SOL-FFP-17-000010_FFPO-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:

Duty Office:

Solicitation Number:

Salary Level:

Issuance Date:

Closing Date:

Food for Peace Officer

DCHA/FFP

SOL-FFP-17-000010

GS-11 Equivalent ($66,510 - $86,460) GS-12 Equivalent ($79,720 - $103,639) GS-13 Equivalent ($94,796 - $123,234) (Incorporates a locality payment for Washington, D.C.)

June 27, 2017 November 30, 2017

This solicitation is continuous and ongoing with closing dates for the submission of applications for each of the three (3) review periods:

Review Period 1 – July 31, 2017, 4:00 P.M. EST Review Period 2 – September 29, 2017, 4:00 P.M. EST Review Period 3 – November 30, 2017, 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 Food for Peace 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:

(see sample resume on ffpjobs.com website)

(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.

Solicitation for a USPSC Food for Peace Officer

SOL-FFP-17-000010

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(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.

2. Responses to the Quality Ranking Factors: Each applicant’s supplemental document must address 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.

NOTE ABOUT THE DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM/SYSTEM FOR

AWARD MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS

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 302-2 form, and the supplemental document addressing the QRFs must be emailed to:

FFP PSC Recruitment Team E-Mail Address: ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov

Any questions on this solicitation may be directed to FFP PSC Recruitment Team via the information provided above. Further guidance on applying, including a sample resume, can be found at www.ffpjobs.com.

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

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SOLICITATION NO.: SOL-FFP-17-000010

1. ISSUANCE DATE: June 27, 2017

2. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: This solicitation is open and continuous through November 30, 2017. The following are the closing dates for each review period:

Review Period 1 – July 31, 2017, 4:00 P.M. EST Review Period 2 – September 29, 2017, 4:00 P.M. EST Review Period 3 – November 30, 2017, 4:00 P.M. EST

Candidates not selected during a previous review period must reapply in order to be considered for positions available in subsequent review periods. A review period may be cancelled at FFP’s discretion.

3. POSITION TITLE: Food for Peace Officer

4. MARKET VALUE: Equivalent to a GS-11 ($66,510-$86,460) or GS-12 ($79,720- $103,639) or GS-13 ($94,796-$123,234). Final compensation will be based upon the candidate's past salary, work history, and educational background. Candidates who live outside the Washington, D.C. area will be considered for employment, but relocation expenses will not be reimbursed. Applicants must indicate in their application which level 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.

NOTE CONCERNING MARKET VALUE: The applicant(s) chosen for the position will be recommended for hire at the GS-11, GS-12 or GS-13 commensurate with his/her overall experience, training, and qualifications as determined by the FFP Selection Committee.

5. ADVANCEMENT:

This position is designated as a ladder position. The position is for multiple listings and an applicant may be brought in initially at a GS-11 or 12 Food for Peace Officer (FFPO) or GS-13 Senior Food for Peace Officer (SFFPO) level, dependent on the candidate meeting the minimum qualification requirements listed in the position solicitation. The highest level of the FFPO position included in this solicitation is a GS-13 equivalent.

LADDER ADVANCEMENT

GS-11 to GS-12: PSCs initially hired at the GS-11 level are eligible to advance from the GS -11 to the GS- 12 level after working for two (2) years at the GS-11 level and meeting the minimum qualifications stated in the solicitation for the higher GS-12 grade. In addition the PSC must receive a “Commendable” or “Outstanding” rating in the annual performance evaluation for the two years working at the GS-11 level. The employee performance evaluation must include a

4 | Page statement by the supervisor that the employee’s performance is “Commendable” or “Outstanding” at the current grade and is considered ready to perform at the next higher grade. Employees that do not meet the ladder advancement criteria will be eligible to advance within their current grade with at least a "Fully Successful" rating in the annual performance evaluation. Neither advancement nor extension of the contract is guaranteed.

GS-12: PSCs hired initially at the GS-12 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 the annual performance evaluation.

