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USAID and Peace Corps Job Opportunities
Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCNPSC to serve as USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance) in the office of Humanitarian and Assistance (Closes September 19, 2023)
I. GENERAL INFORMATION
- SOLICITATION NO.: 72066323R10018
- ISSUANCE DATE: 09/05/2023
- CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/19/2023, no later than 5:00 p.m (EAT) (close of business).
- POINT OF CONTACTS: John Marten, A/Supervisory EXO and Fekadu Tamirate, HR Specialist, e-mail at addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov.
- POSITION TITLE: USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance)
- MARKET VALUE: $24,124 – $43,420 yearly e., equivalent to FSN – 11. In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Ethiopia. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salary will be paid in local currency at the exchange rate in effect when the payroll is processed.
- PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature through a series of sequential contracts, subject to continued need, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funds.
The expected period of performance will be from 12/02/2023 – 12/01/2028.
- PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy, Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
- ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Cooperating Country Nationals (CCNs). “Cooperating country national” means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen, or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country.
- SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facilities access.
- STATEMENT OF DUTIES
- General Statement of Purpose of the Contract
USAID/Ethiopia’s Office of Humanitarian Assistance (OHA) is responsible for coordinating the USG’s emergency humanitarian response in Ethiopia and supporting Ethiopia’s relief-to-development continuum. In coordination with USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), OHA provides life-saving humanitarian assistance—including food, water, shelter, emergency healthcare, sanitation and hygiene, and critical nutrition services, and takes a holistic look at humanitarian aid, providing assistance before, during and after a crisis—from readiness and response to relief and recovery. This includes non-emergency programming that is foundational to linking humanitarian assistance to long-term development to ensure USG and GoE development gains are protected.
The Specialist is a key member of the OHA Office, Humanitarian Programs Team. The jobholder reports to the Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Team Leader) and has no formal supervisory responsibility.
The Jobholder provides technical leadership and strategic direction, activity management, and contributes to reporting for the Office of Humanitarian Assistance. Technical and activity management functions include providing technical and strategic guidance on multi-sectoral humanitarian programs, serving as activity manager for BHA awards, and monitoring BHA activities. The Jobholder represents USAID on technical working groups and contributes to annual reports.
- Statement of Duties to be Performed.
Program/Project/Activity Management (50%)
- Lead the design of project mechanisms and activities supporting the work with humanitarian partners to save lives, reduce suffering, and mitigate the economic and social impact of humanitarian needs. Primary areas of humanitarian programming will include food assistance, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene, health, protection, agriculture, and non-food item assistance.
- Provide field-level project monitoring, quality assurance, and technical direction to measure the performance, quality, and effectiveness of Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), USG’s Title II and Development Assistance resources in accordance with Mission reporting guidelines.
- Serve as Activity Manager for up to seven (7) awards. Keep the Office Director regularly informed of program implementation progress, results, and issues/problems on a timely basis.
- Participate in, and ensure the effectiveness of, site and other field visits.
Technical Leadership & Strategic Direction (25%)
- Provide technical support to Mission staff, USAID/Washington managers, and implementing partners on issues pertaining to humanitarian assistance, including food security, food assistance, social protection, resilience, livelihoods, market system development, WASH, nutrition, disaster risk reduction, and/or emergency assistance.
- Provide field-level project monitoring, quality assurance, and technical direction to measure the performance, quality, and effectiveness of Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), USG’s Title II and Development Assistance resources in accordance with Mission reporting guidelines.
- Provide technical leadership through established donor working groups, the cluster system, and government-led technical committees to support the effective implementation of USAID, other donor, and Government of Ethiopia programs. This may include representation on technical committees and working groups, including on areas such as: nutrition, protection, food security, WASH, PSNP, resilience, and climate change.
- Through field travel, literature review, research and regular communications with local and international stakeholders, keep abreast of emerging developments in humanitarian and development approaches; advise on how these policies and strategies can most effectively be incorporated to enhance Mission approaches.
- Identify and arrange for procurement of short-term technical assistance and ensure that the objectives are consistent with and support the Mission’s development portfolio.
- Organize site visits and prepare orientation materials for delegations from USAID, the State Department, and other agencies.
- Identify potential external partners and develop relationships with private sector, non-governmental and other non-traditional development organizations through formal and informal outreach to build/maintain key relationships with senior officials and executives from potential external partners.
Representation and Reporting (25%)
- Represent the Mission at designated national, regional and international meetings that relate to Humanitarian Assistance, including regular participation in national-level technical working groups and related committees.
- Establish strategic working relationships with senior government officials at the national and district levels, humanitarian partners, civil society organizations, private sector counterparts and professional organizations to enhance regular and timely sharing of information on issues related Humanitarian Assistance, including changes in key policies, and legal and regulatory environments that would affect the implementation of USAID programs.
- Provide strategic leadership in the preparation of key annual and mid-term planning and reporting documents, including the Country Operation Plan, the Congressional Budget Justification, Technical Notifications, and Quarterly, Semi-Annual and Annual Progress Reports.
