SOLICITATION NOTICE
R -- Senior Acquisition and Assistance Specialist
- Notice Date
- 11/4/2014
- Notice Type
- Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
- NAICS
- 921110
— Executive Offices
- Contracting Office
- Agency for International Development, Overseas Missions, Ethiopia USAID-Addis Ababa, Dept. of State, Washington, District of Columbia, 20521-2030
- ZIP Code
- 20521-2030
- Solicitation Number
- 663-S-14-004
- Point of Contact
- Tamirate Fekadu, Phone: 251111306002, RAHEL MILLION, Phone: 251111306043
- E-Mail Address
-
ftamirate@usaid.gov, RMILLION@USAID.GOV
(ftamirate@usaid.gov, RMILLION@USAID.GOV)
- Small Business Set-Aside
- N/A
- Description
- SOLICITATION Senior Acquisition and Assistance Specialist USAID/Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 1.SOLICITATION NUMBER:663-S-14-004 2.ISSUANCE DATE:November 3, 2014 3.CLOSING DATEDecember 2, 2014 4.POSITION TITLE:Senior Acquisition and Assistance Advisor (Up to two positions) 5.MARKET VALUEGS-14 ($85,544 - $111,203 per annum). The final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value based on the successful candidate's salary history, work experience and educational background. Salaries over and above the top of the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated. 6.PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The PSC Contract will be for two years, with the possible option for an additional one year extension. PSC contracts generally cannot exceed a five year period of performance. 7.PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 8.DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Supervisory Contracting Officer 9.SECURITY ACCESS: The final selected candidate must obtain an Employment Authorization (Facilities Access Clearance) for employment and a medical clearance within a reasonable period of time (USAID will provide details regarding these clearances to the selected candidate). If such clearances are not obtained within a reasonable time or negative suitability issues are involved, any offer made may be rescinded. 10.AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S. Citizens and U.S. Permanent Residents (Green card) and Third Country Nationals (TCN). A.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBLITIES: The Contract Specialist will provide technical competence and leadership support to the Office in the following ways: 1.The PSC will provide technical assistance to USAID/Ethiopia in the execution of program/project-funded contracts, cooperative agreements, grants, and United States Government (USG) Agreements in accordance with Agency Procurement Acquisition Lead Time (PALT) metrics, including providing staff support on all aspects of procurement and contract management relating to and affecting USAID's acquisition and assistance programs, policy and project planning, design, implementation and evaluation, and participating in project and mission policy formulation, project design resource assessments, sector analyses, and other studies. The PSC will serve as a primary contractual advisor to a number of programs and projects in the Mission. The PSC will prepare and negotiate modifications of basic contractual text, terms and conditions, specifications, scopes of work, program descriptions, and costs in the full range of award instruments. The PSC will plan for and provide procurement and contract management support to accomplish program objectives, and provide proper and timely administration of all assigned acquisition and assistance awards, to include clarifications and interpretations of directive correspondence, and other miscellaneous administrative modifications to procurement instruments. The PSC will seek resolution and settlement of contract disputes, termination and settlement of procurement instruments, close outs, and reporting of contractor performance. The PSC will compose and prepare all manner of contractual correspondence to include debriefing letters, responses to protest, congressional inquiries and audit recommendations. 2.The PSC's responsibilities include training newly hired Foreign Service Officers and local staff in direct contracting and administration of complex projects. The PSC's responsibilities will encompass the negotiation, award, and administration of both assistance and acquisition type instruments to accomplish development goals. Specifically, in all cases the PSC will prepare pre-award documents, conduct negotiations, and prepare award documents and award file documentation for the USAID Contracting and Agreement Officer's review and signature. The PSC must be available for consultation on contracting issues with Mission technical staff, US Embassy staff, government officials, implementing partners, and others, as required. This effort requires extensive knowledge of Federal and USAID regulations, and the associated governing guidance (e.g., the CFR, OMB Circulars, FAM, and FTR) for all types of procurements. 3.In addition to the execution of contracts and modifications as identified above, the PSC will also research issues contained in, and draft responses to, items of correspondence as assigned. Examples include, but are not limited to: subcontract consent requests, salary approvals, equipment approvals, etc., on a wide variety of contract and assistance awards. 4.The PSC will serve as a senior and trusted policy and technical advisor to the Office Director, USAID/Ethiopia, the US Mission to Ethiopia and the other regional USAID offices on all manner of acquisition and assistance issues; and will speak for the supervisor on technical acquisition and assistance matters as required. 5.The PSC will participate as assigned in the supervision of the Office staff, which includes Foreign Service National (FSN) acquisition and assistance professionals and two FSN acquisition and assistance assistants. The PSC will train A&A Specialist staff on all aspects of acquisition and assistance procedures, policy, and document formation. The PSC will be required to assist in creating a supportive work environment that values diversity, and elicits the highest possible level of performance from USAID/ Ethiopia's OAA; set clear individual and team work objectives; ensure that the staff carries out those assignments; and, as required, evaluate staff performance, formally and by providing ongoing feedback. B.OTHER SIGNIFICANT FACTS: 1.Reporting Requirements The PSC will receive supervision, policy direction, and guidance from the Office Director, or his/her designee. 