Solicitation72027821R00009 - Supervisory Financial Specialist - Deputy Controller.pdf

U.S. Agency for International Development

American Embassy

P.O. Box 354

Amman 11118, Jordan

Tel: +962 (6) 5906000

Fax +962 (6) 5920143 www.usaidjordan.org

USAID, Unit 70206

APO AE 09892-0206

SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72027821R00009

ISSUANCE DATE: June 14, 2021

CLOSING DATE/TIME: June 23, 2021

11:59 p.m. Amman local time

SUBJECT: Solicitation for an Offshore United States Personal Service Contractor

(USPSC – Offshore Hire)

Dear Prospective Applicants:

The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development

(USAID) in Amman Jordan, is seeking applications from qualified individuals to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation.

Applications must be in accordance with Sections I through VIII of this solicitation.

Incomplete or unsigned applications will not be considered. Applicants should retain copies of all application materials for their records.

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID/Jordan to award a Personal Services Contact (PSC) nor does it commit USAID/Jordan to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the applications.

Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in point 11 Section I

General Information.

Sincerely, Jennifer Scott

Contracting Officer

I. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72027821R00009

2. OPEN TO: All U.S. Citizens.

3. ISSUANCE DATE: June 14, 2021

4. CLOSING DATE/TIME: June 23, 2021

11:59 p.m. Amman Local Time

5. POSITION TITLE: Supervisory Financial Management Specialist

(Deputy Controller)

Financial Management Office

6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The US Personal Services Contract will be for a base period of ten months (10 months). Based on Agency needs, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance, the Contracting Officer may exercise (an) additional option period (s):

Option Period One: Up to six months

7. MARKET VALUE

(SALARY PER ANNUM): USD 110,460 – USD 143,598 equivalent to GS-15

In accordance with AIDAR Appendix D and the General

Services (GS) Scale. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value (Salary).

8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Amman, Jordan

9. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Moderate Risk Public Trust (MRPT)

Government Security Clearance

10. WORK SCHEDULE: 40 hours per week and the workweek is Sunday to Thursday

11. POINT OF CONTACT: All questions should be directed to:

ammanresumesusaid@usaid.gov

12. STATEMENT OF DUTIES:

USAID Jordan requests to create a short term USPSC to fill a Supervisory Financial Management

Specialist (Deputy Controller) to provide support to the Financial Management Office (FMO) and the

Controller. The period of performance shall be for 10 months with option to extend up to six months, based on the need of the mission, availability of funds, and approval of contracting officer. The o/a start date is o\a October 1, 2021. Actual dates will be determined once successful candidate receives all needed medical and security clearances.

USAID/Jordan FMO is responsible for the financial management of programs totaling $1.2 billion and for managing a $2.4 billion development assistance portfolio. In addition, FMO provides support services to the Southern Syria Assistance Platform (SSAP). The incumbent oversees an operating expense budget of

$15 million for four offices (USAID/Jordan, SSAP, OFDA and FFP) including a Local Trust Fund.

Working with the Mission Controller and the Mission’s five technical offices and SSAP, the incumbent mailto:ammanresumesusaid@usaid.gov ensures funds accountability and mitigates fiduciary risks, especially for activities implemented through public financial management systems and the Host Country Contracting (over 70% of the Mission’s portfolio).

The incumbent will report to the Controller of the Financial Management Office. The office currently consists of two USDH, one local-hire USPSC, and 15 LES positions. The incumbent will be overseeing the Accounting and Payment Sections and nine FSN staff in supervising the financial operations of

USAID/Jordan.

This position requires an experienced contractor with demonstrated skills in financial management, staff development, operational planning, implementation, as well as an in-depth knowledge of the financial management techniques and methods utilized by USAID. Prior experience in assessments of Partner

Government systems (G2G) is required. The successful candidate needs to be able to obtain valid medical clearance for post Amman and also the security clearance. Once hired, the incumbent will need to obtain accesses to Phoenix, ASIST, GLAAS, E2 and WebTA.

The incumbent will provide leadership and oversight of the Mission’s day to day financial operations in order to ensure continuous high quality financial management operational support to the Mission’s programs. The incumbent serves as the focal point for all financial management functions including budgeting, funds control, accounts receivable, accounting, payments, OE and program-funded budget preparation, E2 travel authorization, and financial advisory services to the Mission Controller and staff.

The incumbent will also serve as the principal Certifying Officer. Additionally, the incumbent is responsible for mentoring, coaching, and guiding FMO staff to perform at their highest levels.

On occasion in the absence of the Controller, the incumbent will be called upon to fill this role. In Acting

Controller role s/he will provide leadership, direction, and coordination of all financial management functions of USAID/Jordan, including in addition to functions mentioned above the financial analysis and audit management.

As such, the contractor’s responsibilities may be summarized as follows:

1. Provides Mission Staff with guidance on appropriate methods of activity implementation and financing and plans for evaluations of accounting systems and contract management capabilities as a pre-condition to providing clearance of Activity Description Documents.

