SW_1-3-20-R_Statewide_IFB_10-20-2021.pdf

STATE OF MARYLAND

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATE

HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION (MDOT SHA)

INVITATION FOR BIDS (IFB)

TEMPORARY LAB AND FIELD TECHNICIANS FOR OFFICE

OF MATERIALS TECHNOLOGY (OMT)

IFB NUMBER SW 1-3-20-R

ISSUE DATE: OCTOBER 20, 2021

NOTICE

A Prospective Bidder that has received this document from a source other than eMaryland Marketplace

Advantage(eMMA) https://procurement.maryland.gov should register on eMMA. See Section 4.2.

MINORITY BUSINESS ENTERPRISES ARE ENCOURAGED TO

RESPOND TO THIS SOLICITATION.

Temporary Lab and Field Technicians for Office of Materials

Technology (OMT)

Solicitation #: SW 1-3-20-R

IFB Document

IFB for MDOT SHA Page ii of 136

NO BID NOTICE/VENDOR FEEDBACK FORM

To help us improve the quality of State solicitations, and to make our procurement process more responsive and business friendly, please provide comments and suggestions regarding this solicitation.

Please return your comments with your response. If you have chosen not to respond to this solicitation, please email or fax this completed form to the attention of the Procurement Officer (see Key

Information Summary Sheet below for contact information).

Title: Temporary Lab and Field Technicians for Office of Materials Technology (OMT)

Solicitation No: SW 1-3-20-R

1. If you have chosen not to respond to this solicitation, please indicate the reason(s) below:

Other commitments preclude our participation at this time

The subject of the solicitation is not something we ordinarily provide

We are inexperienced in the work/commodities required

Specifications are unclear, too restrictive, etc. (Explain in REMARKS section)

The scope of work is beyond our present capacity

Doing business with the State is simply too complicated. (Explain in REMARKS section)

We cannot be competitive. (Explain in REMARKS section)

Time allotted for completion of the Bid is insufficient

Start-up time is insufficient

Bonding/Insurance requirements are restrictive (Explain in REMARKS section)

Bid requirements (other than specifications) are unreasonable or too risky (Explain in

REMARKS section)

MBE or VSBE requirements (Explain in REMARKS section)

Prior State of Maryland contract experience was unprofitable or otherwise unsatisfactory.

(Explain in REMARKS section)

Payment schedule too slow

Other:

2. If you have submitted a response to this solicitation, but wish to offer suggestions or express concerns, please use the REMARKS section below. (Attach additional pages as needed.)

REMARKS:

Vendor Name: Date:

Contact Person: Phone ( ) -

Address:

E-mail Address:

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STATE OF MARYLAND

MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STATE

HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION (MDOT SHA)

KEY INFORMATION SUMMARY SHEET

Invitation for Bids Services - Temporary Lab and Field Technicians for Office of

Materials Technology (OMT)

Solicitation Number: SW 1-3-20-R

IFB Issue Date: October 20, 2021

IFB Issuing Office: Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway

Administration (MDOT SHA or the "Administration")

Procurement Officer: Patrick Olanya

707 North Calvert Street Mailstop C-405 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 e-mail:

Office Phone:

POlanya@mdot.maryland.gov

410-545-5726

Bids are to be sent to: Submit Via eMMA

Pre-Bid Conference: October 27, 2021, at 10:00 AM

Local Time via Microsoft Teams w/MDOT SHA

+1 667-262-2962 (Toll)

Conference ID: 171 160 136#

Questions Due Date and Time October 29, 2021 @ 4:00 p.m. Local Time

Bid Due (Closing) Date and

Time:

November 09, 2021 @ 2:00 p.m. Local Time

Bidders are reminded that a completed Feedback Form is requested if a no-bid decision is made (see page iv).

Public Bid Opening Date, Time and Location

November 09, 2021 @ 2:00pm Local Time Electronic bid submission eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA)

MBE Subcontracting Goal: 25% with no subgoals.

VSBE Subcontracting Goal: 0%

Contract Type: firm fixed price

Contract Duration: Three (3) year base period with two (2) one-year option periods

Primary Place of

Performance:

7450 Traffic Drive (Building 4)

Hanover, MD 21076

SBR Designation: No mailto:POlanya@mdot.maryland.gov

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Federal Funding: No

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TABLE OF CONTENTS – IFB

1 Minimum Qualifications

1.1 Bidder Minimum Qualifications

2 Contractor Requirements: Scope of Work

2.1 Summary Statement

2.2 Background and Purpose

2.3 Responsibilities and Tasks

3 Contractor Requirements: General

3.1 Contract Initiation Requirements

3.2 End of Contract Transition

3.3 Invoicing

3.4 Liquidated Damages

3.5 Disaster Recovery and Data

3.6 Insurance Requirements

3.7 Security Requirements

3.8 Problem Escalation Procedure

3.9 SOC 2 Type 2 Audit Report

3.10 Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Reports

3.11 Veteran Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) Reports

3.12 Work Orders

3.13 Additional Clauses

4 Procurement Instructions

4.1 Pre-Bid Conference

4.2 eMaryland Marketplace Advantage (eMMA)

