SOLICITATION NOTICE
R -- Aviatiion Operations and Standardization Advisor
- Notice Date
- 12/12/2006
- Notice Type
- Solicitation Notice
- NAICS
- 928120
— International Affairs
- Contracting Office
- Department of State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, INL RM MS, 2430 E Street, N.W., South Building SA-4 Navy Hill, Washington, DC, 20520, UNITED STATES
- ZIP Code
- 00000
- Solicitation Number
- PSC07017
- Response Due
- 1/12/2007
- Archive Date
- 1/27/2007
- Description
- Aviation Operations/Standardization Advisor - Santa Cruz, Bolivia Salary Range: $61,102-$72,960 Open Period: 12/12/2006-1/12/2007 Grade Range: FS-3 Position Information: Full-time. One year with four option years to be exercised at the discretion of the employing office. Duty Location: 1 vacancy, Santa Cruz, Bolivia SOLICITATION NUMBER: PSC07017 SUBJECT: Solicitation for services under a Personal Services Contract (PSC), Department of State (DOS), Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL). The United States Government, represented by the Department of State, is seeking proposals from U.S. citizens interested in providing the PSC services described below. DOS intends to award a contract for the basic term of one year with four one-year options to be exercised at the discretion of the U.S. Government. The contract will be awarded to an individual candidate representing the best overall value to the Government considering the candidate's qualifications and experience against criteria stated herein. This PSC position requires a TOP SECRET level security clearance, which must be maintained throughout the contract period, including option periods. The selected applicant must be eligible to obtain a Top Secret Level Security Clearance and will be subject to a security clearance investigation. The applicant's spouse or cohabitant may be subject to a background investigation. Denial of a TOP SECRET level security clearance will be grounds for removal from consideration for contract prior to award or termination of contract after award. Contract award will not be made until at a minimum an interim clearance is granted. PURPOSE: The purpose of this personal service contract position is to serve as the Aviation Operations/Standardization Advisor under the supervision of the INL Senior Aviation Advisor, Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Key Requirements: ?? U.S. Citizenship ?? Background and/or Security Investigation required. Major Duties: A. STATEMENT OF DUTIES 1. GENERAL STATEMENT OF THE PURPOSE OF THIS CONTRACT AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE CONTRACTOR BACKGROUND: This position is located in the U.S. Embassy/Narcotics Affairs Section (NAS), Santa Cruz, Bolivia. This position provides planning, operational and logistical support and contract oversight for the bilateral counter-narcotics (CN) aviation program in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, and its fleet of DOS/INL aircraft. The end game of the bilateral CN aviation program in Bolivia is the curtailment of the supply of illegal drugs from Bolivia into the United States through air-mobile, and ground eradication of drug crops, interdiction of refining laboratories and trafficking activities, and other enforcement operations. PURPOSE: The purpose of this Personal Services Contract (PSC) position is to provide an Aviation Operations Advisor for the bilateral CN aviation support program in Bolivia. The incumbent serves as the Aviation Operations Manager and the Safety/Standardization Advisor to assist the Senior Aviation Advisor by providing aviation operational, standardization, and safety expertise for program implementation as well as direction and execution in support of host nation CN efforts. The incumbent advises/oversees the Red Devil Task Force aviation assets, he/she ensures compliance with the operational requirements, and aircrew standardization policies/procedures/directives. The Aviation Operations/Standardization Advisor evaluates training and operational effectiveness of the in-country Department of State programs, to include air-mobile (D/N/NVG) interdiction operations and support for eradication operations, ensuring that all aviation missions are planned, coordinated and executed with safety and efficiency. He/she also monitors and evaluates the aviation support services contractor??s performance in the operational employment of aircraft, aircrew flight standardization and safety in support of these efforts. SUPERVISORY CONTROLS: The incumbent reports to and is supervised directly by the Senior Aviation Advisor. He/she ensures compliance with INL/A aviation policies, directives, and operations/training standards by contractor personnel and host government aircraft operators. 