Construction Contracting Officer's Representative

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE BUREAU OF INTERNATIONAL NARCOTICS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AFFAIRS (INL) You have received this "Personal Services Contractor (PSC) solicitation through the Department of State (DOS) Internet site. If you have any questions regarding this PSC, you may contact the DOS Official named in this solicitation. The Department is not responsible for any data and/or text not received when retrieving this document electronically. Amendments to solicitation documents generally contain information critical to the submission of an application. Position Title: Construction Contracting Officer's Representative Location: Islamabad, Pakistan Salary Level: FS-02 - $99,700 - $146,413 (GS-14 Equivalent) Period of performance: The period of performance for this contract is twelve (12) months from the date of award with four (4) optional one-year extensions. Issuance Date: March 8, 2024 Closing date: March 22, 2024 Closing Time: 3:00 p.m. EST Solicitation Number: PSC-24-031-INL Job description: See below Dear Prospective Offerors: The Department of State is seeking offers from qualified U.S. citizens to provide personal services for the subject position under a personal services contract, as described in this solicitation. Submittals must be 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. Form SF 171 (Completed and signed) 2. Complete resume. In order to fully evaluate your offer your resume must include: a. Paid a non-paid experience, job title, location(s), dates held (month/year), and hours worked per week for each position. Dates (month/year) and locations for any overseas experience must also be detailed. Any experience that does not include dates (month/year), locations, and hours per week will not be counted towards meeting the solicitation requirements. b. Specific duties performed that fully detail the level and complexity of the work. c. Names and contact information (phone and email) of your current and/or previous supervisor(s). d. Education and any other qualifications including job-related training courses, job-related skills, or job-related honors, awards or accomplishments. e. U.S. Citizenship Note: Resume must contain explicit information to make a valid determination that the candidate meets the experience requirements as stated in this solicitation. This information needs to be clearly identified in the resume. Failure to provide explicit information to determine qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration. 3. Evaluation Factor document specifically addressing: Each of the Evaluation Factors shown in the solicitation below. Responses must be limited to 500 words per Evaluation Factor. Any additional words above the limit will neither be read nor scored. Note: The Evaluation Factors are worth 70 out of 100 points. Offerors are required to address each of the Evaluation Factors in a separate document describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have receive that are relevant to each Factor. 4. Professional References: Three (3) names and contact information (phone and email) of current and/or previous supervisors to serve as professional references. Additional documents submitted will not be accepted. Incomplete or late offers will not be considered. Complete applications must be emailed to: Cecille D. Washington U.S. Department of State INL/EX/GAPP contact@example.gov Sincerely, Katelynn E. Barham Contracting Officer U.S. Department of State SUBJECT A solicitation for a Personal Services Contractor (PSC), Department of State (DOS), Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). The United States Government (USG), represented by the DOS, seeks applications from US citizens interested in providing PSC services as described in this solicitation. PRE-AWARD ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF PSC (JUN 2011) This solicitation may result in the award of one or more personal services contracts as defined in FAR 2.101. Prior to contract award, all offerors or quotes must advise the cognizant Contracting Officer if they have a personal conflict of interest, such as a financial conflict, that would prevent them from either meeting the requirements of the clause entitled, - Post-Award Ethical Responsibilities of Personal Services Contractors, or otherwise objectively performing their contractual duties upon contract award. HOW TO APPLY Offerors proposal shall be in accordance with the requirements stated in this solicitation at the place and time specified. A proposal will be determined non-responsive and ineligible for consideration unless all required documents and information are included in the submission. Offerors shall ensure their resume demonstrates their possession of the minimum qualifications outlined in this Solicitation, as well as their ability to fulfill all required duties. The Government is not responsible for any costs incurred by the offeror during the solicitation process. NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION This solicitation in no way obligates the Department of State to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit the Department of State to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application. Proposals must include the following and not exceed twenty (20) pages (additional pages will not be accepted or reviewed): 1. Form SF 171 (Completed and signed) 2. Resume 3. Evaluation Factor Responses 4. Three (3) names and contact information (phone and email) of current and/or previous supervisors to serve as professional references. Note: Your resume should contain explicit 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 explicit information to determine your qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration. Additional documents submitted beyond the requirements will not be accepted or reviewed. *** ONE PDF ATTACHMENT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED VETERAN'S PREFERENCE Veteran's preference is not applicable to this position therefore do not submit DD-214. ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE, COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL AFFILIATION, NONDISQUALIFYING DISABILITY, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR OTHER NON-MERIT FACTOR. Equal employment opportunity policy - The United States government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service or other non-merit factor. Submit proposal via e-mail to the attention of: INL/Cecille D. Washington E-mail: contact@example.gov Direct questions regarding this solicitation to: INL/Cecille D. Washington E-mail: contact@example.gov INL will not accept proposals beyond the closing time/date; unless it can be determined DOS mishandled the proposal. GENERAL STATEMENT OF THE PURPOSE OF THIS CONTRACT Mission of the U.S. Department of State: The U.S. Department of State is the lead institution for the conduct of American diplomacy and the Secretary of State is the President's principal foreign policy advisor. The Department of State's mission is to advance U.S. national security interests, fight terrorism, protect U.S. interests abroad, and implement foreign policy initiatives that build a freer, prosperous, and secure world. Mission of the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL): The Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) is part of the Under Secretariat for Civilian Security, Democracy, and Human Rights (J) within the Department of State (DOS). INL's mission is to minimize the impact of international crime and illegal drugs on the United States and its citizens by providing effective foreign assistance and fostering global cooperation. INL's Office of Europe and Asia (INL/EA) develops and manages law enforcement, justice sector, narcotics control, and corrections programs, and contributes to policy formation on civilian security issues for countries in Europe and Asia. INL/EA is responsible for coordinating policy and programs with other U.S. government departments and agencies involved in anticrime and narcotics control activities, including the Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP), the Department of Defense (DOD), Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Treasury, and the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). The purpose of this Personal Services Contract is to fill the position of a Construction Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) responsible for providing expert advice, guidance, and direction in the administration of several construction projects across Pakistan. The Construction COR will monitor the construction companies on the ground in Pakistan on behalf of the contracting officer and ensure high quality and oversight of construction so that these projects further INL's goals of countering transnational criminal organizations, narcotrafficking and strengthening the rule of law. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Under the direct supervision of the Islamabad INL Management Officer or his/her designee and working closely with INL Program Managers, the Construction COR will perform the following duties: 1. Advises INL/EA program officer(s) and INL Pakistan (INL-P) staff in the preparation of program objectives as they relate to foreign assistance-funded construction projects, other projects as assigned, construction specifications, cost and material estimates, project schedules, and reports. 2. Provides program and construction-related financial guidance (e.g., materials and labor cost estimates) to INL-P staff and INL/EA Program officer. 3. Analyzes and evaluates (on a quantitative and qualitative basis) cost proposals for construction projects, related services, and other projects as assigned. 4. Advises INL-P staff and INL/EA Program officer in the development of work requirements for construction contracts on Design, Design Build and Design Bid Build projects in support of INL foreign assistance programming in Pakistan, and other contracts as assigned. 5. Evaluates and advises on the foreign assistance implementers organization, methods, and procedures for providing administrative support systems such as records, communications, directives, forms, files, and documentation, as it relates to construction management and management of other foreign assistance projects as assigned. 6. Researches and investigates new or improved construction methodologies and technologies to meet unique program objectives. 7. Assists in evaluating INL implementer engineering specifications and drawings. 8. Reviews INL implementer field surveys, inspections or technical investigations of topography, soils, drainage and water supply systems, road and highway systems, and buildings and structures to provide data for engineering projects. 9. Reviews implementer job specifications to determine appropriate construction methods. Assist INL-P staff and INL/EA Program officer in the preparation and submission of budget estimates and progress and cost-tracking reports for each foreign assistance-funded construction project and other projects as assigned. 10. Liaises with Government of Pakistan (GOP), international organizations, and other donor country interlocutors under the supervision and guidance of INL/EA program officer(s) and INL-P staff. 11. Drafts and edits reports, documents, data calls responses, and other official documents related to this SOW. 12. Participates in relevant Technical Evaluation Panels (TEP) and reviews cost proposals. Specific Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Serves as the COR, Grants Officer Representative, or Agreement Officer Representative (as appropriate) on all INL foreign assistance-funded construction projects in Pakistan and other non-construction projects as assigned. 2. Coordinates with the contractor(s) on all technical matters, which may arise in the administration of delegated contract(s). 