4.3 Questions

4.4 Procurement Method

4.5 Bid Due (Closing) Date and Time

4.6 Multiple or Alternate Bids

4.7 Receipt, Opening and Recording of Bids

4.8 Confidentiality of Bids / Public Information Act Notice

4.9 Award Basis

4.10 Tie Bids

4.11 Duration of Bids

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4.12 Revisions to the IFB

4.13 Cancellations

4.14 Incurred Expenses

4.15 Protest/Disputes

4.16 Bidder Responsibilities

4.17 Acceptance of Terms and Conditions

4.18 Bid/Proposal Affidavit

4.19 Contract Affidavit

4.20 Compliance with Laws/Arrearages

4.21 Verification of Registration and Tax Payment

4.22 False Statements

4.23 Payments by Electronic Funds Transfer

4.24 Prompt Payment Policy

4.25 Electronic Procurements Authorized

4.26 MBE Participation Goal

4.27 VSBE Participation Goal

4.28 Living Wage Requirements

4.29 Federal Funding Acknowledgement

4.30 Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure

4.31 Non-Disclosure Agreement

4.32 HIPAA - Business Associate Agreement

4.33 Nonvisual Access

4.34 Mercury and Products That Contain Mercury

4.35 Location of the Performance of Services Disclosure

4.36 Department of Human Services (DHS) Hiring Agreement

4.37 Small Business Reserve (SBR) Procurement

4.38 Bonds ..........................................................................................Error! Bookmark not defined.

4.39 Maryland Healthy Working Families Act Requirements

5 Bid Format

5.1 One Part Submission

5.2 Labeling

5.3 Bid Price Form

5.4 Required Bid Submission

5.5 Delivery

5.6 Documents Required upon Notice of Recommendation for Contract Award

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6 Bid Evaluation and Award

6.1 Bid Evaluation Criteria

6.2 Reciprocal Preference

6.3 Award Determination

6.4 Documents Required upon Notice of Recommendation for Contract Award

7 IFB ATTACHMENTS AND APPENDICES

Attachment A. Pre-Bid Conference Response Form

Attachment B. Bid Instructions & Form

Attachment C. Bid/Proposal Affidavit

Attachment D. Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Forms

Attachment E. Veteran-Owned Small Business Enterprise (VSBE) Forms

Attachment F. Maryland Living Wage Affidavit of Agreement for Service Contracts

Attachment G. Federal Funds Attachments

Attachment H. Conflict of Interest Affidavit and Disclosure

Attachment I. Non-Disclosure Agreement (Contractor)

Attachment J. HIPAA Business Associate Agreement

Attachment K. Mercury Affidavit

Attachment L. Location of the Performance of Services Disclosure

Attachment M. Contract

Attachment N. Contract Affidavit

Attachment O. DHS Hiring Agreement

Attachment P. Pavement Marking Equipment

Attachment Q. Sample Time Sheet

Attachment R. Sample Invoice

Appendix 1. – Abbreviations and Definitions

Appendix 2. – Bidder Information Sheet

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1 Minimum Qualifications

1.1 Bidder Minimum Qualifications

The Bidder must provide proof with its Bid that the following Minimum Qualifications have been met

(see also Section 4):

As part of the determination to be considered responsive, the Bidder must document in its Bid that it satisfies the following Minimum Qualifications:

1.1.1 Prior to submitting a bid for the work covered by the specifications for this solicitation, the successful Bidder must have a minimum of three (3) complete and consecutive years of successful Testing and Inspection service performance comparable in scope, type, size, magnitude, and complexity for each reference as required in the IFB. The Bidder must provide references that can substantiate this experience timely upon the request of the Procurement

Officer.

The Bidder shall submit online with the bid response on the Company Profile (Attachment

K) a minimum of three (3) references of companies or organizations for which the Bidder provided services in scope, type, size, magnitude and complexity comparable to those specified in the Scope of Work. Each reference shall be from a client for whom the Bidder has provided services within the past five (5) consecutive years and shall include the following information:

1.1.2 Each reference must include:

a. Name and complete address of business or company

b. Name of the contact person, email address, and current phone number

c. Term and length of each contract

d. Size and type of facility (square footage)

e. Type of services provided

f. Names of supervisory personnel who will perform under the contract, specifying the length and type of experience of each such personnel

g. Contract value

The State Highway Administration reserves the right to request additional references or utilize references not provided by a Bidder.

1.1.3 If applicable:

Upon request, the Contractor shall submit documentation qualifying the (On-site Supervisor, Project Manager, Plant Manager, etc.) to include a resume, background clearance, and three (3) client references. These documents must reflect at least two (2) years’ experience, with Testing and Inspection supervision for services of the type and size of this IFB. With each reference on the resume, it must list details of the length of employment, type and size (square footage) of the buildings serviced by the Supervisor.

