On-call archaeological field, technical writing, and archiving services

The Gila River Indian Community (GRIC) is requesting proposals for on-call archaeological field, technical writing, and archiving services for projects on the reservation conducted on behalf of federal, state, and tribal agencies, with proposals due November 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. via Bonfire. A preference of up to 15 points (out of 100) applies to Community or Indian-owned enterprises, Indian-owned businesses with at least 51 percent ownership, or enrolled Native American tribe members with at least 51 percent ownership.

The scope encompasses field archaeology, technical writing, and archiving support across the GRIC reservation in central Arizona (spanning Maricopa and Pinal Counties, approximately 30 miles southeast of Phoenix). Staffing requirements include at least two personnel trained in CRMP archiving procedures, a minimum of two experienced technical writers proficient in Microsoft Office, qualified field archaeologists with demonstrated experience in southern Arizona, and preferably staff with Microsoft Access database expertise. The awardee must provide transportation for field staff to the duty station in Sacaton, Arizona, maintain a GRIC business license, and carry Commercial General Liability ($1 million per occurrence / $2 million aggregate), Automobile Liability ($1 million combined single limits), Professional Liability ($1 million per claim, deductible not exceeding $100,000), and Workers Compensation insurance as required by Arizona law.

The contract runs October 1, 2026 through September 30, 2027, with options for two additional one-year renewals. Compensation is based on a schedule of hourly rates for various positions; GRIC reserves the right to negotiate fees based on final scope. Evaluation criteria are weighted: Quality of Firm Management and Team (30 points), Firm Experience with Similar Services and Tribal Governance (30 points), Cost Competitiveness (25 points), and Community/Native American Ownership Preference (up to 15 points). Questions are due October 28, 2026. The anticipated selection date is November 30, 2026. All work product becomes GRIC property and may not be used without express written permission.