SOURCES SOUGHT
A -- Solicitation for Personal Services Contractor (PSC) No. 11-2006, USPSC Energy Policy Advisor, USAID/Central Asian Republics, Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Notice Date
- 5/10/2006
- Notice Type
- Sources Sought
- NAICS
- 541990
— All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Contracting Office
- Agency for International Development, Overseas Missions, Kazakhstan USAID-Almaty, Dept. of State, Washington, DC, 20521-7030
- ZIP Code
- 20521-7030
- Solicitation Number
- 11-2006
- Response Due
- 5/31/2006
- Archive Date
- 6/15/2006
- Description
- Gentlemen/Ladies: SUBJECT: Solicitation for Personal Services Contractor (PSC) No. 11-2006, USPSC Energy Policy Advisor, USAID/Central Asian Republics, Almaty, Kazakhstan The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking proposals (Standard Form 171's) from persons interested in the PSC services described in the attached. Submissions shall be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. Any questions may be directed to Margaret McCarthy, Contracting Officer, and Tatiana Rossova, Personnel Specialist, who may be reached at FAX No. 7-3272-50-76-34/35/36, or e-mail per.almaty@usaid.gov. Offerors should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their proposals. Sincerely, Margaret McCarthy, Contracting Officer ATTACHMENT TO SOLICITATION NO. 11-2006 1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 11-2006 2. ISSUANCE DATE: 05/10/2006 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME SPECIFIED FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: 05/31/2006 (6 p.m. Almaty Time) 4. POSITION TITLE: ENERGY POLICY ADVISOR 5. MARKET VALUE: $77,793 - $101, 130 per annum (GS-14 equivalent) with 25% Post Differential 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years (renewable) 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/CENTRAL ASIAN REPUBLICS, Almaty, Kazakhstan 8. JOB DESCRIPTION: A) BACKGROUND USAID/CAR Background: Central Asia borders Russia, China, Iran and Afghanistan. Due to its location amidst these neighbors and its substantial oil and gas reserves, Central Asia is a region of considerable geopolitical and strategic interest to the United States. With a total population of 55 million and dozens of ethnic groups the five new nations of the region are emerging from isolation and almost two centuries of Russian domination. A recent civil war, threats of religious extremism, ethnic rivalries, authoritarian governments, and lack of viable institutions makes Central Asia a particular challenge for USAID. The Regional Mission for Central Asia (USAID/CAR) is responsible, in close consultation with the five U.S. ambassadors in the region, for the strategic planning, program design and implementation, achievement of results, and reporting for the USAID assistance programs for the five Central Asian republics. The USAID Regional Mission for Central Asian Republics is headquartered in Almaty, Kazakhstan, with country offices in Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Bishkek and Osh, Kyrgyzstan; Ashgabat, Turkmenistan; and Dushanbe, Tajikistan. The U.S. Government?s program of assistance in the region is focused on the growth of small-scale enterprise and trade; building a more open, democratic culture; better management of environmental resources; and improved primary healthcare. It ranks as one of the Agency?s largest programs, with funding levels that have averaged over $139 million annually. The Mission works in partnership with over 80 grantee and contractor teams. USAID/CAR?s assistance seeks to mitigate conflict and expand opportunities for participation, livelihood and quality of life for the citizens of the Central Asian Republics. Staff frequently travels to each of the five countries to manage and monitor development assistance. USAID/CAR has program responsibility for the formulation of assistance strategy and management approaches to support reforms in the energy systems of five countries in this region. A major component of the CAR energy programs focuses on market development and regional cooperation in sharing of water and energy resources. The majority of the current work is related to the power sector, and involves cross-border hydro-power resources and operation of large grids. After relative isolation and stagnation in the 1990s, this sector has begun to attract significant foreign investments to develop and access vast energy resources for supplying the outside markets. In addition, Kazakhstan has undergoing substantial reforms and privatization, and is experiencing rapid growth. These trends offer opportunities to modernize this sector by developing internal and external markets, and by integrating with larger outside grids. Increased commercialization and market developments are expected to expand trade and investments, while promoting transparency, governance, rule of law and checking corruption. Based in USAID/Almaty, the Energy Policy Advisor will lead in the design, implementation, and coordination of USAID financed activities in CAR dealing with energy policy and market reforms. The purpose of this work is to prepare the CAR systems for closer cooperation, support a framework for operation and development of cross-border water and energy resources, and