MODIFICATION
C -- USPSC - Infrastructure Policy Advisor - Amendment 1
- Notice Date
- 7/26/2016
- Notice Type
- Modification/Amendment
- NAICS
- 541330
— Engineering Services
- Contracting Office
- Agency for International Development, Washington D.C., USAID/Washington, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Room 7.10-006, Washington, District of Columbia, 20523, United States
- ZIP Code
- 20523
- Solicitation Number
- SOL-OAA-16-000120
- Archive Date
- 8/16/2016
- Point of Contact
- Charlie Brown,
- E-Mail Address
-
cbrown@usaid.gov
(cbrown@usaid.gov)
- Small Business Set-Aside
- N/A
- Description
- The purpose of this amendment (02) is to: Request for a U.S. Personal Service Contractor USAID Bureau for Economic Growth, Education and Environment (E3) Position Title: Infrastructure Policy Advisor Duty Office: E3/E&I/EU Solicitation Number: SOL-OAA-16-000120 Salary Level: GS-14 Equivalent: $108,887 - $141,555 Issuance Date: July 5, 2016 Closing Date: July 26, 2016 Closing Time: 12:00 P.M. EST Dear Prospective Applicants: The United States Government (USG), represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking applications from qualified U.S. citizens to provide personal services as an Infrastructure Policy Advisor under a personal services contract, as described in the attached solicitation. Applications must be submitted in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. Applicants interested in applying for this position MUST submit the following materials: 1. Resume Requirement: a. Your resume should contain sufficient information to make a valid determination that you fully meet the experience requirements as stated in this solicitation. This information should be clearly identified in your resume. Failure to provide information sufficient to determine your qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration. b. In order to fully evaluate your application, your resume must include: (i) All paid and non-paid experience, job title, location(s), dates held (month/year), and hours worked per week for each position. Any experience that does not include dates (month/year), locations, and hours per week will not be counted towards meeting the solicitation requirements. (ii) Specific duties performed that fully detail the level and complexity of the work. (iii) Names and contact information (phone and email) of your current and/or previous supervisor(s). (iv) Education and any other qualifications including job-related training courses, job-related skills, or job-related honors, awards or accomplishments. (v) U.S. Citizenship. 2. List of References: a. Applicants must submit no fewer than three (3) and more than five (5) references, who are not family members or relatives; Reference information MUST include the following information: (i) Name of reference (ii) Applicants’ relationship to reference (iii) Title of reference at current job (iv) Reference current work or home telephone number (v) Reference current work or personal email address At least two (2) references must be from direct supervisors (current or prior) who can provide information regarding the applicant’s knowledge of relevant experience. All references must from within the last ten years of the applicant’s professional work experiences. Applicants are advised to ensure the information provided is current for all references. 3. Supplemental document addressing the Evaluation Factors: a. In no more than two (2) pages in total (8 ½” x 11” paper only; no less than 11 point font; double-sided pages count as 2 pages) demonstrate how you are qualified for the position. The narrative should take into consideration the Evaluation Factors (EFs) below, describing your experience, training, education, certification(s) and/or awards you have received that are relevant to the position. If the narrative exceeds two pages it will NOT be reviewed or evaluated. b. Applicants are required to address each of the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, certification(s) and/or awards they received that are relevant to each QRF. Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each page. Failure to address the selection and/or QRF may result in you not receiving credit for all your pertinent experience, education, training, certification(s) and/or awards. c. Please refer to page 9 of the solicitation for specific instructions. Additional documents submitted will not be accepted. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. By submitting your application materials, you certify that all the information provided on or attached to the application is true, correct, and made in good faith. You agree to allow all information on and attached to the application to be investigated. False or fraudulent information on or attached to your application may result in you being eliminated from consideration for this position, or being terminated after award, and may result in legal proceedings. To ensure consideration of application for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in any email. Please note: A technical team will review and assess your resume and supplemental documents according to the rating guidelines provided. Additional documents submitted will not be accepted. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered. Your complete resume, list of references and the supplemental document addressing the QRFs must be emailed to: cbrown@usaid.gov. Any questions on this solicitation should be directed to Mr. Charlie Brown at the email address notice above. Applicants can expect to receive a confirmation email when application materials have been received. Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their applications. Sincerely, Kevin Sampson Contracting Officer 1. SOLICITATION NO.: SOL-OAA-16-000120 2. ISSUANCE DATE: July 5, 2016 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: July 26, 2016, 12:00 P.M. EST 4. POSITION TITLE: Infrastructure Policy Advisor (NAICS Code: 541330) 5. MARKET VALUE: GS-14 equivalent ($108,887 - $141,555) includes Washington locality pay. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value based upon the successful candidate’s past salary, work history, educational background, and qualifications. Salaries over and above the top of the pay range will not be entertained or negotiated. Candidates who live outside the Washington, D.C. area will be considered for employment but no relocation expenses will be reimbursed. 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One base year with four one year option periods, subject to the availability of funds, continued need of service and quality of contract performance. 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Washington, D.C. 8. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Secret. USAID may grant an Interim clearance; however, in the event the contractor fails to obtain full security clearance, the USPSC contract will be terminated immediately. 9. STATEMENT OF DUTIES: BACKGROUND The Bureau for Economic Growth, Education and Environment (E3) is one of USAID’s three pillar bureaus. Within E3, the Engineering and Urban Division of the Office of Energy and Infrastructure (E&I/EU) has the primary responsibility to ensure that USAID bureaus and field missions have the necessary engineering and design services and resources available to plan for and manage infrastructure projects (e.g. building structures and facilities such as schools, clinics, hospitals, roads, bridges, irrigation projects, pipelines, power plants, and water and wastewater treatment systems), in developing country environments. E&I/EU is the central point for advising regional bureaus and field missions regarding the planning and management of programs involving architect-engineer (A-E) services, construction activities, and construction management, including activity design and planning, selecting appropriate contracting approaches, ensuring adequate designs, setting in place the necessary oversight and contract supervision procedures, and, in general, assisting field missions with resolving the many challenges encountered during the life-cycle of a construction activity from planning through design and construction. E&I/EU is also has the primary responsibility for assessing, monitoring and managing USAID’s risk related to construction activities. E3/E&I/EU is organized around three core functions: 1) Agency leadership on engineering, infrastructure and construction policy and best practice; 2) Knowledge management and communications on infrastructure, engineering and construction; and, 3) Technical assistance to field missions and other operating units. The E&I/EU team leads the Agency in developing and interpreting applicable policy and regulation in the planning, design and implementation of construction activities. In addition, E&I/EU captures best practices and approaches for infrastructure development and disseminates information through communications and training. Technical support to other operating units in the planning, design and implementation of infrastructure, engineering and construction programs, projects and activities is a primary function of the E&I/EU This assistance ranges from strategic guidance helping weigh infrastructure programming against alternative activities in meeting USAID objectives, to activity-level support in ensuring compliance of construction activities with risk management requirements and contract specifications. The E&I/EU team also provides first response engineering services support for infrastructure in post-disaster or post-conflict situations. USAID is seeking a highly-qualified technical expert to serve as the Agency focal point on infrastructure policy and programming across USAID’s global development portfolio. The Infrastructure Policy Advisor will provide technical advisory services to USAID field missions in critical sectors of infrastructure development including health, education, water and sanitation, transportation, and energy. In addition, the Infrastructure Policy Advisor will lead and support multi-sectoral dialogues across the Agency to develop and strengthen policy and business processes leading to effective approaches to infrastructure in balance with non-infrastructure activities. The Infrastructure Policy Advisor will play a leadership role in activities related to the capture, creation and sharing of infrastructure knowledge within the infrastructure, construction and engineering community of practice and across the Agency as appropriate. 10. CORE FUNCTIONAL AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY Duties and Responsibilities The incumbent serves as the Infrastructure Policy Advisor in the Engineering and Urban Division, of the Office of Energy and Infrastructure in the Bureau for Economic Growth, Education and Environment (E3/E&I/EU). The incumbent is responsible for understanding and describing to Bureau staff and client operating units the role of infrastructure in achieving international development objectives including balancing infrastructure investments against alternate development interventions, maintaining expertise on appropriate technology and approaches and communicating opportunities for leverage with other development and host-country partners. S/he is expected to provide expert support across all functions of E3/E&I/EU: Policy and Practice, Knowledge Management and Communications and Technical Assistance. Requirements of the Infrastructure Policy Advisor are highly specialized and involve knowledge of engineering design, construction and international development policy and practice. A. Duties and Responsibilities The incumbent will carry out the following functions and specific duties: Strategic Guidance and Leadership • Provide expert guidance and input in the integration of infrastructure in country strategies, program designs and activities across the full range of USAID’s development sectors (e.g. health, education, economic growth, democracy and governance, etc.) • Support USAID field missions in the development of Country Development and Cooperation Strategies to assess potential role of infrastructure in advancing development objectives. • Maintain programmatic knowledge of the infrastructure portfolios and capabilities of USAID missions and development partners including multi-lateral development banks. • Develop and lead infrastructure finance and leveraging opportunities and approaches to sustainably extend impact of USAID’s portfolio. • Lead the development of USAID guidelines and/or policy on community engagement approaches to infrastructure design. • Identify cross-sectoral synergies and opportunities for integrated programming that extend the impact of infrastructure investments to broader beneficiary groups and purposes. Lead cross-agency dialogue on opportunities for cross-sectoral leverage and activity integration. Technical Advisory Services • Maintain expert knowledge of the ‘state-of-the-art’ in development infrastructure practice and incorporate this knowledge in technical assistance to field missions and operating units. This includes acting as focal point for the E3/E&I/EU Division on Science, Technology, Innovation and Partnerships (STIP). • Serve as USAID focal point on appropriate technologies and approaches in infrastructure design and implementation. • Develop broad guidance for field missions and other operating units on appropriate approaches to infrastructure planning in different contexts including consideration of design standards, feasibility analysis, stakeholder consultation, etc. • Provide