- Represent USAID at designated national, regional and international meetings, including regular participation in national level technical working groups, professional associations, and related committees.
- Respond flexibly and capably to a wide range of work-related requirements including responding to requests for information from the Mission Director, the Embassy, USAID/Washington, and Congress.
- Establish strategic working relationships with senior officials at the national and district level, humanitarian and development partners to enhance regular and timely sharing of information on issues related to key policies, and legal and regulatory environments that could affect the implementation of USAID programs.
- In rare instances and when requested in connection with a declared emergency, provide short-term TDY assistance to a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in another country or to a Response Management Team (RMT) in Washington, approved by the mission director.
The contractor is eligible for travel to the U.S., or to other locations abroad, for training, for temporary duty, or to participate in the “Foreign Service National” Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.
- Supervisory Relationship: The Specialist will report to the Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Team Leader) in the Office of Humanitarian Assistance. Most assignments are self-generated and occur in the normal course of work and the incumbent exercises independence in most phases of his/her job responsibilities but determines those situations that must be coordinated with the supervisor or other team members. Completed work is accepted as technically correct and the overall work is reviewed in terms of results achieved.
- Supervisory Controls: The Specialist will not have formal supervisory responsibility; however, s/he will provide mentoring and coaching to Activity Managers and IP staff. She/He will take delegation responsibilities when coverage is needed.
- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION
a. Education: Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree or local equivalent from an accredited institution in International Development, International Affairs, Health, Social or Behavioral Sciences, or Management.
b. Prior Work Experience: Minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible, professional experience in Humanitarian Assistance, Resilience or International Development. Of that experience, at least two (2) years with the USG, other multilateral or bi-lateral organizations, and/or NGO.
c. Language: Excellent written and spoken English and Amharic (Level 4).
III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with candidates 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 candidates 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 candidates in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.
Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified candidates in comparison to other candidates. Candidates must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:
EVALUATION FACTORS
EDUCATION (5 points): Points will be given for (1) education above the minimum level and/or (2) specialized education pertinent to the position. and/or (3) specialized training pertinent to the position.
WORK EXPERIENCE (35 points): Points will be given for (1) experience above the minimum levels required, (2) specialized experience pertinent to the position, (3) experience in pertinent development assistance activities, (4) experience in development organizations that are large and/or international.
KNOWLEDGE (35 points): Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Humanitarian Assistance and/or Resilience approaches and interventions and poverty and vulnerability situations in Ethiopia. Demonstrated knowledge of the overall humanitarian context and its current priorities as well as the key aspects of US Government foreign assistance to the country. Demonstrated knowledge of USG strategic direction, its chief accomplishments and its challenges.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES (25 points): Demonstrated technical and analytical skills in management, analytical and research; social and professional judgment; as well as interpersonal interaction in cross-cultural and multi-level settings. The jobholder must maintain an ability to interact effectively with mid-level and senior-level government officials and members of the business community; and an ability to maintain collaborative working relationships within a team structure. Demonstrated skills in communication, advocacy, and networking. Demonstrated conceptual and analytical skills to be able to quickly grasp and translate new concepts into operational plans and results. Demonstrated ability to exercise flexibility to be able to accept and react to evolving planning and implementation contexts. Demonstrated computer skills including skills with Microsoft Office, web-based databases, and electronic filing. Demonstrated ability to exercise individual judgment in his/her roles. Demonstrated skills in initiative and offers leadership in reviewing the progress of programs and projects under his/her responsibility, including performance reports, pipeline management, program implementation reviews, as well as fulfilling other USAID and USG reporting requirements. Demonstrated decision-making ability and judgment in planning and carrying out tasks, using diplomacy and tact.
INTERVIEW PERFORMANCE (100 points)
BASIS OF RATING: Candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors.
Candidates should address these factors in the offer package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.
The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview and writing test. Interviews may be conducted either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion.
Final TEC recommendations for the candidates will be based on the initial evaluation of the applications, interview performance, and written test. USAID/Ethiopia will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.
Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned). Reference checks will be conducted only for the first-ranked candidate. Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If a candidate does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the candidate’s cover letter, and USAID will not contact those references without contacting the candidate.
IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit:
- The offer form DS-174 (Application for U.S. Federal employment) which can be found in the U.S. embassy website https://et.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/; or https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/work-with-us/careers/ds-form-174-ccn-application.
- A resume in English
- Letter of application (cover letter) that describes your experience with the evaluation criteria (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors), and
- Contact information for a minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including at least two references with direct knowledge of the offeror’s past performance.
Further Guidance:
To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation Number in the offer submission.
Application must be submitted ONLY via addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say – solicitation 72066323R10018, USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance). Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.
Please do not submit more than one application; and
The application must be submitted before or on the closing date at local Ethiopia time 5 p.m. (Local Ethiopia, Addis Ababa Time, or EAT). Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The Contracting Candidates will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award:
- Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)
- Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
- Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
- BENEFITS:
Group life insurance, medical coverage, annual leave and sick leave.
- ALLOWANCES (as applicable):
Meal allowance and miscellaneous benefit allowance.
