SOLICITATION NOTICE
R -- Regional Senior Aviation Advisor
- Notice Date
- 5/6/2008
- Notice Type
- Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
- NAICS
- 928120
— International Affairs
- Contracting Office
- Department of State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, INL RM MS, 2430 E Street, N.W., South Building, SA-4 Navy Hill, Washington, District of Columbia, 20520
- ZIP Code
- 20520
- Solicitation Number
- PSC08042
- Response Due
- 5/22/2008
- Point of Contact
- Linda G. Gower,, Phone: 2027768774
- E-Mail Address
-
gowerlg@state.gov
- Small Business Set-Aside
- N/A
- Description
- Regional Senior Aviation Advisor Salary Range: $77,294-$92,293 Open Period: 5/6-22/2008 Grade Range: FS-2 Position Information: One year with four option years to be exercised at the discretion of the employing office. Duty Location: 1 vacancy, Guatemala City, Guatemala SOLICITATION NUMBER: PSC08042 SUBJECT: Solicitation for services under a Personal Services Contract (PSC), Department of State (DOS), Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). The United States Government, represented by the Department of State, is seeking proposals from U.S. citizens interested in providing the PSC services described below. DOS intends to award a contract for the basic term of one year with four one-year options to be exercised at the discretion of the U.S. Government. The contract will be awarded to an individual candidate representing the best overall value to the Government considering the candidate's qualifications and experience against criteria stated herein. This PSC position requires a SECRET level security clearance, which must be maintained throughout the contract period, including option periods. The selected applicant must be eligible to obtain a Secret Level Security Clearance and will be subject to a security clearance investigation. The applicant's spouse or cohabitant may be subject to a background investigation. Denial of a SECRET level security clearance will be grounds for removal from consideration for contract prior to award or termination of contract after award. Contract award will not be made until at a minimum an interim clearance is granted. PURPOSE: The purpose of this personal service contract position is to serve as the Regional Senior Aviation Advisor to provide planning, operational and logistical support and contract oversight for the Narcotics Affairs Section (NAS) counter-narcotics/terrorism aviation support program. Key Requirements: U.S. Citizenship Background and/or Security Investigation required. Major Duties: 1. GENERAL STATEMENT OF THE PURPOSE OF THIS CONTRACT AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CONTRACTOR BACKGROUND:This position is located in the U.S. Embassy, Narcotics Affairs Section – Central America (NAS-CA), Aviation Support Program (ASP) Office, Guatemala City, Guatemala. ASP provides planning, operational and logistical support and contract oversight for the NAS counter-narcotics/terrorism (CNT) aviation support program. The ASP performs this mission using a fleet of four rotary wing aircraft based in Guatemala. The ASP is responsible for assisting the curtailment of the supply of illegal drugs from foreign sources into the United States through support for the eradication of drug crops, interdiction of refining laboratories and trafficking activities, and other enforcement operations as directed by the NAS Director. PURPOSE:The purpose of this professional services contract (PSC) position is to provide a Regional Senior Aviation Advisor for the Aviation Support Program (ASP) based in Guatemala. The incumbent serves as the senior in-region aviation advisor, responsible to the U.S. Ambassador(s), for providing program implementation, direction and execution oversight of INL/A and NAS provided aviation assets in support of host nation CNT efforts. The incumbent also facilitates high-level interagency coordination among the American Embassy, host nation CNT police and military forces, other military services, aviation support services contractors, and other participating agencies as required. In addition, the individual evaluates training and operational effectiveness of in-country Department of State programs (to include interdiction and eradication operations), ensuring that all aviation programs retain requisite operational and logistical fluidity. The incumbent is also expected to continually monitor and evaluate aviation support services contractor's performance in regards to maintenance, operations and logistics. SUPERVISORY CONTROLS:The incumbent works under the direct supervision of the Narcotics Affairs Section (NAS) Director; however, the individual exercises wide latitude for independent action, initiating projects and executing newly approved programs under general supervision. The incumbent may coordinate directly with the Office of Aviation (INL/A) and the U.S. Embassy for the purposes of this program. Completed work is reviewed for timeliness and effectiveness. 2. STATEMENT OF WORK Perform oversight and evaluation of contractor operations. This oversight includes, but is not limited to, reviewing and recommending approval of waivers to published directives, authorizing use of ASP aircraft, reviewing contractor flight training procedures, host nation flight operations procedures, monitoring contractor/host nation pilot proficiency, and monitoring contractor assistance to the host nation unit. Submits weekly written reports of the contractor’s performance and activities to the Office of Aviation (INL/A) and the NAS Director, and provides comprehensive monthly award fee input to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) regarding contractor performance related to performance under the aviation support contract based in Guatemala and their oversight of the Joint Task Force personnel operating INL/A and NAS assets in country. Provide oversight of the direction and coordination of aircraft and personnel deployments within Central America for the purpose of intercepting illegal drug shipments through aerial interdiction, and provide JTF counter-narcotics aviation training and support for the institutionalization of the program. Develop, coordinate, organize, and implement comprehensive operational systems and