1.1.4 List of Current or Prior State Contracts: (References used to meet any Bidder Minimum

Qualifications in Section 2.1.1 may be used to meet this request.

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Provide a list of all contracts with any entity of the State of Maryland for which the Bidder is currently performing services or for which services have been completed within the last five (5) consecutive years. For each identified contract, the Bidder is to provide:

a. The State contracting entity;

b. A brief description of the services provided;

c. The dollar value of the contract;

d. The term of the contract;

e. The State employee contact person (name, title, telephone number, and, if possible, e-mail address); and

f. Whether the contract was terminated before the end of the term specified in the original contract, including whether any available renewal option was not exercised.

Information obtained regarding the Bidder’s level of performance on State contracts will be considered as part of the responsibility determination by the Procurement Officer.

THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK.

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2 Contractor Requirements: Scope of Work

2.1 Summary Statement

2.1.1 The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA or the

"Administration") is issuing this Invitation for Bids (IFB) in order to procure the services defined in this Section 2, as specified in this IFB, from a contract between the successful bidder(s) and the

Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration: for the purposes of providing temporary Lab and Field Technicians to perform materials (soils, aggregates, asphalt, concrete, steel, pavement markings, and other materials ) testing & inspections in support of SHA construction projects in the field and/or laboratory settings.

2.1.2 It is the State’s intention to obtain goods and services, as specified in this IFB, from a Contract between the selected Bidder and the State.

2.1.3 The Administration intends to make up to two (2) awards” if there is the possibility for multiple awards, with two (2) being the maximum number of awards for the work under this IFB. See IFB

Section 4.9 Award Basis for more Contract award information.

2.1.4 A Bidder, either directly or through its subcontractor(s), must be able to provide all goods and services and meet all of the requirements requested in this solicitation and the successful Bidder

(the Contractor) shall remain responsible for Contract performance regardless of subcontractor participation in the work.

2.1.5 Maryland State and local entities as defined in Finance and Procurement §13-110(a) and nonprofit entities within the State of Maryland may purchase from the Contractor goods or services covered by the Contract at the same prices chargeable to the State. All such purchases by non-executive branch entities, non-State governments, government agencies or nonprofit entities:

Shall constitute Contracts between the Contractor and that entity;

Shall not constitute purchases by the State or State agencies under the Contract;

Shall not be binding or enforceable against the State; and

May be subject to other terms and conditions agreed to by the Contractor and the purchaser.

2.1.6 All Contract prices, terms, and conditions must be provided to any Maryland local government or nonprofit entity requesting services under the Contract. The Contractor bears the risk of determining whether or not a government, agency or organization with which the Contractor is dealing is a State entity.

2.2 Background and Purpose

The State is issuing this solicitation for the purposes of providing temporary Lab and Field

Technicians to the Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) Office of Materials

Technology (OMT), to perform materials (soils, aggregates, asphalt, concrete, steel, pavement markings, and other materials) testing & inspections in support of SHA construction projects in the field and/or laboratory settings.

2.2.1 Project Goals

a) The contract should be able to provide the required staff with desired qualifications to perform duties as OMT wants.

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b) An overall MBE subcontractor participation goal of 25 % of the total contract dollar amount as set forth in the Bidder’s Bid Form (Attachment F), including all option years, if any, has been established for this procurement.

2.2.2 State Staff and Roles

State staff will train the consultants as required in the lab and field duties and teach them the safety protocols to be followed.

In addition to the Procurement Officer and Contract Monitor, the State Project Manager will be responsible for the following:

a) State Project Manager

1) The State will provide a State Project Manager who will be responsible for managing the contract and review MBE goal implementation and timely processing of invoices.

The State Project Manager will provide the following:

2) Other State Furnished Roles such as any communication about contract with State and resolving any issues raised during the contract

2.2.3 Other State Responsibilities

a) The State will provide normal office working facilities and equipment reasonably necessary for

Contractor performance under the Contract. Any special requirements (e.g., reprographic services, computer time, key data entry) shall be identified.

b) The State is responsible for providing required information, data, documentation, and test data to facilitate the Contractor’s performance of the work and will provide such additional assistance and services as is specifically set forth.

2.3 Responsibilities and Tasks

The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) is requesting bids for a full range of construction materials testing in OMT Hanover laboratory and construction inspection at various locations of job sites within the State of Maryland. This will include quality assurance (QA) inspection of hot mix and concrete plants and performing pavement marking inspections at various locations of pavements within State of Maryland. All testing and inspection must be done in general accordance with State of Maryland dictated specifications. Rates for work provided will be quoted on an hourly basis as indicated in signed

Bid Form (Attachment F). The hourly rates stipulated in the bid item will be for straight time

(S.T.).