to improve the performance of this sector. B) DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The incumbent will be responsible for energy policy interventions and assistance programs relative to economic, institutional, technical and environmental factors, in addition to country and region specific situations, which are undergoing rapid socio-political changes: 1) Serve as principal advisor on policy, approaches and strategies to support the CAR energy sector reforms with a major focus on electric power, involving large new investments, inter- and intra-regional trade, regional water and energy cooperation, and the role of private sector and countries outside of CAR. 2) Analyze and maintain current knowledge of country specific programs involving laws and regulations, tariffs, utility unbundling, restructuring, commercialization and privatization strategies, and energy efficiency programs, as well as assistance under bilateral and IFI programs, including national governments? policy framework and drivers. 3) Provide technical oversight and management, and to work directly with contracted firms and Country Representative Offices in providing technical assistance for human resource development and capacity building at the level of the ministries, power utilities, regulatory commissions, and relevant NGOs and other government bodies, including partnership and training opportunities. 4) Cooperate and maintain a policy dialogue with the national Governments, industry, public and private enterprises, NGOs, members of parliament and other key individuals relative to the sector reforms, involving options, strategies and programs, and regional issues. Monitor trends, need for course corrections, and present USAID position to internal and external audience. 5) Travel within the region to conduct field visits, monitor projects and sector performance, identify and overcome constraints, and review program with key country and donor officials, and brief the Country Representative Offices and the Embassies. 6) Incumbent will coordinate CAR energy program activities with those of the USAID/Afghan mission and with the ANE Bureau South Asian Energy Initiative (SARI) and where feasible may develop concepts for jointly-funded activities. 7) Incumbent will maintain familiarity with E&E regional and Global Bureau energy programs, contractual mechanisms, and technical staff and determine how these can best be used in the design, implementation and technical support, and evaluation of mission energy programs. 8) Develop and maintain widespread professional contracts with counterparts in the national Governments, IFIs, regional organizations, and the industry; and serve as liaison with other donor agencies and private organizations on all issues related to energy and regulatory reforms. 9) Serve as the Cognizant Technical Officer (CTO) for the Regional Energy Market Assistance Program (REMAP). Duties include, (in close cooperation with effected USAID County offices), all aspects of managing this initiative. This includes preparing required scopes of work, selecting contractors/grantees, establishing a performance monitoring plan, reviewing reports, performing site inspections to monitor activities, and meeting with development partners to explain requirements, monitor progress, and resolve issues. The incumbent will track financial progress, oversee and assist in the review of contractor/grantee vouchers, and undertake financial project planning, as required. 10) Design technical assistance and training activities to address country and regional needs. Prepare scopes of work for contracting activities, as appropriate. Develop and review contractor work plans and task descriptions for carrying out this assistance. Also prepare scopes of work for formal project evaluations and implementation of these evaluations. Review voucher submissions to ensure that technical work has been performed. 11) Prepare country implementation and monitoring reports describing progress, management issues and future strategies. Prepare press and other public information on activities. Arrange meetings and prepare papers or presentations on program activities. 12) Maintain contacts with inter and extra-regional electricity market developments and provides coordination between CAR national and regional programs. Identify issues and impact of developments in the neighboring countries and markets, and their implications for the CAR national and regional energy systems and assistance programs. 13) Participate in the development of new and existing EW activities as part of the SO 1.6 Team. Duties include: assist in the drafting and reviewing new program descriptions, scopes of work, as well as other technical requirements for the contracts, grants, or cooperative agreements that are, or will be part of SO 1.6. The incumbent may also participate as EW representative and assist the CO in any activities needed to select implementing partners, as assigned by the incumbent supervisor. 14) Other duties as specified by the incumbent supervisor to develop and implement EW and water and natural resource management activities. C) REQUIRED SKILLS AND MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1) General: Must be a U.S. citizen, must be able to obtain a U.S. Government ?SECRET? security clearance. Must be able to secure a medical clearance to serve in Central Asia. Must be willing to travel throughout the five Central Asian Republics. 