D -- Systems Manager

1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 20/20042. ISSUANCE DATE: 06/02/2004 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME SPECIFIED FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: 06/23/2004 (6 p.m. Almaty Time) 4. POSITION TITLE: SYSTEMS MANAGER 5. MARKET VALUE: $62,905 - $81,778 per annum (GS-13 equivalent) with 25% Post Differential, or FSN-12 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years (renewable) 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/CENTRAL ASIA, Almaty, Kazakhstan 8. JOB DESCRIPTION: A) Background: The Regional Mission for Central Asia of the Agency for International Development USAID/CAR is a regional mission with program responsibility for the Central Asian Republics of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Tajikistan. USAID/CAR is headquartered in Almaty, Kazakhstan and provides the full range of management services, including Information Management Services (IMS) in a - Hug and Spoke arrangement to the four Country Offices. The IMS Division is located in the Office of Management Services in the Almaty headquarters. The IMS Division provides computer systems and telecommunications support to approximately 225 users in seven separate sites spread in five Central Asian countries. B) STATEMENT OF DUTIES BASIC FUNCTION OF POSITION: The incumbent serves as the Regional Systems Manager for USAID/CAR and as Chief of the IMS Division, servicing approximately 225 Mission staff that are connected to and use multi-purpose local area networks (LANs) linked to the USAID wide area network (WAN) worldwide. The USAID/CAR network presently consists of 40 Windows 2000 servers, server, 2 UNIX servers, 250 PCs, 40 networked printers, multiple VSATs (satellite), three Internet Service Providers (ISPs), various Cisco routers and switches, and 6 communication lines through the Almaty Embassy. In addition to the main USAID/CAR, Almaty office building, services are also provided to four Country Offices in the 5-country Regional Mission: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan; Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; Dushanbe, Tajikistan; and Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Services are also provided to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Almaty and Tashkent; and the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) in Almaty. The incumbent provides technical and administrative supervision of 6 computer specialists who provide hardware and software automation support to the Mission. The incumbent directs the planning and oversees the installation, maintenance and technical evaluation of all hardware, operating systems, and software applications (designed, corporate and off-the-shelf). Ensures effective performance of all information systems and platforms; and plans and coordinates the budgeting and acquisition of all Mission hardware, software, and related technical services. Advises the Mission ISSO and Mission Management on all policy and technical aspects related to automation technology and security. The incumbent also oversees the provision of guidance and assistance to program and project officers in reviewing computerization activities for host country development efforts as well as web development and IIS maintenance throughout the region. MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Technical Network & Telecommunications Functions (30%): Provides technical oversight to staff providing, and/or participates or personally provides the following services: - installation and maintenance of WAN hardware in coordination with M/IRM technical offices, - evaluation, testing and installation of LAN & PC hardware/software, including new releases of operating systems and corporate applications, - development of new configurations to accommodate changes in the network due to mission staff size changes, physical office moves, or other changes in the environment. This work often requires coordination with M/IRM staff in USAID/Washington, - management of VSAT, DTSPO, wireless or dial-up circuits to connect with USAID/Washington; local loops to connect with the Embassy or other USAID remote facilities, - installation, maintenance and management of Lucent and Alcatel PBX and telephone equipment throughout the region, - interface with Embassy telecommunications staff, the local PTT and IRM/TCO analysts to analyze, troubleshoot, maintain and monitor connectivity, - installation and maintenance of Remote Access Server (RAS) connectivity to allow secure dial-in from home, - management of Internet connections, to include dedicated line and VSAT configurations, - design, implementation, and troubleshooting of the Mission network wiring and topology, - performance of administration functions for all supported platforms (Windows 2000 and UNIX) including security, backups, etc. - monitoring the overall Mission network performance and the fine tuning of network configuration by analyzing and modifying systems architecture to improve efficiency of applications software (e.g. MACS, A&A, ProDoc, Budget System, Internet, Intranet, Extranet, etc.), - maintenance and inventory of all Mission hardware and software, - coordination of technical support issues with USAID/W, e.g., telecommunications, upgrade of operating systems, etc., - liaison between the Mission and M/IRM to coordinate automation policy and mission activities plan, - maintenance of written technical documentation related to mission applications and overall network structure and connectivity. 