Solicitation for Resident Hire U.S. Personal Service Contractor (RHUSPSC) Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) (Writer/Editor) Specialist - USAID/Nigeria

SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72062024R00008 ISSUANCE DATE: May 15, 2024 CLOSING DATE/TIME: June 14, 2024 SUBJECT : Solicitation for Resident Hire U.S. Personal Service Contractor (RHUSPSC) Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) (Writer/Editor) Specialist - USAID/Nigeria Dear Prospective Offerors: The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking offers from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation. Offers must be in accordance with this solicitation. Incomplete or unsigned offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records. USAID will evaluate all offerors based on the stated evaluation criteria. USAID encourages all individuals, including those from disadvantaged and under-represented groups, to respond to the solicitation. This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the offer. Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in this solicitation. Sincerely, ___________________________________ Janine A. Scott Supervisory Contracting Officer ATTACHMENT 1 1. GENERAL INFORMATION 1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 72062024R00008 2. ISSUANCE DATE: May 15, 2024 3. CLOSING DATE: June 14, 2024 4. POINT OF CONTACT: EXO/HR, e-mail at [email protected] 5. POSITION TITLE: Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) Specialist (Writer/Editor) 6 . MARKET VALUE: $88,520 to $115,079 equivalent to GS-13. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/Nigeria, Abuja, Federal Republic of Nigeria. Overseas USPSCs may be authorized to telework or remote work only from a location within the country of performance, in accordance with Mission policy. Telework or remote work from outside the country of performance may only be authorized in certain situations in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract. 8. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years period, estimated to start as soon as clearances are received. “The base period will be two (2) years , estimated to start on/about August 2024 . Based on Agency need, the Contracting Officer may exercise (an) additional option period(s) for three (3) years for the date(s) estimated as follows.” Base Period: o/a 08/2024 to 08/2026 Option Period 1: o/a 08/2026 to 08/2027 Option Period 2: o/a 08/2027 to 08/2028 Option Period 3: o/a 08/2028 to 08/2029 9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens or resident aliens currently residing in Nigeria or Eligible Family Members (EFM) only. Resident Hire Personal Services Contractors (RHPSC) are U.S. citizens or lawfully admitted permanent residents of the United States who, at the time of hiring, possess a valid work permit* and reside in Nigeria: (1) As a spouse or dependent of a U.S. citizen employed by a U.S. Government Agency; or (2) under any U.S. Government-financed contract or agreement; or (3) under any other contract or agreement that provides for repatriation to the United States; or (4) for reasons other than for employment with a U.S. Government Agency. U.S. Citizen Eligible Family Members (USEFMs) will be given hiring preference. USEFMs are U.S. Citizen eligible family members of government employees assigned to the American Embassy Mission to Nigeria under Chief of Mission Authority. Applicants interested in applying for this position MUST provide photocopies of their U.S. Passport with a valid Nigerian Visa and current Work Permit*. Prior to employment, the successful Resident Hire candidate must be able to enter Nigeria on their U.S. Passport with the Nigerian visa and work permit*. Should an eligible candidate prefer to be hired as an Eligible Family Member, s/he must provide a copy of his/her family member’s travel orders assigning the employee to Post. *Work Permit requirement is only for non-EFM candidates. 10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facility Access Clearance. 11. STATEMENT OF DUTIES: General Statement of Purpose of the Contract : The DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) will fulfill two primary functions within the Program Office: (1) S/he will ensure that English-language documents are prepared for use within USAID, the U.S. Embassy, and externally are prepared in American English, are clear, grammatically correct, understandable, and appropriately tailored to target audiences. Such documents will follow Associated Press, OMB General Style Guidelines and the USAID style guide; will be well organized, concise, and easily accessible to reviewers from a wide variety of disciplines; and provide the requested information in the specified format. And (2) s/he will assist in the preparation of major USAID reporting and planning documents, and outreach and communications documents and materials in support of the USAID’s strategic communication strategy and objectives. S/he will be expected to work in a rapid paced environment and be capable of developing and delivering written products that are timely, well written and of the highest quality. S/he must be a proactive self-starter who also works well with different USAID, interagency and multi-cultural teams. The job holder is required to perform work-related travel both within Nigeria and externally, when necessary, in support of USAID DOC functions, events, site visits, VIP visitors, etc. Statement of Duties to be Performed: The USAID/Nigeria DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) will undertake the following duties and responsibilities: Writing and Editing — 70% The DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) ensures final documents are well organized, follow appropriate formats, contain the required information, and are written in clear and easily understood language. Documents produced and/or edited include, but are not limited to, correspondence, memoranda, reports, statements of work, design documents, bilateral agreements, presentations, speeches, fact sheets, success stories, press releases, website and social media content, weekly updates, cables, scene setters, BCLs, and lengthy technical documents. The DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) uses simple, clear language — particularly in communications materials intended for non-USAID audiences. He/She ensures the accuracy, appropriateness of style and tone, and adherence to format and content requirements of documents prepared by Mission staff. The DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) reviews complex and detailed USAID guidance, and conducts limited subject research, as required, in order to complete writing and/or editing assignments. He/She will interpret and communicate agency guidelines to other writers in the Mission, in order to maximize the quality of first-draft submissions to the Program Office. The Writer/Editor is expected to become familiar with a broad range of key sources of information for Agency policies and procedures, to work closely with the Program Office and other USAID staff, and to serve as a resource on matters related to official reporting requirements. Special Projects — 30% The DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) assists in the preparation of special reporting, planning, operational, and/or policy documents for the Mission, with responsibility for coordinating and standardizing inputs from a variety of drafters, as required; complying with agency guidance; and providing general quality control of the final product. The Writer/Editor facilitates the development and standardization of document templates, and other writing and style guides, in order to assist drafters. In this role the Writer/Editor works closely with the USAID senior leadership team, program office, USAID technical teams, as well the Interagency, when necessary, to identify guidance documents and tools to be utilized by staff, and to design and implement trainings for staff on the use of writing resources and provide follow-up mentoring and assistance. The DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) also advises on the preparation of all materials for public consumption, such as those posted to the USAID web site and USAID Nigeria social media platforms, as well as newsletters, brochures, and annual reports. Additionally, prospective candidates will be expected to independently conduct interviews and gather material from program participants to develop success stories on USAID’s work in Nigeria. The job holder is required to perform work-related travel both within Nigeria and externally, when necessary, in support of USAID DOC functions, events, site visits, VIP visitors, etc. USAID Consultations or Orientation: N/A Supervisory Relationship : The DOC Specialist (Writer/Editor) will work under the direct supervision of the USPSC Senior DOC Specialist. Supervisory Controls: This is a non-supervisory position. 12. PHYSICAL DEMANDS : The work requested does not involve undue physical demands. II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION A. Education: A bachelor’s degree in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, fine arts, engineering, or a related field is required. B. Prior Work Experience: A minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience where the applicant can demonstrate strong writing and communication skills is required. C. Job Knowledge: The work requires an excellent knowledge of English grammar and U.S. word usage and spelling; familiarity with the principles, methods, practices, and techniques of effective communication; and a basic understanding of issues related to international development is required. This includes an understanding of the use of written communication to effectively transmit easy-to-understand information about complex development programs/projects/activities and basic understanding of how to apply new developments and theories of the field to major problems. D. Skills and Abilities: Excellent interpersonal, teamwork, and customer service skills are essential for this position, demonstrating the ability to establish and maintain effective relationships within a multicultural work environment, including with USAID, Embassy colleagues, implementing partner staff, and others, as required. The work requires excellent oral and written communications skills, demonstrating the ability to prepare high-quality written materials and the ability to obtain, organize, and analyze information for outreach purposes. The position requires strong organizational and task management skills, demonstrating the ability to take initiative, work independently once guidance is provided, and manage several tasks simultaneously and under pressure to meet deadlines. The position also requires competence in using various computer software applications, including Microsoft Office (Word and PowerPoint) and Google Suite (Docs, Slides, Email), is required. In addition, a basic familiarity with Web design, Dreamworks, Acrobat, or other design software is highly desired. E. Language Proficiency: Fluency (level 4) in English Language is required. English writing, reading, and oral skills are required and may be tested. III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors in accordance with FAR 52.215-1 . The CO reserves the right at any point in the evaluation process to establish a competitive range of offerors with whom negotiations will be conducted pursuant to FAR 15.306(c) . In accordance with FAR 52.215-1 , if the CO determines that the number of offers that would otherwise be in the competitive range exceeds the number at which an efficient competition can be conducted, the CO may limit the number of offerors in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. FAR provisions of this solicitation are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far. Offerors that meet the minimum requirements, as outlined in this solicitation, will be evaluated, and ranked based on the following adjectival evaluation criteria and characteristics: EVALUATION CRITERIA / ADJECTIVE DEFINITION Exceptional A comprehensive and thorough application of exceptional merit. Offeror meets and fully exceeds the Government expectations and presents a very low risk or no overall degree of risk of unsuccessful contract performance. Strengths significantly outweigh any weaknesses that may exist. Very Good An offeror demonstrating a strong grasp of the requirements of the position. Offeror meets position requirements and presents a low risk of unsuccessful contract performance. Strengths significantly outweigh any weaknesses that exist. Satisfactory An offeror demonstrating a reasonably sound application and a good grasp of the position requirements. Offeror meets position requirements and presents a moderate risk of unsuccessful contract