Loren Data's SAM Daily™

FBO DAILY ISSUE OF APRIL 24, 2010 FBO #3073
SOLICITATION NOTICE

R -- Supervisory Development Outreach & Communication (DOC) Specialist

Notice Date

4/22/2010
 

Notice Type

Combined Synopsis/Solicitation
 

NAICS

541990 — All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
 

Contracting Office

Agency for International Development, Overseas Missions, West Bank, Gaza USAID-West Bank, Amer Emb/Tel Aviv, Unit #7228, APO, 09892-0206
 

ZIP Code

09892-0206
 

Solicitation Number

PSC294-2010-002
 

Archive Date

5/22/2010
 

Point of Contact

Diana Zu'bi, Phone: 97235114856, Randa Sahwani, Phone: 97235114814
 

E-Mail Address

dzubi@usaid.gov, rsahwani@usaid.gov
(dzubi@usaid.gov, rsahwani@usaid.gov)
 

Small Business Set-Aside

N/A
 

Description

SOLICITATION NO.: PSC 294-2010-002 ISSUANCE DATE: April 23, 2010 CLOSING DATE: May 7, 2010 Gentlemen/Ladies: Subject: US Personal Services Contract (PSC) Supervisory Development Outreach & Communication (DOC) Specialist The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking applications (Standard Form 171's / or / Optional application for Federal Employment Form (OF-612)) from persons interested in providing the Personal Services Contract (PSC) services described below. Submissions shall be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. In order to be considered for the position, a candidate must meet the Minimum Qualifications listed in the solicitation. Consideration and selection will be based on a panel evaluation of the applications vis-à-vis the Evaluation Criteria. Applicants should note that the salary history for the purposes of the SF-171 and Of-612 is the base salary paid, excluding benefits and allowances such as housing, travel, educational support, vehicle use, etc. Applicants are reminded and required to sign the certification at the end of the SF-171 or OF-612. Resumes may be attached to the SF-171 or OF-612. Any questions as well as submission of the applications and the required documents in response to this solicitation may be directed to Ms. Diana Zu'bi who may be reached at Fax No. 972-3-511-4894, or via E-mail address: dzubi@usaid.gov. Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their applications. This solicitation does not represent a commitment on behalf of the USAID. The U.S. Government is not obligated to make an award or to pay for any costs associated with the preparation and submission of a application in response to this solicitation. USAID reserves the right to award all or none of the contracts contemplated herein, subject to availability of funds. Sincerely, Ann Posner Supervisory Executive Officer USAID/West Bank and Gaza SOLICITATION NUMBER: PSC 294-2010-002 ISSUANCE DATE: April 23, 2010 CLOSING DATE: May 7, 2010 by 16:30 Tel Aviv local time POSITION TITLE: Supervisory Development Outreach & Communication DOC) Specialist PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/West Bank and Gaza Mission offices, Tel Aviv, Israel PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years with a possible extension POSITION TITLE OF DIRECT SUPERVISOR: The DOC Specialist will work under the general supervision and policy guidance of the USAID/West Bank and Gaza Office Director for Program and Project Development Office (PPDO). SECURITY ACCESS: Secret Clearance AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S. Citizens MARKET VALUE: The market value for this PSC is equivalent to a GS-14 level. The salary range for a GS-14 level is $84,697 - $110,104. In addition, the Mission has a Cost Of Living Allowance (COLA) and Danger Pay. The salary will be negotiated within the listed market value based upon the candidate's past salary, work history, and educational background. A. BACKGROUND 1. MISSION PROGRAM USAID/West Bank and Gaza is at the core of U.S. Government engagement in the Middle East. In an extraordinarily complex political, policy, legal, and security operating environment, the Mission is committed to work towards the achievement of the U.S. foreign policy objective for a two-state solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Through assistance activities in five technical areas --- Democracy and Governance, Education and Youth, Water Resources and Infrastructure, Private Enterprise, and Health and Humanitarian Assistance --- USAID is working with key stakeholders within the Palestinian Authority (PA) to help build the institutions of a viable, democratic Palestinian state living in peace and security with Israel. In addition, the Mission maintains a robust engagement with the non-governmental and private sectors to support diversity and quality in social sector services (health, education) and effective civil society engagement. 2. OFFICE OF PROGRAM & PROJECT DEVELOPMENT OFFICE (PPDO) The USAID Mission for the West Bank and Gaza (USAID/WBG) manages the overall U.S. assistance program to the Palestinians. This assistance program is an integral part of the U.S. support for the Palestinian-Israeli effort to create and maintain a peaceful co-existence, and as such it reflects the demands of a continually evolving political and economic environment. It is implemented against the backdrop of ongoing conflict and negotiations between the Palestinians and Israel. The USAID program is intended to improve the quality of life of the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza; promote a competitive market economy; foster the effective use of scarce resources; promote the development of a democratic society; encourage sound public management and provide emergency or humanitarian assistance when needed. The program has obligated $2.9 billion since 1994 on the WBG development program, including nearly $800 million in FY 2009. In per capita terms, this is one of the largest USAID programs in the world. B. POSITION DESCRIPTION 1. BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION The Supervisory Development Outreach & Communication (DOC) Specialist plays a critical role in assisting the Mission to present itself and its programs in a manner which fulfills the goal of demonstrating to Palestinians the benefits of peace and stability, as well as to keep the U.S. public and policy makers informed of the program they support. The Supervisory DOC Specialist supports USAID/WBG in the achievement of its objectives by managing the production and dissemination of public information about the Mission's activities for Palestinian and American consumption. High visibility is crucial to the success of the program, and maximum exposure of the Mission's activities to the public is imperative. The Mission is highly scrutinized by senior administration policy makers, Congress and the media (local and international). Information on USAID project activities is often requested by senior official visitors and other individuals with influence in the area of regional politics and development. USAID West Bank and Gaza (USAID/WBG) shares its messages with its various audiences in five ways: • via story placements with local and international television, radio, print & electronic media; • via web-based communications; • via its outreach programs, including public affairs campaigns, goodwill ambassador program, and other public diplomacy events aimed at reaching both Palestinian and international public and media conveying USAID objectives; • via public information materials prepared for general audiences and visitors; and • via program information prepared for inter-agency audiences. The Mission's Development Outreach (DO) and Public Information (PI) activities need to expand beyond the management of public events in the West Bank and on press relations with the local media and focus increasingly on program information services to Mission technical teams and the production of public information materials for use within the Mission and with outside stakeholders, including inter-agency counterparts. Similarly, the Mission website can and should be the source of a significant amount of public information on the Mission and our programs but additional efforts are required to maintain up-to-date and reader-friendly content on the website and on other web-based communications systems, including social networking. 2. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES A. The Public Affairs Specialist is part of the Mission's PPD Office and is a full-time position (40 hours/week). B. The position is a two-year contract, renewable based upon satisfactory performance and the continued need for the position as determined by the Mission. C. The work requires close collaboration with the PPDO team, Public Affairs team, Mission Director, Deputy Mission Director, Mission Strategic Objective Teams and Office Directors, and the Public Diplomacy staff of the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv and the Consulate General in Jerusalem. Washington-based offices requiring close contact are the Middle East Bureau and the Bureau for Legislative & Public Affairs. D. The incumbent is responsible for knowing and following USAID's rules and regulations governing public affairs, and for participating in the "Community of Practice" online network to keep abreast of issues facing missions worldwide. E. Specific, ongoing responsibilities include: (1) Public Information, Press and Public Relations: 40% (a) Manage Development Outreach and Public Information activities of the Mission; (b) Provide oversight and direction to the preparation of DO/PI strategies and activities; (c) Supervise preparation of Mission-wide and program-specific briefing materials, brochures and other hand-outs for public distribution, and talking points for public events; (d) Supervise preparation of program content for the Mission website; (e) Review, edit and approve for Front Office authorization all weekly reports to Washington; (f) Supervise and coordinate preparation of Mission input to Interagency Policy Committee (IPC) action tracking reports; (g) Manage and maximize interoperability of program performance reporting (Success Stories; project photographs; etc.) on the website and Geo-MIS system; (h) Coordinate Mission submissions to the Development Experience Clearinghouse (DEC); (i) Under the direction of the PPD Director and senior management and in consultation with the Public Diplomacy staffs of Embassy Tel Aviv and ConGen Jerusalem, develop Mission's public affairs strategic plan for public information materials and activities, and the use of press including international and local television, radio and print. This plan will require the Supervisory PA Specialist to determine key messages, tactics and strategies, duties, responsibilities and schedule for implementation, with measurable goals and milestones. The Supervisory PA Specialist will be responsible for measurement and reporting of success and results tracking for the campaigns assigned. (j) Represent the Mission as primary contact, both inter-Agency and externally, on a number of public affairs issues. Regularly serve, in coordination with Embassy Tel Aviv and ConGen Jerusalem, as Mission spokesperson. (k) Establish and maintain relations with local and international media. Manage media database, clippings, archives and other public relations tools. (l) Expand opportunities for Mission exposure in television, radio, print media, web-based communication, social networking and speaking engagements. (m) Write, edit and obtain approval for information materials such as project summaries, brochures, fact sheets, press guidance, press releases and feature articles for placement in newspapers, periodicals, and other mass media channels, and maintain electronic program information files for easy access in response to queries from the public and press. Ensure that all pertinent materials are translated into Arabic. (n) Supervise organization of special press briefings, press events or roundtables and visits by journalists to USAID activities. Prepare USAID experts (project managers, team leaders, senior management) to face media interviews and assist them with speechwriting and speaking techniques. (o) Supervise organization of public events to showcase Mission activities (including signing ceremonies, project inaugurations and completions, and cultural and anniversary events), coordinating the roles of Mission technical and administrative personnel and partner agencies preparing for the events. Responsible for ensuring the event is covered by the media (as appropriate) and documented for the Mission's archives. (p) Manage preparation of briefing materials, press packets, talking points and speeches for U.S. officials participating in media and public events. (q) Review local and international press coverage of USAID activities and keep Mission, Embassy/ConGen PD staffs, and USAID Washington informed of such coverage. Oversee the collection of Arabic press clippings. (r) Coordinate response to requests for information about USAID's program from the general public, donor organizations and implementing partners. (s) Complete other special projects as assigned, such as producing a multimedia presentation, Mission documentary, or in-house workshop on effective public speaking. (2) Supervisory Role: 30% (a) Supervise all aspects of the work and provide personnel management for the two Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) Specialists. (b) Provide oversight to Mission staff and appropriate contractors for completion of specific tasks such as translations, assembly of briefing materials, and organizing events. (c) Provide strategic direction for web-based communication and other electronic media (e.g., social networking) that supports USAID messages and initiatives. Write, edit and/or proofread Web materials as necessary. (d) The incumbent has overall responsibility for the Mission's website and other web-based communications. (3) Media Team: 20% (a) As a Media Team member, work with Strategic Objective representatives to schedule and plan events, identify professional technical publications to target technical pieces, help draft pieces, and create other SO specific promotional material such as brochures, pamphlets, posters, video shorts, etc. (b) Work closely with teams to incorporate strategic messages into all relevant communications. (4) CODELS and other Official Visits: 10% (a) Serve as the Public Affairs representative on the coordinating team managing all press- and public outreach-related activities including press releases, ceremonies, speaking engagements, interviews, and press conferences. (b) Oversee preparation of visitor's press book, maintaining one copy for the Mission and distributing to visitors as appropriate. F. There may be substantial travel to the West Bank and Gaza, circumstances permitting, to visit project sites or attend events. In addition, other appropriate media/outreach travel may be considered. 3. POSITION ELEMENTS A. Supervision Received: Reports to the U.S. direct-hire PPDO Director. B. Available Guidelines: USAID general guidelines regarding allowable communications activities and relationships with the Embassy and Consulate General Public Affairs Officer (PAO) and the media, including the Graphic Standards Manual; standard USAID procurement and contracting procedures; priorities set by Mission management; and Embassy and Consulate General guidelines on public outreach and media relations. C. Exercise of Judgment: Substantial reliance is placed on the employee's use of judgment concerning priority and effectiveness of public relations documentation and activities. Employee will occasionally have to make decisions out of the office and may not be able to coordinate with the PPDO Director. Employee must react to and interpret changing circumstances in the Palestinian media and their effects on his/her work in coordination with Mission management. The employee must plan his/her work schedule independently and direct colleagues and subordinates to use skills and abilities effectively. D. Authority to Make Commitments: Responsible for budget planning and the preparation of procurement requests for publicity materials and related technical services, which will be processed through the USDH supervisor and relevant Mission systems. E. Nature, Level and Purpose of Contacts: (1) Relationship in the USAID Mission: Ensures that the many diverse elements of USAID and its constituencies play active roles in the development and implementation of USAID West Bank and Gaza public relations activities, taking a proactive role to ensure that these actions highlight the strong American relationship with and support to the Palestinian people. (2) Relationship with the PAO: Works closely with the Embassy and Consulate General Public Affairs sections on a range of activities including, but not limited to, public relations strategy development and contacts with the Palestinian media. Ensures that key operational linkages and feedback systems are maintained. (3) Relationship with USAID/Washington: The USAID Bureau of Legislative and Public Affairs (LPA) is an important partner in public relations activities focused on U.S. foreign assistance to the Palestinian people. Serves as the principal Mission contact with LPA. (4) Other Relationships: Maintains contact with U.S., foreign and local journalists, ensuring that they are properly introduced to appropriate individuals at USAID, and sees that their questions are answered when appropriate. The incumbent has close relationships, within Mission lines of authority, with U.S. contractors and local and U.S. non-governmental organizations. (5) Supervision Exercised: Responsible for the supervision of two FSN PSC DOC Specialists. 