PRESOL | R | Senior Laboratory Scientist - 2009-Q-11048

FBO DAILY ISSUE OF DECEMBER 05, 2008 FBO #2566
SOLICITATION NOTICE

R -- Senior Laboratory Scientist - 2009-Q-11048

Notice Date: 12/3/2008
Notice Type: Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
NAICS: 923120 — Administration of Public Health Programs
Contracting Office: Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Procurement and Grants Office (Atlanta), 2920 Brandywine Road, Room 3000, Atlanta, Georgia, 30341-4146
ZIP Code: 30341-4146
Solicitation Number: 2009-Q-11048
Archive Date: 1/3/2009
Point of Contact: Terren J. Grimble,, Phone: 770-488-2487, Rafael A. Aviles,, Phone: 770-488-2805
E-Mail Address: TGrimble@cdc.gov, raviles@cdc.gov
Small Business Set-Aside: N/A
Description: Description The Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is seeking applications from qualified applicants for a Senior Laboratory Scientist position located in Nairobi, Kenya. The resultant contract shall be a Personal Services Contract (PSC). See PL 109-149, Section 215(1), Reference 22U.S.C.2669(c). SOLICITATION NUMBER: 2009-Q-11048 POSITION NUMBER: KE-PSC-03 ISSUANCE DATE: 12/03/2008 CLOSING DATE/TIME: 12/19/2008 at 3:00PM Eastern Standard Time POSITION TITLE: Senior Laboratory Scientist BASIC SALARY: $ 67,260 to $ 107,180 per year -- Final compensation will be based on individual salary history, work experience, and educational background. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One Base Year and Four Option Years PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Nairobi, Kenya SECURITY CLEARANCE: NACI (Non-sensitive) AREA OF CONSIDERATION: United States Citizens and residents and third country nationals. Citizens and permanent residents of the host country are not eligible for this position. Duties and Responsibilities: This position is located in NCHHSTP/GAP with a duty station in Nairobi, Kenya. Incumbent serves as Senior Laboratory Scientist providing expert scientific and technical laboratory support to the mission of the PEPFAR and CDC GAP Country Offices and to PEPFAR collaborating partners. This position functions as a focal point for clinical and public health laboratory science, coordinating the development of policy and programs affecting public health and provision of clinical laboratory services in support of PEPFAR in HIV/AIDS prevention, surveillance, treatment, and care programs. Incumbent assists and advises the Country Director on matters relating to laboratory systems analysis and developmental planning, operational research, and all aspects of laboratory quality assurance in support of USG priorities and objectives in Kenya. Incumbent works with CDC-Kenya and CDC-Atlanta and with the Kenya Ministry of Health (MOH) and Laboratory Interagency Coordinating Committee, to develop and implement a national laboratory program designed to build capacity in Kenyan public health labs, and to move selected laboratories up to accreditation standards, and to provide laboratory technical assistance and support for all PEPFAR program activities involving laboratory sciences. These program activities provide assistance in the situational and needs assessments of central and provincial laboratories; formulation and implementation of sound policies for laboratory quality assurance and control; development and implementation of training activities to strengthen knowledge and skills of laboratory personnel in the operations and management of laboratories; identification of appropriate resources to support ongoing laboratory needs; and, coordination with international partners in the provision of laboratory technical assistance. These efforts seek to enhance the working relationships between the central laboratories and the provincial and local laboratories. Incumbent's activities will include a primary focus on developing and strengthening national laboratory capacity. Major Duties of this position include: Serves as the lead technical advisor on laboratory issues for the PEPFAR Kenya team to provide guidance and technical assistance for creation of an integrated PEPFAR laboratory portfolio and provide programmatic support for PEPFAR programs. Provides professional services aimed at developing the capabilities of governments, public health authorities, non-governmental organizations and others to establish and conduct public health and clinical laboratory services. Incumbent serves as the CDC expert on matters relating to laboratory systems analysis and developmental planning, operational research, and all aspects of laboratory quality assurance. This position serves as the critical interface for CDC GAP and PEPFAR partner laboratory collaboration and support (USAID, DOD, and DOS). Coordinates, collaborates and consults on scientific and technical issues with high-ranking officials within the Kenya Ministry of Health, local and international public health agencies and non-governmental organizations on the development, implementation and coordination of scientific and technical laboratory systems and services. Provides technical assistance to the Kenyan National Public Health Laboratory Services (NPHLS) managers to develop and implement an effective national administrative and organizational structure for laboratory operations, and to the Medical Laboratory QA Advisory Committee on the provision of quality lab services, including at provincial and district laboratories. Develops and maintains professional relationships with international, national, and local laboratory policy makers, universities and schools of public health and key personnel in appropriate clinical and laboratory organizations. As a recognized expert in laboratory science and technology, provides scientific advice and consultation in devising solutions to critical problems by developing approaches consistent with current best practices. Coordinates and collaborates with government and public health officials to identify and develop the infrastructure and other resources necessary to support local laboratory systems. Serves as a key member of the PEPFAR Kenya team to plan, develop, implement, and evaluate project goals and objectives related to laboratory technical assistance. Provides guidance and direction to all staff and outside program collaborators on the implementation and management of laboratory projects, consistent with CDC and international policies and guidelines. Provides