direct technical support to the design and implementation of engineering, construction and infrastructure activities as requested by field missions and other operating units. Support may include activity design, procurement assistance, quality assurance, forensic analysis and other services as appropriate. • Analyze a variety of engineering, construction and infrastructure policy issues and problems and identify solutions and opportunities for reform. Communications and Knowledge Management • Facilitate cross-agency working groups and communities of practice on various infrastructure issues as appropriate to enhance intra-agency dialogue and knowledge sharing. • Represent the E3/E&I/EU in internal and external meetings, conferences and discussions on infrastructure planning, design and international development practice. • Guide the development of communication tools (fact sheets, policy briefs, success stories, etc.) to support the capture and exchange of lessons learned and best practices in infrastructure programming. • Support the development of training curriculum aimed at building USAID capacity in the planning, design and implementation of infrastructure projects and activities. Lead the delivery of specific training modules as appropriate. Guidelines At the GS-14 level, guidelines are available subject to interpretation in light of policies and precedents, based on guidance from the supervisor. Supervisory Controls: At the GS-14 level, the supervisor (E3/E&I/EU Division Chief ) sets overall objectives and resources available. The PSC is expected to consult with supervisor to develop deadlines, projects and work to be done. The PSC is responsible for planning and carrying out assignments, resolving conflicts, coordinating with others, and interpreting policy in terms of established objectives. The PSC may also be expected to determine the approach to be taken and the methodology to be used, keeping the supervisor informed of progress. Completed work is reviewed only from an overall standpoint in terms of feasibility, compatibility with other work or effectiveness in meeting requirements. The incumbent of this position will: • Support the E3/E&I/EU Division Chief, the E3 Bureau and client operating units in the planning, design and implementation of infrastructure activities across the USAID global development portfolio including the development and delivery of knowledge management and communication tools to strengthen USAID’s capacity and leadership. 11. WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS The work is generally sedentary and does not pose undue physical demands. The incumbent may be required to travel domestically and/or overseas. During deployment on Temporary Duty (TDY) travel, and specifically during site visits, there may be some additional physical exertion including long periods of standing, walking over rough terrain, or carrying of moderately heavy items (less than 50 pounds). TDY travel can range from 25% to 50% of the level of effort for this position. Work is primarily performed in an office setting. The requirement for field trip assignments to consult with field missions may expose the successful candidate to difficult working surroundings and security risks during the course of travel. 12. START DATE: Immediately, once necessary clearances are obtained. However, USAID may grant an Interim Security Clearance in order to begin work immediately. In the event the contractor fails to obtain full security clearance, the USPSC contract will be terminated immediately 13. POINT OF CONTACT: See Cover Letter. *Application Process: Applicants must indicate in their application the solicitation number they are applying to and want to be considered for in their initial base one-year contract. USAID/FFP reserves the right to place the applicant at the Grade/Step level for which he/she is found qualified during the application process. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POSITION EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION Minimum Qualifications • A. At the GS-14 level the incumbent will have a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture, construction or a similar field from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution. The incumbent will have a total of at least ten (10) years of progressively responsible experience in architecture, engineering and construction activities and projects, of which seven (7) years should be related to infrastructure planning, architectural and engineering analysis and design, post-disaster/post-conflict reconstruction, construction procurement and contract management, and infrastructure finance. OR • A Master’s degree in engineering, architecture, construction or a similar field from an accredited U.S. or internationally recognized institution. The incumbent will have a total of at least eight (8) years of progressively responsible experience in architecture, engineering and construction activities and projects, of which five (5) years should be related to infrastructure planning, architectural and engineering analysis and design, post-disaster/post-conflict reconstruction, construction procurement and contract management, and infrastructure finance. • Intermediate level computer skills, to include knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel, e-mail, and the internet; B. Selection Factors: Applicants must possess the minimum qualifications for the position. Applicants who do not meet all of the selection factors are considered NOT qualified for the position. Selection factors include: • Applicant is a U.S. Citizen; • A current resume, with complete contact information • Supplemental document specifically addressing the Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) submitted; • Willingness to travel overseas to potentially remote locations or in challenging conditions, and travel domestically. • Intermediate level computer skills and experience using web-based IT systems. • Ability to obtain an interim or final Secret level security clearance as provided by USAID within a six-month period • Ability to obtain a U.S. State Department medical clearance. QUALITY RANKING FACTORS (QRFs) Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and selective factors will be further evaluated based on the Quality Ranking Factors (QRF) listed below. Applicants are strongly encouraged to address each of the factors on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately the experience, training, and/or education they have that is relevant to each factor. Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page. • Demonstrated experience in architectural and engineering planning, analysis and design including experience with feasibility analysis, stakeholder engagement, and assessment and application of appropriate technologies. Demonstrated experience in infrastructure program design and implementation including specific experience in construction contracting and management and infrastructure financing. (30 points) • Demonstrated knowledge of U.S. government foreign assistance goals and objectives and the role of infrastructure activities in support of broader development goals. This includes demonstrated understanding of the role of USAID and other development organizations in supporting multi-lateral and bilateral development efforts in various sectors including health, education, economic growth, disaster relief and reconstruction, environment, democracy and governance, agriculture and others. (30 points) • Demonstrated ability to work independently in a highly demanding environment and capacity to handle tasks with varying deadlines. Demonstrated ability to plan, organize and manage complex projects, technical activities and meetings. Demonstrated ability to communicate complex and difficult policy and programmatic issues understandable by knowledgeable laypersons without oversimplifying. Ability to lead the team, provide strategic advice on highly complex and time sensitive issues and topics. (20 points) • Demonstrated experience in the development and delivery of training curriculum and materials on technical and integrated topics (10 points) • Demonstrated education experience in architecture, engineering and/or construction with an emphasis on the intersection of infrastructure and community development. However, relevant and extensive work experience, if demonstrably successful, may substitute or be given appropriate consideration. (10 points) Total Possible Points: 100 BASIS OF RATING: Applicants who meet the Education/Experience requirements and Selection Factors will be further evaluated based on scoring of Quality Ranking Factor (QRF) responses. Those applicants determined to be competitively ranked may also be evaluated on interview performance and satisfactory professional reference checks. Applicants are required to address each of the QRFs on a separate sheet describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education, and/or awards they have received that are relevant to each factor. Be sure to include your name and the announcement number at the top of each additional page. Failure to address the selection and/or Quality Ranking Factors may result in your not receiving credit for all of your pertinent experience, education, training, and/or awards. DOCUMENT SUBMITTALS Where and How to Apply Via email: cbrown@usaid.gov To apply, qualified individuals are required to submit: 1. A cover letter specifying for which grade level(s) you are applying, and a brief rationale supporting your selection. 2. A current resume, with complete contact information 3. Supplemental documentation specifically addressing the Selection Factors and the QRFs shown in the solicitation. The most qualified candidates may be interviewed and required to provide a writing sample. USAID will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. Professional references and academic credentials will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. USAID reserves the right to select additional candidates if vacancies become available during future phases of the selection process. FFP reserves the right to make additional selections from this solicitation. NOTE: If the full security application package is not submitted within 30 days after the Office of Security determines eligibility, the offer may be rescinded. If a Secret security clearance is not obtained within six months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded. NOTE: If the full medical clearance package is not submitted within two months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded. If a Department of State medical clearance is not obtained within six months after offer acceptance, the offer may be rescinded. To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in any email. NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application. NOTE REGARDING DATA UNIVERSAL NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBERS All individuals contracted as US PSCs are required to have a DUNS Number. USAID will provide a generic DUNS Number and PSCs are not required to register with CCR. For general information about DUNS Numbers, please refer to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) Clause 52.204-6, Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) Number (10/2003) https://www.acquisition.gov/far/current/html/52_200_206.html LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs Forms outlined below can found at: http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ or at http://www.forms.gov/bgfPortal/main.do 1. AID 302-3 2. Medical History and Examination Form (DS-6561). 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). Forms 1 through 5 shall be completed ONLY upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) and ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs CIBs and AAPDs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to http://transition.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/subject.html#psc to determine which CIBs and AAPDs apply to this contract. AAPD 06-10 – PSC MEDICAL PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY AAPD No. 06-10 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 1 to the solicitation. AAPD 15-02 LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS AAPD No. 15-02 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 2 to the solicitation. FAR 52.222-50 – COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS FAR Clause 52.222-50 is hereby incorporated as Attachment 3 to the solicitation. BENEFITS/ALLOWANCES: As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances: BENEFITS: Employer's FICA Contribution Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance Pay Comparability Adjustment Annual Increase (pending a satisfactory performance evaluation) Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave 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). * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). FEDERAL TAXES: USPSCs are required to pay Federal Income Taxes, FICA, and Medicare ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE, COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL AFFILIATION, NON-DISQUALIFYING DISABILITY, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR OTHER NON-MERIT FACTOR. ATTACHMENT 1 ACQUISITION & ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVE (AAPD) NO. 06-10 PSC MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY General Provision 22, MEDICAL EXPENSE PAYMENT RESPONSIBILITY (OCTOBER 2006) (a) Definitions. Terms