4. SKILLS AND ABILITIES • Strong knowledge of principles and practices of public relations, media relations and journalistic writing and reporting techniques. • Knowledge of technical aspects involved in the production of different public outreach activities, such as production of televised programs, ad creation, public opinion surveys etc. • Good understanding of the local environment and culture • Excellent written and verbal communications skills • Excellent organizational and critical thinking skills • Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and Internet applications. • Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence relationships. • Ability to take initiative working with the direction of management; must be able to take ownership of projects, creatively problem solve and see through to completion. • Excellent project, time management and organizational skills. • Familiarity with using a digital camera and videotaping equipment. • Arabic is preferable but not required. • Must be a U.S. Citizen. C. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA In order to be considered for the position, a candidate must be a U.S. citizen and must submit an application in accordance with the guidance below in Section I. - How to Apply. In addition, a candidate must meet the Selective Factors listed below. Consideration and selection will be based on a panel evaluation of the evaluative criteria. Interviews and a writing exercise may be requested, and professional references will be checked at the discretion of USAID/West Bank and Gaza. Applicants are required to prepare a brief narrative demonstrating how prior experience, education, and training address the evaluative criteria listed below. Candidates must also have effective computer skills particularly in MS Office. The selected candidate must be willing to travel to Jerusalem and to the West Bank, the latter requires a security escort which will be provided by the Mission. Travel to Gaza is prohibited at this time. Periodic regional or international travel may also be required. The selected candidate must be able to obtain USAID secret security clearance. This process involves a comprehensive background investigation performed by the appropriate U.S. Government agency. A State Department Medical Clearance will also be required. Details on how to obtain U.S. State Department Medical Unit clearance will be provided once a job offer is made and accepted. EVALUATION CRITERIA: The Supervisory Development Outreach & Communication (DOC) Specialist GS-14 selection criteria are as follows: 1. EDUCATION: (20 points) A Bachelor's degree in journalism, public relations, international development/relations, English, marketing, communications or related field is required. 2. WORK EXPERIENCE: (45 points) At least 10 years of experience working in public affairs or media relations, preferably in the Middle East. U.S. Government experience is preferable. Demonstrated experience in working with senior managers to formulate and package strategic messages. Strong experience developing and executing strategic communication plans, working to establish USAID with new audiences, and managing relationships with all stakeholders, including general audiences, inter-agency, local press, trade press and/or industry journalists. Proven experience in website management, report writing, events planning and execution. 3. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: (35 points) Demonstrated experience in a team environment and excellent managerial skills are required. Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively in a culturally diverse context are required. Superior oral and written communication skills in English are required. Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain high level contacts with a host country government, donor organizations, bilateral and multilateral agencies, and private-sector organizations is necessary. Excellent time management skills and ability to cope effectively with a fast-paced, sometimes stressful, work environment are essential. D. COMPENSATION The position has been classified at a GS-14 level. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within the GS-14 pay band, depending on qualifications and previous salary history. It is unlikely that an individual will be selected who does not already have the prior training and experience to fully perform at the GS-14 level, or who in some other way does not fully meet all requirements for the position. However, should such an individual be offered a position, the offered salary may be at less than the minimum salary in the GS-14 pay band. E. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The working environment at the USAID West Bank and Gaza Mission is stressful due to the ongoing conflict. Due to the unpredictable security situation, travel of all Americans, including USPSCs to West Bank, is subject to the Regional Security Officer's (RSO) approval and requires a security escort. Travel to Gaza is not permitted. F. WORK ENVIRONMENT The PPDO Office is comprised of a USDH Office Director, 2 USDH Program officers, 1 USPSC and nine Foreign Service National staff. The USAID West Bank & Gaza Mission is based in Tel Aviv, Israel. The Mission works closely with the U.S. Consulate General in Jerusalem and the U.S. Embassy in Tel Aviv. G. DURATION OF CONTRACT The term of the contract shall be for two years, with the option to extend depending on the need for continuation of such services, availability of funds and satisfactory performance. H. START DATE The contractor should be available to start as soon as possible subject to appropriate medical and security clearances. I. HOW TO APPLY INSTRUCTION to APPLICANTS: (a) Interested individuals are requested to submit an Optional Application for Federal Employment Form (OF-612) or a Standard Form 171 (available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ or internet http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/formslibrary.do, or at Federal offices); (b) Applicants are required to provide three references with the complete contact information and a current resume/curriculum vita (CV) as an attachment to the SF-171 or OF 612. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCS: Forms outlined below can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/psc_solicitations.html 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) * 4. Finger Print Card (FD-258) * * Forms 2 through 4 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. This solicitation is issued as of the date of this letter and closes at 16:30 local time on May 7, 2010, Tel Aviv, Israel. This office must receive your application prior to the closing date and time in order for you to be considered for this position. Please send your application to the attention of Ms. Diana Zu'bi, either via email at hrwbg@usaid.gov or by fax to fax number 972-3-511-4894 or using the following address, as applicable. Delivered by Courier or Express Mail: Diana Zu'bi, USAID Trade Tower Building, 10th Floor 25 HaMered Street Tel Aviv, Israel This solicitation does not represent a commitment on behalf of the USAID. The U.S. Government is not obligated to make an award or to pay for any costs associated with the preparation and submission of an application in response to this solicitation. Awarding a contract is subject to the availability of funds. ================================================================ BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES: AS A MATTER OF POLICY, AND AS APPROPRIATE, A PSC IS NORMALLY AUTHORIZED THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS: 1. BENEFITS Employee's FICA Contribution Contribution toward Health and Life Insurance Pay Comparability Adjustment Annual Increase Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave 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) ** Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas) FEDERAL TAXES: USPSCs are required to pay Federal Income Taxes, FICA, and Medicare. 3. ACQUISITION AND ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDS) PERTAINING TO PSCS: 10-03 AIDAR, APPENDIX D: Implementing benefits for same-sex domestic partners of USPSCs 10-01 PERSONAL SERVICES CONTRACTS -- Changes in USG reimbursement amounts for health insurance and physical examination costs 06-12 Homeland Security Presidential Directive-12 (HSPD-12) implementation 06-11 Home leave and revised General Provision 5, Leave and Holidays 06-10 PCS medical expenses payment responsibility 06-08 AIDAR, Appendices D&J: Using the optional schedule to incrementally fund contracts 06-07 AIDAR, Appendix D: Contract budget salary determination and salary increases 05-08 Personal Services Contracts - Annual health insurance costs for 2005 05-02 Clarification of Policy for Personal Services Contracts with Anticipated Contract Performance Periods Exceeding Five (5) Years 04-15 Cash awards for USPSCs and TCNPSCs 03-07 Instructions to Contracting/Agreement Officers on their Role in the Debt Collection Process 01-10 Revision of Medical Clearance Process-Personal Services Contracts (PSCs) with U.S. Citizens. 01-07 Clarification of the Extension/Renewal Policy Regarding Personal Services Contracts (PSCs) 00-08 Revision of Competitive Process-Personal Services Contracts (PSCs) with U.S. Citizens. 00-03 2000 FICA and Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts(PSCs) 99-22 PSC Policy 99-15 Changes to AIDAR Concerning Resident Hires and Deviations. 98-23 Guidance Regarding Classified Contract Security and Contractor Personnel Security Requirements. 98-14 Change in Required Application Form for USPSCs 98-12 Guidance Regarding Advertisement of Personal Services Contracts (PSCs), and Requirements for Evaluating Applications for PSCSs 97-17 PSCs with U.S. Citizens or U.S. Residents 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 with Locally with CCNs and TCNs Subject to the Local Compensation Plan, and for Overseas Contracts of $250,000 or Less 96-23 Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contract 94-9 Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contractors (PSC) 93-17 Financial Disclosure Requirements Under a Personal Services Contract (PSC) 89-29 Use of Government Bill of Lading for Transportation of Personal Service Contractor (PSC) Household Effects, Unaccompanied Baggage, and Privately Owned Vehicles.
 

Web Link

FBO.gov Permalink
(https://www.fbo.gov/spg/AID/OM/WES/PSC294-2010-002/listing.html)
 

Place of Performance

Address: USAID/West Bank and Gaza Mission in Tel Aviv, Tel Aviv, Israel
 

Record

SN02130246-W 20100424/100422235600-5ac68aa7a154ee96bed8f3cbd614f51a (fbodaily.com)
 

Source

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

---

| FSG Index  |  This Issue's Index  |  Today's FBO Daily Index Page |