expert scientific advice on matters relating to organizational structure, including physical laboratory structure and space issues and public health laboratory testing procedures and systems such as the evaluation of new diagnostic technologies, quality assurance procedures and guidelines, laboratory management and staffing issues, and the provision of training in all areas of laboratory activity. Serves as the lead in identifying and strategically developing pathways to meet short- and long-term laboratory staffing needs. Conceives, develops, coordinates, implements and evaluates programs and services and directs local laboratory program activities and provides leadership in developing scientific policy related to laboratory practices, services, and systems for HIV prevention, surveillance, treatment, and care. These include, but are not limited to, TB, HIV, STI, ARV resistance testing, international standards, training and quality assurance. Participates in all decisions related to the commitment of resources, including the allocation of personnel and funds, for projects related to laboratory technical assistance, as well as procurement, logistics and personnel management for laboratory services. Assists central and provincial laboratories in establishing and maintaining controls, management information systems, policies and guidelines concerning laboratory equipment and services. Supports the development and strengthening of national laboratory capacity. Consults on scientific training and education programs, and coordinates the development and delivery of public health-related training programs. In collaboration with peers, including PEPFAR and its collaborating partners, the Kenya MOH, other donors and non-governmental organizations, provides ongoing technical assistance in the creation of training materials and guidelines, and offers support for training implementation, protocol development and quality assurance for laboratory testing. Evaluates training programs for appropriate content and recommends changes to assure accurate and current scientific information. Coordinates the development and distribution of scientific and technical laboratory-related educational materials and promotes the sharing of scientific information and assistance in the region. Writes reports, abstracts, articles, opinions, and makes oral presentations to disseminate operational research findings and to advocate for laboratory programs and services in the region. Provides consultation to public, private, professional, and academic partners (which may include public and private foundations, international health leaders, ministries of health in other countries, local and international organizations, and universities) in substantive matters related to public health and clinical laboratory services, practice and training. This includes scientific and technical assistance in methodology as well as project and data management. As a member of a management team responsible for laboratory operations, incumbent shares responsibility with the CDC Director for all major decisions regarding long-term strategic planning related to laboratory and technical issues, including administrative infrastructure and staffing, for CDC GAP and PEPFAR Kenya. Assists high ranking MOH officials in developing laboratory strategic planning approaches, human resource needs and documentation. This position will not have duties that involve direct line management of staff, but will work in an advisory capacity providing information that will allow CDC and its partners to better determine overall staff needs. Has substantial project management responsibility, overseeing 10 cooperative agreements between CDC, Ministry of Health, and other partners, e.g., AMREF participation in QA activities. In this capacity, works with 10 teams of 6-8 each as the principal advisor for the direction and implementation of the PEPFAR laboratory program in Kenya. Provides oversight and organizational expertise to guide partners' project activities. Works with partners to develop effective organizational structures. These projects provide services to 50 prime partners and more than 200 staff throughout the country. Incumbent provides technical oversight and guidance to contractors involved in PEPFAR laboratory activities to ensure that contract provisions are being followed. CDC has cooperative agreements with Association for Public Health Laboratories, the American Society for Microbiology, and the American Society for Clinical Pathology, as well as the Kenya Medical Research Institute and the National AIDS/STI Control Program (MOH). Incumbent is the focal point and in-country manager for this relationship for CDC. Incumbent also directs the work of short-term laboratory contractors (2-3 per year) and manages all requests (including projecting needs far in advance for contract assistance) and contracts supporting the delivery of laboratory services. Additionally, incumbent provides oversight and coordination of USG-funded laboratory renovation projects on behalf of the PEPFAR team. Incumbent collaborates with laboratory directors to assess need for and to develop, provide and evaluate both formal classroom and informal (workshop, seminar) training for PEPFAR, national, and local agency staff in serologic, microbiologic and molecular laboratory activities, laboratory data management and quality assurance techniques. Provides expert assistance in the creation of training materials and guidelines, and offers support for training implementation, protocol development and quality assurance for laboratory testing. Mentors key leaders (e.g., top managers in MoH, U.S. Government, GoK and partners) on an ongoing basis with regard to building lab capacity and infrastructure. Personally provides capacity-building training for persons in high-level positions at Ministry of Health, e.g., how to build the most effective administrative and support structures for laboratory operations. Incumbent provides daily work allocation for staff conducting laboratory assessments and QA visits. As part of the GAP Management Team, incumbent routinely allocates work across the various sections of GAP-Kenya related to developing and improving the laboratory environment at CDC-Kenya. As a member of a management team responsible for laboratory operations, incumbent serves as the technical advisor and de facto leader. In this setting, incumbent