Soliciation - USPSC Exective Specialist_Signed by Dir OAA.pdf

Solicitation Number: 72039122R00002

SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72039122R00002

ISSUANCE DATE: February 08, 2022

CLOSING DATE AND TIME: February 23, 2022 5:00 PM (Pakistan time)

SUBJECT: Solicitation for United States Personal Service Contractor (USPSC), Executive Specialist, GS-15 Equivalent

Dear Prospective Offerors:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation.

Offers must be in accordance with Attachment-1 of this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records.

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offer.

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

Sincerely, /sd/ on February 08, 2022

Judy Webb Supervisory Contracting Officer

U.S. Agency for International Development Tel: +92-51-208-0000 Embassy of the United States of America Fax: +92-51-208-8061 Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad www.usaid.gov/pk

ATTACHMENT 1

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 72039122R00002

2. ISSUANCE DATE: February 08, 2022

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: February 23, 2022, 5:00pm (Pakistan time)

4. POINT OF CONTACT: Sohail Humayun, email at hrislamabad@usaid.gov

5. POSITION TITLE: Executive Specialist

6. MARKET VALUE: $112,890 - $146,757 equivalent to GS-15 Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value.

7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: 5 years estimated to start on/about April 2022 “The base period will be two (2) years, estimated to start on/about April 2022. Based on Agency need, the Contracting Officer may exercise (an) additional option period(s) for three

(3) years for the date(s) estimated as follows.”

Base Period: o/a April 2022 to April 2024 Option Period 1: o/a April 2024 to April 2025 Option Period 2: o/a April 2025 to April 2025 Option Period 3: o/a April 2026 to April 2027

8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy compound in Islamabad, Pakistan.

9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Open to U.S. Citizens only

10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED : USPSC – Secret.

mailto:hrislamabad@usaid.gov

11. STATEMENT OF DUTIES

1. General Statement of Purpose of the Contract

USAID/Pakistan seeks a qualified United States Personal Services Contractor (USPSC) to serve as an Executive Specialist for an initial assignment of one year with four-year options. The successful candidate will be assigned to and required to perform the duties outlined below at the USAID Pakistan Mission in Islamabad.

2. Statement of Duties to be Performed

A. BACKGROUND:

Managing a substantial development portfolio, the USAID/Pakistan Mission continues to be a key component of the United States Government’s efforts to help achieve a multitude of foreign policy objectives. The incumbent is expected to perform a broad range of duties in a high-profile and politically sensitive country program in support of the management of USAID/Pakistan's development priorities: Energy, Governance, Economic Growth, Education, and Health. USAID/Pakistan manages approximately 60 activities and has an annual budget of approximately $40 million and more than 150 staff.

B. BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:

The Executive Specialist will function as the Deputy EXO (D/EXO) for USAID/Pakistan and will provide support to USAID offices in Islamabad and regional offices in Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi as well as to the Inspector General’s Office (OIG) (6 staff) and the Bureau of Humanitarian Affairs (1 staff). The incumbent will serve as the principal advisor to the USDH Supervisory Executive Officer and mission staff with full responsibility for providing leadership, advice, and staff support in all aspects of administrative management functions:

human resources, information technology, administrative procurement, travel and transportation, general services, and communication and records management.

The incumbent will actively participate in program strategic planning with a focus on personnel and material resource aspects of achieving the Mission's objectives and Mission development assistance activities for their management support requirements. The Mission is currently undergoing a reorganization. As such, the incumbent will be expected to assist with all aspects of planning for a reorganization.

During the absence of the USDH S/EXO, the incumbent will serve as the de facto Executive Office Director assuming the full responsibilities normally carried out by this position. In this capacity, the incumbent will be required to perform all the duties of the USDH S/EXO and, in coordination with the Deputy Mission Director and the Controller's Office, will be fully responsible for the executive management functions of the Mission.

C. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Management Analysis and Planning: Develop and prescribe appropriate internal management systems and implementing procedures; interpret USAID management regulations and directs their application to facilitate the provision of management support; devise and recommend to management the appropriate organizational structure and manpower requirements necessary to meet the program and administrative responsibilities of the Mission and to achieve the mission's objectives; and plan and direct the continuous evaluation of Mission organization, staffing, and services to ensure effective and efficient use of material and human resources.

Human Resources: Plan and direct the personnel management for U.S. and Cooperating Country

National employees. Oversee the proper placement and ensure maximum and effective use of personnel. Provide oversight on the recruitment and hiring of needed staff, performance management, training and career development and awards. Counsel employees on various personnel-related issues. Provide guidance to USDHs on a wide range of subjects, including, equal opportunity, career development, and onward assignments.

