SOURCES SOUGHT
58 -- SENIOR DEVELOPMENT OUTREACH & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
- Notice Date
- 7/18/2012
- Notice Type
- Sources Sought
- NAICS
- 541990
— All Other Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Contracting Office
- Agency for International Development, Overseas Missions, Afghanistan USAID-Kabul, Department of State, Washington, District of Columbia, 20521-5820
- ZIP Code
- 20521-5820
- Solicitation Number
- SOL-306-12-000072-DIR
- Archive Date
- 9/3/2012
- Point of Contact
- Sameer Lodeen, Phone: 202-216-6288-Ext 4344
- E-Mail Address
-
slodeen@usaid.gov
(slodeen@usaid.gov)
- Small Business Set-Aside
- N/A
- Description
- 1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: SOL-306-12-000072/DIR 2. ISSUING DATE: July 18, 2012 3. CLOSING DATE: August 19, 2012 4. POSITION TITLE: Senior Development Outreach and Communications Officer 5. Number of Positions: One 6. MARKETING VALUE: GS-14 ($84,697 - $110,104) 7. ORGANIZATIONAL LOCATION OF POSITION: USAID/AFGHANISTAN 8. DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Office Director 9. SUPERVISORY CONTROL: Minimal. The incumbent is expected to act independently with little direction. 10. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The Personal Services Contract will be 13 months, with an option for renewal. 11. SECURITY ACCESS: U.S Citizens: Secret Level 12. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S. CITIZENS Only  POSITION DESCRIPTION: USAID SENIOR DEVELOPMENT OUTREACH AND COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER A. Basic Functions of the Position The incumbent will have the following duties and responsibilities: USAID/Afghanistan is the largest AID mission in the world and manages one of the most complex-development programs in one of the most-demanding environments. The program, with a multi-billion dollar portfolio, includes a broad range of activities agriculture, economic growth, education, government-capacity building, health, infrastructure, and women's empowerment. USAID/Afghanistan shares its messages with various audiences in many ways including: • Via public information and publicity materials prepared for general audiences and visitors; • Via story placement with local and international television, radio, print and other electronic media; and, • Via outreach programs and events, such as public affairs campaigns and public events. The Senior Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) Officer position offers both significant challenges and rewards. It requires adaptability, emotional stability, humor, patience, resilience and tact. The incumbent must be a strong writer and editor, skilled manager and possess excellent interpersonal abilities. Basic function of the position: The Senior DOC Officer reports directly to the Office of the USAID/Afghanistan Mission Director. The incumbent in this position: • Serves as a senior advisor to Mission Management on public-information, news- media relations, and outreach matters; • Supervises and manages a staff of Americans and Afghans, including several DOC officers at the GS 12/13 level (USPSCs); one senior FSN 11/12 Information Officer; one FSN-9 Senior Interpreter; and one FSN 7/8 translator; and • Coordinates information dissemination, journalism outreach, and public events within the Mission working with the Mission's offices, units and technical staff; and with non-USG organizations. Major Duties and Responsibilities: The Senior DOC manages a wide range of public-information and outreach activities in support of USAID/Afghanistan's programs and objectives, targeting information to specific audiences in both the United States and Afghanistan, in accordance with the Mission's public strategy and evolving circumstances. The work requires close collaboration with the Embassy Public Affairs Section, Mission Director and Deputy Mission Directors, Mission Program and Technical Offices and staff. Specific activities include: Public Information and Publicity Materials: 35% Supports the USAID Mission by overseeing the drafting, editing, and dissemination of timely and accurate information, fact sheets, press releases, responses for requests for information, and other public-information materials relating to USAID/Afghanistan activities. These documents must be written in clear, concise English, prepared for both reporters and general audiences, and designed for print, video, public talks and web use. Prepares submissions for The Weekly Success Story report to the Ambassador and prepares submissions for USAID Frontlines and other USAID public-information platforms including the Administrator's Blog and social-media outlets in Afghanistan and Washington. Serves as a resident expert on USAID branding and style guidelines, ensuring regulations are implemented. Recommends revisions and appropriate action. Manages preparation and maintenance of updated standard information package on the USAID program in Afghanistan for briefings and for distribution to the public and journalists, and for USAID/W, Department of State, Congress, and other agencies. These materials include scene setters, program briefing papers, project status reports, maps, photos, information about other donors, and general information about Afghanistan. Directs the development and maintenance of public-relations materials in English and in Dari and Pashto languages, including fact sheets, brochures, newsletters, presentations and other visual displays on USAID's programs and objectives. Oversees the maintenance of the Mission's English-language web materials, as well as the materials supplied by USAID/Afghanistan's implementing partners. Media Relations and Press: 25% Promotes separate, pro-active, targeted, information and media outreach activities for Afghanistan and the United States and coalition-partner nations. These activities are designed to push accurate information about USAID programs deep into local, regional and national markets in the United States, Afghanistan and elsewhere, through advertisements, billboards, magazines, newspapers, radio, television, public service announcements, and other outlets. Serves as the Mission's point of contact with U.S. and international news organizations and represents the Mission to the U.S. Ambassador and the Embassy Public Affairs Office in matters pertaining to USAID public affairs. Oversees monitoring of Afghan and U.S. news coverage and reports on placement of USAID-related articles in the Afghan and U.S. press to the Embassy, Mission, and Washington. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of all USAID/Afghanistan activities and monitors the public-events calendar. Performs other activities as directed. Oversees writing and distribution of press releases and follows up to encourage and support news coverage. Coordinates with technical offices, Embassy's PAS, and USAD/Washington to produce and release accurate, timely, useful and well-written information to local and international news outlets. Advises and work with Embassy PAS to expand opportunities for coverage of USAID assistance. This responsibility may include arranging briefings, interviews, tours of USAID projects, escorting journalists, and recording activities. Markets USAID/Afghanistan to target audiences in country though various news media. Public Events, Activities, and Interaction with USAID Offices and Implementing Partners: 25% Represents the Mission at the senior level on public-affairs and outreach matters with other branches of the USG, the Government of Afghanistan, the U.S. Military, NATO, other donor nations, the UN, World Bank and other groups and institutions. Directs and coordinates USAID/Afghanistan's public events, including ceremonies, conferences, openings, and ribbon-cuttings. Supervises drafting, editing, and distribution of fact sheets, press releases, and public documents. Manages posting of all information and materials to the Mission website, including photographs, success stories, fact sheets, and links to USAID partners. Maintains close contact with USAID Kabul's implementing partners and sub-contractors to guide and supervise their communications and media relations. Supervisory Role: 15% Advises and oversees development communication officers at the Mission and in the field. Monitors and evaluates progress toward communications objectives as outlined in the Mission-approved Communications Strategy. EVALUATION CRITERIA/SELECTION CRITERIA: Candidates will be evaluated and ranked based on the following selection criteria: 1. Education: (15 points) the successful candidate must have at least a bachelor degree. Graduate degree in development, international relations, journalism or related field preferred. 1. Work Experience: (20 points) at least 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience with international affairs, journalism, or international development. Successful supervision of staffs and experience working in conflict or post-conflict situations are desirable. Candidates should have had demonstrated success organizing and conducting roundtables and other events; producing web content, videos, podcasts; planning and delivering training; and working productively with journalists. Experience working in conflict or post-conflict situations is desirable. Previous USAID experience, knowledge of USG procedures, and experience in Afghanistan is desired. Experience as a sub-editor, editor or bureau chief highly desired. 2. Language Proficiency: (15 points) outstanding written and spoken English, keen analytical ability, and editorial skills are necessary. Knowledge of Dari and/or Pashto not required, but would be an added plus. Writing samples required. 3. Knowledge: (25 points) extensive knowledge of international affairs, U.S. foreign policy; demonstrated ability to work with U.S. and foreign journalists; proven ability to create messages and shape information and press materials; thorough knowledge of news-writing style required; experience with the organization and set-up of public events and conferences highly desirable. 1. Skills and Abilities: (25 points) the Senior Development Outreach and Communications Officer must have a demonstrated ability to exercise sound, independent, professional judgment; mentor junior officers and FSNs; and manage an office of public-information professionals. Strong written and editorial skills are a must. Must be a self-starter and have a strong background in press, radio, television, public information and web management. Must be able to work in fast-paced and sometimes difficult or dangerous environment and have strong sense of teamwork and interpersonal skills and possess emotional reliance and stability, humor and the ability to remain calm and think clearly under pressure. The incumbent must be able to work collaboratively. Maximum Points Available: 100 D. Term of Performance The term of the contract will be for thirteen months. Within 4 weeks 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 incumbent shall proceed to Kabul to perform the above services which may be extended upon mutual agreement and subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds. This position has been classified at a U.S. Government GS-14. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated depending on qualifications and previous salary history. In addition, the Mission has a 35% Post Differential allowance and 35% Danger Pay. FICA and federal income tax will be withheld by USAID. During this one year period you will be entitled to two Rest and Recuperation trips (R&R) and up to three Regional Rest Breaks. You will be entitled to 20 days Administrative Leave plus two days of travel time for each break. In excess of the Administrative Leave, you will have to use your Annual Leave or Compensatory time for the breaks. Afghanistan is a no-dependent post. E. General information regarding living and working conditions in Afghanistan Life in Kabul, the capital of Afghanistan has somewhat improved since the establishment of the government, and great strides have been made to regularize the availability of services, utilities, and supplies of common consumer items. Living conditions, however, are still difficult but this is an historical opportunity to work closely with a dedicated team to assist the Afghans to bring about peace and stability to their war-torn country. Afghanistan is an unaccompanied post. All staff will be housed on the heavily guarded and fortified Embassy compound, at a military compound, or at a PRT. F. Medical and Security Clearance The selected applicant must be able to obtain a USG top secret level security clearance and a Department of State Class I medical clearance. G. Benefits: As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the benefits and allowances listed in this section. [NOTE: A contractor meeting the definition of a U.S. Resident Hire PSC, shall be subject to U.S. Federal Income Tax, but shall not be eligible for any fringe benefits (except contributions for FICA, health insurance, and life insurance), including differentials and allowances.] A. BENEFITS: o FICA Contribution o Contribution toward Health & life insurance o Pay Comparability Adjustment o Eligibility for Worker's Compensation o Annual & Sick Leave o Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service as per post policy B. ALLOWANCES (If Applicable): (1) Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120) (2) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130) (3) Post Allowance (Section 220) (4) Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230) (5) Post Differential (Chapter 500) (6) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) and (7) Danger Pay (Section 650) (8) Education Allowance (Section 270) (9) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260) (10)Education Travel (Section 280) * 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. H. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs/AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs AAPD 06-11 Home Leave and Revised General Provision 5, Leave and Holidays AAPD 06-10 PSC Medical expense payment responsibility AAPD 06-07 AIDAR, Appendix D: Contract budget, salary determination and salary increase AAPD 06-01 Medical evacuation insurance CIB 01-10 Revision of medical clearance process - PSC with U.S. Citizens CIB 01-07 Clarification of the extension/renewal policy regarding PSCs CIB 01-05 Clarification of the Rest and Recuperation (R&R) policy regarding Third Country Nationals (TCNs) CIB 00-08 Revision of Competitive Process - PSCs with U.S. Citizens CIB 00-03 FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts CIB 99-22 PSC Policy 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 98-11 Determining a Market Value for Personal Services Contractors Hired under Appendix D. CIB 97-17 PSC's with U.S. Citizens or U.S. resident aliens CIB 97-16 Class Justification for use of Other Than Full and 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 96-23 Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contracts CIB 94-09 Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contractors CIB 93-17 Financial Disclosure requirements under a Personal Services Contract CIB 89-29 Use of Government Bill of Lading for Transportation of Personal Service Contractor (PSC) Household Effects, Unaccompanied Baggage and Privately Owned Vehicles Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertain to Personal Services Contracts can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/cib/subject.html#psc Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D or J also applies to PSCs can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf I. APPLYING All applications should be submitted electronically to e-mail address AfUSAIDJobs@state.gov Attention: Sameer Lodeen Human Resources Specialist USAID/Afghanistan To ensure that your application is received for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number as (DIR1272) in the subject line of your e-mail or your application may not be considered. Applicants may submit an application against this solicitation at any time but prior to August 19, 2012 16:30 local time unless revised. The highest ranking applications may be selected for an interview. Please note that only short listed candidates will be notified. J. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs: For initial consideration: 1. Cover Letter 2. Curriculum Vitae Interested applicants must submit: 1. his/her most current curriculum vitae (CV) or resume; 2. three (3) to five (5) references, who are not family members or relatives, with working telephone and email contacts, a. The applicant's references must be able to provide substantive information about his/her past performance and abilities. USAID/Afghanistan will only contact references for the finalist, and will only do so with the permission of the applicant. 3. A written statement that addresses the Evaluation/Selection Criteria in this solicitation. The CV/resume must contain sufficient relevant information to evaluate the application in accordance with the stated evaluation criteria. Broad general statements that are vague or lacking specificity will not be considered as effectively addressing particular selection criteria. K. Other Information related to PSCs: Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertain to Personal Services Contracts. Those documents can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/cib/subject.html#psc Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D or J also applies to PSCs, which can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf Point of Contact: Sameer Lodeen Human Resources Specialist Email: slodeen@usaid.gov Phone (in Afghanistan) - (202) 216-6288 Ext. 4344; Cell 0093797777301 or Fax (202) 216-6288 (Ext. 105) Place of Performance USAID/Afghanistan U.S. Embassy Great Masoud Road Kabul, Afghanistan
- Web Link
-
FBO.gov Permalink
(https://www.fbo.gov/spg/AID/OM/AFG/SOL-306-12-000072-DIR/listing.html)
- Place of Performance
- Address: USAID/Afghanistan, U.S. Embassy, Great Masoud Road, Kabul, Afghanistan, Kabul, Non-U.S., 0093, Afghanistan
- Record
- SN02808088-W 20120720/120719000704-badee1b766923ea72ad1f48dba35f97e (fbodaily.com)
- Source
-
FedBizOpps Link to This Notice
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