provides guidance and supervision to assure that team objectives are accomplished. Although the decisions are made by the team, incumbent strongly influences the direction of the work. Incumbent also makes recommendations for the long-range planning, administrative infrastructure and staffing for Ministry of Health laboratory operations and partners' laboratory operations. Office computer, monitor and printer - user (value approx. $5,000 USD) Office furniture, including adequate shelving and secure file storage - user (value approx. $2,000 USD) Incumbent also has responsibility for assuring that laboratory equipment is kept in proper working condition, that maintenance contracts are in place to assure routine maintenance and repairs, and that staff operate this equipment safely and within operational guidelines. Value of equipment is estimated at $1 million. Incumbent monitors and projects laboratory and technical services supplies, including reagents for PEPFAR and assists MOH and SCMS to develop consolidated supply inventory and requests for all PEPFAR supported partners. Makes recommendations and participates in decisions regarding procurements for laboratory operations, and participates in the managerial oversight of a supply budget. This value is estimated at $500,000. Incumbent does not handle cash. As a member of the management team, responsible for preparation of annual PEPFAR laboratory budget and shares responsibility for financial decisions (funding levels, budgets). Duties require management, tracking, and financial analysis of 10 USG implementing partner budgets for these activities. Total value of these cooperative agreements is estimated at $29 million. Assists with budget approval and activity implementation. Ensures delivery of results, monitors expenditures by MOH and cooperative agreement partners. Collects data from various collaborating agencies to support monitoring and evaluation of the progress and impact of laboratory activities funded by CDC/ GAP cooperative agreements. Much of this information contains sensitive or confidential information, e.g., surveys, budget documents, evaluations, and must follow appropriate CDC protocols. Incumbent maintains records and reports related to country laboratory operations. Incumbent provides assistance in developing contracts with national and international consultants for laboratory services, including the defining of requirements, development of deliverables, project monitoring, and evaluation. Incumbent frequently is part of the selection committees for the open and competitive procurement of technical assistance. Value of contracts is estimated to be $20 million. The assignment of tasks, direction, and review of activities and progress will be provided by the CDC GAP Country Director. Incumbent also will interface on a regular basis with the Laboratory Director to support CDC laboratory operations. However, as an internationally recognized laboratory expert, incumbent works independently to develop and maintain an ongoing mentoring relationship with key managers and administrators to build country infrastructure, to strengthen laboratory systems, to build capacity and to provide technical consultation on laboratory program activities of ongoing or proposed public health programs funded by PEPFAR. Incumbent has the discretion to plan and adjust not only own work, but also the work of others related to the delivery of quality laboratory services in Kenya. Incumbent discusses the development of laboratory and other technical services activites, including designing technical indicators and collection instruments, interpreting results, and making recommendations for program improvement, with senior staff at MOH and other laboratory partners throughout the country. Incumbent in this position has freedom to independently take action and make decisions on work area and to work with implementing partners from national and local public health agencies, including HIV/AIDS,TB, STI, provincial and district hospital laboratories, etc. Incumbent's expertise and experience in technical laboratory and program management, as well as knowledge to Kenya, demand that he/she be able to resolve even the most difficult laboratory related problems independently. As a recognized expert in laboratory science and technology, provides scientific advice and consultation in devising solutions to critical problems by developing approaches consistent with current best practices. Incumbent has the discretion, authority and ability to manage these projects, to make day-to-day decisions on direction and approach, and to adjust plans to meet emerging issues. Examples of problems routinely encountered and solved by incumbent include:  For systematic problems with the transmission of information or data, incumbent makes recommendations to improve data flow between sites;  For functions that have insufficient staffing, incumbent makes recommendations as to where additional human capital can be located to perform these functions (either by restructuring within the organization, or through provision of additional staffing);  Laboratory samples not being delivered correctly;  Laboratory supplies not available to conduct quality testing; and,  Laboratory results not appearing to be accurate. A major portion of incumbent's responsibilities include influencing the overall strategic direction of the MOH laboratory system in Kenya. Incumbent is responsible for providing overall direction and technical assistance to the GOK in the development of a new, long-term national laboratory strategy. This includes building capacity to develop budgets and work plans, determine and adjust work priorities, and resolution of routine and complex problems for the project as they arise. Incumbent has the authority to develop and adjust long-range strategic plans with senior level MOH officials, to counsel and guide them in the setting the priorities necessary to make substantive changes in thinking related to the delivery of laboratory services in Kenya, particularly as it relates to developing quality assurance systems and consistently using them. This is a long-term project that requires the formulation of detailed proposals for the development of a national laboratory network covering both clinical and diagnostic laboratories, and the development of technical and administrative guidance documents for a system that allows for