Information Resources Management: Manage the Information Resources Management

Program of the Mission, including all hardware and software applications. Also serves as the Deputy Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO).

Administrative Management and General Services: Carry out the Mission's administrative management operation. Plan and direct the Mission's personal property acquisition, management, and disposal programs for items purchased with Operating Expense funds.

Ensure compliance with Agency standards for issuing, using, and controlling the personal property of the Mission Plan and direct the Mission's communications and records program, to include the Agency's Disposition Schedule.

During the absence of the S/EXO, participate in a number of inter-agency committees and working groups such as the ICASS Council, Inter-Agency Housing Board, Special Immigrant Visa Committee and Grievance Committee. Represent USAID Pakistan in developing and administering ICASS agreements and budgets, assuring the Mission receives the types and levels of support billed;

Budget and Procurement: Work with the Controller’s office in the development and implementation of the Mission’s Operating Expense budget and procurement plan. Approve requisitions as required and provide administrative approval of payment for OE-funded goods and services acquired under simplified acquisition processes, as deemed necessary by the Mission. Oversee contracting and purchasing functions in accordance with Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and execute contracting actions within delegated warrant authority. Clear all procurement documents for appropriate content and consistency with procurement regulations and procedures for the Mission Contracting Officer’s . Collaborate with Program and Technical Offices in the formulation of the annual budget resource requirements. Ensure, in coordination with the Mission Controller, that obligations are consistent with Agency forward funding policies.

Space Planning and Management: Oversee space planning and management. Coordinate with both USAID and Embassy Management (when required) to ensure that Mission needs can be best accommodated. The incumbent will review USAID/Pakistan Mission programs/projects for management support requirements, and, with program/project managers, develop logistical support requirements, within budgetary limitations.

Travel: Oversee the preparation, approvals and issuance of Travel Authorizations in accordance with policy and regulations, ensuring that all legal and regulatory requirements are met.

Responsible for providing guidance on travel regulations to mission staff.

1. USAID Consultation or Orientation (if applicable)

The selected candidate will be required to complete the one-week mandatory Foreign Affairs Counter Threat (FACT) course prior to proceeding to USAID/Pakistan. FACT is a mandatory course for service in Pakistan.

2. Supervisory Relationship

The Executive Specialist will be under the direct supervision of the USDH S/EXO, who provides assignments in terms of general guidance, objectives, priorities, and suggestions on timeframe and approach to completing assigned responsibilities. The incumbent is expected to plan, and to develop policies, guidelines, and practices to achieve results but will have leeway in managing operations. These areas of responsibility are complex and require significant analysis and coordination at a high level. The need for quick response in high-profile, complex, and often fluid situations require the incumbent to exercise discretion and good judgment in making decisions and providing advice on USAID management policies, contracting practices, and human resources concerns, and operate with high levels of autonomy, responsibility, and authority. Day-to-day activities include a combination of strategic-level management and policy guidance as well as operation responsibility at activity level.

3. Supervisory Controls

During the absence of the USDH S/EXO, the incumbent will serve as the Acting Executive Office Director assuming the full responsibilities normally carried out by this position. In this capacity, the incumbent will be required to perform all the duties of the USDH S/EXO and, in coordination with the Deputy Mission Director and the Controller's Office, will be fully responsible for the executive management functions of the Mission.

12. PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

a. Education: A Masters degree in an area related to Organizational Development, Management, Business Administration, Government/Political Science, Sociology, Public Administration, International Development, or other related field is required.

b. Prior relevant and overseas work experience: A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively professional experience in government administrative services management is required. Demonstrated experience in the field of management and administration including management analysis and planning, personnel administration, general services and travel, procurement, and information technology. In addition, a thorough knowledge of the interagency foreign affairs manuals and USAID's programming, planning, budgeting, contracting, and supply management procedures is desired.

c. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: This position requires extensive experience and knowledge, as well as the expertise in all areas of administrative management including analysis and planning, personnel administration, general services and travel, procurement, and information technology. The incumbent must be able to integrate administrative policies with the mission’s program objectives to adequately support the USAID/Pakistan’s Mission.

Demonstrated knowledge on working with the U.S. Embassies on consolidated support services and on various inter-agency collaborations.