A. SHA may execute Contracts for the requested work outlined herein with the offeror submitting the two lowest responsive and responsible bids based on the combined total bid amount for each schedule of prices for field and lab technicians. The SHA will then acquire the necessary technician support from the lowest bidder or bidders for the needed classification. In the event the lowest bidder is unable to provide the technician support requested within the specified time frame, the next bidder in line will be contacted.

B. Assigned work shall be performed only by employees of the Contractor or

Subcontractor firm named in the Contractor’s original bid submission unless prior written approval is given by the SHA for the employment of a third party. After execution of the Contract and prior to actual work assignments (see examples in

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Section G), the Contractor shall submit to the SHA a list of names with qualifications of the employees proposed for use in providing the specific assignment. The SHA may, at its discretion, limit any personnel on the list from performing work for the SHA, require temporary or permanent removal of employee from work being performed, or require additional training of personnel at no cost to the SHA.

C. No work shall be initiated under this agreement until a Contract has been executed and a Notice to Proceed given in writing. Each assignment will set forth the specific work to be performed and the location thereof.

D. At the request of either party to this Contract and prior to initiation of work under same, a conference may be held for the purpose of identifying and defining the technician support to be provided.

E. The technician support as outlined may be performed at various locations throughout the State of Maryland and surrounding states. The individual work assignments may include travel to field locations in all areas of the State.

Support to be provided by the technicians shall be detailed in individual work assignments and shall consist of furnishing all labor necessary to perform such tasks. Compensation under terms of this Contract will not be authorized for payment until the SHA agrees that the technician is certified to perform specific testing operations. Testing equipment, except for assignment specific pavement marking inspection testing equipment, and necessary related materials will be provided by the SHA.

The following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) , shall be provided by the contractor, as appropriate for the assigned task (THIS IS NOT A PASS

THROUGH ITEM):

1. Gloves

2. Dust masks

3. Eye and hearing protection

4. Fall arrest harnesses (must meet OSHA 1926.500)

5. Safety shoes (must meet OSHA 29CFR 1910.136) - ANSI

C75/ANSI Z41 or ASTM F 2413-05). Safety footwear shall also meet the specifics of SHA’s current Safety Shoe Policy: 1) no athletic style shoes (tennis shoe, etc.) or Wellington style boots (cowboy boot, pull on, etc.); 2) Feature Requirements:

*6” – 8” laced leather uppers, protection against impact & compression hazards (ANSI C75/Z74 or ASTM F 2413-05) and electrical hazards; 3) Sole Criteria: Excellent rating in oil, indoor/outdoor traction, abrasion and good rating in heat and chemical.

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6. Vehicle strobe lights (Pavement Marking Inspections and other public road vehicle usage)

7. Hard hats (must meet ANSI Z89.1)

8. Safety vests (must be minimum Class 2 ANSI/ISEA 107/2004 apparel) Organic vapor- breathing apparatus (must meet OSHA

29CFR 1910-134 - ANSI Z87.1 requirements for specific exposure type), related respiratory fitness test/medical testing as may be required by the Respiratory Protection Program

9. Any other specialty safety equipment shall also be provided by the Contractor, as required by the specific job assignment.

(Note: the current requirements are listed above, but the contractor must comply with any changes in requirements, that occur within the duration of the contract).

The contractor shall also provide, to its employees, any required exposure monitoring devices, and required monitoring surveillance, including but not limited to x-ray badge, nuclear film badge, hearing conservation, etc., as required by the particular job assignment. A copy of each employee’s periodic exposure monitoring report shall be provided to the SHA Contract Manager each month.

If an employee’s particular job assignment requires inclusion in a Hearing

Conservation Program, the Contractor will be responsible for providing that employee with a baseline and annual audiogram.

The contractor shall provide all required safety, PPE and first aid training to its employees as required by the specific job assignment. Examples of this type of training include, but are not limited to, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (as associated for use with chain saw operation or other specific applications), Fall

Arrest and Confined Space Training.

Cell phones for field assignments and specified laboratory assignments, and the current copy of the “Maryland State Highway Administration’s Standard

Specifications for Construction and Materials” shall be provided by the contractor. (Note: Please be advised that the most current version of the spec book is located on the SHA website and includes the complete 902 Section updates that were excluded from the current July 2008 Spec Book). Laptops or tablets with wireless or fixed internet access shall be provided by the Contractor as required by specific job assignment. (Note: For estimating purpose the items listed in the previous sentence will be required for field assignments.

For Field Technician assignments, a suitable vehicle with appropriate safety lighting shall be provided by the contractor. Reimbursement for vehicle use shall follow Section 3.6.1 B. Basis of Payment.

For pavement marking inspection technician assignments, “with equipment”, the contractor shall provide its employees with the following assignment specific

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laptop computer with Microsoft Office Windows 7, with internet access, laser thermometer, and portable printer. Reference Attachment P for Pavement

Marking Equipment.