more rapid adjustment of policy as laboratory methods and systems change. The technical advice and consultation of incumbent is central to this project. Incumbent is required to monitor and evaluate progress, and to make adjustments to project impact and outcome, and to carefully document results. Provides highly technical and strategic advice to MOH and PEPFAR implementing partners related to development and monitoring of laboratory systems for management tracking, supervision and evaluation of PEPFAR Vietnam programs. Assists in formulation of annual and strategic plans for overall program direction. Develops and provides guidance for technical documents related to program evaluation and monitoring, such as policies, protocols, manuals, etc. For PEPFAR Management Team and CDC GAP Country Director: Provides advice on strategic information and monitoring and laboratory systems training and other requirements; improvement of program quality through development of laboratory protocols, procedure manuals and quality assurance instruments; and, identification of consultants for laboratory program activities. For other CDC, GAP senior staff and interagency PEPFAR partners: Reports to technical working groups on the progress and outcomes of laboratory infrastructure systems assessments and shares laboratory program data and information and makes suggestions to ensure a highly effective integrated approach. Inasmuch as laboratory is a cross-cutting area for all prevention, care and treatment programs, these reports show the effectiveness of referral systems to non-laboratory services offered by other programs. Advice and recommendations are made in order to improve overall program quality as well as effective supervision and quality assurance. For subordinates and colleagues: Provides advice and recommendations on improving program quality, including training, implementing and monitoring field activities. As an example, provides advice and suggestions, when finding out from monitoring and quality assurance (Q/A) visits that provincial staff do not understand the importance of analyzing and presenting laboratory program data in a way that can assist them to identify problems, and from there negotiates and suggests solutions to ensure a high quality program. For national and international organizations: As the nationally recognized expert on laboratory systems, provides recommendations on the development of state-of-the-art methods and practices, such as how to structure and operate an efficient laboratory management system. Major decisions related to laboratory program changes by the MOH will be made on the basis of advice, counsel and guidance provided by incumbent. Incumbent provides technical support on laboratory aspects of prevention, care and treatment projects, as well as provides valuable information needed for improvement of program implementation. This support has a high level of impact on PEPFAR and CDC activities. For example, incumbent works with the Prevention, Care and Treatment, and Strategic Information technical working groups to assure that effective program indicators for laboratory testing and training requirements are incorporated into their programs. Incumbent's efforts will improve the performance of other individuals within the CDC country program office, improve the quantity and quality of outputs of the program, and will build local capacity for future performance. Incumbent has a significant impact on the formulation and delivery of laboratory services within Kenya. The need for directional change in the delivery of services requires an individual with strong persuasive skills who is recognized and respected for their professional skills in laboratory science. Incumbent's work impacts the highest levels of the Ministry of Health (e.g., Director of Laboratories), as reflected in the design and implementation of effective administrative structures to support laboratory operations, the creation and operation of new laboratories, and the development of a comprehensive national QA system. This, in turn, strengthens the ability of programs that depend on laboratory results to improve their delivery of services. Knowledge: Essential: Scientific and organizational knowledge of laboratory science and operations, public health, epidemiology and infectious diseases relevant to the international and African setting. Experience working effectively with the highest levels of USG and African governments (e.g., Government of Kenya, Ministry of Health) and other governmental and non-governmental partners. Experience providing laboratory related training. Master's in Laboratory Science, Microbiology or Virology or related laboratory field is required. Incumbent is expected to possess the necessary technical training and skills required to perform the duties and responsibilities required of the position. Post-entry training will be focused primarily on keeping incumbent current on latest scientific and technical developments and on PEPFAR and USG agency policies, procedures and regulations that govern specific activity management, including monitoring and program assessment/evaluation and procurement systems. Necessary post-entry training will be provided on-site or at Regional or Atlanta-based facilities. Minimum of seven years progressively responsible work as a subject matter expert in a public health laboratory related field (microbiology, virology, serology, molecular diagnostics), including at least 5 years of public health laboratory experience in the following: overseeing lab activities; setting up governmental laboratories and organizational structures; strengthening country lab capacity; and developing national QA systems. English, Level 4 is required (reading/speaking/writing). Proficiency in relevant software including Word Processing, Database management, Spreadsheets Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines. Ability to establish effective diplomatic working relationships with individuals and official representatives of public health organizations, particularly those representing host nation Ministries and other international organizations. Strong interpersonal communication and negotiation skills in achieving results with a wide range of program partners. Skills necessary to write clear and concise documents, reports, program and policy guidelines, directives, articles for peer review; skill and ability