Exceptional leadership, management, and communication skills are required. Demonstrated ability and willingness to function collaboratively and productively within the Executive Office and as a member of a multi-disciplinary and multi-functional team; and ability to work effectively in a team environment to achieve consensus on policies, activities, and administrative matters. Must exercise discretion, tact, and diplomacy especially when dealing with personnel sensitive issues, and should be a customer service-oriented team player, with a keen ability to operate independently as necessary in complex situations. Proficiency in the use of computer applications is critical. Knowledge of MS word, spreadsheet applications, and presentation software are required.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance with FAR 52.215-1. The CO reserves the right at any point in the evaluation process to establish a competitive range of offerors with whom negotiations will be conducted pursuant to FAR 15.306(c). In accordance with FAR 52.215-1, if the CO determines that the number of offers that would otherwise be in the competitive range exceeds the number at which an efficient competition can be conducted, the CO may limit the number of offerors in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far

EVALUATION FACTORS

Applicants who clearly meet the minimum Education and Prior work Experience requirements and basic eligibility requirements will be further evaluated based on scoring of the Evaluation Factors listed below. The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview.

FACTOR #1:

Education (10 points)

A Masters degree in an area related to Organizational Development, Management, Business Administration, Government/Political Science, Sociology, Public Administration, International Development, or other related field is required.

FACTOR #2:

Experience (25 points)

A minimum of ten (10) years of progressively professional experience in government administrative services management is required. Demonstrated experience in the field of management and administration including management analysis and planning, personnel administration, general services and travel, procurement, and information technology. In addition, a thorough knowledge of the interagency foreign affairs manuals and USAID's programming, planning, budgeting, contracting, and supply management procedures is desired.

FACTOR #3:

Knowledge (35 points) This position requires extensive experience and knowledge, as well as the expertise in all areas of administrative management including analysis and planning, personnel administration, general services and travel, procurement, and information technology. The incumbent must be able to integrate administrative policies with the mission’s program objectives to adequately support the USAID/Pakistan’s Mission. Demonstrated knowledge on working with the U.S. Embassies on consolidated support services and on various inter-agency collaborations. Knowledge of MS word, spreadsheet applications, and presentation software are required.

FACTOR #4:

Abilities and Skills (30 points) Exceptional leadership, management, and communication skills are required. Demonstrated ability and willingness to function collaboratively and productively within the Executive Office and as a member of a multi-disciplinary and multi-functional team; and ability to work effectively in a team environment to achieve consensus on policies, activities, and administrative matters. Must exercise discretion, tact, and diplomacy especially when dealing with personnel sensitive issues, and should be a customer service-oriented team player, with a keen ability to operate independently as necessary in complex situations. Proficiency in the use of computer applications is critical. Native English is required Total Points: 100 points

SELECTION PROCESS

1. After the closing date for the receipt of applications, applications will initially be screened for conformity with minimum requirements and a short list of applicants developed.

2. Following this initial review and short listing, a Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) will convene to review applications that meet the minimum requirements and evaluate them in accordance with the evaluation factors. Applications from candidates which do not meet the minimum requirements will not be scored. As part of the selection process, finalist candidates will be interviewed. Those applications from qualified applicants meeting the required minimum qualifications will be assessed based on the evaluation factors. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. No response will be sent to unsuccessful applicants.

3. USAID reserves the right to interview only the highest ranked applicants in person or by phone or via google meet.

Reference checks will be made only for applicants considered as finalists. The applicant’s references must be able to provide substantive information about his/her past performance and abilities. If an applicant does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the applicant’s cover letter, USAID will delay such reference checks pending the applicant’s concurrence.

IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER

1. Eligible offerors are required to complete and submit the offer form AID 309-2, “Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms.

2. Offers must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted to the Point of Contact in Section I, item 4.

3. Offeror submissions must clearly reference the Solicitation number on all offeror submitted documents.

4. A type-written and signed cover letter of no more than two (2) pages specifically applying for this position and addressing the minimum requirements and evaluation factors of the position.

5. A current Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume which, at a minimum, describes education, latest experience, and career achievements.

6. Offers must provide a minimum of three (3) and a maximum of five (5) references within the last five years from the offeror’s professional life, namely individuals who are not family members or relatives. Three (3) references must be from direct supervisors who can provide information regarding the applicant’s work knowledge and professional experience.

Applicants must provide e-mail addresses and/or working telephone numbers for all references.

https://www.usaid.gov/forms

7. Please submit attachments in PDF and Word formats. Application packages must be submitted electronically to hrislamabad@usaid.gov

8. Ensuring Adequate COVID-19 Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors - The Offeror will be required to show proof that the Offeror is fully vaccinated against COVID-19 on or before the first date of onboarding, or submit an approved reasonable accommodation to the CO. If the contractor does not meet this requirement the contract may be terminated.*

* See Notice Regarding Any Court Order Affecting the Implementation of E.O. 14042 in Section VIII below.

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD

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

Forms outlined below can be found at: http:/www.usaid.gov/forms/ and https://www.opm.gov/forms/standard-forms/

(1) Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals (AID 309-2)

(2) Contractor Physical Examination Form (AID Form 1420-62) *

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

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

(5) Fingerprint Cards (FD-258) *

*The above listed forms (2 through 5) shall only be completed upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.

