R -- Solicitation No.35-2007 Democracy Specialist, GS-13, USAID/Central Asian Republics, Almaty, Kazakhstan

ISSUANCE DATE: 05/25/2007CLOSING DATE: 06/30/2007 Gentlemen/Ladies: SUBJECT: Solicitation for Personal Services Contractor (PSC) No. 35-2007 USPSC Democracy Specialist, USAID/Central Asian Republics, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking proposals (Optional Form 612) 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 Barry Collins, Contracting Officer, and Tatiana Rossova, Personnel Specialist, who may be reached at FAX No. 7-327-250-76-34/35/36, or e-mail per.almaty@usaid.gov. Offerors should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their proposals. Sincerely, Barry Collins, Contracting Officer ATTACHMENT TO SOLICITATION NO. 35/2007 1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 35-2007 2. ISSUANCE DATE: 05/25/2007 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME SPECIFIED FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: 06/30/2007 (6 p.m. Almaty Time) 4. POSITION TITLE: DEMOCRACY SPECIALIST 5. MARKET VALUE: $66,951 - $87,039 per annum (GS-13 equivalent) with 25% Post Differential 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Two years (extension optional) 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/CENTRAL ASIAN REPUBLICS, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan 8. JOB DESCRIPTION: A) Background The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) assists Central Asia?s five nations to pursue a stable economy and democracy. USAID works across the Central Asian Republics (CAR) to develop and improve health, education, job creation, energy, water supply and relations between people and government. USAID supports opportunities for citizens of these countries to fully participate in improving their governance, livelihoods and quality of life. USAID's Regional Mission for Central Asia (USAID/CAR) is responsible, in close consultation with the five U.S. Ambassadors in the region, for the design and management of USAID assistance programs in five republics. The central office is located in Almaty, Kazakhstan with offices in Astana, Kazakhstan; Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; Osh, Kyrgyzstan; Ashgabat, Turkmenistan; and Dushanbe, Tajikistan. USAID/CAR is responsible for approximately $80 million of assistance annually, with activities totaling $300 million in the areas of energy and environment, economics and finance, democracy and conflict mitigation, and health and education. The Mission works in partnership with over 120 grantee and contractor teams. The USAID Country Office in Kyrgyzstan is led by a Country Representative, and includes a Deputy, one USPSC and local national technical and administrative support staff managing a program with a budget of approximately $23 million in FY 2007. They oversee, with technical guidance and support from USAID/CAR, more than 50 in-country contractor/grantee teams. These teams work in a variety of development areas including education, agribusiness, fiscal reform, land reform, trans-boundary energy and water, agriculture, private sector development, local government reform, democracy, media, health, judicial reform, human rights, banking, credit, trade and investment, small and medium enterprise development, and civil society and NGO development. The assistance provided in these programs seeks to expand opportunities for participation, livelihood and quality of life for the citizens of the Kyrgyz Republic. B) BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION The USPSC Democracy Specialist is located in the USAID/CAR/Kyrgyzstan Country Office. The employee serves as the Mission?s Democracy Specialist for all democracy activities implemented in the Kyrgyz Republic. Work involves a full range of project and program design, activity monitoring, data collection, political, conflict and social analysis and program evaluation in the democracy sector in the Kyrgyz Republic. The employee is responsible for monitoring and managing USAID/CAR/Kyrgyzstan initiatives in the democracy sector. As such, the employee must have considerable knowledge of political, social and cultural developments of Central Asia, and a background in democracy, media, NGO, and local government development programming. The employee must be effective in developing and cultivating cooperative working relationships with American and international private voluntary organizations (PVOs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), local non-governmental partners and government officials in the Kyrgyz Republic. In addition, the employee works closely with and coordinates USAID programs with the U.S. Embassy, in which his/her office will be housed. The Democracy Specialist will also be expected to provide rapid response to requests from the Ambassador related to USAID programs and program areas and serves as a key advisor to the Embassy staff on democracy-related issues. The employee will supervise activities of the USAID/CAR/Kyrgyzstan Project Management Specialist for democracy and conflict mitigation. The employee will provide the assistant with training, mentoring and feedback on performance. C) MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 1) Manages, monitors, serves as liaison for, designs and reports on all aspects of the democracy and conflict mitigation program. Under the general supervision of the USAID/CAR/Kyrgyzstan Country Representative and his/her Deputy, and with technical direction from the Democracy and Conflict Mitigation (DM) Office Director (or his/her designee), provides strategic vision for the democracy and conflict mitigation program in the Kyrgyz Republic, continually honing USAID?s strategy and approach to ensure the democracy program is appropriate given local conditions, developments and opportunities. 