GS-13: PSCs hired initially 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 the annual performance evaluation.

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

7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Washington, D.C., with possible short-term overseas assignments

8. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret level security clearance

9. MEDICAL CLEARANCE REQUIRED: U.S. Department of State medical 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 Bureau’s for Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance (DCHA) is the largest provider of food assistance in the world. FFP annually provides close to $2 billion of food assistance, including some 1.5 million tons or more 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 its provision of Title II in-kind food assistance with an Emergency Food Security Program (EFSP) utilizing at least $300 million in International Disaster Assistance (IDA) funds annually, 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 voucher programs that facilitate access to food.

In addition to emergency response, FFP provides support for development food assistance programs which aim to address the underlying causes of food security. Taken together, the in-kind 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 assistance basket that includes more nutritious products, and a modern

5 | Page 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.

Food for Peace works closely with many other parts of USAID, especially the Bureau for Food Security, which plays a key role in implementing the President’s Feed the Future initiative, and the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance, which leads on disaster response around the world. Food for Peace employs a staff of over 100 in Washington and also has officers posted abroad.

More Information on FFP is available at:

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

12. CORE FUNCTIONAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

At the GS-11 level, the FFPO will serve as a Country Backstop Officer (CBO). The primary role of the FFPO working at the GS-11 level will be to support an SFFPO in the management of one or more country portfolios. At the GS-12 and GS-13 levels, the FFPO and the SFFPO, respectively, serve as a Country Backstop Officer (CBO) and an Agreement Officer’s Representative (AOR). The primary roles of the FFPO and the SFFPO are to analyze food needs, recommend and implement food security strategies, and manage FFP food assistance programs carried out by implementing partners, predominantly Private Voluntary Organizations (PVOs) and Public International Organizations (PIO) such as the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) in one or more countries. As part of a Geographic Team, the successful candidate will carry out the following functions for assigned countries:

At the GS-11 level equivalent:

With technical guidance from her/his supervisor and the SFFPO, will serve as secondary point of contact for the U.S. Government (USG), implementing partners, and others on food assistance issues for the assigned country(ies).

Under the direction of her/his supervisor and the SFFPO, assess food needs based on a variety of sources, including field assessments, technical data, early warning information, and reporting from USAID field staff, PVOs, and PIOs.

Under the direction of his/her supervisor and working in collaboration with the SFFPO, identify priorities for funding, review appeals and proposals, and recommend programs to be supported. Draft and assemble documentation for program approval and funding.

With technical guidance from her/his supervisor and the SFFPO, monitor programs through field visits, reporting by field staff, and information provided by implementing partners to maximize program effectiveness and ensure programs are being implemented in a manner consistent with policy and legislative guidelines.

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For review by her/his supervisor and the SFFPO, draft information products (e.g., updates, memoranda) on food security conditions and FFP programs and support the SFFPO to prepare briefings and to represent FFP in meetings and working groups with other USAID colleagues and representatives from other agencies.

Accompany the SFFPO or other FFP staff on overseas trips in order to perform tasks and activities in support of above duties and responsibilities.

Represent FFP on DCHA’s Crisis and Opening Action Coordination Team (COACT) and if applicable, serve on detail to DCHA’s Program, Policy and Management (PPM) when tasked to serve as FFP’s policy advisor on food assistance.

At the GS-12 level equivalent:

In close coordination with supervisor, will serve as primary point of contact for the USG, implementing partners, and others on food assistance issues.

Under the direction of his/her supervisor, assess food needs based on a variety of sources, including field assessments, technical data, early warning information, and reporting from USAID field staff, PVOs, and PIOs.

Under the direction of his/her supervisor, identify priorities for funding, review appeals and proposals, and recommend programs to be supported. Draft and assemble documentation for program approval and funding.

With guidance from his/her supervisor, monitor programs through field visits, reporting by field staff, and information provided by implementing partners to maximize program effectiveness and ensure programs are being implemented in a manner consistent with policy and legislative guidelines.