to clearly deliver oral presentations on programmatic matters. Time required for a qualified outside job holder to perform the full range of duties and responsibilities of the job after first entry into the position 3 months. Desired: Experience with governmental operations, budgets, and procurement mechanisms A thorough technical familiarity with the public health laboratory system in Kenya. An understanding of PEPFAR and how different U.S. Government agencies and CDC GAP work together to meet the President's goals and objectives. Orientation in CDC and host country laboratory activities will be provided, if needed. Master's Degree (or equivalent) in public health, public administration, or business administration, or a relevant field. Experience overseeing or assisting with implementation of large surveys and surveillance systems Broad perspective and thorough knowledge of the principles of public health programs and practice A good working knowledge of Kiswahili Demonstrable expertise in the proper operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment is desirable. Intellectual Skills: As the senior laboratory expert for the PEPFAR team in Kenya, incumbent is responsible for developing, disseminating, and evaluating the impact of highly complex laboratory technical policies, procedures, regulations and guidance that will assure a high quality of laboratory service delivery. Incumbent is required to absorb and understand the most technical aspects of laboratory systems, especially technical aspects of laboratory testing, equipment maintenance, and to acquire knowledge of the relevant governmental organizations, to most effectively design and operate a national laboratory system in the African setting. This requires incumbent to be able to understand and empathize with the interests and priorities of individuals working at the highest levels of government, with whom incumbent must build and maintain effective working relationships, and to creatively overcome barriers to building an effective organizational structure. The work is highly complex, covering a multitude of projects undertaken by different implenting partners. For example, incumbent must be able to successfully balance differing perspectives while influencing the development of a comprehensive national public health and clinical laboratory system. Strong analytical skills, excellent judgment and highly developed negotiating skills are frequently required to arrive at a determination of best options. The work involves the ongoing analysis of many different and unrelated processes and methods, often requiring the consideration of specific complications, physical settings and other limitations particular to the country, agency or program, to achieve the desired result. The work involves analysis of highly complex issues; negotiation between CDC-Kenya, other USG agencies, and the highest levels of the Kenyan government regarding organizational needs and the best use of available resources; and requiring the highest level of interpersonal skills such as tact and diplomacy. Incumbent's recommendations often result in official positions being taken and/or the obligation of substantial program resources, and may be scrutinized by various governmental agencies, partners, stakeholders and the general public. Problems encountered are complex and vary considerably. Incumbent frequently must exercise exceptional judgment when dealing with PEPFAR, CDC GAP and GOK officials, other international organizations, and donors, in order to project a professional and collaborative atmosphere. S/he must be a flexible, pro-active, well-organized and task-oriented manager, capable of exercising independent judgment. Most common problems: Typical problems to be resolved independently include: the most efficient methods for providing appropriate laboratory services in target provinces; scheduling conflicts between the need to participate at meetings to address activity implementation issues and agree on an action plan; responding to urgent requests from PEPFAR management for critical program-related information; and, requests for ad hoc assessments/evaluation, frequently with very limited time deadlines. Most difficult problems solved: Developing long-term, sustainable capacity within partners to manage their laboratory systems; developing a national laboratory quality assurance network. Strategic planning for setting overall direction of the national laboratory network with the MOH is conducted annually with a vision for 3-5 years in the future. PEPFAR strategic planning is five years ahead. Overall work in terms of major objectives to be accomplished is planned one year in advance. Day-to-day work is planned one week in advance, but the professional and technical nature of this management position require the ability to adjust priorities frequently to enable appropriate response to unanticipated requests requiring quick turnaround. Incumbent must identify country needs then assist the Ministry of Health and partners to design and implement relevant functional systems. For example, incumbent assists in coordinating the development of a system to ensure quality for anticipated 5,000,000 (estimate for programs implemented with FY 2008 funds) rapid tests for HIV at more than 1,500 sites. Incumbent also must examine and integrate various existing GOK and MOH systems, which require applying incumbent's expertise and interpersonal skills. Communications: Incumbent communicates with a wide variety of people at many different levels (professional and political), both inside and outside of PEPFAR and CDC (e.g., national, provincial, district and clinical health agencies, international organizations, universities). Incumbent must provide consistent and credible representation of PEPFAR and CDC GAP to GOK, donors, and other partners and coordination bodies for technical, policy, and program management issues related to laboratory evaluation. Incumbent has frequent contacts with both mid-level and high-ranking officials of MOH and other partners to define and/or reorient strategies, to discuss changing laboratory system needs, and to translate policy into program action. Incumbent represents PEPFAR to multi-lateral donor coordination bodies in discussion of laboratory management theory and techniques. Contacts outside of the organization typically are with Ministry of Health and Government of Kenya