VII.TAXES
Cooperating Country Nationals are expected to comply with all relevant Ethiopian laws and regulations.
VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN and TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
- USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, “Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
- 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: Cost – Product Service Code: [e.g. R497] – Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS] |
1 | LOT | $ _TBD__ | $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_ |
- Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs
- 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.
- 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.
Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCNPSC to serve as USAID Project Management Specialist (Maternal and Child Health) in the office of Health Office (Closes September 8, 2023)
I.GENERAL INFORMATION
- SOLICITATION NO.: 72066323R10017
- ISSUANCE DATE: 08/25/2023
- CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/08/2023, no later than 5:00 p.m (EAT) (close of business).
- POINT OF CONTACTS: John Marten, Acting Supervisory EXO and Fekadu Tamirate, HR Specialist, e-mail at addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov.
- POSITION TITLE: USAID Project Management Specialist (Maternal and Child Health)
- MARKET VALUE: $24,124 – $43,420 yearly e., equivalent to FSN – 11. In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Ethiopia. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salary will be paid in local currency at the exchange rate in effect when the payroll is processed.
- PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature through a series of sequential contracts, subject to continued need, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funds.
The expected period of performance will be from 01/07/2024 – 01/06/2029.
- PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy, Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
- ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Cooperating Country Nationals (CCNs). “Cooperating country national” means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen, or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country.
- SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facility access.
- STATEMENT OF DUTIES
- General Statement of Purpose of the Contract
The USAID Project Management Specialist – Maternal and Child Health (MCH) provides senior-level technical leadership in identifying opportunities for USG engagement in MCH programming in Ethiopia, in strategic planning, program and activity design, budgeting, implementation, monitoring, evaluation and learning of MCH-related programs/projects/activities. This position ensures that USAID/Ethiopia has the necessary strategic, technical, and management expertise to handle and successfully implement MCH programs and activities with an overall budget of approximately $39 million annually. The Specialist serves as the in-house subject matter expert on MCH and the Mission’s representative in policy, strategic and technical engagements with the USG interagency, GoE, international organizations, and bilateral/multilateral development partners to address technical issues and coordinate efforts in implementation of MCH activities. The Specialist serves as an Agreement/Contracting Officer’s Representative (A/COR), Alternate A/COR and/or Activity Manager for selected activities. As an AOR/COR, the Specialist monitors program performance and progress, identifies implementation achievements as well as problems in performance, and initiates appropriate actions in consultation with other Health Office staff, and/or the Deputy and Office Director, as appropriate.
The Specialist facilitates communication and ensures collaborative working relationships with high-level decision makers, as well as technical staff, in the Ministry of Health (MoH), Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, with USAID/Washington counterparts, other government entities, international and bilateral development partners, and non-governmental organizations working in the health sector on MCH programming. The Specialist delivers analytical and technical assistance services to other bilateral/multilateral development partners, Government of Ethiopia (GoE) and civil society in the design, implementation and management of national country policies and programs, based on globally accepted best practices and innovations in MCH. Representing the U.S. Government (USG), the Specialist participates in national technical working groups, builds alliances with development partners, civil society, private sector entities, and other key stakeholders. The Specialist is a key member of the Family Health Team in the Health Office to support MCH integration and meaningful results under the USAID/Ethiopia Health portfolio. The Specialist reports to the Health Office Director, or designee, and has no formal supervisory responsibility. The jobholder will also be expected to engage with the Mission’s Economic Growth and Resilience (EGR) Office for emergency MCH activities.
- Statement of Duties to be Performed
Program/Project/Activity Management (40%)
- Lead the design of projects and activities for improved health service delivery for MCH.
- Serve as A/COR and/or Activity Manager for the USAID-supported MCH programs/projects/activities, providing financial and programmatic oversight.
- Ensure that USAID-supported MCH activities are properly coordinated within USAID, aligned with GoE, and other key stakeholder priorities, and implemented within USG foreign assistance framework.
- Provide oversight and/or assistance in the preparation of planning and required documentation to support Mission MCH-related activities, including project management files, scopes of work and accompanying budgets, action memoranda, procurement and assistance instruments, closeout plans, final reports, equipment disposal, and implementation of final evaluation and audit recommendations.
- Provide financial and programmatic oversight, ensuring obligations, expenditures, budget pipelines conform to approved workplans; appropriate and timely incremental funding of activities and liquidation of advances; accurate and timely reporting of program finances and progress status; compliance with USAID financial regulations and report any discrepancies; and compliance with audits.
- Provide substantial review, technical insights, and direction to implementing partners in development and monitoring of workplans; use of standardized indicators; tracking and reporting of results and progress; documentation of lessons learned and best practices; and reporting of activity performance and data in quarterly and annual progress reports. Provide expert advice on program targets and analyze program results against targets and make recommendations for corrective actions if needed. Review partner compliance with USAID/Ethiopia Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) policies and guidelines and make appropriate recommendations as needed.
- Provide technical and programmatic assistance in capacity building, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation to governmental and non-governmental partners to ensure measurable plans and concrete objectives for the implementation of MCH activities, including commodity logistics and security, integration with child survival, and judicious use of USG funding.