F. The following are examples of the type of work, which may be performed by the technicians:

1. Perform routine laboratory tests on construction related materials.

2. Perform drafting duties, interpretation of drawings and basic to intermediate engineering computations.

3. Assist higher level technicians (Level II and above) on more difficult materials related operations at the field locations. Some assignments would require the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

4. Participate in the collection and/or input of field data for condition surveys, field activities, scheduling, and production reports.

5. Perform sampling or witness sampling of materials.

6. Perform detailed inspection work (Levels II, III and IV only).

7. Perform data entry, analysis, and review and preparation of testing or inspection reports.

G. The SHA will have the unilateral right, at its discretion, to change, alter or modify in writing the technician support provided for in this agreement; and such changes, alterations or modifications may be made even though it will result in an increase or decrease in the work of the Contractor or in the Contract cost.

H. If, for reasons cited by the SHA, the Contractor is deemed to be in non-compliance with the standards set forth in this agreement, SHA reserves the right to unilaterally terminate this agreement.

I. Upon identifying the need for technician support, the SHA shall create a “Request for Resumes” for a particular job assignment and e-mail the request to the contractor. The “Request for Resumes” will contain the particular job assignment description, required qualifications, pavement marking testing equipment (if required by specific assignment, and a required response date. The contractor must submit resumes for technicians that are specifically qualified for the job assignment by the specific response date, or within seven calendar days. The

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IFB for MDOT SHA Page 8 of 136 contractor shall also respond in writing, by the response date, if the firm has no qualified candidates for the particular job assignment. Failure to respond, and or to provide resumes for qualified technicians, for two or more “Requests for

Resumes”, will result in the contractor’s termination for non-performance of the contract.

J. The technicians shall meet the following minimum qualifications:

1. TECHNICIAN I (Lab or Field)(Trainee level)

a. CLASSIFICATION DEFINITION

This is the entry level of work performing a variety of technical engineering support tasks. Specific duties depend on job assignments and may include performing tests on soils and construction materials. Work is performed under the supervision of an engineer or higher-level technical employee. Working conditions vary depending on assignments and are performed in the office, laboratory or field with exposure to varying weather conditions and rough terrain and requirements for walking, standing, bending, and lifting loads weighing up to 50 lbs.; may require working in close proximity to traffic on highways and bridges.

Employees may be required to work various shifts, including weekends;

be required to travel; and be available for work in any part of Maryland and the surrounding states.

b. MINUMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from a standard high school or possession of a state high school equivalency certificate.

Experience: None

Licenses, Registrations and Certificates:

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties that require the operation of a motor vehicle. Employees in some positions in this classification may be required to possess a motor vehicle operator’s license valid in the State of Maryland.

c. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILL, AND ABILITIES

i. Knowledge of basic mathematical computations.

ii. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the public.

iii. Ability to understand and carry our instructions.

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iv. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.

v. Ability to physically perform essential duties.

vi. Have a basic working knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Access, and Word.

vii. Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.

2. TECHNICIAN II (Lab or Field)

This is the mid-level experienced technician level of work performing a variety of technical engineering support tasks.

Employees perform transportation engineering materials testing and inspections. Specific duties depend on job assignments and may include construction and/or maintenance material inspection and performing tests on soils and other construction materials. Work conditions vary depending on assignments and are performed in the office, laboratory or in the field with exposure to varying weather conditions and rough terrain and requirements for walking, standing, bending, and lifting loads weighing up to 50 lbs; may require working in close proximity to traffic on highways and bridges. Employees in this position may be required to work various shifts and on weekends depending on assignment. Employees in some positions in this classification may be required to travel and be available for work in any part of Maryland and the surrounding states, subject to change of assignment, as work requires. Work is performed under the supervision of an engineer or higher level technical employee.

b. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Experience: One year of experience in technical engineering related work in the areas of material testing, drafting, basic engineering computations, soils or rock drilling and/or computer usage directly related to specific work assignments.

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Applicants may substitute education in an engineering or science curriculum at an accredited junior college, college or university at the rate of 30 semester credit hours per year for up to three years of the required experience.

Applicants may substitute specific material area certification as a substitute for one year of experience.

Employees in this classification may be assigned duties requiring a motor vehicle operator’s license.

Employees in this classification who are required to perform Quality Assurance tests must possess certification in the specific material area outlined in the assignment, or, obtain SHA-recognized certification in technical discipline applicable to assignment within 3 months of accepting the assignment at no cost to the SHA.

c. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

i. Knowledge of basic engineering principles, practices, and methods.

ii. Knowledge of algebra, geometry, and basic mathematical calculations.

iii. Basic knowledge of Microsoft Excel, Access, Word and data processing procedures.

iv. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.

v. Ability to communicate effectively.

vi. Ability to physically perform essential duties.

vii. Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders

viii. Basic knowledge of specific construction materials

(Asphalt, Concrete, Soils, Metals, Pavement Markings, Aggregates and/or Geotechnical).

ix. Ability to prepare material testing and inspection reports.

