RFR#154

The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange (MHBE) is requesting resumes and proposals for up to two Applications Programmers under an existing IDIQ Master Contract to support the Maryland Health Connection marketplace, with submissions due March 3, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. EST. Only Master Contractors awarded contracts by MHBE in 2023 are eligible to submit technical proposals — a restrictive eligibility filter that eliminates all new entrants.

Each Master Contractor may submit one candidate. The role requires a minimum of three years of professional software development experience, proficiency with Python programming, experience developing or consuming REST APIs, understanding of relational databases, familiarity with version control tools, knowledge of object-oriented programming principles, and ability to work in collaborative Agile environments. Preferred qualifications include two years of Python framework experience, exposure to AI/ML libraries, experience with cloud platforms, containerization tools, and CI/CD pipelines, and interest in AI-enabled application modernization.

The primary work location is 750 East Pratt Street, 6th Floor, Baltimore, Maryland, with remote work flexibility as determined by MHBE. The anticipated start date is March 16, 2026. The initial base period runs through June 30, 2026, with two unilateral one-year renewal options extending through June 30, 2028. Pricing proposals must not exceed Master Contract hourly rates and include fully loaded, all-inclusive rates. Evaluation assumes 500 hours for the base period and 1,900 hours per option period, though these are for evaluation purposes only.

Award will be based on overall best value, with technical factors weighted more heavily than financial factors, considering work experience, training and education, interview presentation, and price. Submissions must include a signed candidate resume with relevant qualifications, three professional references, proof of applicable certifications, and a separately submitted price proposal using the provided Price Proposal Form.