2) Prior work experience: This is a senior level position that requires maturity and a minimum of ten years of relevant experience in an energy-related field as well as the ability to function in complex, frequently changing political and economic conditions. A minimum of five years of energy market policy consulting and/or at a management-level position in business or government related to international development work. The candidate must have demonstrated practical experience in the management of programs to support development of energy market policy reform. Experience in Central Asia or other former Soviet Union country is highly desirable. Project or program management experience while residing in a transitional or developing country is required. 3) Education and knowledge: The qualified person must have advanced degrees in economics, finance, business, law, energy, or engineering. S/he must also have demonstrated knowledge of managing development program contracts. The incumbent must have a thorough understanding and knowledge of public participation and government information systems as tools for the development and implementation of public policy. 4) Skills and abilities: The following skills and abilities are essential to the successful performance of the duties/responsibilities of the position and are also sought: a) Must have demonstrated experience in working in a team environment, sensitivity to others, balanced judgment and the ability to conceptualize, both strategically and programmatically. b) The ability to work effectively as a team member in culturally diverse team environments and communicate with, and understand, the needs of non-technical internal clients is essential. c) In addition, Mission is seeking a self-starter to be responsive to client needs with the ability to work calmly, tactfully and effectively under pressure. Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision or guidance is required. d) Strong interpersonal and communication skills enabling him/her to establish and maintain effective contacts with counterparts both inside and outside of USAID and to work collaboratively with USAID customers/clients and donor partners is required. e) Command and ease in the use of Microsoft Office software programs (word processing, e-mail, databases, PowerPoint, tracking systems and spreadsheets) for the purpose of preparing USAID internal reports and other documents, briefing presentations, etc. f) The ability to travel, sometimes under difficult conditions, throughout Central Asia. g) The ability to adapt to an existing management team, be a good listener, a team builder, and an articulate advocate of the Regional Mission?s overall EW Strategic Objectives and Goals specific to technical area of assignment. 5) Language and interpersonal skills: Native Speaker (Level 5) in both written and spoken English required and Level 3 (Good Working Knowledge) in spoken Russian is desirable. Given the level of responsibility associated with this position, both written and oral communication skills must be demonstrated. Exceptional interpersonal skills and diplomacy are required to maintain excellent working relationships with all Mission personnel, internal/external contacts, counterparts, shareholders, and clients. A proven ability to develop and maintain professional relations with senior-ranking Central Asia stakeholders (i.e., regional NGO representatives, local international donor representatives, heads of local delegations, and other key stakeholders and partners) is required. D) Selection Criteria: Applicants will be evaluated against the following criteria: Technical Knowledge and Experience: 30 points Project Management and Leadership Experience: 30 points Relevant International Experience: 15 points Language and Communication Skills: 15 points Academic Qualifications: 10 points Total: 100 points 9. APPLYING Qualified individuals are requested to submit a U.S. Government Application for Federal Employment SF-171 including experience, salary history and references, and recent sample of his/her written work no later than COB (6 p.m. Almaty time) May 31, 2006. The form is available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/forms/ or Internet http://fillform.gsa.gov, or at Federal offices. Applications, recent supervisor reference and three (3) personal references, and writing sample may be submitted by e-mail, fax, DHL or FedEx air courier by the closing date, above, to: Tatiana Rossova Personnel Specialist Personnel Office USAID/CAR Almaty 41 Kazibek Bi Street Almaty, Kazakhstan Tel: 7 3272 507612 ext. 6345, Email: per.Almaty@usaid.gov Fax: 7 3272 507634/35/36 Email or faxed documentation is preferred as mail delivery may be untimely. To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in any cover letter. Selection will be made by a Mission committee no later than June 26, 2006. USAID/CAR expects to award a personal-services contract for an off-shore US Citizen for two-year period from on or about September 3, 2006 to on or about September 2, 2008. The contract will be signed by July 24, 2006. On or about September 3, 2006, the incumbent shall proceed to Almaty, Kazakhstan to commence performance of the duties specified, subject to medical and security clearance. The duty post for this contract is Almaty, Kazakhstan. 