3. TECHNICIAN III (Lab or Field)

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This is the journey level of work performing a variety of engineering support tasks. Work is performed under the general supervision of an engineer or higher-level technical employee. Work conditions vary and are performed in the office, field, and laboratory. Employees perform transportation engineering, inspection, construction and/or maintenance materials testing and administrative duties.

Specific duties depend on job assignments. Employees in this classification may serve as a lead worker and may be expected to give guidance and assistance to less experienced employees. Work conditions vary depending on assignments with exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, noise levels, and rough terrain; and, requirements for walking, standing, bending, and lifting loads weighing up to 50 lbs; and, may require working in close proximity to traffic on highways and bridges.

Employees in this position may be required to work various shifts and on weekends depending on assignment.

Employees in some positions in this classification may be required to travel and be available for work in any part of

Maryland and the surrounding states, subject to change of assignment, as work requires.

b. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education: Graduation from standard high school or possession of a state high school equivalency certificate

Experience: Three years of experience in technical engineer related work in the areas of material testing, drafting, engineer computations, soils or rock drilling and/or computer usage directly related to the specific work assignment.

certification as a substitute for one year of experience

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i. Knowledge of basic engineering principles, practices, and methods.

ii. Knowledge of design criteria, construction standards and inspection methods and techniques.

iii. Basic knowledge of geometry and basic mathematical calculations used in engineering drawing and drafting.

iv. Knowledge of AASHTO and ASTM test specifications and methods.

v. Ability to learn advanced computer skills and data processing procedures.

vi. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees and the general public.

vii. Ability to communicate effectively.

viii. Ability to physically perform essential duties.

ix. Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders

x. Knowledge of specific construction materials

(Asphalt, Concrete, Soils, Metals, Pavement

Markings, Aggregates and/or Geotechnical)

xi. Achieve SHA-recognized certification in technical area applicable to assignment within 3 months of assignment.

xii. Ability to prepare and review materials testing and inspection reports.

4. TECHNICIAN IV (Lab or Field)

This is the senior technical level of work performing a variety of engineering support tasks. Work is performed

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Work conditions vary depending on assignments and are performed in the office, laboratory or field and may include inspection assignments with exposure to varying weather conditions, dust, noise levels and rough terrain;

and, requirements for walking, standing, bending and lifting loads weighing up to 50 lbs. and may also require working in close proximity to traffic on highways and bridges. Employees may be required to work various shifts and on weekends. Employee may be required to travel and be available for work in any part of Maryland and the surrounding states.

b. Minimum Qualifications

Experience: Five years of experience in technical engineering related work in the areas of material testing, drafting, basic engineering computations, soils or rock drilling and/or computer usage directly related to specific work assignments.

certification as a substitute for one year of experience.

perform Quality Assurance tests must possess certification in the specific material area outlined in the assignment, or, obtain SHA-recognized certification in technical discipline

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i. Knowledge of basic engineering principles, practices, and methods.

ii. Knowledge of design criteria, construction standards and inspection methods and techniques.

iii. Knowledge of geometry and basic mathematical calculations used in engineering drawing and drafting.

iv. Knowledge of maps, deeds, plats, and plans and how they are prepared.

v. Knowledge of AASHTO and ASTM test specifications and methods.

vi. Ability to learn advanced computer skills and data processing procedures.

vii. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.

viii. Ability to communicate effectively.

ix. Ability to physically perform essential duties.

x. Ability to provide excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders

xi. Knowledge of specific construction materials, applicable to job assignment (Asphalt, Concrete, Soils, Metals, Pavement Markings, Aggregates and/or

Geotechnical).

xii. Ability to prepare and review material testing and inspection reports.

K. The contractor shall perform a background check of each qualified technician prior to submitting resumes to the SHA in response to a “Request for Resumes”.

The background check shall include: Driving record review; crime convictions, and U.S. Citizenship and/or authorization to be employed in the U.S.

Employee crime convictions must be disclosed to the SHA for review and determination as to whether the conviction will have impact on the employee’s ability to perform the work requested. The contractor shall not submit any resume for technicians that do not have a valid driver’s license, or are not authorized to work in the U.S.

L. Upon selection of a qualified candidate, the Contractor shall ensure that the technician successfully complete SHA’s required Core Training before the technician’s approved start date. The Core Training shall be completed at the

Contractor’s expense and not billed to SHA. A list of SHA’s Core Training

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Courses and web link will be provided to the Contractor prior to the approved start date.

M. The Contractor shall ensure that the selected qualified candidate, is screened and verified by completing the form, for “former SHA employee conflicts”. The

Contractor shall submit this form for review prior to the qualified technician’s interview date for review and approval determination by the SHA.

N. The Contractor shall complete the “Relatives in the Workplace” Form and submit it to the Contract Manger for review and approval determination prior to the qualified technician’s interview date.