2.Supervisory Controls The PSC is expected to exercise considerable independent judgment and initiative. Such initiative is critical to the success of the assignment; however, the actions and decisions of the PSC will be discussed with the Office Director. Overall management of the Office is in a collaborative team environment, with the PSC participating fully in the process. Specific work plans and anticipated results are developed in consultation with USAID/ Ethiopia's OAA. The PSC performs many assignments independently, providing leadership to others involved in the management of USAID/ Ethiopia's OAA, and in the development, design, and drafting of the acquisition instruments. The work is reviewed in terms of achievement of established milestones, and the appropriateness of program/project activity focus. 3.Physical Demands The primary location of work will be in USAID/ Ethiopia at the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Work in the office is expected to be mostly sedentary. Secondary locations will include implementing partner offices and field offices, and project site field locations, the location of program beneficiaries in rural and in urban areas, government departments and offices of bi- and multi-lateral donors and NGOs, and attendance at conferences and training. The PSC will also face a heavy workload and in-country travel is a requirement of the position. C.REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA: To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications. For those who do, further consideration and selection will be based on panel assessment of the Selection Criteria, also listed below. Applicants are required to address each of the Selection Criteria on a separate sheet, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards or recognition they have received relevant to each criteria described below, and any related considerations. Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each additional page. Selection will be based on the following criteria (Maximum of 100 Points Available): 1.Education (15 points): •Baccalaureate degree OR at least 24 semester hours among these disciplines: accounting, law, business, finance, contracts, purchasing, economics, industrial management, marketing, quantitative methods, or organization and management. •Completion of Federal Acquisition Certification - Contracting (FAC-C) Level II or higher. 2.Work Experience (25 Points) •A minimum of fifteen years of substantive and professional contracting or procurement work is required. •Previous experience in an overseas environment is preferred. Experience working in Ethiopia is desirable. •Experience must include the full range of contracting responsibilities, including: acquisition and assistance award execution, administration, termination, cost and price analysis; procurement planning, and analysis and evaluation of proposals; negotiation of changes; execution of options; investigation and resolution of contractor delays; contractor performance appraisal reports; resolution of claims and contractor disputes. •Experience shall demonstrate knowledge of contracting laws, regulations, policies, and procedures; the ability to lead others; knowledge of cost principles; knowledge of cost plus/award fee and performance based contracting procedures; and, the ability to effectively communicate orally and in writing. •Experience that demonstrates pre-award negotiation skills and demonstrated experience in making formal presentations is required. 3. Knowledge (25 Points) •Knowledge of procurement regulations and contracting principles including the latest acquisition procedures and techniques is required. •An understanding of U.S. Government procurement rules and regulations is imperative. •Knowledge of the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and the ability to work with the regulatory context of the FAR. •Knowledge of the USAID's Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDS) and Contract Information Bulletins (CIBS), and the ability to work with the regulatory context of these Agency policies. •Knowledge of USAID's Agency Automated Directives Systems (ADS) regulations; specifically all 300 series references. 4. Abilities and Skills (25 Points) •Must be able to work in a highly demanding environment and capable of handling tasks with varying deadlines. •Must have good teamwork and interpersonal skills. •Must be able to communicate complex and difficult policy and programmatic issues in a manner understandable by knowledgeable laypersons without oversimplifying. •Must be able to maintain and adhere to high standards of professional conduct. •Must be able to function as a team leader during contract negotiations, and personally negotiate the majority of assigned contracts. •Skill to manage and coordinate activities sufficient to contract a variety of actions concurrently is essential. •Versatility in the use of computers, especially Word and EXCEL is a must. •The ability to plan, organize, and manage complex negotiations and meetings is very important. •Leadership and supervisory management skills are desired. •Proven ability to train/transfer knowledge regarding USG contracting rules, regulations, procedures, proposal evaluation, contract creation, and monitoring. •Manage workload while adhering to established deadlines. 5. Communication Skills (10 Points) •Fluency in both spoken and written English is required. •Demonstrated ability to write and edit complex letters, emails, and memorandums. •A sound ability to process information from a wide variety of sources into cohesive, polished documents is highly desirable. •Ability to speak and read Amharic is desirable. D.PROFESSIONAL REFERENCE CHECKS Applicants must provide at least three references with current contact information, preferably both an e-mail address and a telephone number. (The Selection Committee will conduct reference checks of the highest ranked applicants). References will be asked to complete a questionnaire that assesses the applicant's technical knowledge, work performance, communication skills, and group dynamics, using the above specific criteria. The references will be asked to provide a general assessment of the applicant's suitability for the position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure submitted references are available to provide a written or verbal reference in a timely manner. E.LOGISTICAL SUPPORT Within 15 days after written notice from the Contracting Officer that all clearances have been received or, unless another date is specified by the Contracting Officer in writing, the Contractor shall proceed to Addis Ababa to perform the above services. Assignments of U.S. personnel to Ethiopia may be accompanied: Spouses and eligible dependents are authorized to travel to and/or reside at post. Current post differential pay is 25 percent. Please note that all allowances are subject to change. In addition, employees will be authorized the standard household effects (HHE), limited shipment allowance for furnished post (7200 lbs.), standard airfreight (250 lbs. for the employee; 200 lbs. for an accompanying spouse or other EFM) and shipment of POV. Shipment of consumables up to 1250 lbs. is allowed. USAID/Ethiopia will provide the contractor with suitable housing and office space and equipment, consistent with mission standards and requirements. The PSC may have post privileges, such as check cashing and medical care, in accordance with USEP rules and regulations. F.OTHER REQUIREMENTS: This position is opened to U.S. Citizens and U.S. Permanent Residents (Green card) and Third Country Nationals (TCNs). Facility/Computer Access (Employment Authorization) and a medical clearance for US/TCNPSCs are required. G.ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ACQUISITION AND ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) contain information or changes pertaining to USAID policy, regulation and procedures concerning acquisition and assistance including Personal Service Contracts. Please refer to the USAID website http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/ to locate relevant AAPDs. Additional Appendix D also applies to PSCs can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits. 1. ALLOWANCES: as applicable.* Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120). Living quarters allowance (Section 130). Post Allowance (Section 220). Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230). Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260). Education allowance (Section 270). Educational Travel (Section 280). Post differential (Chapter 500). Payments during Evacuation/authorized Departure (Section 600), and Danger Pay (Section 650). 2. BENEFITS: Employee's FICA Contribution Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance - 72% of Health Insurance Annual Premium - 50% of Life Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $500) Pay Comparability Adjustment - Annual across the board salary increase for USG employees and USPSCs Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Access to Embassy medical facilities, and pouch mail service Note: If a US citizen, the Contractor's salary will be subject to employee's FICA and Medicare contribution. FEDERAL TAXES: USPSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income Taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion. 3. Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) Pertaining to PSCs. 97- 16Class Justification for Use of Other Than Full & Open Completion for Personal Services Contracts with U.S. Citizens Contracted with Locally with CCNs and TCNs Subject to the Local Compensation Plan, and for Overseas Contracts of $250,000 or Less 97-11(Corrected) 1997 FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts 97-6Contractual Coverage for Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) Services 97-3New USAID Contractor Employee Physical Examination 96-23Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contract 96-19U.S. Personal Services Contract (USPSC) - Leave 96-11PSC's Annual Health Insurance Costs 96-8Determining a Market Value for PSCs Hired Under Appendix D, Handbook 14 94-9Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contracts (PSCs) 93-17Financial Disclosure Requirements Under a Personal Services Contract (PSC) List of Required Forms for PSCs: For initial consideration: 1.Standard Form 171 **2. Contractor Employee Biographical Data Sheet (AID 1420-17) **3. Contractor Physical Examination (AID Form 1420-62). **4. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions ( for National Security) (SF-86), or **5. Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85). **6. Finger Print Card (FD-258). Note: Form 6 is available from the law enforcement offices or in USAID/Washington. The list of required PSC forms above can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ ____________ *Depart. of State Standardized Regulations (DSSR) (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). **The forms listed 2 thru 6 shall only be completed upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. Other Benefits: Additional benefits are available for individuals hired from outside Ethiopia in accord with the AIDAR, Federal Travel Regulations and Standardized Regulations, e.g., international airfare from place of residence, R&R, international shipment of personal effects, unaccompanied baggage allowance, consumable, POV Shipment, Repatriation Travel, furnished housing and educational allowances for dependent children. H.APPLICANTION PROCESS: All Applicants must address how they meet the Minimum Qualifications, as described below: a.Submit a fully completed and hand-signed copy of an Optional Application for Federal Employment Form (OF-612), cover letter and a current resume/curriculum vita (CV) containing the following information which clearly demonstrates your education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities as they relate to the evaluation criteria. Forms are available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ or internet http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/formslibrary.do?formType=ALL or at Federal offices). POINTS OF CONTACT: Andrew Posacki and Fekadu Tamirate. All applications packages are to be submitted electronically to: Points of Contact Fekadu Tamirate HR Specialist USAID/Ethiopia Email: Ftamirate@usaid.gov To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please cite the solicitation number and position title within the subject line of your email application. The highest ranking applications may be selected for interview. Applications must be received before the closing time and date in item number three of this solicitation. Applications received after that date and/or time may not be considered. Any attachments provided via email shall be Microsoft Word or PDF and should not be zipped. Note that attachments to email must not exceed 3 MB. Cleared by:APOSACKI____________OMS/Supervisory EXO JGULTRY_____________OAA/Contracting Officer GLINDEN_____________DIR/Deputy Mission Director
- Web Link
-
FBO.gov Permalink
(https://www.fbo.gov/spg/AID/OM/ETH/663-S-14-004/listing.html)
- Place of Performance
- Address: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Ethiopia
- Record
- SN03566339-W 20141106/141104235059-2fdb1cdb7c709a69a7f2795f3d9e3293 (fbodaily.com)
- Source
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