- Maintain a schedule for conducting regular site visits and routinely meet with implementing partners (including subawards/subcontracts) to review program implementation, monitor progress, ensure compliance with USG statutory FP statutory requirements and policies, as applicable, and meet with beneficiaries; and accordingly provide technical appropriate guidance/recommendations for adjustments to programs/projects/activities.
- Contributes field perspectives to help inform USAID/Washington policies, programs, and/or initiatives of evolving MCH context-specific challenges.
Technical and Strategic Leadership (35%)
- Serve as USAID’s senior-level technical lead on MCH, providing high level technical guidance to the Mission, the GoE, development partners, civil society, private sector entities, and other stakeholders.
- Provide overall strategic and technical guidance and direction on MCH activities and when integrated with family planning resources comply with USG statutory requirements and policies.
- Provide expert leadership and guidance on MCH trends, salient issues, priorities, and strategies, with special attention to continuity of care, and major causes of maternal and newborn death and morbidity.
- Provide expert technical advice on priorities and strategies for adolescent pregnancies, antenatal, intrapartum, postnatal care, and breastfeeding, based on current evidence.
- Provide expert technical advice on strengthening clinical, leadership, and management capacities of midwives and nurses at regional and district levels.
- Work closely with leadership across the Health Office and USAID Mission to ensure the quality of activities implemented by implementing partners meets relevant standards of care, incorporates known high impact MCH interventions.
- Identify and arrange for procurement of short-term technical assistance (STTA) consistent with and support the furtherance of the Mission MCH portfolio.
- Through literature review, research, and regular communication with technical experts at USAID/Washington, bilateral and multilateral development partners, civil society, and other local and international stakeholders, stay abreast of state-of-the-art knowledge on programming and policy development as well as on funding opportunities and programs/projects in support of USAID MCH activities. Identify opportunities for integrated “state of the art” approaches, providing technical assessment and recommended strategies to pilot innovative interventions.
- Support learning exchanges and sharing of best practices and research findings among USAID, USG and other stakeholders to strengthen MCH approaches. Advise accordingly on how these policies and strategies can most effectively be incorporated to enhance USAID’s approaches.
- In collaboration with Strategic Information colleagues, participate in the implementation of strategic and trend analyses as well as employing monitoring and evaluation (M&E) approaches and tools to support measuring the impact and outcomes of MCH activities.
- Provide strategic leadership and technical guidance in the preparation of key annual and mid-term planning and reporting documents including the Operational Plan, Performance Plan and Report, Congressional Budget Justifications, Technical Notifications, Quarterly, Semi-Annual and Annual Progress Reports and other ad hoc requests for information.
- Organize site visits and prepare orientation materials for delegations from USAID Headquarters (HQ), Department of State, Congress, other high-profile visitors and overall USG and USAID Mission needs.
External Representation (25%)
- Represent USAID at designated national, regional, and international technical, programmatic, and policy meetings, including development and implementing partner coordination meetings, that relate to MCH, including regular participation and leadership in national-level technical working groups.
- Engage discussions with senior GoE staff at the Ministries of Health, and Women and Children Affairs and other relevant institutions on technical and policy issues related to MCH and to identify and resolve critical policy issues that affect program/project/activity implementation.
- As requested by the Mission Director or by Health Office senior leadership, represent USAID at meetings outside of the MCH field when needed.
- As a member of the health Team, respond to a wide range of work-related requirements, including requests for information from the Mission Director, the Embassy, USAID/Washington, and Congress.
- Establish strategic working relationships with senior MoH and other relevant Ministry officials at the national, regional, and district level, bilateral and multilateral development partners, civil society organizations, faith-based organizations, private sector health counterparts, and professional associations to enhance regular and timely sharing of information on issues related to MCH, including changes in key policies, legal and regulatory environments.
The contractor is eligible for travel to the U.S., or to other locations abroad, for training, for temporary duty, or to participate in the “Foreign Service National” Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.
- Supervisory Relationship
The Specialist will report to the Health Office Director, or designee, in USAID/Ethiopia. S/he is expected to work independently in carrying out responsibilities. S/he is expected to develop annual work objectives in consultation with his/her supervisor, who will make assignments in terms of overall objectives and resources available. Completed work is reviewed in terms of achievement of program/project/activity goals, effectiveness in meeting USAID objectives, and integration with other initiatives in the Health Office and Mission portfolio. Some technical direction may come from other professionals in the Health Office and Mission; in general, however, the Specialist will be expected to exercise considerable autonomy and best judgment in discharging the duties of the assignment.
- Supervisory Controls : None
- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION
a,Education: A minimum of master’s degree or local equivalent from an accredited program in nursing or midwifery or Public Health or related is required.
b. Prior Experience: A minimum of five (5) years of progressively responsible, professional-level experience in public health or international development, with a focus on MCH programming in Ethiopia. At least two years working for bilateral or multilateral development partners, including USG agencies, The World Bank, The Global Fund, UN agencies, private sector, civil society, faith-based organizations, and/or non-governmental organizations (NGO) is required, with responsibilities including strategy development, activity/project design and implementation, direct financial and program management, and performance monitoring. Minimum of three years of direct management of small to large MCH activities is required.
c.Language: English and Amharic at Level IV.