officials at the highest levels, UN personnel, managers of HIV-related programs, scientists, researchers, strategic information managers of other agencies, deliverers of HIV-related services, and conference attendees. There are occasional contacts with non-scientists and non-stakeholders, such as media or community-based groups. Incumbent must interface diplomatically and effectively with all of these internal and external contacts, and counterparts, officers and employees of collaborating institutions. Contacts are made to provide expert scientific and technical guidance and assistance, to communicate the policies and procedures of GAP-Kenya, and to further the PEPFAR operational agenda. Incumbent must have an expert level of verbal communication in English, utilizing incumbent's laboratory science and management knowledge and skills, and displaying a positive attitude and approach, is required. Oral communication may be provided one-on-one, in groups, or by telephone with different levels of personnel and groups. Incumbent must have advanced presentation skills for local, national and international meetings, to deliver results of laboratory evaluations to policy makers and service delivery professionals. This requires tact and diplomacy and persuasive skills to convince key decision makers to strengthen peer evaluation activities. The work also involves effective communication and negotiation between CDC-Kenya and the various national and international agencies, programs and/or partners, as well as the highest levels of the Kenyan government, to achieve the best results. Negotiation involves recognition of the competing needs vis-à-vis available resources, as well as underlying interpersonal, cultural and/or political issues, and requires the cultivation and maintenance of professional relationships based on trust and respect. Incumbent must use his/her most refined interpersonal skills to influence and persuade government officials to make needed changes in government administrative structures. Routine transmission of information: with colleagues, partners, and contract staff to collect and verify information pertaining to laboratory program planning, implementation or evaluation. Tact and diplomacy: in frequent contact with senior and mid-level officials of MOH and collaborating institutions, such as national insitutes, laboratory directors and physicians, staff of local, central and international agencies, and NGOs; with counterparts at national level, to ensure good collaboration and understanding between PEPFAR and Kenya MOH agencies to implement supported activities smoothly in an efficient and constructive manner. Complex explanations: to communicate highly complex procedures in the collection and processing of HIV/AIDS laboratory specimens to assure accurate results and diagnoses. Formal training/teaching: acts as a trainer and/or faciliator in training courses on the use of new laboratory techniques. Influencing/persuading: when working with MOH senior-level decision makers, to develop a laboratory quality assurance system, to standardize laboratory techniques and processes nationwide. Must be able to clearly present technical procedure manuals and supporting documentation to support staff implementing maintaining or evaluating laboratory systems. Incumbent develops written plans, policy documents, and various protocols and procedures, often in concert with high-level GOK and MOH officials, related to administrative structures and the management of laboratory operations. Incumbent also writes reports, papers, and publications for peer journals and reviews, and presentations for professional conferences. Accordingly, incumbent must be able to communicate clearly in writing, as documents produced, e.g., individual activity narratives within the annual COP, will define the issues, provide a clear background statement and discuss the rationale for the activity in a way that can be easily understood. Working Environment: Basic office environment (75% of time), infectious disease laboratories (10% of time), and field clinical settings (15% of time), inasmuch as incumbent oversees the work of others. When travelling to and visiting the various service sites, incumbent may encounter hazards typical of the area or setting, e.g., road travel to remote parts of Kenya along rough or uneven terrain with risk of bandit attack, exposure to weather, lack of water or flooding, dust, allergens, insects, insecurity. Additionally, because incumbent is working in infectious disease laboratories and frequently visiting laboratory sites, there are risks related to exposure to infectious blood and air borne pathogens (for example, tuberculosis). The job is largely sedentary, with physical demands typical of office settings and conference rooms. Sitting, standing, walking and some carrying of small and/or light objects are commonly required. Incumbent routinely has multiple projects underway simultaneously with competing project deadlines; this situation may lead to stress. Incumbent must balance multiple priorities, time pressures and deadlines. Periodic long and/or irregular hours, including night and/or weekend work, may be required. Incumbent is required to travel to various service and delivery sites on an as-needed basis. Incumbent will have a demanding meeting schedule. Other: Incumbent is a high-level public health professional who routinely conducts highly complex laboratory tasks or related activities with PEPFAR funded projects, and who provides expert-level laboratory technical management assistance to other external implementing partners. Successful performance of this work demands long experience in public health laboratory management. Benefits/Allowances: Overseas allowances and differentials similar to those available to U.S. Government employees assigned abroad may be payable under this PSC, subject to eligibility. Actual benefits may vary from one candidate to the next and/or from one country of assignment to the next. A summary of the overseas allowances and differentials available to U.S. Government employees assigned abroad may be found at the following Internet URL: http://aoprals.state.gov/ Specific benefit, allowance, and differential information will be provided in the "Offer of PSC Employment" letter sent to the successful applicant. Additionally, country specific information useful for U.S. Government employees assigned