Timely completion and submission of the required documents are needed to obtain the necessary Visas and Security and Medical Clearances. Failure of the selected offeror to accurately complete and submit required documents in a timely manner may be grounds for the CO to rescind any conditional pre-contract offer letter and begin negotiations with the next most qualified/highest ranked offeror. Selected offerors who are unable to obtain required Visas, Security and Medical Clearances in a reasonable timeframe are considered un-qualified for this position.

VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES

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

1. BENEFITS:

(a) Employer's FICA Contribution mailto:hrislamabad@usaid.gov http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ https://www.opm.gov/forms/standard-forms/

(b) Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance

(c) Pay Comparability Adjustment

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

(e) Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

(f) Annual and Sick Leave

(g) Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service per Post policy.

2. ALLOWANCES:

Section numbers refer to rules from the Department of State Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas), available at https://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=282&menu_id=101

a. Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120)

b. Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130)

c. Post Allowance (Section 220)

d. Post Differential (Chapter 500)

e. Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) and

f. Danger Pay (Section 650)

g. Education Allowance (Section 270)

h. Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260)

i. Education Travel (Section 280)

Islamabad currently has a 30% Post Differential allowance and 35% Danger Pay, housing, and other benefits per USAID regulations. Basic household furnishings will be available in quarters to be provided by USAID. FICA and federal income tax will be withheld by USAID. U.S. Resident hire PSCs are not eligible for any fringe benefits (except contributions for FICA, health insurance, and life insurance), including differentials and allowances. Pakistan is a no-dependent post.

VII. TAXES

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

VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES

PERTAINING TO PSCs

USAID regulations and policies governing USPSC awards are available at these sources:

1. USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix D, “Direct USAID Contracts with a U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Resident Alien for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/aidar.pdf http://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=231&menu_id=92 http://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=231&menu_id=92 https://aoprals.state.gov/content.asp?content_id=282&menu_id=101 https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/aidar.pdf

2. 52.223-99 ENSURING ADEQUATE COVID-19 SAFETY PROTOCOLS FOR

FEDERAL CONTRACTORS (OCT 2021)-Alternate 70 (OCT 2021)

(M/OAA-DEV-FAR-

22-01c)

(a) Definition. As used in this clause -

United States or its outlying areas means—

(1) The fifty States;

(2) The District of Columbia;

(3) The commonwealths of Puerto Rico and the Northern Mariana Islands;

(4) The territories of American Samoa, Guam, and the United States Virgin Islands; and

(5) The minor outlying islands of Baker Island, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston

Atoll, Kingman Reef, Midway Islands, Navassa Island, Palmyra Atoll, and Wake Atoll.

(b) Authority. This clause implements Executive Order 14042, Ensuring Adequate COVID Safety Protocols for Federal Contractors, dated September 9, 2021 (published in the Federal Register on September 14, 2021, 86 FR 50985).

(c) Personal Services Contracts with individuals. As a matter of policy, the contractor must comply with the USAID’s guidance applicable to direct-hire federal employees.

3. Contract Cover Page form AID 309-1 available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms.

Pricing by line item is to be determined upon contract award as described below:

https://www.usaid.gov/forms

LINE ITEMS

4. Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs.

AAPDs/CIBs (if) applicable to this position include:

AAPD 16-03: Expanded Incentive Awards for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals

AAPD 15-02 REVISED - Continuation of Deviation from the ‘Leave and Holidays’ clause, including Family and Medical Leave, for U.S. Personal Services Contractors

AAPD 10-03 Amendment 1: AIDAR, Appendix D: Implementing Benefits For Same-Sex Domestic Partners of USPSCs

AAPD 10-03: AIDAR, Appendix D: Implementing Benefits For Same-Sex Domestic Partners of USPSCs

AAPD 10-01: Personal Services Contracts -- Changes in USG Reimbursement Amounts for Health Insurance and Physical Examination Costs

AAPD 06-10: PSC Medical Expense Payment Responsibility http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs

5. Ethical Conduct. By the acceptance of a USAID personal services contract as an individual, the contractor will be acknowledging receipt of the “Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch,” available from the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, in accordance with General Provision 2 and 5 CFR 2635.

See https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations.

6. PSC Ombudsman

The PSC Ombudsman serves as a resource for any Personal Services Contractor who has entered into a contract with the United States Agency for International Development and is available to provide clarity on their specific contract with the agency. Please visit our page for additional information: https://www.usaid.gov/work- usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman

The PSC Ombudsman may be contacted via: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.

END OF SOLICITATION

https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman https://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman mailto:PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov