Human-centered Designer Onsite Support

San Mateo Medical Center (SMMC), a public hospital and clinic system located in San Mateo County, California, is seeking a Human-centered Designer for onsite support through RFP No. 66000-2526-221. The selected designer will work up to 3 days per week for approximately 6.5 months, focusing on designing processes, communications, work artifacts, and workspaces using human-centered design principles for the Health Futures Lab. Key project milestones include community engagement and assisting with a youth behavioral health co-design initiative. The evaluation process will use a points-based scoring system across four categories: Project Approach (30 points), Firm Qualifications (25 points), Team Qualifications (20 points), and Price (25 points). Proposers must have a credible body of work demonstrating experience designing for underserved communities and formal training in human-centered design. The RFP was released on October 24, 2025, with proposals due by November 19, 2025, at 1:00 pm via the eProcurement system, and the resulting contract will have a one-year term.

The procurement offers preferential points for local businesses and non-profits, with potential extra points for small or micro businesses. Proposers must comply with various county requirements, including the Living Wage Ordinance, which mandates specific wage rates for covered employees, and HIPAA Business Associate Requirements for handling protected health information. The contract includes strict compliance measures such as fingerprinting certification for employees who may have contact with children, intellectual property rights assignments, and adherence to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 for non-discrimination and accessibility. Vendors must also follow the Vendor/Contractor Access Policy, which includes guidelines for data protection and system access. While a specific award value is not explicitly stated, the comprehensive requirements suggest a complex and potentially significant engagement. The County reserves the right to accept proposals based on overall best value and is not obligated to select the lowest-priced offer.