abroad may be obtained from Department of State available at the following Internet URL: http://www.state.gov/m/fsi/tc/c10391.htm and Travel Warnings concerning certain countries, in many of which CDC conducts its international program activities, may be obtained at the following Internet URL: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html. Federal Taxes: Personal Service Contractors who are either United States citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens (i.e., "green card" holders) of the United States are not exempt from payment of Federal Income and, in some cases State, income taxes on salaries earned abroad while working for the U.S. Government. CONTRACTOR-MISSION RELATIONSHIPS (a) The contractor acknowledges that this contract is an important part of the U.S. Foreign Assistance Program and agrees that his/her duties will be carried out in such a manner as to be fully commensurate with the responsibilities that this entails. (b) While in the Cooperating Country, the contractor is expected to show respect for the conventions, customs, and institutions of the Cooperating Country and not interfere in its political affairs. (c) If the contractor's conduct is not in accordance with paragraph (b) of this provision, the contract may be unilaterally terminated by the Contracting Officer. The Contractor recognizes the right of the U.S. Ambassador to direct his/her immediate removal from any country when, in the discretion of the Ambassador, the interests of the United States so require. (d) The Country Director is the chief representative of CDC in the Cooperating Country. In this capacity, he/she is responsible for the total CDC Program in the Cooperating Country including certain administrative responsibilities set forth in this contract and for advising CDC regarding the performance of the work under the contract and its effect on the U.S. Foreign Assistance Program. The contractor will be responsible for performing his/her duties in accordance with the statement of duties called for by the contract. However, he/she shall be under the general policy guidance of the Country Director, and shall keep the Country Director or his/her designated representative currently informed of the progress of the work under this contract. SOCIAL SECURITY, FEDERAL INCOME TAX AND FOREIGN EARNED INCOME (a) Since the contractor is an employee, F.I.C.A. contributions and U.S. Federal Income Tax withholding shall be deducted in accordance with regulations and rulings of the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, respectively. (b) As an employee, the contractor is not eligible for the 'foreign earned income' exclusion under the IRS Regulations (see 26 CFR 1.911- 3(c)(3)). INSURANCE (a) Worker's Compensation Benefits. The contractor shall be provided worker's compensation benefits in accordance with the Federal Employees' Compensation Act. (b) Health and Life Insurance. (1) The contractor shall be provided a maximum contribution of up to 50% against the actual costs of the contractor's annual health insurance costs, provided that such costs may not exceed the maximum U.S. Government contribution for direct-hire personnel as announced annually by the Office of Personnel Management. (2) The contractor shall be provided a contribution of up to 50% against the actual costs of annual life insurance not to exceed $500.00 per year. (3) Retired U.S. Government employees shall not be paid additional contributions for health or life insurance under their contracts. The Government will normally have already paid its contribution for the retiree unless the employee can prove to the satisfaction of the Contracting Officer that his/her health and life insurance does not provide or specifically excludes coverage overseas. In such case, the contractor would be eligible for contributions under paragraphs (b)(1) or (2) as appropriate. (4) Proof of health and life insurance coverage shall be submitted to the Contracting Officer before any contribution is paid. On assignments of less than one year, costs for health and life insurance shall be prorated and paid accordingly. (5) A contractor who is a spouse of a current or retired Civil Service, Foreign Service, or Military Service member and who is covered by their spouse's Government health or life insurance policy is ineligible for the contribution under paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this provision. MEDEVAC INSURANCE (NON U.S. CITIZENS ONLY) Non U.S. citizens will not qualify for health unit access during the period of performance of the resultant contract and, if a contract is offered, will be responsible for obtaining required medical evacuation (medevac) insurance. CDC shall reimburse 100% of the cost of medevac insurance maintained by the contractor. CDC does not require that contractor obtains coverage from any one specific company. The contractor is responsible for and has the discretion to choose a provider. For information purposes only: The Department of State maintains a list of U.S. based providers on the following website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1185.html. CDC provides no endorsement, expressly or implied, of any emergency medical service provider. Contractors have full discretion to consider providers not provided in this list, but are expected to verify that the coverage they do obtain will adequately cover an evacuation due to a medical situation that arises in the location of contract performance. CDC shall approve a fair and reasonable amount for obtaining the required coverage as a direct cost to the contract. In order for CDC to reimburse the cost of medevac insurance, CDC shall require the contractor to furnish evidence of obtaining medevac insurance for the employee and all accompanying family members on U.S. Government travel orders and its cost, after issuance of an offer letter. INHERENTLY GOVERNMENTAL FUNCTIONS An individual serving under a CDC PSC may not perform "inherently governmental functions," which include: • Committing the U.S. Government (USG) to a specific course of action or performing Services, which involve discretionary exercise of Government authority; • Exercising signatory authority on behalf of the USG; • Directing policy formulation or making policy decisions; • Approving program plans; • Officially representing the CDC (representation); • Controlling USG-owned property; • Acting as a cashier