III.EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with candidates 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 candidates 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 candidates in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.
Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified candidates in comparison to other candidates. Candidates must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:
EVALUATION FACTORS:
- EDUCATION (20 points): Points will be given for (1) education above the minimum level and/or (2) specialized education pertinent to the position. and/or (3) specialized training pertinent to the position.
- WORK EXPERIENCE (30 points): Points will be given for (1) experience above the minimum levels required, (2) specialized experience pertinent to the position, (3) experience in pertinent development assistance activities, (4) experience in development organizations that are large and/or international.
- KNOWLEDGE (30 points): In-depth professional-level knowledge of development principles, concepts, techniques, and practices, especially as they relate to MCH policies, programs, and activities in Ethiopia, with in-depth awareness of integration and linkages with health systems strengthening programming. Knowledge of the challenges and policies of Ethiopia from the business, political, civil society, and social perspectives. Thorough understanding of MCH policies, strategies, existing programming in the Ethiopia as well as knowledge and understanding of the economic, political, social, and cultural characteristics of the country; historical development problems, current trends, and strategic directions in MCH (including at subnational levels); an understanding of the resources, resource constraints, and overall development prospects and priorities. Knowledge of USG legislation, policy, and practices related to health and MCH activities, of USAID programming policies, regulations, and procedures will be considered an advantage. Thorough public health knowledge of contemporary MCH issues and community-based interventions in Ethiopia and in low-resource settings. Significant knowledge of program management strategies and monitoring and evaluation methods. Technical knowledge in MCH programming will be tested.
- SKILLS AND ABILITIES (20 points): Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills in MCH programming. Strong skills in advocacy, communication (including public speaking and technical presentations), facilitation, negotiation, and networking. Solid experience of effective and collaborative relationships with GoE representatives, civil society organizations, other development partners, private sector, implementing partners, etc. Strong conceptual and analytical skills to be able to quickly grasp and translate new concepts into operational plans and results. Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, analyze and adapt health policy, and apply epidemiological data and trends, available statistics, and anecdotal information to strategic development of activities, policies, and overall program directions. Outstanding ability to exercise flexibility to be able to accept and react to evolving activity and strategy planning and implementation in a complex, dynamic environment, with extreme time constraints, political sensitivities, and pressure. Demonstrate excellent computer skills, including skills with Microsoft Office, web-based databases, and electronic filing. Exercises individual judgement in his/her roles. Takes initiative and offers leadership in reviewing the progress of programs and projects under his/her personal and team’s responsibility, including performance reports, pipeline management, program implementation reviews, as well as fulfilling other USAID and USG reporting requirements. Demonstrates strategic vision, high initiative, timely decision-making ability, extensive judgment, and multi-task ability in planning and carrying out tasks, using diplomacy and tact. Demonstrates ability to work in a team environment and coordinate well with others.
- INTERVIEW PERFORMANCE (100 points)
- WRITTEN TEST (50 points)
BASIS OF RATING: Candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors.
Candidates should address these factors in the offer package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.
The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview and writing test. Interviews may be conducted either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion.
Final TEC recommendations for the candidates will be based on the initial evaluation of the applications, interview performance, and written test. USAID/Ethiopia will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.
Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned). Reference checks will be conducted only for the first-ranked candidate. Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If a candidate does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the candidate’s cover letter, and USAID will not contact those references without contacting the candidate.
IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit:
- The offer form DS-174 (Application for U.S. Federal employment) which can be found in the U.S. embassy website https://et.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/; or https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/work-with-us/careers/ds-form-174-ccn-application.
- A resume in English
- Letter of application (cover letter) that describes your experience with the evaluation criteria (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors), and
- Contact information for a minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including at least two references with direct knowledge of the offeror’s past performance.
Further Guidance:
To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation Number in the offer submission.
Application must be submitted ONLY via addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say– solicitation 72066323R10017, USAID Project Management Specialist (Maternal and Child Health). Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.
Please do not submit more than one application; and
The application must be submitted before or on the closing date at local Ethiopia time 5 p.m. (Local Ethiopia, Addis Ababa Time, or EAT). Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The Contracting Candidates will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award:
- Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)
- Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
- Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
- BENEFITS:
Group life insurance, medical coverage, annual leave and sick leave.
- ALLOWANCES (as applicable):
Meal allowance and miscellaneous benefit allowance.
VII. TAXES
Cooperating Country Nationals are expected to comply with all relevant Ethiopian laws and regulations.
VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN and TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
- USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, “Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
- 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: Cost – Product Service Code: [e.g. R497] – Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS] |
1 | LOT | $ _TBD__ | $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_ |
- Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs
- 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.
- 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.
Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCNPSC to serve as USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance) in the office of Humanitarian and Assistance(September 5, 2023)
I. GENERAL INFORMATION
- SOLICITATION NO.: 72066323R10016
- ISSUANCE DATE: 08/22/2023
- CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/5/2023, no later than 5:00 p.m (EAT) (close of business).