used in this General Provision are defined in 16 FAM 116 available at http://www.state.gov/m/a/dir/regs/fam/c23002.htm. Note: Personal services contractors are not eligible to participate in the Federal Employees Health Programs. (b) The regulations in the Foreign Affairs Manual, Volume 16, Chapter 520 (16 FAM 520), Responsibility for Payment of Medical Expenses, apply to this contract, except as stated below. The contractor and each eligible family member are strongly encouraged to obtain health insurance that covers this assignment. Nothing in this provision supersedes or contradicts any other term or provision in this contract that pertains to insurance or medical costs, except that section (e) supplements General Provision 25. “MEDICAL EVACUATION (MEDEVAC) SERVICES.” (c) When the contractor or eligible family member is covered by health insurance, that insurance is the primary payer for medical services provided to that contractor or eligible family member(s) both in the United States and abroad. The primary insurer’s liability is determined by the terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions of the insurance policy. When the contractor or eligible family member is not covered by health insurance, the contractor is the primary payer for the total amount of medical costs incurred and the U.S. Government has no payment obligation (see paragraph (f) of this provision). (d) USAID serves as a secondary payer for medical expenses of the contractor and eligible family members who are covered by health insurance, where the following conditions are met: (1) The illness, injury, or medical condition giving rise to the expense is incurred, caused, or materially aggravated while the eligible individual is stationed or assigned abroad; (2) The illness, injury, or medical condition giving rise to the expense required or requires hospitalization and the expense is directly related to the treatment of such illness, injury, or medical condition, including obstetrical care; and (3) The Office of Medical Services (M/MED) or a Foreign Service medical provider (FSMP) determines that the treatment is appropriate for, and directly related to, the illness, injury, or medical condition. (e) The Mission Director may, on the advice of M/MED or an FSMP at post, authorize medical travel for the contractor or an eligible family member in accordance with the General Provision 10, Travel and Transportation Expenses (July 1993), section (i) entitled “Emergency and Irregular Travel and Transportation.” In the event of a medical emergency, when time does not permit consultation, the Mission Director may issue a Travel Authorization Form or Medical Services Authorization Form DS-3067, provided that the FSMP or Post Medical Advisor (PMA) is notified as soon as possible following such an issuance. The contractor must promptly file a claim with his or her medevac insurance provider and repay to USAID any amount the medevac insurer pays for medical travel, up to the amount USAID paid under this section. The contractor must repay USAID for medical costs paid by the medevac insurer in accordance with sections (f) and (g) below. In order for medical travel to be an allowable cost under General Provision 10, the contractor must provide USAID written evidence that medevac insurance does not cover these medical travel costs. (f) If the contractor or eligible family member is not covered by primary health insurance, the contractor is the primary payer for the total amount of medical costs incurred. In the event of a medical emergency, the Medical and Health Program may authorize issuance of Form DS-3067, Authorization for Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents, to secure admission to a hospital located abroad for the uninsured contractor or eligible family member. In that case, the contractor will be required to reimburse USAID in full for funds advanced by USAID pursuant to the issuance of the authorization. The contractor may reimburse USAID directly or USAID may offset the cost from the contractor’s invoice payments under this contract, any other contract the individual has with the U.S. Government, or through any other available debt collection mechanism. (g) When USAID pays medical expenses (e.g., pursuant to Form DS-3067, Authorization for Medical Services for Employees and/or Dependents), repayment must be made to USAID either by insurance payment or directly by the contractor, except for the amount of such expenses USAID is obligated to pay under this provision. The Contracting Officer will determine the repayment amount in accordance with the terms of this provision and the policies and procedures for employees contained in 16 FAM 521. When USAID pays the medical expenses, including medical travel costs (see section (e) above), of an individual (either the contractor or an eligible family member) who is covered by insurance, that individual promptly must claim his or her benefits under any applicable insurance policy or policies. As soon as the individual receives the insurance payment, the contractor must reimburse USAID for the full amount that USAID paid on the individual’s behalf or the repayment amount determined by the Contracting Officer in accordance with this paragraph, whichever is less. If an individual is not covered by insurance, the contractor must reimburse USAID for the entire amount of all medical expenses and any travel costs the contractor receives from his/her medevac provider. (h) In the event that the contractor or eligible family member fails to recover insurance payments or transfer the amount of such payments to USAID within 90 days, USAID will take appropriate action to collect the payments due, unless such failure is for reasons beyond the control of the USPSC/dependent. (i) Before departing post or terminating the contract, the contractor must settle all medical expense and medical travel costs. If the contractor is insured, he or she must provide proof to the Contracting Officer that those insurance claims have been submitted to the insurance carrier(s) and sign a repayment agreement to repay to USAID any amounts paid by the insurance carrier(s). ATTACHMENT 2 APPD 15-02 LEAVE AND HOLIDAYS (a) Annual Leave (1) The contractor is not entitled to annual leave if the period of performance of this contract is 90 days or less. If the contract period of performance is more than 90 days, the contractor shall earn annual leave as of the start date of the contract period of performance as specified in paragraph (a)(2) below. (2) The contractor shall accrue annual leave based on the contractor’s time in service according to the following table: Time in Service Annual Leave (AL) Accrual Calculation 0 to 3 years Four hours of leave for each two week period over 3, and up to 15 years