Draft information products (e.g., updates, memoranda) on food security conditions and

FFP programs, provide briefings, and represent FFP in meetings and working groups with other USAID colleagues and representatives from other agencies.

Travel overseas to perform tasks and activities in support of above outlined duties and responsibilities.

At the GS-13 level equivalent:

Serve as primary point of contact for the USG, implementing partners, and others on FFP-funded programming and other food assistance issues.

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Assess food needs based on a variety of sources, including field assessments, technical data, early warning information, and reporting from USAID field staff, PVOs, and PIOs.

Identify priorities for funding, review appeals and proposals, and recommend programs to be supported. Draft and assemble documentation for program approval and funding.

Monitor developments in assigned countries and programs to identify food assistance response options and/or policy issues related to food assistance, and make program or policy recommendations to FFP leadership.

Develop, monitor, evaluate programs through field visits, reporting by field staff, and information provided by implementing partners to maximize program effectiveness and ensure programs are being implemented in a manner consistent with policy and legislative guidelines. Recommend performance measures for country programs and individual projects.

Draft and/or edit information products (e.g., updates and memoranda) on food security situations and FFP programs, provide briefings, and represent FFP in meetings and working groups with other USAID colleagues and representatives from other agencies.

Represent FFP on possible longer-term travel to overseas ‘duty stations’ in support of above duties and responsibilities.

Mentor/train incoming FFP CBOs on specifics of FFP authorizing and appropriating legislation and interpretation and office procedures, when required.

The incumbent at all three GS levels may also be assigned to serve as an Emergency Policy Analyst and Program Coordinator or Program Operations Specialist with FFP’s Policy and Technical Division (PTD) or Program Operations Division (POD) or serve on a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) or a Response Management Team (RMT) with OFDA.

Food for Peace Officers are expected to spend 10 percent of their time contributing to organizational learning activities, attending trainings, and/or mentoring FFP staff.

Supervisory Controls:

At the GS-11 level, the incumbent works under the close supervision of a Team Leader and Division Chief within DCHA/FFP to support the work of an SFFPO. With guidance from the Team Leader, the incumbent exercises some independence and initiative in defining and carrying out duties, prioritizing overall objectives, and managing available resources. In coordination with the Team Leader and with daily oversight from the SFFPO, the incumbent supports the

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SFFPO to plan and carryout assignments, prioritize tasks so that assignments are completed on time; develop deadlines for activities and other specialized tasks, resolve most conflicts that arise, coordinate work with others as necessary, maintain relationships and organize meetings with colleagues both inside and outside USAID who have relevant knowledge of or interest in the country(ies) the incumbent is backstopping. In addition the incumbent in coordination with the Team Leader and with daily oversight from the SFFPO will ensure the accuracy of all documentation submitted for clearance and/or approval; track program-specific information such as funding levels and report submissions; draft information products; and convene technical evaluation committees to review applications for funding from NGOs and PIOs. 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. Completed work is reviewed by the Team Leader with support from the SFFPO 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 addition, the incumbent’s work is reviewed in terms of effectiveness in facilitating the smooth and efficient workflow within the country portfolio.

At the GS-12 level, the incumbent works under the supervision of a Team Leader and a Division Chief in DCHA/FFP to support the work of an SFFPO. With guidance from the Team Leader, the incumbent exercises significant independence and initiative in defining and carrying out duties, prioritizing overall objectives, and managing available resources. In coordination with the Team Leader and with daily oversight from the SFFPO, the incumbent supports the SFFPO to plan and carryout assignments, prioritize tasks so that assignments are completed on time, develop deadlines for activities and other specialized tasks, resolve most conflicts that arise, and coordinate work with others as necessary, maintain relationships and organize meetings with colleagues both inside and outside USAID who have relevant knowledge of or interest in the country(ies) the incumbent is backstopping. In addition the incumbent in coordination with the Team Leader and with daily oversight from the SFFPO will ensure the accuracy of all documentation submitted for clearance and/or approval; track program-specific information such as funding levels and report submissions; draft information products; and convene technical evaluation committees to review applications for funding from NGOs and PIOs. 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. Completed work is reviewed by the Team Leader with support from the SFFPO, 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 addition, the incumbent’s work is reviewed in terms of effectiveness in facilitating the smooth and efficient workflow within the country portfolio.