or sub-cashier; or, • Supervising Government FTE staff. An individual serving under a PSC may: • Provide advice or make recommendations to Government FTE staff; • Perform services (other then the prohibited services listed above) in support of program activities; • Direct projects or teams (as long as supervision of Government FTE staff is not involved); and, • Supervise other PSCs, Personal Services Agreement Employees (PSA), grantees or fellows. See FAR 7.5 for additional information regarding inherently Governmental Functions. How to Apply: A complete application shall consist of a completed Optional Form 612 (Optional Application for Federal Employment) or resume or curriculum vitae that provides the same information required in a OF 612, as well as references, current (or highest recent) salary documentation, and Benefit Eligibility Form. FAILURE TO SUBMIT ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION LISTED ABOVE WILL RESULT IN YOUR APPLICATION NOT RECEIVING CONSIDERATION FOR SELECTION. Optional Form 612, Optional Application for Federal Employment: The Optional Form (OF) 612, Optional Application for Federal Employment, can be located at: http://www.opm.gov/Forms/html/of.asp. References: Each applicant shall submit three Professional references other than family members. Two references shall be from a current and previous supervisor. The following information is required: Name, Address, telephone Number, Title, and Email Address. Current (or Highest Recent) Salary Documentation: Each applicant shall submit supporting documentation that reflects their current or highest recent salary. Examples of such supporting documentation are the most recent earning statement, an official letter from current employer signed by the applicant's current supervisor or Human Resources Representative, or the applicant's most recent U.S. Federal tax return. Each applicant shall also include a letter indicating the minimum salary in U.S. dollars the applicant would accept for the position. Benefit Eligibility Form: Each applicant shall complete and submit with the application, the Benefit Eligibility Form located at the end of this solicitation. Submission of Application: A complete application package (OF 612 or equivalent, references, salary documentation, and Benefits Eligibility Form) must be received at the following location no later than the closing date and time identified above: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Procurement and Grants Office Mailstop K75, Branch VII Attn: Terren J. Grimble, Contract Specialist Solicitation Number: 2009-Q-11048 2920 Brandywine Road Atlanta, GA 30341-5539 Complete application packages may be emailed to the attention of Terren Grimble at ibi9@cdc.gov. Facsimile copies will not be accepted. Applications received after the closing date and time will not be accepted. Refer to Federal Acquisition Regulation 15.208 regarding submission of late proposals: (http://www.acqnet.gov/far/current/html/Subpart%2015_2.html#wp1125227). All applications must be legible and submitted in the English language. The solicitation number identified above must be included on all documents submitted with the application package, as well as any other correspondence regarding this solicitation. Selection Factors: The applicant that represents the best value to the Government will be considered for award of FETP Resident Advisor PSC. To determine best value, the following factors will be considered: 1. The extent an applicant meets the minimum and desired qualifications based on information obtained through the application package and interviews. Note that interviews may or may not be conducted; therefore, the application package should clearly identify how well the applicant meets the minimum and desired qualifications of this position. Interviews, if conducted, may be either in-person or via telephone. 2. Information collected from reference checks. References will only be verified for those applicants determined to have a reasonable chance of being selected for award. 3. Results of a cost assessment. The cost assessment will determine the total cost (salary plus benefits and allowances) of the applicant for the complete term of the contract (base period plus any option years). Basis for Award In determining best value, paramount consideration shall be given to technical merit (applicant qualifications and reference checks) rather than to cost. In cases where applicants are determined to be essentially equal, then cost may become the determining factor. BENEFIT ELIGIBILITY FOR PSC CANDIDATE REQUIREMENT PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION OR DOCUMENTATION: A. City and State (or Country, if not in U.S.), of Current Residence B. If Already Present in Country of Service, Reason for Current Presence There. N/A/ or reason for current presence in country, e.g., brought there by previous employer [provide name of employer, your status and job title, and whether housing and repatriation was included in employment package]; dependent of someone brought there by employer [provide name of employer and whether housing and repatriation is included in employment package], etc. C. Attach Copy of Front Page of Most Recent Passport, Showing Citizenship, Name, and Date and Place of Birth. See attached. D. Family Members Accompanying You to Location of Contract Performance: Spouse: Children Under Age 18 at Time of Arrival - How Many?: Please list name and date of birth of each E. Annual Education Travel for Children Up to Age 23 at Time of Your Arrival at Location of Contract Performance Who Are Attending a Recognized Post-Secondary Educational Institution on a Full-Time Basis Children Before 23rd Birthday at Time of Arrival Attending a Recognized Post-Secondary Educational Institution on a Full-Time Basis - How Many?: Please list name and date of birth and city and state (or country, if not in U.S.) of location of educational institution for each:
Web Link: FedBizOpps Complete View
(https://www.fbo.gov/?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=ea8f6cddf15ef36cc60a941418d8b5c3&tab=core&_cview=1)
Place of Performance: Address: Nairobi, Kenya, Nairobi, Non-U.S., Kenya
Record: SN01713029-W 20081205/081203220712-ea8f6cddf15ef36cc60a941418d8b5c3 (fbodaily.com)
Source: FedBizOpps Link to This Notice
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R -- Senior Laboratory Scientist - 2009-Q-11048