performance. Strengths outweigh weaknesses. Marginal The offeror shows a limited understanding of the requirements. Offeror meets some or most of the position requirements but presents a significant risk of unsuccessful contract performance. Weaknesses equal or outweigh any strengths that exist. Unsatisfactory The offeror does not meet the position requirements. Presents an unacceptable degree of risk of unsuccessful contract performance. Deficiencies and significant weaknesses demonstrate a lack of understanding of the Government’s needs. Weaknesses and or deficiencies significantly outweigh any strengths that exist. The technical evaluation committee may conduct reference checks, including references from individuals specifically identified by the offeror, and may do so before or after a candidate is interviewed. Finalists will be invited for interviews during the selection process. No response will be sent to unsuccessful offerors. USAID/Nigeria reserves the right to conduct interviews with the most highly ranked offerors and make the interview a deciding factor in selection. IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER Eligible offerors are required to complete and submit the offer form AID 309-2 , “Offeror Information for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals,” available at http://www.usaid.gov/forms . Offers must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted to the Point of Contact in Attachment 1 . Offeror submissions must clearly reference the Solicitation number on all offeror submitted documents. A signed cover letter of no more than three (3) pages that demonstrates how the Offeror’s qualifications meet the evaluation factors of the position. A Curriculum Vitae/Resume which, at a minimum, describes education, latest experience, and career achievements. Electronic copies of diploma, certificates and relevant degrees may be included to corroborate the CV/Resume. Names, current and accurate phone numbers, and email addresses of three (3) professional references that have knowledge of the Offeror’s abilities to perform the duties set forth in the solicitation. USAID reserves the right to contact all references. Limit all electronic (e-mail) submissions to one entry/email not larger than 5MB. Please submit attachments in PDF and Word formats. Application packages must be submitted electronically to [email protected]. V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD The CO will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award: For Medical clearance: DS-1843 Medical History and Examination - for individuals aged 12 and older. - DS-1622 Medical History and Examination - for children aged 11 and younger. - DS-3057 Medical Clearance Update (MCU). Forms found at https://www.state.gov/forms-medical-clearances/ (USN) For Security Clearance: Forms outlined below can be found at: http:/www.usaid.gov/forms/ SF-85, Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions OF-306, Declaration of Federal Employment. SF-86, Questionnaire for National Security Positions. FD-258, Fingerprint Card. * The above listed forms for Medical and Security Clearances shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES As a matter of policy and as appropriate, a RHUSPSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances: BENEFITS: (as applicable): Employer's FICA contribution. Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance. Pay Comparability Adjustment. Annual Increase (pending a satisfactory performance evaluation). Eligibility for Worker’s Compensation. Leave and Holidays. ALLOWANCES: (If applicable) : Resident Hire USPSCs are not eligible for allowances. VII. TAXES Resident Hire USPSCs are required to pay Federal income taxes, FICA, Medicare and applicable State Income taxes. VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs USAID regulations and policies governing USPSC awards are available at these sources: 1. USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix D, “Direct USAID Contracts with a U.S. Citizen or a U.S. Resident Alien for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/300/aidar . 2. Contract Cover Page form AID 309-1 available at https://www.usaid.gov/forms . Pricing by line item is to be determined upon contract award as described below: LINE ITEMS ITEM NO (A) SUPPLIES/SERVICES (DESCRIPTION) (B) QUANTITY (C) UNIT (D) UNIT PRICE (E) AMOUNT (F) 0001 Base Period - Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs ) - Award Type: PSC - Product Service Code: R497 - Accounting Info: TBD 2 LOT $_ TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor 1001 Option 1 - Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs) - Award Type: PSC - Product Service Code: R497 - Accounting Info: TBD 1 LOT $_ TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor 2001 Option 2 - Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs) - Award Type: PSC - Product Service Code: R497 - Accounting Info: TBD 1 LOT $_ TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor 3001 Option 3 - Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs) - Award Type: PSC - Product Service Code: R497 - Accounting Info: TBD 1 LOT $_ TBD $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor 3. Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins ( AAPDs/CIBs ) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs . 4. Ethical Conduct. By the acceptance of a USAID personal services contract as an individual, the contractor will be acknowledging receipt of the “ Standards of Ethical Conduct for Employees of the Executive Branch, ” available from the U.S. Office of Government Ethics, in accordance with General Provision 2 and 5 CFR 2635 . See https://www.oge.gov/web/oge.nsf/OGE%20Regulations . 5. PSC Ombudsman The PSC Ombudsman serves as a resource for any Personal Services Contractor who has entered into a contract with the United States Agency for International Development and is available to provide clarity on their specific contract with the agency. Please visit our page for additional information: https://www.usaid.gov/work usaid/personal-service-contracts-ombudsman. The PSC Ombudsman may be contacted via: [email protected] . 6. FAR Provisions Incorporated by Reference 52.204-27 PROHIBITION ON A BYTEDANCE COVERED APPLICATION JUN 2023 USAID is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. We encourage all eligible applicants of any of the above-mentioned groups to apply. [END OF SOLICITATION]