- POINT OF CONTACTS: John Marten, A/Supervisory EXO and Fekadu Tamirate, HR Specialist, e-mail at addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov.
- POSITION TITLE: USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance)
- MARKET VALUE: $19,728 – $35,508 yearly e., equivalent to FSN – 10. In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Ethiopia. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salary will be paid in local currency at the exchange rate in effect when the payroll is processed.
- PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature through a series of sequential contracts, subject to continued need, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funds.
The expected period of performance will be from 12/02/2023 – 12/01/2028.
- PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy, Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
- ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Cooperating Country Nationals (CCNs). “Cooperating country national” means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen, or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country.
- SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facilities access.
- STATEMENT OF DUTIES
- General Statement of Purpose of the Contract
USAID/Ethiopia’s Office of Humanitarian Assistance (OHA) is responsible for coordinating the USG’s emergency humanitarian response in Ethiopia and supporting Ethiopia’s relief-to-development continuum. In coordination with USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), OHA provides life-saving humanitarian assistance—including food, water, shelter, emergency healthcare, sanitation and hygiene, and critical nutrition services, and takes a holistic look at humanitarian aid, providing assistance before, during and after a crisis—from readiness and response to relief and recovery. This includes non-emergency programming that is foundational to linking humanitarian assistance to long-term development to ensure USG and GoE development gains are protected.
The Specialist is a key member of the OHA Office, Humanitarian Programs Team. The jobholder reports to the Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Team Leader) and has no formal supervisory responsibility.
The Jobholder provides technical leadership and strategic direction, activity management, and contributes to reporting for the Office of Humanitarian Assistance. Technical and activity management functions include providing technical and strategic guidance on multi-sectoral humanitarian programs, serving as activity manager for BHA awards, and monitoring BHA activities. The Jobholder represents USAID on technical working groups and contributes to annual reports.
- Statement of Duties to be Performed.
Program Support & Activity Management (50%)
- Lead and/or contribute to the design of humanitarian activities that contribute to improved nutrition, food security, resilience, and livelihoods to reduce suffering and mitigate the impacts of humanitarian need.
- Serve as Activity Manager for up to seven (7) awards. Contribute to the review of concept notes and development of annual work plans. Review performance reports to ensure implementing partners adhere to GOE and USAID requirements.
- Develop and execute field monitoring of activities, including development of monitoring checklists, spot reporting, and delivery of field-level feedback to partners and host communities to strengthen activity performance and results achievement.
- Analyze and inform USAID managers of activity performance, achievement of results, and issues. Support coordination and analysis of monitoring data, evidence and learning related to resilience, food security and other related topics.
- Participate in, and ensure the effectiveness of, site and other field visits.
Technical Leadership & Strategic Direction (30%)
- Provide technical support to Mission staff, USAID/Washington managers, and implementing partners on issues pertaining to humanitarian assistance, including food security, food assistance, social protection, resilience, livelihoods, market system development, and/or emergency assistance.
- Provide field-level project monitoring, quality assurance, and technical direction to measure the performance, quality, and effectiveness of Bureau of Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), USG’s Title II and Development Assistance resources in accordance with Mission reporting guidelines.
- Provide technical leadership through established donor working groups, the cluster system, and/or government-led technical committees to support the effective implementation of USAID, other donor, and Government of Ethiopia programs. This may include representation on technical committees and working groups, including on areas such as: nutrition, protection, agriculture, food security, WASH, PSNP, climate change, and humanitarian assistance.
- Through field travel, literature review, research and regular communications with local and international stakeholders, keep abreast of emerging developments in humanitarian and development approaches; advise on how these policies and strategies can most effectively be incorporated to enhance Mission approaches.
- Identify and arrange for procurement of short-term technical assistance and ensure that the objectives are consistent with and support the Mission’s development portfolio.
- Organize site visits and prepare orientation materials for delegations from USAID, the State Department, and other agencies.
- Identify potential external partners and develop relationships with private sector, non-governmental and other non-traditional development organizations through formal and informal outreach to build/maintain key relationships with senior officials and executives from potential external partners.
Representation and Reporting (20%)
- Contribute to key annual and mid-term planning and reporting documents including the Congressional Budget Justifications, Technical Notifications, Quarterly, Semi-Annual and Annual Progress Reports, among others.
- Prepare reports and responses to a wide range of requirements including responding to requests for information from the Mission Director, the Embassy, USAID/Washington and Congress.
- Represent USAID as needed at designated national, regional and international meetings.
- Prepare briefing papers, presentations and assist with site preparations for visits by delegations from USAID Headquarters (HQ), Department of State, other agencies and Congress.
- In rare instances and when requested in connection with a declared emergency, provide short-term TDY assistance to a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in another country or to a Response Management Team (RMT) in Washington, approved by the mission director.
The contractor is eligible for travel to the U.S., or to other locations abroad, for training, for temporary duty, or to participate in the “Foreign Service National” Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.
