SOL-OAA-16-0000034_Continuous.pdf

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Request for a U.S. Personal Service Contractor

Position Title: Food for Peace Officer

Duty Office: DCHA/FFP

Solicitation Number: SOL-OAA-16-000034

Salary Level: GS-11/12/13 Equivalent: GS-11 ($63,772-$82,840) or GS-12 ($76,378-

$99,296) or GS-13 ($90,823-$118,069) Washington Locality

Issuance Date: January 5, 2015

Closing Date: September 2, 2016

Closing Time: 12:00 P.M. EST

Breakdown of Closing Date and Time:

Review Period 1: February 19, 2016, 12:00 P.M. EST

Review Period 2: April 22, 2016, 12:00 P.M DST

Review Period 3: June 24, 2016, 12:00 P.M DST

Review Period 4: September 2, 2016, 12:00 P.M DST

Dear Prospective Applicants:

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

Development (USAID), is seeking applications from qualified U.S. citizens to provide personal services as a Food for Peace Officer under a personal services contract, as described in the attached solicitation.

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

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

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

(a) Paid and non-paid experience, job title, location(s), dates held (month/year), and hours worked per week for each position. 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 and email) of your current and/or previous supervisor(s).

(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-OAA-16-000034

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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 documentation must specifically address the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) shown in the solicitation

Additional documents submitted will not be accepted. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Your complete resume and the supplemental document addressing the QRFs must be emailed to: FFPPSC@usaid.gov.

Any questions on this solicitation should be directed to the Isidore Emmanuel at the email address notice above. 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.

Sincerely, /s/

Artaveya J. Carter

Contracting Officer

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1. SOLICITATION NO.: SOL-OAA-16-000034

2. ISSUANCE DATE: January 5, 2016

3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS

Review Period 1: February 19, 2016, 12:00 P.M. EST

Review Period 2: April 22, 2016, 12:00 P.M DST

Review Period 3: June 24, 2016, 12:00 P.M DST

Review Period 4: September 2, 2016, 12:00 P.M DST

4. POSITION TITLE: Food for Peace Officer

5. MARKET VALUE: GS-11/12/13 equivalent GS-11 ($63,772-$82,840) or GS-12 ($76,378-

$99,296) or GS-13 ($90,823-$118,069) / includes locality pay). Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value based upon the candidate’s past salary, work history and educational background. Salaries over and above the top of the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated. Candidates who live outside the Washington, D.C. area will be considered for employment but no relocation expenses will be reimbursed.

6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years with the option to renew for up to three additional years based on obtaining at least a “fully successful” level of performance in the annual evaluation.

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

8. STATEMENT OF WORK

BACKGROUND

The Office of Food for Peace (FFP) in the U.S. Agency for International Development Bureau 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.

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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 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 50 in Washington and also has officers posted abroad.

More Information on FFP is available at:

http://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do/agriculture-and-food-security/food-assistance

9. CORE FUNCTIONAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

Duties and Responsibilities

At the GS-11 level, the FFPO will serve as a Country Backstop Officer. 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:

A. GS-11 Duties and Responsibilities

1. 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).

2. 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.

3. 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.

http://www.usaid.gov/what-we-do/agriculture-and-food-security/food-assistance

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4. 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.

5. 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.

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

7. 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.

B. GS -12 Duties and Responsibilities

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

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

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

7. Represent FFP on DCHA’s Crisis and Opening Action Coordination Team (COACT) and if

B. GS-13 Duties and Responsibilities.

1. 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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2. 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.

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

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

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

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

9. Represent FFP on DCHA’s Crisis and Opening Action Coordination Team (COACT) and if

The GS-11 or GS-12 or GS-13 incumbent 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.

Guidelines

At the GS-11 or GS-12 or GS-13 level, pertinent sources of information consist of: the Food for

Peace Act, the Foreign Assistance Act, and other legislation; USAID Agency, DCHA Bureau, and other USG rules and regulations; and FFP rules, policies, guidelines and information bulletins.

At the GS-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.

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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.

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

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

8 | P a g e 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 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 Acting Team Leader.

10. ADVANCEMENT

LADDER POSITION

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 may advance from the GS -11 to the GS-

12 level after working for two 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 an

“Outstanding” rating in the annual performance evaluation for each of the two years working at the GS-11 level. The employee performance evaluation must include a statement by the

9 | P a g e supervisor that the employee’s performance is “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 to GS-13: PSCs initially hired at the GS-12 level may advance from the GS-12 to the GS-

13 level after working for three years in the position at the GS-12 level, again with the PSC meeting the minimum qualifications of the higher grade stated in the solicitation and also receiving an "Outstanding" rating in the annual performance evaluation in each of the three years working at the GS-12 level. The employee performance evaluation must include a statement by the supervisor that the employee’s performance is “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-13: PSC’s 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.

11. WORK ENVIRONMENT

At the GS-11 or GS-12 or GS-13 level, 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.