Six hours of AL for each two week period (including 10 hours AL for the final pay period of a calendar year) over 15 years Eight hours of AL for each two week period USAID will calculate the contractor’s time in service based on all the previous service performed by the contractor as a: 1) USAID PSC (i.e., the contractor has served under any USAID personal services contracts of any duration covered by Sec. 636(a)(3) of the FAA or other statutory provision applicable to USAID); and/or 2) former U.S. Government (USG) direct-hire, under either civilian and/or military service. (3) (i) AL is provided under this contract for the purposes of affording necessary rest and recreation during the period of performance. The contractor, in consultation with the USAID Mission or USAID/Washington, as appropriate, shall develop an AL schedule early in the contractor's period of performance, taking into consideration project requirements, employee preference, and other factors. All AL earned by the contractor must be used during the contractor’s period of performance. All AL earned by the contractor, but not taken by the end of the contract, will be forfeited. However, to prevent forfeiture of AL, the Contracting Officer may approve the contractor taking AL during the concluding weeks of the contractor's period of performance. (ii) As an exception to 3(i) above, the contractor may receive a lump-sum payment for leave not taken. To approve this exception, the contractor's supervisor must provide the Contracting Officer with a signed, written Determination and Findings (D&F). The D&F must set out the facts and circumstances that prevented the contractor from taking AL, and the Contracting Officer must find that these facts and circumstances were not caused by, or were beyond the control of, the contractor. This leave payment must not exceed the number of days which could be earned by the contractor during a twelve-month period. (4) With the approval of the Mission Director or cognizant AA, as appropriate, and if the circumstances warrant, a Contracting Officer may grant the contractor advance AL in excess of the amount earned, but in no case may the Contracting Officer grant advance AL in excess of the amount earned in one year or over the life of the contract, whichever is less. The contractor agrees to reimburse USAID for any outstanding balance of advance AL provided during the contractor’s assignment under the contract. (5) Applicants for PSC positions will provide evidence of their PSC and/or USG direct-hire service - civilian and/or military experience, as applicable, on their signed and dated application form required under USAID policy. By signing the appropriate form, the applicant attests to the accuracy of the information provided. Any applicant providing incorrect information is subject to the penalty provisions in the form. If required to satisfy due diligence requirements on behalf of the Contracting Officer, the contractor may be required to furnish evidence that verifies length of service, e.g., SF 50, DD Form 214, and/or signed contracts. (b) Sick Leave. The contractor may use sick leave on the same basis and for the same purposes as USAID U.S. direct hire employees. Sick leave is earned at a rate not to exceed four (4) hours every two (2) weeks for a total of 13 work-days per year. Unused sick leave may be carried over under an extension or renewal of this contract with the same individual for the same work. Otherwise, sick leave will not be carried over from one post to another or from one contract to another. The contractor will not be compensated for unused sick leave upon completion of this contract. (c) Home Leave. (1) Home leave is leave earned for service abroad for use only in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions and territories. (2) A USPSC who has served at least two years overseas at the same USAID Mission, under the same contract, as defined in paragraph (c)(4) below, and has not taken more than 30 work days leave (annual, sick or LWOP) in the U.S. may be granted home leave in accordance with the following: (i) if the USPSC returns to the same overseas post upon completion of home leave for an additional two (2) years under the same contract, the USPSC will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of 30 work days; or if the USPSC returns to the same overseas post upon completion of home leave for such shorter period of not less than one year, as approved in writing by the Mission Director prior to the USPSCs departure on home leave, the USPSC will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of 30 work days. (ii) if the USPSC is returning to a different USAID Mission under a USAID personal services contract immediately following completion of the USPSC's home leave, for an additional two (2) years under contract, or for such shorter period of not less than one (1) year, as approved by the Mission Directors of the "losing" and "gaining" Missions, the contractor will receive home leave, to be taken at one time, for a period of not more than 20 work days. When the PSC is returning to a different USAID Mission, the former Mission will pay for the home leave regardless of what country the PSC will be working in following the home leave; (iii) if home leave eligibility is based on (c)(2)(ii) above, the USPSC must submit written verification to the losing Mission at the time home leave is requested that the USPSC has accepted a USAID personal services contract at another USAID Mission following completion of the home leave; (iv) travel time by the most direct route is authorized in addition to the number of work days authorized for home leave; (v) home leave must be taken in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions or territories, and any days spent elsewhere will be charged to annual leave (AL.) If the PSC does not have accrued AL, the PSC will be placed on LWOP. (vi) if the PSC does not complete the additional service required under (c)(2)(i) or (ii) (that the Contracting Officer finds are other than for reasons beyond the PSC's control), the cost of home leave, travel and transportation and any other related costs must be repaid by the PSC to the Government. (3) Notwithstanding the requirement in paragraph (c)(2) above, that the USPSC must have served two (2) years overseas under personal services contract with the same Mission to be eligible for home leave, the USPSC may be granted advance home leave subject to all of the following conditions: (i) Granting of advanced home leave would in each case serve to advance the attainment of the objectives of this contract; and (ii) The USPSC has served a minimum of 18 months in the Cooperating Country under this contract; and (iii) The USPSC agrees to return to the Cooperating Country to serve out the remaining time necessary to meet two (2) years of service overseas, plus an additional two (2) years under the current contract or under a new contract for the same or similar services at the same Mission. If approved in advance by the Mission Director, the USPSC may return to serve out any remainder of the two (2) year requirement for service overseas, plus an additional period of not less than one (1) year under the current contract or under a new contract for the same or similar services at the same Mission. (4) The period of service overseas required under paragraph (c)(2), or paragraph (c)(3) above, will include the actual days in orientation in the U.S. (less language training). The actual days overseas begin on the date of arrival in the cooperating country inclusive of authorized delays enroute. Allowable annual and sick leave taken while overseas, but not LWOP, shall be included in the required period of service overseas. An amount equal to the number of days of annual and sick leave taken in the U.S., its commonwealths, possessions or territories will be added to the required period of service overseas. (5) Salary during the travel to and from the U.S., for home leave will be limited to the time required for travel by the most expeditious air route. Except for reasons beyond the USPSC's control as determined by the Contracting Officer, the USPSC must return to duty after home leave and complete the additional required service or be responsible for reimbursing USAID for payments made during home leave. Unused home leave is not reimbursable under this contract, nor can it be taken incrementally in separate time periods. (6) Home leave must be taken at one time, and to the extent deemed necessary by the Contracting Officer, an USPSC in the U.S., on home leave may be authorized to spend not more than five (5) days in work status for consultation at USAID/Washington before returning to post. Consultation at locations other than USAID/Washington as well as any time in excess of five (5) days spent for consultation must be approved by the Mission Director or the Contracting Officer. (d) Home Leave for Qualifying Posts (HLQP). USPSCs who ordinarily qualify for home leave and have completed a 12-month assignment at one of the USAID qualifying posts (currently Iraq, Afghanistan and Pakistan) are entitled to take ten (10) workdays of leave in addition to the home leave an USPSCs is normally entitled to under the contract in accordance with sub-paragraphs (c)(1) - (6) above. This additional home leave is provided pursuant to an amendment to the Foreign Service Act of 1980 signed by the President on June 15, 2006. There is no requirement that an eligible USPSC take this additional leave; it is for optional use by the USPSC. If an eligible USPSC elects to take HLQP, the USPSC must take ten (10) workdays of home leave. If the USPSC is returning to the United States and not returning overseas to the same or different USAID Mission, HLQP will not apply. This new home leave policy is also extended to qualifying Third-Country National PSCs (TCNPSCs) who have an approved exception under AIDAR Appendix J, sec. 4(c)(2)(ii)(B), to apply specific provisions from AIDAR Appendix D, and whose contract includes this General Provision. However, TCNPSCs will be granted "country leave" vice home leave. The application, requirements, and restrictions will be the same as for USPSCs, but the time taken by a TCNPSC will be taken in the TCNPSC's home country or country of recruitment rather than in the United States, its commonwealths and territories. (e) Holidays and Excused Absences. The contractor shall be entitled to all holidays and or excused absences granted by the USAID to U.S. direct-hire employees. (f) Military Leave. Military leave of not more than 15 calendar days in any calendar year may be granted to a contractor who is a reservist of the U.S. Armed Forces. The contractor must provide advance notice of the pending military leave to the Contracting Officer or the Mission Director as soon as known. A copy of any such notice must be part of the contract file. (g) Leave Without Pay (LWOP). LWOP may be granted only with the written approval of the Contracting Officer or Mission Director, unless a USPSC is requesting for such leave for family and leave purposes under paragraph (i) below. (h) Compensatory Time. Compensatory time leave may be granted only with the written approval of the Contracting Officer or Mission Director in rare instances when it has been determined absolutely essential and used under those guidelines which apply to USAID U.S. direct-hire employees. (i) Family and Medical Leave (FML) (1) USAID provides family and medical leave (FML) for eligible USPSCs working within the U.S., or any Territories or possession of the United States, in accordance with Title I of the Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993, as amended, and as administered by the Department of Labor under 29 CFR 825. USAID is also extending FML to eligible USPSCs working outside the U.S., or any Territories or possession of the U.S., in accordance with this paragraph (i) as a matter of policy discretion. (2) FML only applies to USPSCs, not any other type of PSC. (3) To be eligible for FML, a USPSC must have been employed (i) for at least 12 months by USAID; and (ii) for at least 1,250 hours of service with USAID during the previous 12-month period. The specific eligibility criteria and requirements are provided in USAID policy. (4) In accordance with 29 CFR 825.200(a) and USAID policy, an eligible USPSC may take up to 12 workweeks of leave under FMLA, Title I, in any 12-month period for the following reasons: (a) The care of the USPSC’s newborn child. (b) The care of the USPSC’s newly placed adopted or foster care child. (c) The care of the USPSC’s spouse, child or parent with a serious health condition. (d) The USPSC’s own serious health condition. (e) A qualifying exigency arising from the USPSC’s spouse, child or parent in active duty military status. (f) Other qualifying exigencies as determined by the Department of Labor. (5) In accordance with 29 CFR Part 825.207, the USPSC may take LWOP for FML purposes. However, the USPSC may choose to substitute LWOP with accrued paid leave, including accrued annual or sick leave, or compensatory time earned under this contract. If the USPSC does not choose to substitute accrued paid leave, the CO, in consultation with the USPSC’s supervisor, may require the USPSC to substitute accrued paid leave for LWOP. The CO must verify the accuracy of the USPSC’s accrued paid leave request and obtain the required certifications for approval of FML in accordance with the stated USAID policy. (6) FML is not authorized for any period beyond the completion date of this contract. (7) When