2) Monitors progress of all democracy activities (in the areas of civil society, media, parliament, local government, rule of law and human rights) which are underway in the Kyrgyz Republic, to ensure results are achieved. Identifies barriers to program implementation and success, and develops solutions to maximize program impact. Works collaboratively with USAID/CAR staff to ensure program and activities are implemented effectively. Tracks development of and analyzes political, media and social issues crucial for the successful implementation of democracy activities in the Kyrgyz Republic. Monitors pertinent legislation, and local media to stay abreast of the latest developments that could impact USAID?s democracy program. 3) Based on thorough understanding and analysis of democratic developments in the Kyrgyz Republic, proposes, and recommends new programs or changes to existing democracy programs and activities in collaboration with relevant CTOs. Develops and drafts program goals and objectives, and prepares scopes of work (SOW) and program descriptions for new activities, project assessments, evaluations and other related efforts. Drafts mid-term and annual program review documents for democracy program in the Kyrgyz Republic, highlighting success stories and program impact achieved, and describing future plans and activities. 4) Serves as a democracy advisor to the US Embassy staff, reporting on all aspects of the democracy and conflict mitigation program. The incumbent cooperates with the Embassy on arranging visits of the Ambassador or other State Department delegations to USAID project sites or arranges events such as democracy roundtables or others as appropriate. 5) Drafts reporting cables and other informational documents related to USAID?s democracy assistance in the Kyrgyz Republic. Serves as site officer, develops potential site visits, prepares briefing documents for, and briefs high level visitors such as Congressional Delegations, State Department and USAID Representatives, on USAID?s democracy and conflict mitigation activities in the Kyrgyz Republic. 6) Within the framework of general guidelines, as arrived at through policy discussions with relevant program officers, conducts meetings with government counterparts, organizes roundtable with DM implementing partners and relevant donors, regarding the design, development, and implementation of democracy/community development activities in order to push forward programmatic agendas, formulate strategy, and coordinate activities. Conducts frequent site visits to assess program and activity impact. 7) Serves as the Cognizant Technical Officer for the Kyrgyz Republic-specific contracts and grants in the democracy sector. At the current time, this includes direct management of a $1.5m parliamentary development program, a $4.7m civil society program, a $1.3m political party development program, and two activities related to the constitutional reform process. Serves as the activity manager for those activities under multi-country agreements which take place in the Kyrgyz Republic. At the current time, this includes work related to development of independent media, the NGO and media legal framework, legal education, human rights, and monitoring media freedom. 8) Reports, along with the Country Representative, on the performance of USAID/CAR democracy activities to Embassy officers, and the Ambassador. Serves as USAID/CAR representative on the U.S. Embassy Democracy Commission. Coordinates democracy activities with other U.S. Government agencies, especially the Public Affairs Section of the Embassy and the State Department?s Bureau for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL). Along with the Country Representative, acts as the official USAID representative in dialogue and coordination with other international donors active in the Kyrgyz Republic and Central Asia. 9) Consistent with the overall Mission strategy, incumbent independently cultivates / maintains contacts and dialogue with local governmental and non-governmental counterparts in the Kyrgyz Republic. These contacts and dialogues will be used by the employee to effectively provide input for programming democracy assistance. 10) Any other duties as required by the USAID/CAR/Bishkek Country Representative and/or the Democracy and Conflict Mitigation Director. D) SUPERVISION RECEIVED: The Democracy Specialist will work under the general supervision of the Country Representative and his/her Deputy and under the technical direction of the USAID/CAR Democracy and Conflict Mitigation Office Director or his/her designee. Given that the incumbent will handle most work independently and in accordance with established Federal and Agency regulations, policies and procedures, excellent judgment is critical to the successful performance of the job. The incumbent will be expected to use initiative and exercise discretion in dealing with Mission and Country Office personnel as well as with personnel at the U.S. Embassy, representatives from other donor organizations, and stakeholders to resolve problems that arise during the course of the work for which there is often no clear or immediate solution and where contact with the supervisor is not possible. E) QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS 1) PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE: A minimum of five (5) years progressively responsible experience working in International Development. At least two of the three years? prior work experience will have been with a U.S. Government Agency, other international donor organization(s) and/or USAID-funded Contractor or Grantee in the design, implementation, administration and management of national and/or regional democracy and media activities/programs in Central Asia. Preference is for experience in the former Soviet Union, with Kyrgyz Republic experience highly desirable. Completion of CTO training is a plus. 2) KNOWLEDGE: Strong working knowledge of political and historic issues and developments, as well as concepts, principles, techniques, and practices related to the administration of democracy and conflict mitigation development in Central Asia or the New Independent States. Knowledge of USAID procurement and program management procedures and regulations is highly desirable. 