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

13. POINT OF CONTACT: See Cover Letter.

*Application Process: Applicants must indicate in their application which level(s) they want to be considered for in their initial base two-year contract. USAID/FFP reserves the right to place the applicant at the Grade/Step level for which he/she is found qualified during the application process.

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MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION

Minimum Qualifications

A. Education/Experience: 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.

GS-11 EQUIVALENT

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 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 assistance (to include in-kind food, cash transfer or food voucher programs). A minimum of one (1) year of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required.

GS-12 EQUIVALENT

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 two (2) years must be related to international food assistance (to include in kind food, cash transfer or food voucher programs). A minimum of two (2) years of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required.

GS-13 EQUIVALENT

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 food security, with strong preference given to international food assistance (to include in kind food, cash transfer or

11 | P a g e cash voucher programs). A minimum of two (2) years of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required.

OR

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, or other related field. The incumbent will also have a total of at least six (6) years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance and/or international development, of which three (3) years must be related to food security, with strong preference given to international food assistance (to include in kind food, cash transfer or cash voucher programs). A minimum of two (2) years of overseas professional experience in a developing country is required.

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;

A current resume, with complete contact information, submitted;

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

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;

Verification of academic credentials and/or job references upon request.

QUALITY RANKING FACTORS (QRFs)

(Used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified applicants in comparison to other applicants. The factors are listed in priority order from highest to least.)

Demonstrated ability to assess, develop, and recommend appropriate country-level food assistance programs and activities. (25 points)

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. (25 points)

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Demonstrated ability to analyze budgets, identify program implementation constraints and successes, 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. (20 points)

Knowledge of key issues and priorities in implementing international humanitarian food assistance programs. (15 points)

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.

DOCUMENT SUBMITTALS

Where and How to Apply

Via email: FFPPSC@usaid.gov

To apply during any fiscal quarter, qualified individuals are required to submit:

1. A cover letter specifying for which grade level(s) you are applying, and a brief rationale supporting your selection.

2. A current resume, with complete contact information

3. Supplemental documentation specifically addressing the Selection Factors and the

QRFs shown in the solicitation.

This solicitation is continuous and ongoing with closing dates for the submission of applications on the last day of each review period. Please refer to “3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR

RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS.”

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

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A Technical Evaluation Committee will be assembled at the ending of each phase of the solicitation 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.

USAID will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. Professional references and academic credentials will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. USAID reserves the right to select additional candidates if vacancies become available during future phases of the selection process.

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

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.

To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number and the Review Period you are applying to on your application, and as the subject line in any email.

NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION

This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit

USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application.

NOTE REGARDING DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBERS

All individuals contracted as US PSCs are required to have a DUNS Number. USAID will provide a generic DUNS Number and PSCs are not required to register with CCR.

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

(FAR) Clause 52.204-6, Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number (10/2003) https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html

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LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs

Forms outlined below can found at:

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

1. AID 302-3

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

3. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security)

(SF-86), or

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

5. Finger Print Card (FD-258).

Forms 1 through 5 shall be completed ONLY upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.

CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) and ACQUISITION &

ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs

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

AAPD 06-10 – PSC MEDICAL PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY

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

AAPD 15-02 LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS

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

FAR 52.222-50 – COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS

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

BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES:

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

BENEFITS:

Employer's FICA Contribution

Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance

Pay Comparability Adjustment

Annual Increase (pending a satisfactory performance evaluation) http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ http://www.forms.gov/bgfPortal/main.do http://transition.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/subject.html#psc

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Eligibility for Worker's Compensation

Annual & Sick Leave

ALLOWANCES (if Applicable).*

(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

ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVE (AAPD) NO. 06-10

PSC MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY

General Provision 22, MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY

(OCTOBER 2006)

(a) Definitions. Terms used in this General Provision are defined in 16

FAM 116 available at http://www.state.gov/m/a/dir/regs/fam/c23002.htm.

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 http://www.state.gov/m/a/dir/regs/fam/c23002.htm

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10, Travel and Transportation Expenses (July 1993), section (i) entitled “Emergency and

Irregular Travel and Transportation.” In the event of a medical emergency, when time does not permit consultation, the Mission Director may issue a Travel Authorization Form or Medical

Services Authorization Form DS-3067, provided that the FSMP or Post Medical Advisor (PMA) is notified as soon as possible following such an issuance. The contractor must promptly file a claim with his or her medevac insurance provider and repay to USAID any amount the medevac insurer pays for medical travel, up to the amount USAID paid under this section. The contractor must repay USAID for medical costs paid by the medevac insurer in accordance with sections (f) and (g) below. In order for medical travel to be an allowable cost under General Provision 10, the contractor must provide USAID written evidence that medevac insurance does not cover these medical travel costs.

(f) If the contractor or eligible family member is not covered by primary health insurance, the contractor is the primary payer for the total amount of medical costs incurred. In the event of a medical emergency, the Medical and Health Program may authorize issuance of Form DS-3067, Authorization for Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents, to secure admission to a hospital located abroad for the uninsured contractor or eligible family member. In that case, the contractor will be required to reimburse USAID in full for funds advanced by USAID pursuant to the issuance of the authorization. The contractor may reimburse USAID directly or USAID may offset the cost from the contractor’s invoice payments under this contract, any other contract the individual has with the U.S. Government, or through any other available debt collection mechanism.

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

Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents), repayment must be made to USAID either by insurance payment or directly by the contractor, except for the amount of such expenses

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

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

USPSC/dependent.

(i) Before departing post or terminating the contract, the contractor must settle all medical expense and medical travel costs. If the contractor is insured, he or she must provide proof to the

Contracting Officer that those insurance claims have been submitted to the insurance carrier(s)

18 | P a g e and sign a repayment agreement to repay to USAID any amounts paid by the insurance carrier(s).

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ATTACHMENT 2

APPD 15-02 LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS

(a) Annual Leave

(1) The contractor is not entitled to annual leave if the period of performance of this contract is 90 days or less. If the contract period of performance is more than 90 days, the contractor shall earn annual leave as of the start date of the contract period of performance as specified in paragraph (a)(2) below.

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

Time in Service Annual Leave (AL) Accrual Calculation

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

15 years

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

USAID will calculate the contractor’s time in service based on all the previous service performed by the contractor as a: 1) USAID PSC (i.e., the contractor has served under any

USAID personal services contracts of any duration covered by Sec. 636(a)(3) of the FAA or other statutory provision applicable to USAID); and/or 2) former U.S. Government (USG) direct-hire, under either civilian and/or military service.

(3)

(i) AL is provided under this contract for the purposes of affording necessary rest and recreation during the period of performance. The contractor, in consultation with the

USAID Mission or USAID/Washington, as appropriate, shall develop an AL schedule early in the contractor's period of performance, taking into consideration project requirements, employee preference, and other factors. All AL earned by the contractor must be used during the contractor’s period of performance. All AL earned by the contractor, but not taken by the end of the contract, will be forfeited. However, to prevent forfeiture of AL, the Contracting Officer may approve the contractor taking AL during the concluding weeks of the contractor's period of performance.

(ii) As an exception to 3(i) above, the contractor may receive a lump-sum payment for leave not taken. To approve this exception, the contractor's supervisor must provide the

Contracting Officer with a signed, written Determination and Findings (D&F). The D&F must set out the facts and circumstances that prevented the contractor from taking AL, and the Contracting Officer must find that these facts and circumstances were not caused by, or were beyond the control of, the contractor. This leave payment must not exceed the number of days which could be earned by the contractor during a twelve-month period.

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

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

(b) Sick Leave. The contractor may use sick leave on the same basis and for the same purposes as USAID U.S. direct hire employees. Sick leave is earned at a rate not to exceed four (4) hours every two (2) weeks for a total of 13 work-days per year. Unused sick leave may be carried over under an extension or renewal of this contract with the same individual for the same work.

Otherwise, sick leave will not be carried over from one post to another or from one contract to another. The contractor will not be compensated for unused sick leave upon completion of this contract.

(c) Home Leave.

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

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

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

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

21 | P a g e contractor will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of not more than

20 work days. When the PSC is returning to a different USAID Mission, the former

Mission will pay for the home leave regardless of what country the PSC will be working in following the home leave;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(iii) The USPSC agrees to return to the Cooperating Country to serve out the remaining time necessary to meet two (2) years of service overseas, plus an additional two (2) years under the current contract or under a new contract for the same or similar services at the same Mission. If approved in advance by the Mission Director, the USPSC may return to serve out any remainder of the two (2) year requirement for service overseas, plus an additional period of not less than one (1) year under the current contract or under a new contract for the same or similar services at the same Mission.

(4) The period of service overseas required under paragraph (c)(2), or paragraph (c)(3) above, will include the actual days in orientation in the U.S. (less language training). The actual days overseas begin on the date of arrival in the cooperating country inclusive of authorized delays enroute. Allowable annual and sick leave taken while overseas, but not

LWOP, shall be included in the required period of service overseas. An amount equal to the

22 | P a g e number of days of annual and sick leave taken in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions or territories will be added to the required period of service overseas.

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

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

Contracting Officer, an USPSC in the U.S., on home leave may be authorized to spend not more than five (5) days in work status for consultation at USAID/Washington before returning to post. Consultation at locations other than USAID/Washington as well as any time in excess of five (5) days spent for consultation must be approved by the Mission

Director or the Contracting Officer.

(d) Home Leave for Qualifying Posts (HLQP). USPSCs who ordinarily qualify for home leave and have completed a 12-month assignment at one of the USAID qualifying posts

(currently Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan) are…