2. STATEMENT OF WORK Perform oversight and evaluation of contractor operations. This oversight includes but is not limited to, reviewing and recommending approval of waivers to publish directives, authorizing use of Office of Aviation aircraft, reviewing contractor/host nation flight operations procedures, and monitoring contractor/host nation pilot proficiency. Provide monthly award fee input to the Senior Aviation Advisor regarding contractor performance related to the RDTF Aviation Unit. Assist respective RDTF officers with proper planning and employment of USG assets (INL aircraft and personnel) in the counter-drug program. Provide instruction/guidance regarding Air Mobile Tactical Operations to the RDTF leadership. Training includes but is not limited to: instruction on the Reverse Planning Sequence for Air Mobile Operations, Air Assault/Air Movement Planning, Fire Support Planning, Ground Assault Planning, and Air Assault integration. Submit input for appropriate End Use Monitoring reports on USG aviation equipment to country team members. Direct and coordinate aircraft and personnel deployments within Bolivia for the purpose of destroying coca crops through manual eradication, intercepting illegal drug shipments through aerial interdiction, and providing RDTF Aviation Unit counter-narcotics aviation training and support for the institutionalization program. Develop, coordinate, organize, and implement a comprehensive operational systems and procedures for the RDTF Aviation Unit. These operational systems and procedures include but are not limited to: the Department of State Aircrew Training Program, Department of State Aviation Operations Directives, Department of State Guide to Aviation Training and Standardization, Department of State Aircrew Training Manuals, Office of Aviation standard operating procedures for counter-narcotics operations in Bolivia, and Deployment Operations procedures in support of RDTF operations throughout Bolivia. Develop Air Assault/Air Movement Tactics and new training procedures (through the contractor and the Office of Aviation training/standardization staff) for the purpose of enhancing the counter-drug mission in Bolivia. These tactics and procedures include but are not limited to, Night Vision Goggle operations/tactics and armed helicopter escort tactics/rules of engagement/aerial gunnery in support of the counter-narcotics mission in Bolivia. Provide operational direction and guidance to the contractor and RDTF Aviation Unit operations activities and personnel for the purpose of supporting the destruction and interdiction of narcotic products into the United States. This includes but is not limited to, planning and coordination with the Senior Aviation Advisor, U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, Drug Enforcement Agency, Customs, other federal agencies, and host nation law enforcement agencies for the purpose of destroying illegal narcotics crops through manual eradication and intercepting illegal drug shipments through aerial interdiction operations. Provide direction and oversight for the contractor and RDTF aviation training and standardization sections. Implement DoS INL Office of Aviation flight regulations, aviation training and standardization, safety and aircrew training programs. Oversee the RDTF Aviation Unit Rotary-Wing/Fixed-Wing Aviation Standardization Program. Collect, review, and disseminate data on aviation tactics, techniques, and employment in support of the counter-narcotics mission of the Office of Aviation. Maintain constant liaison with Office of Aviation; U.S. Department of Defense; Department of State, Narcotics Affairs Section (NAS); other U.S. Government agencies, and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration to keep abreast of current policies, procedures, and rules that pertain to Office of Aviation operations. Provide both technical and operational oversight to the RDTF Aviation Unit staff, and technical direction and management to contractor employees. Identify developmental and training needs, find ways to improve the quality of work, and assist in the development of overall performance standards for both RDTF and contractor personnel. 3. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS In-depth knowledge of the aviation aircrew training and standardization programs, to include: operating directives, training and standardization publications, aircrew training manuals, and related documents. In-depth knowledge of the employment of rotary-wing/fixed-wing aircraft in a counter-narcotics operation, including capabilities, limitations and techniques of the employment of types of aircraft operated by the Office of Aviation. Must have extensive operational experience in planning and conducting aviation and ground operations in battalion size military organizations involved in the training/standardization of aircrews, the tactical/operational employment of aircraft in a low intensity conflict environment, and the deployment of aircraft to OCONUS locations. Formal training and/or experience in orchestrating complex joint aviation and ground operations/training activities involving battalion sized military/law enforcement organizations. In-depth experience as a flight instructor/standardization pilot (D/N/NVG) within a formal aircrew-training program. In-depth experience as a flight operations officer/manager. Successful completion of a military or civil flight instructor qualification program (i.e., U.S. military rotary-wing instructor pilot or FAA Certified Flight Instructor) and military or civil standardization pilot