10. Benefits include post differential, housing, and other benefits per USAID regulations. Basic household furnishings, will be available in quarters to be provided by USAID. 11. Almaty is a beautiful city nestled against mountains, bursting with parks and fountains, with tree lined streets and flower gardens. The city has the excitement of Kazakh culture with its nomadic and warrior heritage as well as the benefits of the Russian culture ballet, museums, opera, choirs, and circus. It has the charm and challenges of colorful native markets, as well as the convenience of modern supermarkets. Located at an altitude of 650 meters, where steppe meets mountain, Almaty is backed by the snow capped Tien Shan to the South and faced by a vast plain which stretches to Siberia in the North. There are many places for skiing, skating, hiking, rafting, helicopter trips, camping, and other outdoor activities outside the city. The Almaty International School provides American curriculum for children in grades K 12. 12. For more information about USAID/Central Asian Republics see Mission?s website www.usaid.kz Attachment 3 AS A MATTER OF POLICY, AND AS APPROPRIATE, A PSC IS NORMALLY AUTHORIZED THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS: 1. BENEFITS Employer's FICA Contribution Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance Pay Comparability Adjustment Annual Increase Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Eligibility for 401(k) 2. ALLOWANCES (if Applicable). (A) Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120). (B) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130). (C) Post Allowance (Section 220). (D) Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230). (E) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260). (F) Education Allowance (Section 270). (G) Education Travel (Section 280). (H) Post Differential (Chapter 500). (I) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600), and (J) Danger Pay (Section 650). 3. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) PERTAINING TO PSCs CIBs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to this website http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/ to determine which CIBS apply to this contract. 01-10 Revision of Medical Clearance Process - Personal Services Contracts ("PSC") with U.S. Citizens 01-09 Competitive Process - Personal Service Contracts ("PSCs") with U.S. Citizens for Support of HIV/AIDS and Infectious Disease Initiatives 01-07 Clarification of the Extension/Renewal Policy Regarding Personal Service Contracts (PSCs) 00-08S Revision of Competitive Process - Personal Service Contracts ("PSCs") with U.S. Citizens 00-08 Revision of Competitive Process - Personal Service Contracts ("PSCs") with U.S. Citizens 00-05 Personal Service Contracts (PSCs) Annual Health Insurance Costs 00-03 2000 FICA and Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts (PSCs) 99-15 Changes to AIDAR Concerning Resident Hires and Deviations 99-7 Contractual Coverage for Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) Services 98-25 Defense Base Act (DBA) Coverage and DBA Waiver List 98-24 Use of Compensatory (Comp) Time by PSCs 98-23 Guidance Regarding Classified Contract Security and Contractor Personnel Security Requirements 98-16 Annual Salary Increase for USPSCs 98-14 Change in Required Application Form for USPSCs 98-12 Advertisement of and Requirements for Evaluating Applications for PSCs 98-11 Determining a Market Value for PSCs 98-3 Class Deviation to 31.205-6(g)(3), Foreign National Severance Pay Under Professional Services Contracts 97-17 PSCs with U.S. Citizens or U.S. Resident Aliens Recruited from the U.S. 97-16 Class Justification for Use of Other Than Full & Open Competition for Personal Services Contracts with U.S. Citizens Contracted locally with CCNs and TCNs Subject to the Local Compensation Plan, and for Overseas Contracts of $250,000 or Less 97-3 New USAID Contractor Employee Physical Examination 96-23 Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contract 96-19 U. S. Personal Services Contract (USPSC) - Leave 94-9 Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contractors (PSCs) 93-17 Financial Disclosure Requirements Under a Personal Services Contractor (PSC) LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs 1. Standard Form 171 or Optional Form 612. **2. Contractor Physical Examination (AID Form 1420-62). **3. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security) (SF-86), or **4. Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85). **5. Finger Print Card (FD-258). NOTE: Form 5 is available from the requirements office. * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). ** The forms listed 2 through 5 shall only be completed upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.
- Place of Performance
- Address: USAID/CAR Almaty, 41 Kazibek Bi Street, Almaty
- Zip Code: 050010
- Country: Kazakhstan
- Zip Code: 050010
- Record
- SN01045053-W 20060512/060510220056 (fbodaily.com)
- Source
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