Ladies/Gentlemen: SOLICITATION NUMBER: 167-Pristina-PSC-FY08-01 ISSUED BY: Executive Office, USAID/Kosovo SUBJECT: Personal Service Contractor (USPSC) ? Infrastructure Program Manager The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is seeking applications (Standard Form 171 or Optional Form 612) from qualified individuals interested in providing PSC services as described in the attached solicitation. Submittals shall be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. Any questions on this solicitation may be directed to Human Resources Specialist, Mimoza K?puska, at the Executive Office of USAID/Kosovo in Pristina, who can be reached by: phone:(++381)(38)243673, fax:(++381) (38) 249 493, email:
[email protected] Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their applications. All applications and the required documents should be submitted via fax, internet as email attachments, or by DHL courier as follows: BY EMAIL TO: Mimoza K?puska, Human Resources Specialist:
[email protected], BY DHL, consign documents to: Address: Attention Mimoza K?puska, Executive Office USAID/Pristina, Kosovo Arberia I, Ismail Qemali, No.1 Pristina, Kosovo Telephone 381 38 243 673 Sincerely, Signed Don Brady Acting Executive Officer Please make sure your application form is signed, otherwise it will not be taken into consideration. 1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 167-Pristina-PSC-FY08-01 2. ISSUANCE DATE: February 21, 2008 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME SPECIFIED FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: March 15, 2008 4. POSITION TITLE: Infrastructure Program Manager ? USAID/Kosovo 5. MARKET VALUE: $ 81,093.00 - $ 105,420.00 per annum (GS 14 ? equivalent) 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: May 2008 ? May 2010 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Pristina, Kosovo 8. POSITION DESCRIPTION: Background: Kosovo formally declared independence on February 17, and was immediately recognized by the US and most of the EU. While the rest of the world, for the most part, recognizes Kosovo as an independent country, some - led by Serbia and Russia - are opposed to this move, stating that this sets a dangerous precedent for other separatist movements. In November 2005, former Finnish President Martti Ahtisaari was appointed the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General of the United Nations for the future status process for Kosovo. After 14 months of negotiations concluded in March 2007, Mr. Ahtisaari submitted his report to the Security Council, which indicated that the irreconcilable positions of the parties had made the goal of a negotiated settlement unattainable. Mr. Ahtisaari recommended independence for Kosovo, supervised initially by the international community. His settlement proposal, upon which such independence is to be based, builds upon the positions of the parties in the negotiating process and offers compromises on many issues to achieve a durable solution. Following the stalemate on Ahtisaari?s proposal for a phased process of independence for Kosovo, the Troika was established by the so-called Contact Group of countries -- the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany , Italy and Russia. The Troika, consisting of European Union, United States and Russian, issued its report in December 2007 after 120 days of unsuccessful talks between the Serbian authorities and the representatives of the Kosovo Albanians. Recognition of Kosovo?s independence by other countries will be conditioned upon adherence to the principles outlined in the Ahtisaari plan, which offers Kosovo Serbs exclusive rights, security and privileged relations with Serbia. Meanwhile the transition from an UNMIK-administered Kosovo to one in which the Government of Kosovo takes full responsibility for managing Kosovo?s affairs, will accelerate as new European structures are established to monitor and ensure adherence to Ahtisaari provisions. A new consitution and Ahtisaari-compliant laws will be put in place within 120 days after independence is declared. Parliamentary elections in November and December 2007 resulted in a change in the ruling coalition. Whereas previously the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) was in a ruling coalition with the Alliance for Kosovo?s Future (AAK), the 2007 elections resulted in a win for the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK). Subsequently, the PDK joined in a governing coalition with the LDK. It is in the midst of these historic and significant transitions ? from an UNMIK-administered government to a Kosovar-administered government with European oversight; from a province of Serbia to an independent country with a new constitution and legal framework; and a change in the ruling coalition ? that USAID is currently providing assistance to Kosovo. USAID has been substatialy involved is supporing rehabilitaion and development in Kosovo since 1999. In the summer of 2008, it is expected that there will be a donor?s conference, where the USG and the EU together with the multilateral donors will pledge assistance to Kosovo. The infrastructure program will be linked to pledges made here, and to the Government?s Medium Term Expenditure Fremwwork. POSITION DESCRIPTION: A. Basic Function of the position: The USAID/Kosovo Infrastructure Program Manager will serve as the mission?s leader and cognizant technical officer (CTO) for the infrastructure and rehabilitation programs (excluding energy). This program will focus on construction, rehabilitation of water and sanitation systems, school buildings, and other possible structures that will provide visible, tangible benefits to the people of newly independent Kosovo. Activities under this program will dove-tail with the government of Kosovo?s priorities under their Medium Term Expenditure Framework and relate to USG pledges at the donor conference to be held in late spring or summer of 2008. In addition, these programs will follow guidelines adhering to USAID earmarks in water and other specific areas. The Infrastructure Program Manager will be responsible for identifying, designing and managing programs that meet USAID/Kosovo objectives of helping the fledgling government of Kosovo be able to provide basic services to its majority ethnic Albanian and minority Serb (and others) population, in a equitable, transparent manner that fosters social harmonization. Overall Objective: Based in Pristina, the PSC Infrastructure Program Manager will be assigned to the USAID Economic Growth Office (EGO) and will be responsible for oversight of infrastructure projects in Kosovo (programs relating to the Energy sector will be overseen by a different manager). He/She will report to the Director of the EGO on technical and policy matters related to infrastructure rehabilitation, and program coordination and implementation. The Program Manager will supervise one or more Pristina-based Foreign Service National (FSN) local engineers, and will be responsible for oversight of activities and processes related to the planning, design, sub-contracting and execution of water and sanitation, building of schools and other infrastructure projects. This will include: (a) USAID oversight of the U.S. contractor?s activities to insure compliance with contract terms and objectives; (b) monitoring the progress of infrastructure rehabilitation and institutional strengthening activities, including identifying and addressing problems; and (c) certifying for USAID that activities are completed in a timely and effective manner. Specific Duties and Responsibilities: The incumbent will have the following specific duties and responsibilities: * Lead the process of identification and selection of infrastructure rehabilitation projects, through a process involving close liaison with the central government of Kosovo, communities, local governments, utility companies, NGO and donor institutions, the interim administration for the province (UNMIK), the joint allied military force in Kosovo (KFOR), USAID management, and the US Office in Pristina (USOP). * Assist in the preparation and review of procurement documentation and review of technical proposals, solicitations, award recommendations, and contracts regarding engineering accuracy and adequacy. * Ensure that criteria for rehabilitation project selection are met. These include: conformity with project eligibility and cost guidelines, engineering feasibility, conformity with local interests, potential for rapid economic and service recovery, potential for operational sustainability and environmental soundness, among others. * Ensure that each project includes an appropriate level of planning for sustainable operations after the completion of physical infrastructure rehabilitation. This planning will include management and performance objectives of the infrastructure operator/owner, an outline of operational tasks and responsibilities, detailed budget and revenue planning, and performance indicators. Ensure that performance enhancement measures are included in memoranda of agreement between USAID, the beneficiaries, and other relevant parties. * Maintain all liaison and direct communications with the U.S. general contractor. Supervise and monitor all planning, design, construction, institutional strengthening, and post-implementation work done by the U.S. general contractor, including work done by sub-contractors. * Report on the Contractor's performance progress and notify the Contractor in writing of deficiencies observed during surveillance, and direct appropriate action to effect correction. Record and report to the Contracting Officer incidents of faulty or nonconforming work, delays or problems. * Review, on random basis, contract costs submitted by the contractor and sub-contractors. * Based upon notification by the U.S. general contractor, USAID FSN engineer recommendations, and own inspection, certify that projects are complete and meet all applicable standards. Administratively approve vouchers for reimbursement or advances. * Supervise and mentor FSN engineer, project development, and clerical staff at USAID/Kosovo and in the field, who will monitor project implementation in the field. Advise on additional clerical and technical staffing requirements, prepare scopes of work and selection criteria for such staff, and assume supervisory responsibility for the same. * Prepare or oversee the preparation of progress reports and other reports and documents as required by the Mission. Oversee the development and maintenance of a management and results information system for the program. Conduct field inspections and site visits. Accompany visiting USG representatives on field visits, and prepare briefing and informational documentation for official purposes. * Supervise the review, on a quarterly basis, of standard unit costs prepared by the U.S. contractor for materials and construction work and those used to evaluate sub-contract costs. * Participate in project planning meetings and other technical and policy meetings as required. Maintain regular and frequent contact with other donors, the interim administration (UNMIK), KFOR, community councils, local governments, NGOs, and private sector representatives regarding infrastructural rehabilitation programs in Kosovo. * Advise the USAID/Kosovo Mission director, program and technical offices, and other staff regarding issues affecting policy, strategic planning, technical direction, programming, activity design, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, managing for results, and other USAID program management matters. * Provide the full range of engineering analysis and support services involving the planning and implementation of programs and proposed activities, including preparing portions of key USAID documents such as the Operational Plan, Congressional Budget Justifications, and other strategic reports. * As member of the Economic Growth Office team perform other advisory, managerial, and reporting tasks. B. Evaluation Criteria for Competitive Procurement Required qualifications for the position include: * A graduate degree in Engineering, Business Management, Economics or other social science fields from an internationally recognized university. * At least ten years of experience in a developing country context. * Prior work experience with infrastructure-related programs, demonstrating the candidate?s ability to successfully lead and manage multi-sector and complex activities, and effectively supervise local and U.S. general contractors in developing country situations. * Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain counterpart contacts and working relationships at both the senior policy and technical implementation levels, with local communities, local and central government officials, NGOs, donor organizations, and military liaison officials. * Previous experience living and working under harsh, difficult and/or dangerous conflict or post conflict conditions. Ability to resolve problems in a team context, while maintaining an aggressive work pace, in order to produce results under intense scrutiny and visibility. * Strong communications, interpersonal, teamwork, and leadership skills. Ability to prepare reports and technical and policy briefs. Experience with the management and leadership of teams. Ability to interact and work effectively with organizational management and support offices. Experience with management information systems. * Fluent English speaking, reading and writing required. Candidate should be able to effectively communicate using verbal, written and interpersonal skills to a variety of stakeholders. Knowledge of Albanian and Serbian would be an asset. Evaluation Criteria/Skills And Qualifications: Education (20 points): Master's degree in engineering, economics, business management or social sciences from an internationally accredited university is mandatory. Preference is for educational background in civil/environmental engineering or water related sciences. Experience (40 points): At least ten years experience in providing expert services in the design, management, and implementation of development projects and programs; management of international and local contractors, and monitoring and evaluating work performed; advising senior resource managers, planners and policy-makers with respect to infrastructure development, water resources management interventions, and/or private sector participation in the water and construction sector (either capital investment or operations and maintenance); experience in an overseas developing country environment required, preferably in the Balkans; relevant experience with international development agencies; familiarity with USAID or U.S. Government rules and regulations; and report writing for large agencies such as USAID. Knowledge and Abilities (40 points): Demonstrated knowledge of state of the art practices with regard to the identification and construction of water, wastewater treatment, school buildings and other infrastructure facilities; designing of systems that monitor and evaluate program deliverables; demonstrated knowledge of integrated, cross-sectoral water and/or education sector planning and management in support of sustainable development including the policy dialogue and change process; ability to communicate effectively on water resources, building construction and related environmental issues, both in writing and verbally, to specialists as well as non-specialists; and ability to deal effectively with a wide variety of U.S. professionals, other donors and local counterparts at technical and senior management levels on a broad range of complex issues associated with water resources engineering, construction of school buildings, private sector participation and integrated resources management. TOTAL POINTS: 100 Desired qualifications include: * An undergraduate degree in Engineering. * Knowledge of USAID program management procedures, and experience with USAID financed projects. * Work experience in transition countries of central and Eastern Europe. * Knowledge of Kosovo or the Balkan region. * Prior experience designing and building water/sanitation projects. C. Length of contract The initial period of service is two years, with the possibility of extension, subject to program needs and availability of funds and provided that performance has been satisfactory. D. Logistical Support Assignments of U.S. personnel to Kosovo are accompanied. Spouses and dependents over 21 years of age are authorized to accompany the contractor to post. Current post danger pay for Pristina is 20%. Current post differential pay is 20% and cost of living allowance is 10%. Please note that all allowances are subject to change. FICA and federal income tax will be withheld by USAID. In addition, employees will be authorized the standard household effects (HHE) limited shipment allowance for furnished post (7, 200lb), standard airfreight (250 lb. for the employee; 200 lb. for an accompanying spouse or other EFM) and shipment of POV. USAID/Kosovo will provide the contractor with suitable housing and office space and equipment, consistent with mission standards and requirements. The Contractor will have post privileges, such as check cashing, medical care, and in-coming and out-going personal mail service in accordance with USOP rules and regulations. E. Period of Service The target start date for this position is May 2008. Within 15 days after written notice from the Contracting Officer that all clearances have been received or, unless another date is specified by the Contracting Officer in writing, the Contractor shall proceed to Pristina to perform the above services. 9. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: This position is opened to U.S. Citizens and Third Country Nationals. The selected candidate must obtain a security clearance (Secret) and all required medical clearances. 10. BENEFITS: AS A MATTER OF POLICY, AND AS APPROPRIATE, A PSC IS NORMALLY AUTHORIZED THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS: 10-1. BENEFITS Employee's FICA Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance Pay Comparability Adjustment Annual Increase Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Access to medical facilities Pouch mail service as per post policy 10-2. 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) (J) Danger Pay (Section 650) * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). C. FEDERAL TAXES: PSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion. 11. APPLYING Qualified individuals are requested to submit a U.S. Government Optional Form 612 or SF 171. This form is available at the USAID website, http://www.info.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/forms or http://fillform.gsa.gov, or at local US Federal offices. OF 612 shall be submitted by fax, e-mail, DHL air courier by the closing date. 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. 12. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs and AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs AAPD 06-12 Homeland Security Presidential Directive-12 (HSPD-12) Implementation (2006) AAPD 06-11 Home Leave and Revised General Provision 5, Leave and Holidays (August 2006) AAPD 06-10 PSC Updated Medical Expense Payment Responsibility (October 2006) AAPD 06-07 AIDAR, Appendix D: Contract budget, salary determination and salary increase AAPD 06-03 Updated Contractor Salary Approval Threshold Policy/Procedures AAPD 06-01 Medical Evacuation Update AAPD 05-10 Calculation of Vacation Leave for U.S. Personal Services Contractor?s (USPSC) AAPD 05-08 Personal Service Contracts (PSCs) Annual Health Insurance Costs AAPD 05-02 Clarification of Policy for Personal Services Contracts with Anticipated Contract Performance periods Exceeding Five (5) Years AAPD 04-15 Cash Awards for USPSCs and TCNPSCs CIB 01-07 Clarification of the Extension/Renewal Policy Regarding Personal Services Contracts CIB 01-10 Revision of Medical Clearance Process - Personal Services Contracts ("PSC") with U.S. Citizens CIB 00-08 Revision of Competitive Process - Personal Services Services Contracts ("PSCs") with U.S. Citizen CIB 00-3 FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts (PSCs) CIB 99-7 Contractual Coverage for Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) Services CIB 98-25 Defense Base Act (DBA) Coverage and DBA Waiver List CIB 98-24 Use of Compensatory (Comp) Time by PSCs CIB 98-23 Guidance Regarding Classified Contract Security and Contractor Personnel Security Requirements CIB 98-16 Annual Salary Increase for USPSCs CIB 98-14 Change in Required Application Form for USPSCs CIB 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 CIB 97-3 New USAID Contractor Employee Physical Examination CIB 96-23 Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contract CIB 96-19 U. S. Personal Services Contract (USPSC) - Leave CIB 96-8 Determining a Market Value for PSCs Hired Under Appendix D, Handbook 14 CIB 94-9 Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contractors (PSCs) CIB 93-17 Financial Disclosure Requirements Under a Personal Services Contract (PSC) 13. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs For initial consideration: 1. Optional Form 612 or SF 171. Resume or CV may be attached. Upon advice by the Contracting Officer that the applicant is successful the following forms will be needed: 2. Contractor Employee Biographical Data Sheet (AID 1420-17) 3. Contractor Physical Examination ( Form DS 1843) 4. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security) (SF-86) 5. Finger Print Card (FD-258). ** (Available from the law enforcement offices or in USAID/Washington). * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). ** Forms 2 through 5 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. SUBJECT TO FUNDS AVAILABILITY