3. Gives technical clarification as to the meaning of the specifications, including inspection, testing, and acceptance procedures. 4. Monitors and inspects the contractors technical progress and performance and the expenditures of resources to assure compliance with the contract terms and conditions. 5. Inspects and accepts deliverables (supplies, services, and/or reports) on behalf of the Government. 6. Verifies satisfactory delivery of contract items and prepare receiving reports and/or approving invoices for payments. 7. Verifies efficient and satisfactory performance of work by contractor(s). 8. Notifies the CO and contractor in writing of any deficiencies in workmanship or materials immediately and monitor response and repair items as stipulated in the contract. 9. Notifies the CO in writing of any performance or schedule failure by the contractor. 10. Verifies contractor receiving, inspection, and acceptance reports. 11. Maintains constant cognizance with respect to technical compliance with contract terms on part of the contractor. 12. Resolves technical issues arising under the contract which fall within the scope of the COR's authority and refer any issues to the CO which cannot be resolved without additional cost or time. 13. Informs the CO in writing of any needed changes in the scope of work or specifications. 14. Ensures the Government meets its contractual obligations to the contractor, e.g., timely Government review and approval of documents if such reviews are required by the contract. 15. Knows and understands the terms and provision of the contract. 16. Knows the scope and limitations of COR authority. 17. Protects privileged and sensitive information including, without limitation, procurement information. 18. Periodically visit the contractors site to check on the contractor's work. 19. Serves as the primary liaison between the contractor and the CO. 20. Performs all acceptance tests required by the contract. 21. Establishes and maintains adequate COR files. 22. Prepares statements of satisfactory performance or deviations, shortages, or deficiencies. 23. Monitors the contractors use of key personnel and notify the CO of any changes in key personnel proposed by the contractor. 24. Reviews and approves the contracts vouchers or invoices. Ethical Requirements: 1. In performance of this contract, the contractor shall be subject to the ethics rules applicable to Department of State employees under 5 CFR Part 2635 (Standards of ethical conduct for employees of the Executive Branch), 2 FAM 700 (Ethics), and 3 FAM 4120 (Employee Responsibilities Abroad) and 4170 (Official Clearance of Speaking, Writing and Teaching). Contractor shall also be subject to 5 CFR Part 2637 (regulations concerning post-employment conflicts of interest). 2. Conditions for Contracting Prior to Receipt of Ethics Clearance: The Contractor may commence work prior to the completion of the ethics clearance. The Contractor shall not perform Contracting Officer Representative functions until clearance received. Further, if Contractor does not obtain ethics clearance within 30 days of commencing work, this contract may be terminated in accordance with paragraph (a) (2) of General Provision 16 of this contract. Other Duties: 1. Serves as a subject matter expert in construction and contract oversight for INL-P. 2. Represents INL in internal and external meetings, ceremonies, and representational events as required. Articulate and promote U.S., Mission, and INL policies and goals. 3. Maintains security awareness and properly handle classified and controlled items and information. 4. When required, performs the role of Duty Officer. 5. Performs other duties as requested and assigned that are directly related to this Statement of Work. TRAININGS & DISTANCE LEARNING COURSES 1. This position requires a minimum of FAC-COR Level II certification. The Federal Acquisition Institute (https://www.fai.gov/certification/fac-cor) provides the required training and experience requirements for obtaining the FAC-COR certification. The PSC must have all the requisite training and experience for obtaining a FAC-COR Level II certification in accordance with the Contracting Officer's Representative (COR) Requirements of the FAI FAC-COR Certification program prior to coming on board but will be granted 30 days to take the Department of State specific online or in-person training to receive a DOS FAC-COR Level II Certificate. The PSC must acquire a FAC-COR Level III certification within one year of coming on board. 2. Completes the Introduction to Working in an Embassy (PN113) distance-learning (DL) course through the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) within the first six (6) months of arriving at Post. 3. Completes the mandatory Foreign Affairs Counter-Threat (FACT) Course (CT650) prior to deployment to Post. 4. Consultations with the INL Program Office may be required. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE & TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS The place of performance for this position is U.S. Embassy Islamabad. Travel availability also required for frequent travel to the field as needed, to include areas throughout Pakistan, occasional travel to Washington, DC for briefings, consultations, and training; and for occasional travel to the United States and other third-country locations. RELATIONSHIPS The Construction Contracting Officer Representative (COR) will report to the INL Management Officer, in coordination with the Program Managers, INL/Washington, and AQM or INL/EX contracting officers. The Contract Administrator shall be the INL Contracting Officer in Washington. In no instance shall the INL Management Officer or any other individual be authorized to alter or modify the terms and conditions of the contract or waive the Government's requirements, price, delivery, or other terms and conditions. The Contracting Officer must authorize such changes in writing. The INL Management Officer will provide yearly performance reviews to the INL/EX/GAPP Contracting