requesting FML, the USPSC must demonstrate eligibility to the USPSC’s supervisor by completing USAID’s FML request forms, including certifications and other supporting documents required by USAID policy. (8) The U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL’s) Wage and Hour Division (WHD) Publication 1420 explains the FMLA’s provisions and provides information concerning procedures for filing complaints for violations of the Act. (j) Leave Records. The contractor shall maintain current leave records for himself/herself and make them available, as requested by the Mission Director or the Contracting Officer. [END PROVISION] ATTACHMENT 3 FAR 52.222-50 COMBATING TRAFFICKING IN PERSONS (FEB 2009). (a) Definitions. As used in this clause— “Coercion” means— (1) Threats of serious harm to or physical restraint against any person; (2) Any scheme, plan, or pattern intended to cause a person to believe that failure to perform an act would result in serious harm to or physical restraint against any person; or (3) The abuse or threatened abuse of the legal process. “Commercial sex act” means any sex act on account of which anything of value is given to or received by any person. “Debt bondage” means the status or condition of a debtor arising from a pledge by the debtor of his or her personal services or of those of a person under his or her control as a security for debt, if the value of those services as reasonably assessed is not applied toward the liquidation of the debt or the length and nature of those services are not respectively limited and defined. “Employee” means an employee of the Contractor directly engaged in the performance of work under the contract who has other than a minimal impact or involvement in contract performance. “Forced Labor” means knowingly providing or obtaining the labor or services of a person— (1) By threats of serious harm to, or physical restraint against, that person or another person; (2) By means of any scheme, plan, or pattern intended to cause the person to believe that, if the person did not perform such labor or services, that person or another person would suffer serious harm or physical restraint; or (3) By means of the abuse or threatened abuse of law or the legal process. “Involuntary servitude” includes a condition of servitude induced by means of— (1) Any scheme, plan, or pattern intended to cause a person to believe that, if the person did not enter into or continue in such conditions, that person or another person would suffer serious harm or physical restraint; or (2) The abuse or threatened abuse of the legal process. “Severe forms of trafficking in persons” means— (1) Sex trafficking in which a commercial sex act is induced by force, fraud, or coercion, or in which the person induced to perform such act has not attained 18 years of age; or (2) The recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for labor or services, through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of subjection to involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery. “Sex trafficking” means the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of a person for the purpose of a commercial sex act. (b) Policy. The United States Government has adopted a zero tolerance policy regarding trafficking in persons. Contractors and contractor employees shall not— (1) Engage in severe forms of trafficking in persons during the period of performance of the contract; (2) Procure commercial sex acts during the period of performance of the contract; or (3) Use forced labor in the performance of the contract. (c) Contractor requirements. The Contractor shall— (1) Notify its employees of— (i) The United States Government’s zero tolerance policy described in paragraph (b) of this clause; and (ii) The actions that will be taken against employees for violations of this policy. Such actions may include, but are not limited to, removal from the contract, reduction in benefits, or termination of employment; and (2) Take appropriate action, up to and including termination, against employees or subcontractors that violate the policy in paragraph (b) of this clause. (d) Notification. The Contractor shall inform the Contracting Officer immediately of— (1) Any information it receives from any source (including host country law enforcement) that alleges a Contractor employee, subcontractor, or subcontractor employee has engaged in conduct that violates this policy; and (2) Any actions taken against Contractor employees, subcontractors, or subcontractor employees pursuant to this clause. (e) Remedies. In addition to other remedies available to the Government, the Contractor’s failure to comply with the requirements of paragraphs (c), (d), or (f) of this clause may result in— (1) Requiring the Contractor to remove a Contractor employee or employees from the performance of the contract; (2) Requiring the Contractor to terminate a subcontract; (3) Suspension of contract payments; (4) Loss of award fee, consistent with the award fee plan, for the performance period in which the Government determined Contractor non-compliance; (5) Termination of the contract for default or cause, in accordance with the termination clause of this contract; or (6) Suspension or debarment. (f) Subcontracts. The Contractor shall include the substance of this clause, including this paragraph (f), in all subcontracts. (g) Mitigating Factor. The Contracting Officer may consider whether the Contractor had a Trafficking in Persons awareness program at the time of the violation as a mitigating factor when determining remedies. Additional information about Trafficking in Persons and examples of awareness programs can be found at the website for the Department of State’s Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons at http://www.state.gov/g/tip. July 26, 2016 Dear Applicants: The purpose of this amendment (02) is to: 1.Confirm the extended closing date for applications is August 1, 2016, 12 P.M. EST; and 2.Address the questions posed with respect to the solicitation announcement(SOL-OAA-16-000120) issued/posted on July 5, 2016. The terms, conditions, and provisions included in the solicitation announcement SOL-OAA-16-000120 remain unchanged. If there are any other changes or amendments to the solicitation, we encourage to visit www.fedbizopps.gov for those changes. Applicants who have submitted responses prior to this amendment may resubmit a revised application. If you have any questions regarding this letter, please contact the POC for the announcement at 202-567-4224 or by email at cbrown@usaid.gov. Sincerely, /s/ Kevin Sampson Contracting Officer Office of Acquisition and Assistance U.S. Agency for International Development Incl: Questions and Answers
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