leave is earned at a rate not to exceed four (4) hours every two (2) weeks for a total of 13 work-days per year. Unused sick leave may be carried over under an extension or renewal of this contract with the same individual for the same work. Otherwise, sick leave will not be carried over from one post to another or from one contract to another. The contractor will not be compensated for unused sick leave upon completion of this contract.

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(c) Home Leave.

(1) Home leave is leave earned for service abroad for use only in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions and territories.

(2) A USPSC who has served at least two years overseas at the same USAID Mission, under the same contract, as defined in paragraph (c)(4) below, and has not taken more than 30 work days leave (annual, sick or LWOP) in the U.S. may be granted home leave in accordance with the following:

(i) if the USPSC returns to the same overseas post upon completion of home leave for an additional two (2) years under the same contract, the USPSC will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of 30 work days; or if the USPSC returns to the same overseas post upon completion of home leave for such shorter period of not less than one year, as approved in writing by the Mission Director prior to the

USPSCs departure on home leave, the USPSC will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of 30 work days.

(ii) if the USPSC is returning to a different USAID Mission under a USAID personal services contract immediately following completion of the USPSC's home leave, for an additional two (2) years under contract, or for such shorter period of not less than one (1) year, as approved by the

Mission Directors of the "losing" and "gaining" Missions, the contractor will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of not more than 20 work days. When the PSC is returning to a different USAID Mission, the former Mission will pay for the home leave regardless of what country the PSC will be working in following the home leave;

(iii) if home leave eligibility is based on (c)(2)(ii) above, the USPSC must submit written verification to the losing Mission at the time home leave is requested that the USPSC has accepted a USAID personal services contract at another USAID Mission following completion of the home leave;

(iv) travel time by the most direct route is authorized in addition to the number of work days authorized for home leave;

(v) home leave must be taken in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions or territories, and any days spent elsewhere will be charged to annual leave (AL.) If the PSC does not have accrued AL, the PSC will be placed on LWOP.

(vi) if the PSC does not complete the additional service required under (c)(2)(i) or (ii) (that the

Contracting Officer finds are other than for reasons beyond the PSC's control), the cost of home leave, travel and transportation and any other related costs must be repaid by the PSC to the

Government.

(3) Notwithstanding the requirement in paragraph (c)(2) above, that the USPSC must have served two (2) years overseas under personal services contract with the same Mission to be eligible for home leave, the USPSC may be granted advance home leave subject to all of the following conditions:

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(i) Granting of advanced home leave would in each case serve to advance the attainment of the objectives of this contract; and

(ii) The USPSC has served a minimum of 18 months in the Cooperating Country under this contract; and

(iii) The USPSC agrees to return to the Cooperating Country to serve out the remaining time necessary to meet two (2) years of service overseas, plus an additional two (2) years under the current contract or under a new contract for the same or similar services at the same Mission. If approved in advance by the Mission Director, the USPSC may return to serve out any remainder of the two (2) year requirement for service overseas, plus an additional period of not less than one

(1) year under the current contract or under a new contract for the same or similar services at the same Mission.

(4) The period of service overseas required under paragraph (c)(2), or paragraph (c)(3) above, will include the actual days in orientation in the U.S. (less language training). The actual days overseas begin on the date of arrival in the cooperating country inclusive of authorized delays en route.

Allowable annual and sick leave taken while overseas, but not LWOP, shall be included in the required period of service overseas. An amount equal to the number of days of annual and sick leave taken in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions or territories will be added to the required period of service overseas.

(5) Salary during the travel to and from the U.S., for home leave will be limited to the time required for travel by the most expeditious air route. Except for reasons beyond the USPSC's control as determined by the Contracting Officer, the USPSC must return to duty after home leave and complete the additional required service or be responsible for reimbursing USAID for payments made during home leave. Unused home leave is not reimbursable under this contract, nor can it be taken incrementally in separate time periods.

(6) Home leave must be taken at one time, and to the extent deemed necessary by the Contracting

Officer, an USPSC in the U.S., on home leave may be authorized to spend not more than five (5) days in work status for consultation at USAID/Washington before returning to post.