At the GS-13 level, the incumbent SFFPO works under the supervision of a Team Leader and a Division Chief in DCHA/FFP. With guidance from the Team Leader, the incumbent exercises a high level of independence and initiative in defining and carrying out duties, prioritizing overall objectives, and managing available resources. The incumbent, in coordination with the Team Leader, may oversee the day to day work of FFPO 11 and FFPO 12. In consultation with the Team Leader, the incumbent develops deadlines for activities and other specialized tasks and is

9 | Page 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. 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 as Acting Team Leader.

Guidelines:

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-11 level, the incumbent recommends to FFP leadership how current legislative provisions and executive policies are to be applied to assigned responsibilities. The incumbent is expected to identify inefficiencies or inconsistencies that serve as barriers to the accomplishment of assigned tasks and report them to the SFFPO and FFP leadership.

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 be innovative and original in recommending new or improved approaches to achieve problem resolution.

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.

Complexity:

As a FFPO or SFPPO, the incumbent will undertake a wide range of duties that require: the exercise of judgment; the interpretation of existing policies and practices and their relevance to a new problem or situation; and the formulation and application of new approaches, techniques, and methodologies to address challenges and resolve problems. The incumbent must work with a range of people from the Program Operations Division and the Policy and Technical Division, field staff, other bureaus within USAID and other USG and non-USG agencies. Food for Peace Officers are expected to spend 10 percent of their time contributing to organizational learning activities, attending trainings, and/or mentoring FFP staff.

At the GS-11 level, with technical guidance from his/her supervisor and in close coordination with the relevant FFP Office Divisions and Mission staff, the incumbent will support the SFFPO in program monitoring through: field visits, reporting by field staff, and information provided by numerous sources including implementing partners, FEWS NET, and UN agencies. The

10 | Page incumbent will synthesize relevant findings, concerns, and matters requiring follow-up and convey the information to the SFFPO.

At the GS-12 level the incumbent will monitor programs through field visits, reporting by field staff, and information provided by implementing partners. The incumbent will recommend to the Team Leader and Division Chief follow-up actions, when necessary, in order to ensure programs are implemented in a manner consistent with legislative, regulatory and policy guidelines and to maximize effectiveness.

At the GS-13 level, the incumbent will apply her/his depth and breadth of food security knowledge and experience to the analysis of a proposed or existing food security program in order to identify areas for improvement and recommend, in some cases substantial, changes that will result in maximum program impact. 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.

Scope and Effect:

At the GS-11 level, the incumbent supports the SFFPO in her/his analysis of food needs in one or more program countries. The incumbent provides synthesized, up-to-date food security information to the SFFPO, drafts information products, and assists with the preparation of briefings and presentations and the monitoring of FFP-funded programs.

At the GS-12 or GS-13 level, the incumbent analyzes food needs, recommends and implements strategies to address identified needs, and manages FFP-funded food assistance programs implemented by NGOs and PIOs in one or more program countries. The incumbent drafts or refines information products and provides briefings and presentations on predominantly emergency food security programs. She/he represents FFP in meetings and working groups with other USAID colleagues, NGOs, PIOs, and representatives from other agencies.

At the GS-12 or GS-13 level, the incumbent:

Serves as the primary point of contact for specific country program implementation of FFP-funded food assistance programs.

Manages FFP-funded financial agreements, analyzes budgets, and identifies program implementation constraints and successes.

Monitors ongoing food-security conditions and programs and the overall humanitarian assistance efforts in specific countries.