2. Supervises accounting and reporting of all dollar and trust fund obligations, commitments and disbursements for USAID/Jordan.

3. Reviews and approves contracts, activity agreements, commitment documents and related correspondence.

4. In coordination with the Executive Officer (EXO), prepares and executes the Mission’s

Operating Expense Budget.

5. Supervises voucher examination for all payments in dollars and local currency to vendors of

USAID/Jordan.

6. Maintains a comprehensive accounting system for operating expenses, advances, payables, non-expendable property, collections and budget allowance limitations.

7. Advises employees on the processing of payments and other documents concerning entitlements, allowances, travels, leave, etc.

8. Serve as the authorized certifying officer along with the newly hired Certifying Officer.

Direct the review and payment of all types of invoices, billings, and collections. Analyze and reconcile accounts with those of the disbursing officer. Provides on-the-job training for the new Certifying Officer.

9. Participates as a financial management advisor in all program portfolio review meetings with the Executive Management Team.

10. Tailors financial management reporting to meet Mission and GOJ needs and presents such reports with analytical explanations to major users.

11. In coordination with EXO, manages the level of the USAID’s share of the ICASS budget.

12. Determines appropriate methods for the financing of Mission programs and operations.

13. Provides Mission staff with expert assistance and advice relative to USAID financial management regulations and procedures.

14. Assists in resolving cash management, method of payment, cost reasonableness, and disbursement issues for projects.

15. Provides uniform guidance and procedures for the financial management of all appropriated and non-appropriated funds available to USAID/Jordan, including implementation of internal accounting controls to safeguard those funds and other USAID assets.

16. Ensures the quality review and analysis of financial information; identifies financial risks, challenges and opportunities with solutions, options, or corrective actions.

17. Provides oversight, guidance and support to the FMO staff to ensure that they possess all the necessary skills, and that they function effectively in carrying out their required duties.

18. As requested, leads or participates in the Partner Government System assessment(s) and the capacity building of the local institutions.

19. Represents the Controller’s office, when necessary, at Mission meetings and strategic planning activities; participate in the review of the financial progress of on-going projects.

20. Assists in the development of new and review existing internal procedures, Enterprise Risk

Management and the FMFIA 2021 exercise and follow up on pending actions. Resolve mission Integrity, compliance and internal control related matters.

21. Ensures a timely 1311 review process and review and approve accruals.

Other significant factors:

Supervision Received:

The incumbent shall report directly to the USAID/Jordan Controller. During the absence of the

Controller, the incumbent will assume the duties of Acting Controller and shall report to the Deputy

Mission Director in charge of the Financial Management Office portfolio.

Supervision Exercised:

The incumbent will have a supervisory role as assigned by the Controller.

Foreign Affairs Counter Threat (FACT)

The incumbent may be required to have valid FACT Training prior to traveling to post.

Exercise of Judgment:

The incumbent must exercise sound and independent judgment in the course of carrying out the assigned duties. Position requires a high level of ability with regard to understanding financial and accounting policies and regulations and the ability to analyze situations and accurately apply those regulations and make sound judgment.

Available Guidelines:

4FAM, 3FAM, ADS, AID Handbooks, Standardized Regulations, and instructions issued by USAID

Controller. Guidelines are broadly stated and nonspecific, e.g., broad policy statements and basic legislation that require extensive interpretation. The employee must use judgment and ingenuity in interpreting the intent of the guides that do exist and in developing applications to specific areas of work.

Frequently, the employee is recognized as a technical authority in the development and interpretation of guidelines.

Authority to make commitments:

The incumbent does not have the authority to make legal commitments but is responsible for recording all financial obligations.

Nature, Level and Purpose of Contacts:

The incumbent establishes and maintains solid working relationships with all levels of Mission personnel, contractors and Host country government officials. The incumbent communicates with high level of

Government officials whether in the Mission, and\or international organizations and host government

Officials.

Physical Demands/ Work Environment:

The primary location of work will be the USAID/Jordan Mission, located in USG-provided facilities in

Amman, Jordan. Work in the office is expected to be mostly sedentary.

13. PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.

14. AREA OF CONSIDERATION

To meet basic eligibility requirements, the applicant must be an American Citizen and must submit a complete application as outlined in the section titled APPLYING. The contractor shall obtain necessary medical clearance (as defined by the Department of State Medical Unit) and must be able to receive USG MRPT Security Clearance prior to travel to post. The final selected candidate must obtain security and medical clearances within a reasonable period. USAID will provide details regarding these clearances to the selected candidate). If such clearances are not obtained within a reasonable time or negative suitability issues are involved, any offer made may be rescinded.

Applicants who do not meet the required minimum qualifications will be considered unqualified for the position and will not be assessed using the additional selection criteria below.

II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

Applications will be initially screened for eligibility in accordance with the qualification criteria below. Applicants must address each criterion in their application in order to meet the below minimum qualifications for this position.