qualification program (i.e., U.S. military rotary-wing standardization pilot or FAA Designated Pilot Examiner). Possess a current FAA commercial pilot certificate Rotorcraft, Helicopter with instrument rating as a minimum. FAA CFI/CFII and Designated Pilot Examiner Rotorcraft, Helicopter ratings are desirable. Experience in dealing with a myriad of individuals who come from diverse cultural, ethnic, and technical backgrounds. This includes line mechanics, pilots, supervisors, intermediate and senior level managers, and senior officials of both the U.S. and Bolivian Government. In-depth knowledge of and experience in the formulation of plans and policies pertaining to operations and unit level flight training activities. Should have a basic knowledge of command communications, government intelligence procedures, and Department of State flight operations procedures. Knowledge of U.S. Federal Aviation Administration regulations, including, but not limited to FAR Parts 1, 61,67, 91, 135, 137, 141, 143, and 830. Ability to read and write with fluency in the Spanish language. Knowledge of and skill in operation of desktop computer based word processing systems. Knowledge of U.S. Government contract administration procedures is desirable. 4. COMPLEXITY Assignments include analysis of aviation operations management and involve rotary-wing/fixed-wing aircraft, which function within an integrated program of diverse counter-narcotics missions. These missions include air assault/air movement of ground troops, aerial interdiction, forward area aerial resupply/replenishment/sustainment activities, and RDTF aviation training. Incumbent must apply specialized and professional knowledge to supervise flight standardization of aviation support contractor and RDTF Aviation Unit aircrews operating in Bolivia at multiple forward operating locations. The incumbent oversees host national air crew training programs, plans, policies, and procedures for the Office of Aviation, provides recommendations to the Senior Aviation Advisor and the Director of Operations of the Office of Aviation regarding ongoing projects, provides guidance to contractor, RDTF Aviation Unit aircrews and operations personnel, and oversees implementation of the program. The incumbent performs continuous analysis of interrelated issues of effectiveness and efficiency affecting the Office of Aviation??s aviation program that will improve effectiveness and flight safety of aviation operations in support of the counter-narcotics mission. 5. PHYSICAL DEMANDS The work is both physical and sedentary in nature and involves activity at both the main and field locations. May require significant physical exertion and dexterity. Incumbent must be able to independently perform fieldwork in remote areas for extended periods without assistance. Must successfully complete an annual FAA Second Class Medical examination in accordance with FAR Part 67. 6. WORK ENVIRONMENT The work involves extensive travel to the field for meetings, conferences, activity reviews, field inspections, program evaluations, and observation of RDTF unit training and activities. Some field sites have been declared hazardous duty locations by the Department of State due to hostile activities of the narco-traffickers and therefore may pose significant risk to the incumbent while at these sites. 7. EVALUATION CRITERIA: Factor 1. (Contract Oversight). Offeror??s ability to: a. Perform oversight and evaluation of contractor operations, to include reviewing and recommending approval of waivers to published directives, authorizing use of Office of Aviation aircraft, reviewing contractor flight operations procedures, and monitoring contractor and host nation pilot proficiency. b. Prepare and coordinate periodic reports on contractor performance, both orally and in writing; prepare award fee input. c. Provide operational direction and guidance to the contractor for the purpose of supporting the destruction and interdiction of narcotics products into the United States. Factor 2. (Assist RDTF Aviation Unit). Offeror??s ability to a. Assist respective RDTF aviation unit staff officers with proper planning and employment of USG assets (INL aircraft and personnel) in the counter-drug program. b. Provide instruction/guidance regarding Air Mobile Tactical Operations to both the RDTF aviation unit leadership, training and instruction regarding the Reverse Planning Sequence for Air Mobile Operations, Air Assault/Air Movement Planning, Fire Support Planning (airborne and ground assets), Ground Assault Planning, and Air Assault integration. c. Develop Air Assault/Air Movement Tactics and new training procedures (through the contractor and the Office of Aviation training/standardization staff) for the purpose of enhancing the counter-drug mission in Bolivia. Factor 3. (Assist Senior Aviation Advisor/Embassy; Represent USG-INL/A Interests). Offeror??s ability to: a. Direct and coordinate aircraft and personnel deployments within Bolivia for the purpose of destroying coca crops through manual eradication, intercepting illegal drug shipments through aerial interdiction, and providing RDTF Aviation Unit counter-narcotics aviation