3) SKILLS AND ABILITIES: This position requires a unique blend of qualities to include: demonstrated leadership skills and an ability and willingness to function in a collaborative and collegial fashion; sensitivity to others; integrity; intellectual curiosity; balanced judgment; the ability to conceptualize - both strategically and programmatically; and an ability to generate trust and build alliances. The ability to manage multiple activities under extreme time constraints to independently carry out institutional and program assessments, develop policy recommendations, and direct technical analyses is essential. The candidate must be a self-starter - able to work calmly, tactfully and effectively under pressure as a team member in a culturally diverse team environment. In addition, the ability to be responsive to clients? needs and to adapt to the existing management team by being a good listener, a team builder, and an articulate advocate of the Regional Mission?s Democracy and Conflict Mitigation Strategic Objective and Goals is required. Command of software programs for e-mail, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and graphics presentations is required. Exceptional interpersonal skills and diplomacy are required to maintain excellent working relationships with the U.S. Embassy, all USAID Mission personnel, internal/external contacts, counterparts, shareholders, and clients. A proven ability to develop and maintain professional relations with the most senior-ranking Central Asia stakeholders (i.e., regional NGO representatives, local international donor representatives, heads of local delegations, and other key stakeholders and partners) is required. 4) LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION SKILLS: Native Speaker (Level 5) in both written and spoken English required and Level 3 (Good Working Knowledge) in both speaking and comprehension of Russian or Kyrgyz is highly desired. Given the level of responsibility associated with this position, communication skills, both written and oral must be exceptional. The incumbent is required to: 1) prepare specific status/progress reports, briefings, talking points, letters and other documents requiring no editorial changes prior to distribution; and 2) prepare and present oral briefings and/or training sessions. 5) EDUCATION: A Bachelor?s degree is required. Preference will be given to those with a degree in a democracy-related field such as, but not limited to: political science, public administration, public policy, international affairs or anthropology. Although not essential, candidates with a Master?s degree in a related field or a juridical doctorate would be given preference. F) OTHER REQUIREMENTS In addition, the incumbent must also be: 1) Must be an U.S. Citizen and possess or be able to obtain a U.S. Government-issued security clearance at the level of SECRET. 2) Must be able to obtain a State/Med medical clearance to serve in Central Asia. 3) Must be available and willing to commit to the Contract Performance Period of 24 months; 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) Must be willing to travel throughout the Central Asia Region. G) SELECTION CRITERIA: Applicants will be evaluated against the following criteria: Technical knowledge, managerial and leadership experience: 40 points Knowledge of country specifics and relevant international experience: 30 points Language and Communication Skills: 20 points Academic Qualifications: 10 points Total: 100 points 9. HOW TO APPLY: Qualified individuals are requested to submit a Optional Application for Federal Employment OF-612 including experience, salary history and references, and recent sample of his/her written work no later than COB (6 p.m. Almaty time) June 30, 2007. The form is available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ or Internet http://fillform.gsa.gov, or at Federal offices. Applications, recent supervisor reference and three (3) personal references (names and contact information), and writing sample may be submitted by e-mail, fax, DHL or FedEx air courier by the closing date, above, to: Tatiana Rossova Personnel Specialist Personnel Office USAID/CAR Almaty 41 Kazibek Bi Street Almaty, Kazakhstan Tel: 7 327 2507612 ext. 6345, Email: per.Almaty@usaid.gov Fax: 7 327 2507634/35/36 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 July 30, 2007. USAID/CAR expects to award a personal-services contract for an off-shore US Citizen for two-year period starting no later than on/about January 21, 2008. No later than on/about January 21, 2008, the incumbent shall proceed to Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to commence performance of the duties specified, subject to medical and security clearance. The duty post for this contract is Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. 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. For more information about USAID/Central Asian Republics see Mission?s website http://centralasia.usaid.gov/ 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.