Officer in Washington, D.C. to contribute to the incumbent's official yearly review. COR AUTHORITIES AND LIMITATIONS After obtaining the required FAC-COR Certification, the Contracting Officer will designate in writing the position of COR to take certain actions under the contract(s) requiring oversight. The designation memorandum will specify the scope and limitations of the authority to be delegated. The COR is delegated the authority to act for the Contracting Officer in matters concerning technical clarification, inspection and, after concurrence by the Contracting Officer, acceptance of Contractor performance under the contract, including preparation of receiving reports, and the authorization of progress payments when appropriate. The COR will coordinate all work with the Contractor and review Contractor's performance at significant stages of its development. The COR will be responsible for: - Developing a strong working relationship with the Contracting Officer - Promptly notifying the Contracting Officer in writing of any noncompliance or deviation in performance or failure to make progress - Maintaining constant cognizance with respect to technical compliance with contract terms on part of the Contractor - Knowing and understanding the terms and provisions of the contract - Knowing the scope and limitations of the COR position's authority - Using good judgment, skill and reasonable care in the exercise of the COR position's authority - Protecting privileged and sensitive procurement information - If appropriate, periodically visiting the Contractor's workplace. - Serving as the property administrator for the contract(s) assigned - Establishing and maintaining adequate COR files - Preparing performance assessments for input into the Contractor Performance Assessment Reporting System (CPARS) In no instance, however, shall the COR be authorized to alter or modify the specifications or the contract terms and the conditions or waive the government's requirement, price, delivery, or other terms and conditions. Such changes must be authorized, in writing, to the Contracting Officer. DELIVERABLES/REPORTS Deliverables are required under this PSC and shall include monthly status reports, monthly evaluation of contractor performance, special reports when required and "Completion of assignment report," which shall be a compressive review of the projects in which the contractor was involved. Each report shall include a critique of and recommendations for the various projects. The completions of assignment reports are due no later than fifteen (15) days prior to the expiration of this contract. The Personal Service Contractor shall submit two (2) copies of each report as required to the following; 1. INL/POST Director(s) and; 2. INL/Program Officer Per FAR Part 4, the above referenced documents shall be incorporated, and copies stored in the PSC's hard file under Section V.; Tab E - Receiving Reports. The Contractor shall prepare and submit two copies of each technical report required by the schedule of this contract (e.g., progress reports, final reports, etc.), to the Embassy INL Section and to the Program Officer, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), Department of State Washington, DC. The title page of all reports forwarded pursuant to this paragraph shall include a descriptive title, the author's name(s), contract number, project number, and title, contractor's name, name of the State Department project office, and the publication or issuance date of the report. When preparing reports, the Contractor shall refrain from using elaborate artwork, multicolor printing, and expensive paper/binding, unless it is specifically authorized in the Contract Schedule. Wherever possible, pages should be printed on both sides using single spaced type. COMPLEXITY This position involves planning, organizing, and completing financial and organizational analysis of enormous complexity. Due to the high visibility and political sensitivity of the issues in which INL is involved, there is extreme difficulty in identifying the nature of the issues and planning, organizing, and determining the scope and depth of studies/audits to be undertaken. The PSC is expected to address difficult scenarios by separating the substantive nature of the programs or issues into their components and determining the nature and magnitude of programs or issues, as well as in discerning the intent of the legislation and policy statements and determining how to translate the intent into program actions. SCOPE & EFFECTIVENESS The PSC performs broad and extensive assignments related to a complex administrative/financial program spanning the full range of citizen safety, law enforcement, rule of law, and counternarcotics programs in Pakistan, which is of significant interest to the public and to Congress. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE The period of performance for this contract is twelve (12) months from the date of award with four (4) optional one-year extensions. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain Department of State Secret level security clearance, medical clearance, and ethics clearance (if applicable). (Security clearance upgrade to Top Secret level may be required.) 2. Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in a. Civil or construction engineering, technology, or science; or, b. Construction management or technology and management; or, c. Engineering d. Business Management 3. A minimum of twelve (12) months of previous COR experience as defined below: Activities experience -- Performing acquisition-related activities, such as performing market research, writing specifications, Statements of Work or Statements of Objectives, developing quality assurance surveillance plans, assisting the Contracting Officer (CO), COR or GTM as a technical monitor, and participating as a subject matter expert on a technical evaluation team; and/or Appointed experience -- Performing as a COR or GTM appointed in writing by a Contracting Officer 4. A minimum of five (5) years of professional work experience, four (4) years of which should be directly related to performing functions in program management or contractor oversight. 