O. The Contractor shall contract an independent medical service provider to facilitate random drug/alcohol testing and or testing necessitated by employee substance abuse suspicions or allegations. The test results shall be provided to the designated SHA/OMT Administrative Technical Representative (ATR) upon request.

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3 Contractor Requirements: General

The following are the general requirements of contractor:

A. SHA may execute Contracts for the requested work outlined herein with the bidder submitting the two lowest responsive and responsible bids based on the combined total bid amount for each schedule of prices for field and lab technicians. The SHA will then acquire the necessary technician support from the lowest bidder or bidders for the needed classification. In the event the lowest bidder is unable to provide the technician support requested within the specified time frame, the next bidder in line will be contacted.

B. Assigned work shall be performed only by employees of the Contractor or

Subcontractor firm named in the Contractor’s original bid submission unless prior written approval is given by the SHA for the employment of a third party. After execution of the Contract and prior to actual work assignments (see examples in

Section G), the Contractor shall submit to the SHA a list of names with qualifications of the employees proposed for use in providing the specific assignment. The SHA may, at its discretion, limit any personnel on the list from performing work for the

SHA, require temporary or permanent removal of employee from work being performed, or require additional training of personnel at no cost to the SHA.

C. The technician support as outlined may be performed at various locations throughout the State of Maryland and surrounding states. The individual work assignments may include travel to field locations in all areas of the State.

Support to be provided by the technicians shall be detailed in individual work assignments and shall consist of furnishing all labor necessary to perform such tasks.

Compensation under terms of this Contract will not be authorized for payment until the SHA agrees that the technician is certified to perform specific testing operations.

Testing equipment, with the exception of assignment specific pavement marking inspection testing equipment, and necessary related materials will be provided by the

SHA.

The following Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) , shall be provided by the contractor, as appropriate for the assigned task (THIS IS NOT A PASS THROUGH

ITEM):

1. Gloves

2. Dust masks

3. Eye and hearing protection

4. Fall arrest harnesses (must meet OSHA 1926.500)

5. Safety shoes (must meet OSHA 29CFR 1910.136) - ANSI C75/ANSI Z41 or ASTM F 2413-05). Safety footwear shall also meet the specifics of

SHA’s current Safety Shoe Policy: 1) no athletic style shoes (tennis shoe, etc.) or Wellington style boots (cowboy boot, pull on, etc.); 2) Feature

Requirements: *6” – 8” laced leather uppers, protection against impact &

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IFB for MDOT SHA Page 17 of 136 compression hazards (ANSI C75/Z74 or ASTM F 2413-05) and electrical hazards; 3) Sole Criteria: Excellent rating in oil, indoor/outdoor traction, abrasion and good rating in heat and chemical.

6. Vehicle strobe lights (Pavement Marking Inspections and other public road vehicle usage)

7. Hard hats (must meet ANSI Z89.1)

8. Safety vests (must be minimum Class 2 ANSI/ISEA 107/2004 apparel)

Organic vapor- breathing apparatus (must meet OSHA 29CFR 1910-134 -

ANSI Z87.1 requirements for specific exposure type), related respiratory fitness test/medical testing as may be required by the Respiratory

Protection Program

9. Any other specialty safety equipment shall also be provided by the

Contractor, as required by the specific job assignment. (Note: the current requirements are listed above, but the contractor must comply with any changes in requirements, that occur within the duration of the contract).

The contractor shall also provide, to its employees, any required exposure monitoring devices, and required monitoring surveillance, including but not limited to x-ray badge, nuclear film badge, hearing conservation, etc., as required by the particular job assignment. A copy of each employee’s periodic exposure monitoring report shall be provided to the SHA Contract Manager each month.

If an employee’s particular job assignment requires inclusion in a Hearing

Conservation Program, the Contractor will be responsible for providing that employee with a baseline and annual audiogram.

The contractor shall provide all required safety, PPE and first aid training to its employees as required by the specific job assignment. Examples of this type of training include, but are not limited to, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) (as associated for use with chain saw operation or other specific applications), Fall

Arrest and Confined Space Training.

Cell phones for field assignments and specified laboratory assignments, and the current copy of the “Maryland State Highway Administration’s Standard

Specifications for Construction and Materials” shall be provided by the

Contractor. (Note: Please be advised that the most current version of the spec book is located on the SHA website and includes the complete 902 Section updates that were excluded from the current July 2008 Spec Book). Laptops or tablets with wireless or fixed internet access shall be provided by the Contractor as required by specific job assignment. (Note: For estimating purpose the items listed in the previous sentence will be required for field assignments.

For Field Technician assignments, a suitable vehicle with appropriate safety lighting shall be provided by the contractor. Reimbursement for vehicle use shall follow Section 3.6.1 B. Basis of Payment.