2. Security and Utilization Policy Implementation (20%): Ensures that information systems are managed in accordance with USAID security policy and guidelines (ADS 545: Automated Management Information Systems Security): - controls access of Systems Division staff and customers to Mission network resources, - reviews scan reports from I8360 software, and coordinates with ISSO office, - frequently reviews server logs to monitor security posture, - directs the establishment and implementation of comprehensive system backup procedures and the maintenance of off-site storage of backup tapes, - oversees monitoring of network resources utilization, - periodically reviews server content to ensure that only licensed software is in use and that virus protection software is current and universally operational, - directs the conduct of periodic computer security awareness training, to include storage of sensitive files, email security, and document handling procedures, - maintains and updates as necessary the IT portion of the Mission Security Plan and Contingency Plans for all Country Offices. 3. Customer Service (15%): Develops, establishes and directs the maintenance of a comprehensive user support system in an adequate and timely manner to include: - troubleshooting and providing end user support on all hardware and software/applications on all platforms; - designing of new systems and applications by Systems Division staff and/or contractors, - collaborating in the design/redesign of USAID/CAR Intranet and Internet pages, - planning and managing the development & conduct of various training programs for users, - establishing, monitoring and evaluating maintenance support contracts, - coordinating the provision of regional technical support and assistance to other missions in the region. 4. Management and Supervisory Functions (35%): - Monitors and evaluates the performance of computer specialists and assistants against position requirements to ensure their responsibilities are being adequately carried out. Exercises supervisory responsibilities over subordinate staff, including recruitment and selection, employee evaluation, determining and planning technical training needs, etc. - Formulates and directs the implementation of strategies for improved Mission automation support, including developing the overall operations plan and setting priorities, taking into consideration Mission requirements versus Agency requirements. - Manages the design and/or implementation of applications plans, determining system development priorities and techniques, providing guidance and recommendations to system analysts to assure data integrity, security, and quality control. - Serves as the technical resource person and facilitator for the Mission Automation Team, and presents and discusses automation policies, plans and budget with Mission senior managers. - Determines needs and develops plans for the procurement of all needed hardware and software. C) POSITION ELEMENTS 1. Supervision Received: Reports directly to the Director of the Office of Management Services, who provides general policy guidance and direction. The incumbent carries out most responsibilities with minimal oversight, including direct interaction with Information Systems staff and Mission users. 2. Available Guidelines: USAID Automated Directives System (ADS); Mission orders and notices; applicable technical references. 3. Exercise of Judgment: Judgment required in the setting of daily and weekly priorities and in the overall determination of which tasks are critical and which can be delayed or deferred. Wide latitude is given in determining interactive use requirements in systems access. 4. Authority to Make Commitments: None. 5. Nature, Level, and Purpose of Contacts: Contacts are at all levels primarily within the Mission, including at the division and office chief level and at comparable levels among private sector contractors and vendors; also responds to staff in the four Country Offices in Ashgabat, Dushanbe, Bishkek, and Tashkent. Contacts with IRM/W at the office director and operational level are also required. The purpose of contacts is to determine needs, organize division response, and/or explain and advise on a variety of technical matters. 6. Supervision Exercised: Provides general supervision, guidance and direction for the Systems Division of 6 employees; directly supervises two computer systems analysts FSNs, one computer management specialist FSN, and three computer technician FSNs. D) QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS 1. Education: Equivalent of U.S. Bachelor's degree in computer sciences or related area. Two years of non-degree specialized computer training may be substituted for two years of degree training. Additional specialized training in computer systems management is desirable. 2. Prior Work Experience: Five years of progressively responsible work in computer systems management with three years in programming or systems analysis are required. Supervisory experience is required. 3. Language Proficiency: Level IV (fluent) English proficiency is required. Russian Language is desirable. 