training and support for the institutionalization program. b. Develop, coordinate, organize, and implement comprehensive operational systems and procedures for the Office of Aviation; including Department of State Aircrew Training Program, Department of State Aviation Operations Directives, Department of State Guide to Aviation Training and Standardization, Department of State Aircrew Training Manuals, and Office of Aviation Standard Operating Procedures for counter-narcotics operations in Bolivia. c. Perform planning and coordination with the Senior Aviation Advisor, U.S. Department of Defense, Department of State, Drug Enforcement Agency, Customs, other federal agencies, and host nation law enforcement agencies for the purpose of destroying illegal narcotics crops through aerial eradication and intercepting illegal drug shipments through aerial interdiction operations. d. Provide direction and oversight of contractor and RDTF Aviation Unit training and standardization. e. Implement DoS INL Office of Aviation flight regulations, aviation training programs. f. Collect review and disseminate data on aviation tactics, techniques and employment in support of counter-narcotics missions. Factor 4. (Experience/Past Performance). Offeror??s previous experience and quality of performance. (Evaluator may use all evaluation information available at the time of the evaluation, whether provided by the applicant or obtained from references). B.. COMPENSATION: Compensation for the position will be negotiated as follows: Level of experience will dictate the salary level within the grade range. Entry level salary will normally be at the first step of the grade range for the position. However, consideration will be given to the successful applicant??s experience that is specifically relevant to the position to be filled. Number of years of relevant experience will determine at what step within the grade range the successful applicant will be compensated. C. HOW TO APPLY: You must submit your application so that it will be received by the closing date of the announcement. The applicant must submit an Optional Form 612, a resume and 3 letters of reference. Proposals must include all of the following: 1) a resume, 2) an Optional Form 612 (OF 612) signed and dated, and 3) three written letters of reference including reference contact information. The OF 612 is available at http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/forms.asp. Proposals should include the applicant's full mailing address, fax number, telephone number and e-mail address. The proposal should reference the solicitation number, PSC06031. Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures included in their proposals. Any questions may be directed to Linda Gower, Contracting Officer, INL/RM/MS, DOS, who may be reached at FAX (202) 776-8775 or E-Mail Gowerlg@state.gov. Proposals may be submitted by facsimile or e-mail, but originals must be sent via Federal Express or DHL. Proposals must NOT be sent via the US Postal Service as receipt of US Postal Service mail is delayed. Late submissions will not be considered. Submissions by Federal Express or DHL should be addressed to U.S. Department of State INL/RM/MS SA4 Navy Hill South Rm 120 Attn: Linda Gower (202) 776-8774 2430 E Street NW Washington, D.C. 20520 Proposals are due no later than 4:00 PM on 1/12/2007. Persons submitting proposals are responsible for confirming receipt of all required documents by the due date. Interested applicants are responsible for obtaining all posted amendments to this solicitation. All amendments issued will be available on the Federal Business Opportunities website www.fedbizopps.gov under State, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, INL/RM/MS Washington DC, Solicitation PSC06017. Contact Information: Linda G. Gower Phone: 202-776-8774 Fax: 202-776-8775 Internet: Gowerlg@state.gov Or write: Department of State, INL/RM/MS, SA-4 Navy Hill South 2430 E. Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20520 F. What To Expect Next: You will be contacted for an interview if you are selected. G. BENEFITS Applicable benefits, policies, and regulations Employee's FICA Contribution Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance, if applicable Pay Comparability Adjustment Annual Increase, if applicable Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Shipment of household goods within the CONUS to duty location ALLOWANCES (if applicable). * (A) Post Differential (Chapter 500), and (B) Danger Pay (Section 650). CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs) PERTAINING TO PSCs 99-09 PSC's Annual Health Insurance Costs 98-16 Annual Salary Increase for USPSCs 98-19 Home Leave under USPSCs 98-24 Use of Compensatory (Comp) Time by PSCs 97-11 1997 FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts 97-03 New USAID Contractor Employee Physical Examination 93-17 Financial Disclosure Requirements Under a Personal Services Contract (PSC)
- Place of Performance
- Address: Santa Cruz
- Country: BOLIVIA
- Country: BOLIVIA
- Record
- SN01194865-W 20061214/061212220302 (fbodaily.com)
- Source
-
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