Loren Data's SAM Daily™

FBO DAILY ISSUE OF AUGUST 12, 2003 FBO #0621
SOURCES SOUGHT

R -- Country Office Director (Uzbekistan)

Notice Date

8/10/2003
 

Notice Type

Sources Sought
 

Contracting Office

Agency for International Development, Overseas Missions, Kazakhstan USAID-Almaty, Dept. of State, Washington, DC, 20521-7030
 

ZIP Code

20521-7030
 

Solicitation Number

36-2003
 

Response Due

8/21/2003
 

Archive Date

9/5/2003
 

Point of Contact

Beth Salamanca , Contracting Officer , Phone +7 3272 50 76 17 , Fax +7 3272 50 76 35 , - Tatiana Rossova, Personnel Assistant, Phone 7 3272 50 76 17, Fax 7 3272 50 76 35,
 

E-Mail Address

bsalamanca@usaid.gov, trossova@usaid.gov
 

Description

ISSUANCE DATE: 08/06/2003 CLOSING DATE: 08/21/2003 Gentlemen/Ladies: SUBJECT: Solicitation for Personal Services Contractor (PSC) No. 36/2003 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 Beth A. Salamanca, Contracting Officer, who may be reached at FAX No. 7-3272-50-76-36 or 7-3272-50-76-35, or e-mail per.almaty@usaid.gov. Offerors should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their proposals. Sincerely, John F. Lord, Contracting Officer ATTACHMENT TO SOLICITATION NO. 36/2003 1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 36/2003 2. ISSUANCE DATE: 08/06/2003 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME SPECIFIED FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: 08/21/2003 (6 p.m. Almaty time) 4. POSITION TITLE: Country Office Director (Uzbekistan) 5. MARKET VALUE: $72,381 - $94,098 per annum (GS-14 equivalent) with 25% Post Differential 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One year 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/CENTRAL ASIA, Tashkent, Uzbekistan 8. JOB DESCRIPTION: A) BACKGROUND The Regional Mission for Central Asia (USAID/CAR), headquartered in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is responsible for the development and management of the U.S. Government?s program of assistance, which supports the five Central Asia governments? policy reforms and programs for economic, social, and democratic transition. USAID/CAR manages all USAID assistance, both bilateral and regional, for the five newly independent republics of Central Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan. The combined population of the region is nearly 50 million, inhabiting an area two-thirds the size of the continental U.S. The five country program portfolios managed by USAID/CAR are focused on achieving sustainable economic growth, improved standards of living, and strengthened democratic institutions. In carrying out its responsibilities and program activities, USAID/CAR maintains a regional headquarters office in Almaty, Kazakhstan, and Country Offices in each of the four republics. The USPSC ? internationally recruited position is located in the USAID/CAR Uzbekistan Country Office, Tashkent. The Country Office Director reports to the Mission Director of USAID/CAR and in coordination with the relevant Strategic Objective teams and support offices in Almaty oversees the USAID assistance program in Uzbekistan implemented through nearly three dozen activities. The office liaises closely with USAID/CAR team leaders based in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in coordinating all USAID-funded activities in Uzbekistan including major programs in macroeconomic reform, micro-finance, enterprise development, health, education, conflict mitigation, human rights, civil society, independent media, rule of law, humanitarian assistance, and water resources management. The Country Office Director is a member of the U.S. Embassy Country Team, acting on behalf of the USAID/CAR Mission Director. B) Basic Function The Country Office Director serves as the primary USAID official in Uzbekistan and maintains effective liaison and communication on the USG assistance program between the USAID/Central Asia regional mission, the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, USAID grantees and contractors, private voluntary organizations, bilateral and multilateral donors, and the Government of Uzbekistan. The Country Office Director is responsible for directly monitoring and managing all USAID assistance to Uzbekistan through the activities of institutional contractors and grantees operating in Uzbekistan. The Country Office Director manages USAID?s Uzbekistan office and participates in budgeting, assessment, design, monitoring and results reporting and where appropriate, management of activities to achieve the Mission?s development objectives. Through field observation, analysis and consultation with host government, other donors and other local entities, he/she identifies needs for USAID assistance in areas consistent with the NIS assistance program. The Country Office Director is consulted on allocation of annual program budgets. The Country Office Director provides regular and frequent reporting to the relevant strategic objective team leaders in Almaty on progress, impacts, problems, constraints, and opportunities related to USAID financed programs in Uzbekistan. The Country Office Director is expected to review and approve work plans and monitoring plans and reports for activities financed by USAID in Uzbekistan. The Country Office Director meets and coordinates with other donors in Uzbekistan to ensure that programs are complementary and consistent. In addition he/she ensures that all USAID/CAR staff are informed of other donors plans and activities in Uzbekistan. In consultation with the USAID?s Financial Management and Management Services offices, the Country Office Director ensures that all administrative and accountability requirements related to USAID operations and activities are handled in accordance with established policies and procedures. In this regard the Country Office Director is the USAID/CAR Mission Director?s representative on the ICASS Council. C) Supervision Exercised: The incumbent will provide technical guidance and supervision to the following USAID/Central Asia/Uzbekistan Country Office Employees: 1 USPSC/Off-shore Democracy Specialist, GS-13; 1 USPSC/Off-shore Program Manager (Conflict Mitigation), GS-13; 2 FSNPSC Project Management Specialists, FSN-4005-10; 5 FSNPSC Project Management Assistants, FSN-4005-9; 1 FSNPSC Project Management/LAN Assistant, FSN-4005-8; 1 FSNPSC Administrative/Financial Assistant, FSN-105-8; 1 FSNPSC Computer Technician, FSN-1815-7 1 FSNPSC Secretary, FSN-120-7; 1 FSNPSC Cashier, FSN-415-7 1 FSNPSC General Services Assistant/Chauffeur, FSN-1015-5 1 FSNPSC Travel Expeditor/Chauffeur, FSN-1015-4 1 FSNPSC Administrative Clerk/Chauffeur, FSN-1015-4 1 FSNPSC Chauffeur, FSN-1015-3 Also provides coaching and guidance for one Fellow Health Specialist (GS-11 equivalent) USAID Funded Contractors There are approximately 40 PVOs and sub-grantees operating in Uzbekistan at any one time. Additionally, there are both long-term and short-term institutional contractors. The Country Office Director is responsible for monitoring the Chiefs of Party and the activities being funded by USAID, and in consultation with USAID/CAR team leaders providing guidance as appropriate. D) Other Factors USAID Assistance Program in Uzbekistan is totaling approx $24 million annually for FY-03, with $29 million planned for FY-04. It is a challenging work environment and this position requires an experienced professional, technically qualified individual who can exercise sound judgment, and can articulate and uphold the Agency?s strategic objectives and goals within the broader context of the USG foreign policy objectives in a diverse and constantly changing environment. USAID officials occupy an office separate from the Embassy. This position requires a senior level officer with credentials in negotiating and managing complex multi-sectoral development programs in a multiplicity of cultures and circumstances with great independence of action and decision making to be granted to the incumbent in implementing USAID?s assistance portfolios. E) Levels of Contacts The Incumbent actively engages in official personal contacts with Host-Country high ranking officials (at the Ministerial level), different U.S. Government Agencies, international organizations, private groups, U.S. or foreign private groups, etc. In Uzbekistan it is expected that personal contacts will include, but not be limited to, the following: Head of State, Republic of Uzbekistan Ministers and Deputy Ministers in Uzbekistan The heads of various social sector committees in the Presidential Apparatuses in Uzbekistan US Ambassador to Uzbekistan Chiefs of Party of USAID-funded IAA, contractors, and grantees Senior officials and executives at U.S. Headquarters of USAID-funded IAA, Contractors, and Grantees PVOs, NGOs Host Country Officials International Donors Visiting USG Officials (Congressmen, Senators, CODELs, Staffdels) F) Qualification Requirements 1. Education/Knowledge: Masters degree in one of the social sciences, economic, or in public administration, political science, international affairs, public policy is preferred. Alternatively, a BA/BS in any of the above academic areas with at least 6 years of program management experience is also acceptable. Knowledge of the political, social, and economic characteristics of former-Soviet countries, preferably Central Asian. Knowledge, experience and demonstrated competency in the design, management, and evaluation of projects to improve their quality, relevance, and cost-effectiveness. Familiarity with USAID?s policies and priorities and means of delivering assistance in developing nations. . 2. Prior Work Experience: S/he must have at least 6 years progressive experience in some field relating to business and or economic development, rule of law, or community development and analysis with a proven track record of programmatic accomplishment and professional achievement. Experience must include program and activity management; preference will be given to those who have strategic planning and analysis skills. International development experience is required; preference will be given to those with experience in Central Asia, other post-Soviet republics or Central and Eastern Europe. Preference will also be given to individuals with knowledge of USAID procedures and systems for strategic planning, results frameworks, activity design, program monitoring and evaluation. 4. Skills and Abilities: Language and Communication Skills: Must be fluent in English and have proven ability to communicate quickly, clearly, and concisely, both orally and in writing, including technical reports. Must have demonstrated ability to produce professional quality analytical pieces. Must be able to make oral presentations logically and persuasively to senior officials, other donors, the NGO community, and to USAID and other USG officials. Working knowledge of Russian or Uzbek language is highly desired. 5. Teamwork/Interpersonal Skills: Management skills to analyze and resolve a wide range of challenges and problems arising in project/activity implementation. Exceptional proficiency in oral and written communications; to report on the status of activities and projects; to establish and maintain effective relations with all levels of people in former-Soviet countries; and, to represent USAID/CAR?s projects and strategies in professional meetings and conferences. Exceptional leadership, communications and inter-personal skills are critical. In addition, the incumbent must be able to interact effectively with a broad range of internal and external partners and USAID clients, international organizations, and host country government officials or NGO counterparts. S/he must be able to function collaboratively and productively as a member of a multi-disciplinary and multi-functional team, and must have the ability to work effectively in a team environment to achieve consensus on policies, activities and administrative matters. Technical skills are not sufficient to be selected for this position. 6. Computer Literacy: Hands-on experience with and knowledge of Agency-provided computer software and hardware used in the USAID system. Strong spreadsheet and word processing skills are needed to manage activities. G) OTHER REQUIREMENTS In addition, the incumbent must also be: 1) a U.S. Citizen; 2) Available and willing to commit to the Contract Performance Period of 12 months; 3) Able to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance at ?SECRET? level and to secure a medical clearance from StateMed to serve in Central Asia; 4) Available and willing to work additional hours beyond the established 40-hour workweek and outside established Monday-Friday workweek, as may be required or necessary; and 5) Willing to travel to work sites and other offices throughout the Uzbekistan and Central Asia as/when requested. 9. Selection Criteria: Applicants will be evaluated against the following criteria: Technical Knowledge and Experience: 30 points Academic Qualifications: 20 points Managerial and Leadership Experience: 15 points Language and Communication Skills: 15 points Relevant International Experience: 15 points Computer Skills: 5 points Total: 100 points 10. APPLYING Qualified individuals are requested to submit a U.S. Government Application for Federal Employment SF-171 including experience, salary history and references, and writing sample (one page analytical essay) no later than COB (6 p.m. Almaty time) August 21, 2003. Applications which do not include explicit references, including their contact information, will not be considered. The form is available at the USAID website, http://www.info.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: Beth Salamanca Contracting Officer Personnel Office USAID/CAR Almaty 41 Kazibek Bi Street Almaty, Kazakhstan Tel: 7 3272 507612 ext. 345, Email: per.Almaty@usaid.gov 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 August 31, 2003. USAID/CAR expects to award a personal-services contract for an off-shore or resident hire US Citizen for one-year period from on or about September 29, 2003 to on or about September 28, 2004. The contract will be signed by September 15, 2003. On or about September 29, 2003, the incumbent shall proceed to Tashkent, Uzbekistan to commence performance of the duties specified, subject to medical and security clearance. The duty post for this contract is Tashkent, Uzbekistan. 11. Benefits include post differential, housing, and other benefits per USAID regulations. Basic household furnishings, will be available in quarters to be provided by USAID. 12. Tashkent has a continental/high desert climate, characterized by cold winters (with snow in January and February) and hot summers. July and August temperatures can range from 95 to 110. For the most part summers are dry and dusty. November and December are usually cold and wet. Tashkent offers several Uzbek- and Russian- language drama, opera, and ballet theatres. There are a few museums to visit and shops with Uzbek arts and crafts, including jewelry, ceramics, carpets, embroideries, brass trays, and other handicrafts and antiques. Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva, and other cities offer fascinating history with beautiful monuments and architecture. There are a growing number of quality restaurants with international cuisine. Tashkent offers sports and other recreational pursuits: tennis complexes, a golf club, a bowling club, several swimming pools, two simple horseback riding facilities, weekend hiking, winter skiing, and a water park complete with slides. There are many parks around town with children?s rides, slides, and swings. Touring and camping are popular. The local mountains are very beautiful, stark and rugged. Travel agencies can organize bicycling, white water rafting, skiing, and hiking tours. The Tashkent International School provides American curriculum for children in grades K 12. In addition, the Ulugbek International School offers classes K-12 in English and is based on the U.S. educational system. There are two half-day pre-schools in operation in Tashkent for children 2-6 years old. 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). 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. 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: 41 Kazibek bi Street, Almaty

Zip Code: 480100

Country: Kazakhstan
 

Record

SN00397133-W 20030812/030810213026 (fbodaily.com)
 

Source

FedBizOpps.gov Link to This Notice
(may not be valid after Archive Date)

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