procedures for the ASP/JTF. These operational systems and procedures include, but are not limited to: the Department of State Aircrew Training Program, Department of State Aviation Operations Directives, Department of State Guide to Aviation Training and Standardization, Department of State Aircrew Training Manuals, ASP Standard Operating Procedures for counter-narcotics/terrorism operations in Central America, and Deployment Operations procedures in support of the JTF operations throughout Central America. Develop operational tactics and new training procedures (through the contractor and the Office of Aviation training/standardization staff) for the purpose of enhancing aerial interdiction operations, and for expanding the capability of the JTF. Tactics and procedures will be based on the JTF mission statement, and include, but are not limited to: Night Vision Goggle (NVG) operations and tactics, internal and external load operations, and if required, helicopter escort tactics/rules of engagement/aerial gunnery in support of CNT missions. Provide operational direction and guidance to the contractor and JTF operations activities and personnel for the purpose of interdicting the flow of the finished narcotic products into the United States. This includes, but is not limited to, planning and coordination with various agencies such as: The U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, Drug Enforcement Agency, Customs, other federal agencies, and host nation law enforcement agencies as dictated. Provide direction and oversight for contractor and JTF aviation training and standardization. Implement INL/A flight regulations, aviation training and standardization, and aircrew training programs. Oversee the JTF Aviation Unit aviation standardization program. Collect, review, and disseminate data on aviation tactics, techniques, and employment in support of the CNT mission of NAS. Maintain constant liaison with INL/A, Department of State, NAS, Department of Defense, the Federal Aviation Administration, and other U.S. Government agencies to keep abreast of current policies, procedures, and rules pertaining to NAS operations. Oversee the activities of assigned Department of State PSCs and approximately 15 contractor personnel in the execution of the aviation CNT missions. Provide both technical and operational/standardization oversight to the JTF unit staff, and technical direction and management to contractor employees as required. Plan work, set or negotiate deadlines and completion dates, and review and accept or reject final work. Delegate assignments based on work priorities, difficulty of the assignments, and capabilities of the employees. Give advice and instruction to employees on both work and administrative matters. Identify developmental and training needs, find ways to improve the quality of work, and develop overall performance standards for both USG and contractor personnel. 3. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS In-depth knowledge of aviation aircrew training and standardization programs, to include operating directives, training and standardization publications, aircrew training manuals, and related documents. Knowledge of U.S. Federal Aviation Administration regulations, including, but not limited to FAR Part 1, 61, 67, 91, 135, 137, 141, 143, and National Transportation Safety Board 830. In-depth knowledge of the tactical employment of fixed and rotary wing aircraft in a CN operation, including capabilities, limitations and techniques of employment of aircraft used by INL/A. Must have extensive experience as an aircraft operations officer/manager in a military or civil organization, involved in the training and standardization of rotary wing pilots, the tactical employment of aircraft in a high threat environment, and the deployment of aircraft in overseas locations. Broad knowledge of and experience in the formulation of plans and policies pertaining to operations and unit-level flight training activities. Should have a basic knowledge of command communications, government intelligence procedures, and flight operations procedures. Highly specialized skill in the operation of aircraft as a pilot. Knowledge of the Spanish language is required. Knowledge of and skill in operation of desktop computer based word processing systems. Knowledge of U.S. Government contract administration procedures is desirable. 4. COMPLEXITY Assignments include analysis of all facets of aviation operations management and involve a fleet of rotary wing aircraft which function within an integrated program of diverse CNT missions. These missions include aerial interdiction, forward area aerial re-supply, replenishment, sustainment, and host nation aviation training. Incumbent must apply specialized and professional knowledge to supervise flight standardization oversight of aviation support contractor and JTF pilots operating in Central America and at multiple forward operating locations. The incumbent oversees multi-national/multi-cultural pilot training programs, plans, policies, and procedures for NAS and INL/A; coordinates recommendations from staff officers; consults with the INL/A Director of Operations regarding ongoing projects; provides guidance to Standardization Pilots, contractor, JTF Aviation Unit and PSC operations personnel; and oversees overall implementation of the program. These plans and procedures include, but are not limited to the development of a NVG training plan for JTF Aviation Unit rotary wing pilots. The incumbent performs continuous analysis of interrelated issues of effectiveness and efficiency affecting NAS’s Aviation Support Program, designed to improve flight safety of aviation operations in support of the CNT mission. 5. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The work is both physical and sedentary in nature and involves activity at both the main and field locations. May require some physical exertion and dexterity Incumbent must be able to independently perform fieldwork in remote areas for extended periods without assistance. 6. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work is primarily conducted in an office or aircraft hangar with some travel to the field for meetings, conferences, activity reviews, and field inspections and or program evaluations. Some field sites have been declared hazardous duty locations by the Department of State due to hostile activities of the narco-traffickers and therefore pose significant risk to the incumbent while at these sites. 7.Evaluation Criteria: Factor 1. (Contract Oversight). Offeror’s ability to: a.Perform oversight and evaluation of contractor operations, to include ensuring compliance with INL/A policies/procedures/directives, reviewing and recommending approval of waivers to published directives, authorizing use of Office of Aviation aircraft, reviewing contractor flight operations procedures, and monitoring contractor pilot proficiency. b.Prepare and coordinate periodic reports, both orally and in writing. Factor 2.(Direct and Coordinate Actions). Offeror’s ability to a.Direct and coordinate aircraft and personnel deployments within Guatemala for the purpose of eradicating illicit crops, aerial interdiction, and JTF aviation training and support for the institutionalization program. b.Develop, coordinate, organize, and implement comprehensive operational systems and procedures for the ASP /JTF; including Department of State Aircrew Training Program, Department of State Aviation Operations Directives, Department of State Guide to Aviation Training and Standardization, Department of State Aircrew Training Manuals, Office of Aviation Standard Operating Procedures for operations in Guatemala, and Deployment Operations procedures in support of JTF operations throughout Guatemala. Factor 3.(Provide Direction and Planning). Offeror’s ability to: a.Provide operational direction and guidance to the contractor and JTF operations activities and personnel for the purpose of interdicting the flow of illegal drugs within or through Guatemala. b.Perform planning and coordination with U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, Drug Enforcement Agency, and Customs, other federal agencies, and host nation military/law enforcement agencies for the purpose of intercepting illegal drug shipments and aerial interdiction operations. Factor 4.(Experience/Past Performance). Offeror’s previous experience and quality of performance. (Evaluator may use all evaluation information available at the time of the evaluation, whether provided by the applicant or obtained from references). 8. COMPENSATION: Compensation for the position will be negotiated as follows: Level of experience will dictate the salary level within the grade range. Entry level salary will normally be at the first step of the grade range for the position. However, consideration will be given to the successful applicant’s experience that is specifically relevant to the position to be filled. Number of years of relevant experience will determine at what step within the grade range the successful applicant will be compensated. 9. HOW TO APPLY: You must submit your application so that it will be received by the closing date of the announcement. The applicant must submit an Optional Form 612, a resume and 3 letters of reference. Proposals must include all of the following: 1) a resume, 2) an Optional Form 612 (OF 612) signed and dated, and 3) three written letters of reference including reference contact information. The OF 612 is available at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/forms.asp. Proposals should include the applicant's full mailing address, fax number, telephone number and e-mail address. The proposal should reference the solicitation number, PSC08042. Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures included in their proposals. Any questions may be directed to Linda Gower, Contracting Officer, INL/RM/MS, DOS, who may be reached at FAX (202) 776-8775 or E-Mail Gowerlg@state.gov. Proposals may be submitted by facsimile or e-mail, but originals must be sent via Federal Express or DHL. Proposals must NOT be sent via the US Postal Service as receipt of US Postal Service mail is delayed. Late submissions will not be considered. Submissions by Federal Express or DHL should be addressed to U.S. Department of State INL/RM/MS SA4 Navy Hill South Rm 120 Attn: Linda Gower (202) 776-8774 2430 E Street NW Washington, D.C. 20520 Proposals are due no later than 4:00 PM on 5/22/08. Persons submitting proposals are responsible for confirming receipt of all required documents by the due date. Interested applicants are responsible for obtaining all posted amendments to this solicitation. All amendments issued will be available on the Federal Business Opportunities website www.fedbizopps.gov under State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, INL/RM/MS Washington DC, Solicitation PSC08042 Contact Information: Linda G. Gower Phone: 202-776-8774 Fax: 202-776-8775 Internet: Gowerlg@state.gov Or write: Department of State, INL/RM/MS, SA-4 Navy Hill South 2430 E. Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20520 What To Expect Next: You will be contacted for an interview if you are selected. However, award may be made without an interview. BENEFITS Applicable benefits, policies, and regulations Employee's FICA Contribution Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance, if applicable Pay Comparability Adjustment Annual Increase, if applicable Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Shipment of household goods within the CONUS to duty location ALLOWANCES (if applicable). * (A) Post Differential (Chapter 500), and (B) Danger Pay (Section 650). CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) PERTAINING TO PSCs 99-09 PSC's Annual Health Insurance Costs 98-16 Annual Salary Increase for USPSCs 98-19 Home Leave under USPSCs 98-24 Use of Compensatory (Comp) Time by PSCs 97-11 1997 FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts 97-03 New USAID Contractor Employee Physical Examination 93-17 Financial Disclosure Requirements Under a Personal Services Contract (PSC)
- Web Link
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FedBizOpps Complete View
(https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=161cf3263d13041445a9c4d3b4158e2a&tab=core&_cview=1)
- Place of Performance
- Address: Guatemala City, Guatemala
- Record
- SN01567303-W 20080508/080506215844-161cf3263d13041445a9c4d3b4158e2a (fbodaily.com)
- Source
-
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