1. Education: The incumbent should have a Bachelor degree or equivalent of a four-year U.S.

university degree (equivalency accreditation if a non-U.S. institution) in accounting in accounting, finance or business administration. Supporting documentation (i.e. copy of university must be included in the application for eligibility purposes).

2. Prior Work Experience: Ten years of progressively responsible experience performing and supervising USAID financial management operations, including accounting, audit management, budget formulation and execution, financial analysis, and management controls is required.

Experience as a USAID Controller or Deputy Controller is a plus. Strong working knowledge of

USAID systems such as Phoenix, E2, ASIST and other Agency systems is required. Prior experience with the assessment of partner government systems (G2G) is required.

3. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Thorough knowledge and understanding of professional accounting principles, theories, practices and terminology, as well as the principles and accepted procedures of U.S. Governmental and business financial accounting, budgeting and reporting is required. A thorough knowledge of laws, regulations and procedures associated with USAID financial management and a high level of independent judgment with regard to USAID’s financial management policies and regulations, is also required. Strong understanding of USAID project planning and implementation procedures and of USAID organization and operations is highly desirable. A high level of analytical skill and sound judgment is required. The position requires proven management and organizational expertise as well as developing and motivating a team to effectively supervise FMO staff and direct the various elements of a complex financial management operation. The position also requires excellent interpersonal and training skills, and the candidate must have a genuine interest in developing the abilities of FMO staff. The ability to perform in an energetic and fast past environment while maintaining cordial and professional relationships with USAID staff, Host Government, NGO and Contractor personnel is a must.

Excellent English communication skills, both orally and in writing, are essential.

III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

The Government may award a contract without discussions with applicants 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 applicants 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 applications 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 applicants in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated applications. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.

Applicants who do not meet the minimum education and experience requirement will not be contacted.

Applicants who meet the minimum education and experience requirement will be further evaluated based on the evaluation criteria mentioned below:

1. Education (pass\Fail)

2. Prior Work Experience (50 points)

3. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities (50 points)

TOTAL POINTS: (100)

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

IV. SUBMITTING AN APPLICATION (APPLYING)

To ensure consideration of application for the intended position, applicants must prominently reference the solicitation number in the application submission. Eligible applicants are required to complete and submit the following as a complete application package:

a. Eligible offerors are required to complete and submit the offer form AID 309-2, “Offeror

Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals,” available at http://www.usaid.gov/forms

b. Cover letter and current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume containing sufficient relevant information that respond to the requirements of the position (education/experience) in order to evaluate the application in accordance with the evaluation criteria; provide periods of performance where possible

c. Copies of educational certification for eligibility purposes. *

*Failure to submit copies of certification will mark your package incomplete and will eliminate your application from the recruitment process even if you were qualified.

USAID will screen for nepotism/conflict of interest in determining successful candidacy. Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 4, clearly referenced by the

Solicitation number, and submitted to the ammanresumesusaid@usaid.gov.

V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD

Once the Contracting Officer (CO) or his/her designee informs the successful applicant about being selected for a contract award, the CO or his/her designee will provide the successful applicant with instructions on how to complete and submit the required documents related to mandatory medical and security clearances. Upon completion of needed medical and security clearances, the selected applicant must be able to begin working within a reasonable period (60 days). Failure of the selected applicant to accurately complete and submit required documents in a timely manner may be grounds for the CO to rescind any conditional pre-contract salary offer letter and begin negotiations with the next most qualified/highest ranked applicant.

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

(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

2. ALLOWANCES:

The following differential and allowances will be granted to the contractor and his/her authorized dependents to the same extent and on the same basis as they are granted to U.S. citizen direct-hire http://www.usaid.gov/forms mailto:ammanresumesusaid@usaid.gov employees at the Mission by the Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians, Foreign Areas), as from time to time amended, except as noted to the contrary below:

Applicable Reference to Standardized Regulations:

(A) Temporary lodging allowance (Section 120),\3\

(B) Living quarters allowance (Section 130),\3\

(C) Post allowance (Section 220),\3\

(D) Supplemental post allowance (Section 230),\3\

(E) Separate maintenance allowance (Section 260),\4\

(F) Education allowance (Section 270),\4\

(G) Educational travel (Section 280),\4\

(H) Post differential (Section 500),

(I) Payments during evacuation/authorized departure (Section 600), and

(J) Danger pay (Section 650).

\3\ Mission Directors may authorize per Diem in lieu of these allowances.

\4\ These allowances are not authorized for short tours (i.e., less than a year).

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 Direct

USAID Contracts with a Local Hire U.S. Personal Services Abroad,,” including contract clause

“General Provisions,” available at: https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar

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

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

Cooperating Country National Personal Services Contracts (CCNPSC) available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs

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

General Provision 2 and 5 CFR 2635. See https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations

5. PSC Ombudsman

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

The PSC Ombudsman may be contacted via: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar https://www.usaid.gov/forms http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations https://www.usaid.gov/workusaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman mailto:PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov

Clearances:

Shahla Al-Karadsheh _____________ Date ____________

Oleksandra Price _____________ Date ____________

06.13.2021