Regularly reviews partners’ reports, coordinates with FFP/Washington and FFP field staff on issues of mutual interest, and provides coordinated field feedback to the partners.

Visits projects and reports on a timely basis to FFP/Washington and field staff and other key stakeholders on the quality of grantees’ work, noting deficiencies, attributes, and evolving operational conditions.

Contributes to field reports on trends, individual agency programming issues, and topics such as humanitarian assistance from a food-security perspective.

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At the GS-11 or GS-12 level, the incumbent supports the SFFPO in carrying out the above-mentioned responsibilities.

At the GS-12 level, the incumbent may be assigned to work independently on country portfolios.

At the GS-13 level, work typically includes planning, organizing, designing, and coordinating or leading programs and/or projects, requiring creativity and innovation; or work entails conducting evaluations to determine the feasibility of various and advanced approaches to define concepts and criteria for future programs or to resolve major controversial problems in current programs.

The incumbent may be required to lead the work efforts of up to three other staff.

Personal Contacts:

The incumbent is responsible for the coordination of food security-related activities with awardees and other donors specific to FFP-funded interventions to ensure clear understanding of USAID/ FFP programs and priorities.

The incumbent:

Maintains regular liaisons with key stakeholders on humanitarian assistance issues from a food-security perspective.

Coordinates closely with FFP/Washington and field staff, the USAID Mission and regional offices, U.S. Embassy, other U.S. agencies, and military representatives as well as the UN and NGO agencies working in country on issues related to food security.

At the GS-13 level, contacts are with individuals or groups outside of USAID in a moderately unstructured setting and, in contexts relating to USG food assistance efforts, the incumbent may be designated the primary USG representative.

Purpose of Contacts:

At the GS-11 or GS-12 level, the incumbent must be skillful in determining the appropriate approach in negotiating and persuading others. The incumbent must establish rapport with private voluntary organizations (PVOs) and Public International Organizations (PIOs) in order to gain and relay information.

At the GS-13 level the purpose of contact is to influence, motivate, control, or direct people or groups to reach a consensus on the resolution of issues at high levels, both inside and outside the Agency; negotiate and secure authorization for assistance programs; determine the appropriateness and effectiveness of USAID’s assistance in the Missions; develop complimentarily amongst donors in assistance efforts; provide guidance on program design and implementation, and provide briefings on the status of programs. The incumbent must establish rapport with private voluntary organizations (PVOs) and Public International Organizations (PIOs) in order to gain and relay information with decision makers.

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12. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Work is primarily performed in an office setting. The requirement for field trip assignments to consult with Mission and cooperating sponsor managers of food assistance programs may expose the successful candidate to difficult working surroundings and security risks during the course of travel.

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

14. 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: Applicants must possess the minimum qualifications for the position. Applicants who do not meet all of the education and experience factors at the GS-11 equivalent are considered NOT qualified for the position. Applicants must apply for all levels for which they wish to be considered. Once an applicant has been identified as the selected individual, then the applicant will begin at the GS-11 or GS-12 or GS-13 equivalent depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications.

At the GS-11 level equivalent:

A Bachelor’s degree with significant study in, but not limited to public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance or other related field and at least three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which one (1) year must be related to international food and nutrition security (in-kind food which may include local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs). A minimum of one (1) year of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required. Experience or technical skills in nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), markets, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) are highly desired.

OR

A Master’s degree with at least two (2) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which (1) year must be related to international food and nutrition security (in-kind food which may include local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs.) A minimum of six (6) months of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required. Experience or technical skills in nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), markets, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) are highly desired.

At the GS-12 level equivalent:

A Bachelor’s degree with significant study in, but not limited to public health, agriculture, nutrition, food and agricultural economics, international development, humanitarian assistance or other related field and at least five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which two (2) years must be related to international food and nutrition security (in-kind food which may include local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs). A minimum of two (2) years of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required. Experience or technical skills in nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), markets, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) are highly desired.