4. Knowledge: Knowledge of principles of systems administration. Understanding of relationship between systems management resources and the information management requirements and program objectives of a development organization. Familiarity with computer hardware and operating software employed at USAID/CAR, including IBM-compatible and UNIX-based systems. Understanding of UNIX and AIX operations up to administration level, programming, systems analysis and design. 5. Skills and Abilities: Skills and abilities in office management, administration, and training are required. Strong interpersonal skills, and oral and written communication skills are required. Incumbent must be innovative and demonstrate the creative thinking needed for problem-solving and designing server and node configurations to meet each client's specific needs. Must demonstrate abilities in both Windows 2000 and UNIX networking and administration, multi-platform application development applying, relational DBMS tools, programming languages and Web development tools are required in order to achieve balance between overall mission and individual user needs. Ability to analyze and estimate most efficient platform solutions is a must. Must be able to compile/present detailed information to clients and/or supervisors in concise and fully professional manner. 6. Post-Entry Training: In-service training to remain current in the computer systems management field will be provided as necessary. E) SELECTION CRITERIA General: Must be able to obtain a U.S. Government Employment Authorization security clearance. Must be able to secure a medical clearance to serve in Central Asia. Must be willing to travel extensively throughout the five Central Asian Republics. 1. WORK EXPERIENCE: (20 points) Five years of progressively responsible work in computer systems with three years in programming or systems analysis are required. Supervisory experience is required, and training experience is highly desirable. 2. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITY: (60 points) a) Comprehensive knowledge of principles of systems administration. Proficient knowledge of computer hardware and operating software employed at USAID/CAR, including IBM-compatible and UNIX-based systems Windows'2000. Skills and abilities in UNIX networking and administration, multi-platform application development applying, relational DBMS tools, programming languages and Web development tools are required in order to achieve balance between overall mission and individual user needs. Ability to analyze and estimate most efficient platform solutions is a must. Must be able to compile/present detailed information to clients and/or supervisors in concise and fully professional manner. b) Knowledge of customer service principles. Developed skills and abilities in office management and administration, and in training delivery required. Incumbent must be innovative and demonstrate the creative thinking needed for problem-solving and designing server and node configurations to meet each client's specific needs. c) Exceptional interpersonal skills and diplomacy are required to maintain excellent working relationships with all Mission personnel, and counterparts. 3. LANGUAGE SKILLS: (10 points) Level IV (fluent) English proficiency is required. Russian Language is desirable. (9+1)=(10) 4. EDUCATION: (10 points) Equivalent of U.S. Bachelor's degree in computer sciences is required. 9. Applying: Qualified individuals are requested to submit a U.S. Government Application for Federal Employment SF-171 (preferable) or OF-612 including experience, salary history and references no later than COB (6 p.m. Almaty time) June 23, 2004. The forms are 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 may be submitted by e-mail, fax, DHL or FedEx air courier by the closing date, above, to: Patrick L. Robinson 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 on or about July 7, 2004. USAID/CAR expects to award an off-shore or resident hire, third-country national or FSN personal services contract to a successful individual for two-year period from on or about August 15, 2004 to on or about August 14, 2006. The contract is expected to be signed on or about July 15, 2004. On or about August 15, 2004, the incumbent shall proceed to Almaty, Kazakhstan to commence performance of the duties specified, subject to medical and security clearance. The duty post for this contract is Almaty, Kazakhstan. 10. Benefits include post differential, housing, and other benefits per USAID regulations. Basic household furnishings will be available in quarters to be provided by USAID. 11. Almaty is a beautiful city nestled against mountains, bursting with parks and fountains, with tree lined streets and flower gardens. The city has the excitement of Kazakh culture with its nomadic and warrior heritage as well as the benefits of the Russian culture ballet, museums, opera, choirs, and circus. It has the charm and challenges of colorful native markets, as well as the convenience of modern supermarkets. Located at an altitude of 650 meters, where steppe meets mountain, Almaty is backed by the snow capped Tien Shan to the South and faced by a vast plain which stretches to Siberia in the North. There are many places for skiing, skating, hiking, rafting, helicopter trips, camping, and other outdoor activities outside the city. The Almaty International School provides American curriculum for children in grades K 12.