5. Demonstrated training or experience in contract administration principles, policies, regulations, and procedures. 6. Demonstrated working knowledge of the U.S. Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), especially those parts directly related to procurement, contract oversight, and management. 7. Demonstrated knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, finance and financial planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. 8. High-level knowledge of MS Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, and e-mail programs. 9. Demonstrated ability to deal with personnel in mid and high-level positions both within and outside the Embassy, with the contractor, INL beneficiaries, and with host government officials. 10. Demonstrated ability to work with representatives of contractors or grantees hired by the USG to implement foreign assistance, including providing clear guidance, responding in a timely manner to inquiries, and maintaining sound oversight of contract implementation. 11. Demonstrated ability to engage constructively with senior government and industry officials. EVALUATION FACTORS (Used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified offerors in comparison to other offerors.) Offerors should cite specific, illustrative examples for each factor. Responses must be limited to 500 words per factor. Any additional words above the limit will neither be read nor scored. Factor 1: Program Oversight (30 Points) Demonstrated experience in providing contractor oversight on high dollar and complex contracts, ensuring contract requirements are being fulfilled per the Statement of Work and other deliverables, evaluating and documenting contractor performance, especially through a well-developed Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan (QASP). Comprehensive understanding of contract administration principles, policies, regulations, and procedures, including U.S. Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR). The ideal candidate has experience overseeing both construction and non-construction projects. Factor 2: Overseas Experience (25 points) Demonstrated experience managing U.S. Government assistance programs overseas. Factor 3: Technical Expertise (15 points) Demonstrated expertise and ability to manage complex, multifaceted international construction projects, e.g. determine needs, define goals, and develop work plans for multi-million dollar construction projects, and as part of a professional team, carry out the full range of responsibilities from inception to completion. BASIS OF RATING: Offerors who clearly meet the Education/Experience Requirements will be further evaluated based on scoring of the Evaluation Factor responses. Offerors are required to address each of the Evaluation Factors in a separate document describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received that are relevant to each factor. Failure to specifically address the Evaluation Factors may result in your not receiving credit for all of your pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards. The Offeror Rating System is as Follows: Evaluation Factors have been assigned the following points: Factor #1 - 30 Factor #2 - 25 Factor #3 - 15 Total Possible - 70 Points Interview Performance - 30 points Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks - Pass/Fail (no points assigned) Past performance evaluation of applicant's ability to perform under the contract. In conducting the evaluation, the U.S. government reserves the right to utilize all evaluation information available at the time of evaluation, whether provided by the applicant or obtained from other sources. Total Possible Points: 100 The most qualified candidates may be interviewed, required to provide a writing sample, and demonstrate an ability to operate commonly used office applications. INL will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. In addition, applications (written materials and interviews) will be evaluated based on content as well as on the applicant's writing, presentation, and communication skills. In the event that an applicant has fully demonstrated his/her qualifications and there are no other competitive applicants, INL reserves the right to forego the interview process. Professional references will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. COMPENSATION (BASE PAY) This position has been designated at the FS-02 equivalent level ($99,700 and $146,413 per annum). Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value based upon qualifications, previous relevant experience and work history, salary and educational background. Salaries, including any recruitment supplemental pay that exceeds the listed pay range, will not be entertained or negotiated. For award, INL will negotiate for this contract based on the market value as outlined above and overall experience relevant to the solicitation requirements. BENEFITS & ALLOWANCES AS A MATTER OF POLICY, INL NORMALLY AUTHORIZES THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES BENEFITS - IF APPLICABLE - Employee's FICA/Medicare Contribution - Contribution toward Health and Life Insurance - Pay Comparability Adjustment - Annual Increase - Eligibility for Worker's Compensation - Annual, Sick and Home Leave - 401K Plan - MEDVAC (provided by DOS Med) ALLOWANCES IN ACCORDANCE WITH DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARDIZED REGULATIONS (DSSR) - IF APPLICABLE - Temporary Quarters Subsistence Allowance (TQSA) or Per Diem upon arrival at Post - Housing Allowance - Post Allowance - Supplemental Post Allowance - Maintenance Allowance (SMA) - Education Allowance - Educational Travel (full-time United States based secondary) - Post Hardship Differential - Danger Pay - Shipment of HHE, UAB, POV and Consumables