OR

A Master’s degree with at least four (4) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which (1) year must be related to international food

14 | Page and nutrition security (in-kind food which may include local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs.) A minimum of one (1) year of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required. Experience or technical skills in nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), At the GS-13 level equivalent:

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 seven (7) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which three (3) years must be related to international food and nutrition security (in-kind food which may include local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs). A minimum of three (3) years of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required. Experience or technical skills in nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), markets, and monitoring and evaluation (M&E) are highly desired.

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 five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which three (3) years must be related to international food and nutrition security (in-kind food which may include local/regional purchase, cash transfer or food voucher programs). A minimum of three (3) years of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required. Experience or technical skills in nutrition, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), 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 current and complete resume, with current contact information. See cover page for resume requirements. Experience that cannot be quantified will not be counted towards meeting the solicitation 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;

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Ability to obtain a SECRET level security clearance as provided by USAID within six months following the job offer acceptance;

Ability to obtain a Department of State medical clearance; and

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)

The following quality ranking factors and required skills are listed below. All applications will be evaluated and scored based on the documentation submitted with the application and the following factors. Applicants will also be evaluated based on performance in the interview.

Demonstrated knowledge of the mode of operation among PVOs, UN Agencies, and USG agencies involved in development and/or humanitarian relief, and ability to work effectively across agencies on issues related to funding and program implementation. (20 points)

Demonstrated ability to assess, develop, and recommend appropriate country-level food assistance programs and activities. (15 points)

Demonstrated ability to analyze budgets, identify program implementation constraints and successes, and manage USG or other agency financial agreements, and general knowledge of the USAID procurement process. (15 points)

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, including well developed social/interpersonal and problem-solving skills. (10 points)

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

Total Possible QRF Points: 70

Total Possible Interview Points: 30

Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail

Total Possible Points: 100

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) response. Those applicants determined to be competitively ranked may also be evaluated on interview performance and satisfactory professional reference checks. Applicants are required to address each of the QRFs on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards they have received that are relevant to each factor.

Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page.

Failure to address the Selection Factors and/or QRFs may result in your not receiving credit for all of your pertinent experience, education, training, and/or awards.

NOTE: Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an applicant.

DOCUMENT SUBMITTALS:

Where and How to Apply

Applications must be received by the closing date and time at the address specified in the cover letter via email: ffprecruitmentteam@usaid.gov.

Qualified individuals are required to submit:

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

2. Supplemental document specifically addressing 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. Electronic signatures will not be accepted.

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.

This solicitation is continuous and ongoing with closing dates for the submission of applications for each review period:

Review Period 1 – July 31, 2017 Review Period 2 - September 29, 2017 Review Period 3 - November 30, 2017

A candidate can apply to the solicitation each review period, but a new application must be submitted each time.

A Technical Evaluation Committee will be assembled at the beginning of each review period to review applications and the solicitation, and to amend the solicitation if necessary.

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.

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

Additional documents submitted will not be accepted.

By submitting your application materials, you certify that all of the information on and attached to the application is true, correct, complete, and made in good faith. You agree to allow all information on and attached to the application to be investigated.

False or fraudulent information on or attached to your application may result in you being eliminated from consideration for this position, or being terminated after award, and may be punishable by fine or imprisonment.

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.

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.

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 guidance regarding this 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.

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

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a) Complete, current resume.

b) Supplemental Document addressing QRFs.

c) USPSC Application Form, (AID 302-3).

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

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

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

g) Finger Print Card (FD-258).

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

Forms D-H 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 https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs to determine which CIBs and AAPDs apply to this contract.

ADS 309 – Personal Services Contracts can be found at:

https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/309.pdf

AAPD 06-10 – PSC MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY

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

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

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

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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.

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ATTACHMENT 1

PSC 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

21 | Page insurance provider and repay to USAID any amount the medevac insurer pays for medical travel, up to the 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…