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For pavement marking inspection technician assignments, “with equipment”, the contractor shall provide its employees with the following assignment specific equipment: cell phone, 12” wood and metal straight ruler, wet film thickness gauge; retro-reflectometer with calibration panel 30 meter; retro-reflectometer shims (100 mils); taper gauge 0 to 150 mils; 10x minimum magnifying lens;

laptop computer with Microsoft Office Windows 7, with internet access, laser thermometer, and portable printer. Reference Attachment P for Pavement

Marking Equipment.

F. The following are examples of the type of work, which may be performed by the technicians:

1. Perform routine laboratory tests on construction related materials.

2. Perform drafting duties, interpretation of drawings and basic to intermediate engineering computations.

3. Assist higher level technicians (Level II and above) on more difficult materials related operations at the field locations.

Some assignments would require the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.

4. Participate in the collection and/or input of field data for condition surveys, field activities, scheduling, and production reports.

5. Perform sampling or witness sampling of materials.

6. Perform detailed inspection work (Levels II, III and IV only).

7. Perform data entry, analysis, and review and preparation of testing or inspection reports.

G. The SHA will have the unilateral right, at its discretion, to change, alter or modify in writing the technician support provided for in this agreement; and such changes, alterations or modifications may be made even though it will result in an increase or decrease in the work of the Contractor or in the Contract cost.

H. If, for reasons cited by the SHA, the Contractor is deemed to be in non-compliance with the standards set forth in this agreement, SHA reserves the right to unilaterally terminate this agreement.

I. Upon identifying the need for technician support, the SHA shall create a “Request for

Resumes” for a particular job assignment and e-mail the request to the contractor.

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IFB for MDOT SHA Page 19 of 136 required qualifications, pavement marking testing equipment (if required by specific assignment, and a required response date. The contractor must submit resumes for technicians that are specifically qualified for the job assignment by the specific response date, or within seven calendar days. The contractor shall also respond in writing, by the response date, if the firm has no qualified candidates for the particular job assignment. Failure to respond, and or to provide resumes for qualified technicians, for two or more “Requests for Resumes”, will result in the contractor’s termination for non-performance of the contract.

3.1 Contract Initiation Requirements

A. No work shall be initiated under this agreement until a Contract has been executed and a Notice to Proceed given in writing. Each assignment will set forth the specific work to be performed and the location thereof.

B. At the request of either party to this Contract and prior to initiation of work under same, a conference may be held for the purpose of identifying and defining the technician support to be provided.

3.2 End of Contract Transition

3.2.1 The Contractor shall provide transition assistance as requested by the State to facilitate the orderly transfer of services to the State or a follow-on contractor, for a period up to 60 days prior to Contract end date, or the termination thereof. Such transition efforts shall consist, not by way of limitation, of:

a) Provide additional services and support as requested to successfully complete the transition;

b) Maintain the services called for by the Contract at the required level of proficiency;

c) Provide updated System Documentation (see Appendix 1), as appropriate; and

d) Provide current operating procedures (as appropriate).

3.2.2 The Contractor shall work toward a prompt and timely transition, proceeding in accordance with the directions of the Contract Monitor. The Contract Monitor may provide the Contractor with additional instructions to meet specific transition requirements prior to the end of the Contract.

3.2.3 The Contractor shall ensure that all necessary knowledge and materials for the tasks completed are transferred to the custody of State personnel or a third party, as directed by the Contract

Monitor.

3.2.4 The Contractor shall support end-of-Contract transition efforts with technical and project support to include but not be limited to:

a) The Contractor shall provide a draft Transition-Out Plan <<120 Business Days>> in advance of

Contract end date.

The Transition-Out Plan shall address at a minimum the following areas:

1) Any staffing concerns/issues related to the closeout of the Contract;

2) Communications and reporting process between the Contractor, the Administration and the Contract Monitor;

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3) Security and system access review and closeout;

4) Any hardware/software inventory or licensing including transfer of any point of contact for required software licenses to the Administration or a designee;

5) Any final training/orientation of Administration staff;

6) Connectivity services provided, activities and approximate timelines required for

Transition-Out;

7) Knowledge transfer, to include:

a) A working knowledge of the current system environments;

b) Review with the Administration the procedures and practices that support the business process and current system environments;

c) Working knowledge of all technical and functional matters associated with the solution, its architecture, data file structure, interfaces, any batch programs, and any hardware or software tools utilized in the performance of the Contract;

d) Documentation that lists and describes all hardware and software tools utilized in the performance of the Contract;

8) Plans to complete tasks and any unfinished work items (including open change requests, and known bug/issues); and

9) Any risk factors with the timing and the Transition-Out schedule and transition process.

The Contractor shall document any risk factors and suggested solutions.

The Contractor shall ensure all documentation and data including, but not limited to, System

Documentation and current operating procedures, is current and complete with a hard and soft copy in a format prescribed by the Contract Monitor.

The Contractor shall provide copies of any current daily and weekly back-ups to the Administration or a third party as directed by the Contract Monitor as of the final date of transition, but no later than the final date of the Contract.

Access to any data…