- Supervisory Relationship: The Specialist will report to the Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Team Leader) in the Office of Humanitarian Assistance Most assignments are self-generated and occur in the normal course of work and the jobholder exercises independence in most phases of his/her job responsibilities but determines those situations that must be coordinated with the supervisor or other team members. Completed work is accepted as technically correct and the overall work is reviewed in terms of results achieved.
- Supervisory Controls: The Specialist will not have formal supervisory responsibility.
- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION
a. Education: Minimum of bachelor’s degree in business administration, International Affairs, Social Science, Health, Agriculture, or Humanitarian Assistance
b. Prior Work Experience: A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in humanitarian assistance, international development, emergency response, health, resilience, and/or disaster risk reduction, collaborating with and/or working for a large governmental organization, donor organizations, the host country government, or other related organizations.
c. Language: Excellent written and spoken English and Amharic (Level 4).
III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with candidates 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 candidates 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 candidates in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.
Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified candidates in comparison to other candidates. Candidates must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:
EVALUATION FACTORS
EDUCATION (5 points): Points will be given for (1) education above the minimum level and/or (2) specialized education pertinent to the position. and/or (3) specialized training pertinent to the position.
WORK EXPERIENCE (35 points): Points will be given for (1) experience above the minimum levels required, (2) specialized experience pertinent to the position, (3) experience in pertinent development assistance activities, (4) experience in development organizations that are large and/or international.
KNOWLEDGE (35 points): Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Humanitarian Assistance and/or Resilience approaches and interventions and poverty and vulnerability situations in Ethiopia. Demonstrated knowledge of the overall humanitarian context and its current priorities as well as the key aspects of US Government foreign assistance to the country. Demonstrated knowledge of USG strategic direction, its chief accomplishments and its challenges.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES (25 points): Demonstrated technical and analytical skills in Humanitarian Assistance and/or Resilience approaches. Demonstrated skills in communication, advocacy, and networking. S/he must have strong conceptual and analytical skills to be able to quickly grasp and translate new concepts into operational plans and results. Demonstrated ability to exercise flexibility to be able to accept and react to evolving planning and implementation contexts. Demonstrated computer skills including skills with Microsoft Office, web-based databases, and electronic filing. Demonstrated judgment in his/her roles. Demonstrated skills in initiative and offers leadership in reviewing the progress of programs and projects under his/her responsibility, including performance reports, pipeline management, program implementation review. Demonstrated timely decision-making ability and extensive judgment in planning and carrying out tasks, using diplomacy and tact.
INTERVIEW PERFORMANCE (100 points)
BASIS OF RATING: Candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors.
Candidates should address these factors in the offer package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.
The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview and writing test. Interviews may be conducted either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion.
Final TEC recommendations for the candidates will be based on the initial evaluation of the applications, interview performance, and written test. USAID/Ethiopia will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.
Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned). Reference checks will be conducted only for the first-ranked candidate. Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If a candidate does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the candidate’s cover letter, and USAID will not contact those references without contacting the candidate.
IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit:
- The offer form DS-174 (Application for U.S. Federal employment) which can be found in the U.S. embassy website https://et.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/; or https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/work-with-us/careers/ds-form-174-ccn-application.
- A resume in English
- Letter of application (cover letter) that describes your experience with the evaluation criteria (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors), and
- Contact information for a minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including at least two references with direct knowledge of the offeror’s past performance.
Further Guidance:
To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation Number in the offer submission.
Application must be submitted ONLY via addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say– solicitation 72066323R10016, USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance). Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.
Please do not submit more than one application; and
The application must be submitted before or on the closing date at local Ethiopia time 5 p.m. (Local Ethiopia, Addis Ababa Time, or EAT). Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The Contracting Candidates will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award:
- Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)
- Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
- Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
- BENEFITS:
Group life insurance, medical coverage, annual leave and sick leave.
- ALLOWANCES (as applicable):
Meal allowance and miscellaneous benefit allowance.
VII. TAXES
Cooperating Country Nationals are expected to comply with all relevant Ethiopian laws and regulations.
VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN and TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
- USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, “Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
- 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: Cost – Product Service Code: [e.g. R497] – Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS] |
1 | LOT | $ _TBD__ | $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_ |
- Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs
- 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.
- 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.
Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCNPSC to serve as USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance) in the office of Humanitarian and Assistance (Closes September 5, 2023)
I. GENERAL INFORMATION
- SOLICITATION NO.: 72066323R10015
- ISSUANCE DATE: 08/22/2023
- CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/5/2023, no later than 5:00 p.m (EAT) (close of business).
- POINT OF CONTACTS: John Marten, A/Supervisory EXO and Fekadu Tamirate, HR Specialist, e-mail at addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov.
- POSITION TITLE: USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance)
- MARKET VALUE: $29,075 – $52,355 yearly e., equivalent to FSN – 12. In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Ethiopia. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salary will be paid in local currency at the exchange rate in effect when the payroll is processed.
- PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature through a series of sequential contracts, subject to continued need, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funds.
The expected period of performance will be from 12/02/2023 – 12/01/2028.
- PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy, Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
- ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Cooperating Country Nationals (CCNs). “Cooperating country national” means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen, or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country.
- SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facilities access.
- STATEMENT OF DUTIES
- General Statement of Purpose of the Contract
USAID/Ethiopia’s Office of Humanitarian Assistance (OHA) is responsible for coordinating the USG’s emergency humanitarian response in Ethiopia and supporting Ethiopia’s relief-to-development continuum. In coordination with USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), OHA provides life-saving humanitarian assistance—including food, water, shelter, emergency healthcare, sanitation and hygiene, and critical nutrition services, and takes a holistic look at humanitarian aid, providing assistance before, during and after a crisis—from readiness and response, to relief and recovery. This includes non-emergency programming that is foundational to linking humanitarian assistance to long-term development to ensure USG and GoE development gains are protected.
The Specialist is a key member of the OHA Office, Humanitarian Team. The jobholder reports to the Senior Humanitarian Advisor and has supervisory responsibility over staff members within their team. The Jobholder provides expert-level technical leadership and strategic direction, activity management, contributes to strategic planning and reporting for the Office of Humanitarian Assistance, and supervises a Humanitarian Programs Team. Technical and activity management functions include providing technical and strategic guidance on multi-sectoral humanitarian programs, serving as an AOR/COR and activity manager for BHA and Mission awards, and monitoring BHA activities. The Jobholder represents USAID on donor working groups and contributes to annual reports.
- Statement of Duties to be Performed.
Supervision, Coaching/Mentoring and Staff Support (40%)
- Supervises other staff which includes developing annual work objectives, identifying appropriate training opportunities, mentoring and coaching them in facilitation of professional development.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and address any performance challenges that may arise.
- Work with direct reports to determine training needs, helps identify appropriate training opportunities and ensure fair participation in training. Provide expert advice and guidance to direct reports on matters relating to humanitarian assistance and programming.
Technical Leadership & Strategic Direction (20%)
- Serve as a technical expert and lead on humanitarian issues, providing high level technical guidance to the Mission, the Government of Ethiopia, and other humanitarian partners on issues pertaining to life saving programs.
- Provide overall strategic and technical guidance and direction on humanitarian programs.
- Provide expert technical assistance and support to staff and humanitarian partners in one or more of the following areas: program development and implementation, operational oversight, and humanitarian coordination activities.
- Work closely with leadership across the humanitarian sector to ensure that the quality of programs implemented by partners are adequately addressed.
- Through field travel, literature review, research and regular communications with local and international stakeholders, keep abreast of emerging developments in humanitarian approaches; advise on how these policies and strategies can most effectively be incorporated to enhance Mission approaches.
- In collaboration with colleagues, lead the development of innovative monitoring and evaluation approaches and tools to support measuring the impact and outcomes of USAID project/program activities. Coordinate evidence and learning agenda as it relates to humanitarian assistance, including the collection and analysis of data and the identification of lessons learned.
- Identify and arrange for procurement of short-term technical assistance and ensure that the objectives of this assistance are consistent with and support the furtherance of the Mission’s humanitarian portfolio.
- Organize site visits and prepare orientation materials for delegations from USAID headquarters, the State Department, and other agencies.
- Identify potential external partners and develop relationships with private sector, non-governmental and other non-traditional humanitarian organizations through formal and informal outreach, personal contacts and networking, to build/maintain key relationships with senior officials and executives from potential external partners.
- Build capacity for partner engagement throughout the Mission.
Program/Project/Activity Management (20%)
- Lead the design of project mechanisms and activities supporting the work with humanitarian partners to save lives, reduce suffering, and mitigate the economic and social impact of humanitarian needs. Primary areas of programming will include food assistance, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene, health, agriculture, and non-food assistance.
- Once proper certification and delegation is received, expected to serve as AOR/COR
- Serve as Activity Manager for up to seven (7) awards. Keep the Office Director regularly informed of program implementation progress, results, and issues/problems on a timely basis.
- Participate in, and ensure the effectiveness of, site and other field visits.
- In rare instances and when requested in connection with a declared emergency, provide short-term TDY assistance to a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in another country or to a Response Management Team (RMT) in Washington, approved by the mission director.
Representation and Reporting (20%)
- Represent the Mission at designated national, regional and international meetings that relate to Humanitarian Assistance, including regular participation in national-level technical working groups and related committees.
- Establish strategic working relationships with senior government officials at the national and district levels, humanitarian partners, civil society organizations, private sector counterparts and professional organizations to enhance regular and timely sharing of information on issues related to Humanitarian Assistance, including changes in key policies, and legal and regulatory environments that would affect the implementation of USAID programs.
- Provide strategic leadership in the preparation of key annual and mid-term planning and reporting documents, including the Country Operation Plan, the Congressional Budget Justification, Technical Notifications, and Quarterly, Semi-Annual and Annual Progress Reports.
The contractor is eligible for travel to the U.S., or to other locations abroad, for training, for temporary duty, or to participate in the “Foreign Service National” Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.
- Supervisory Relationship: The Specialist will report to the Senior Humanitarian Advisor in the Office of Humanitarian Assistance. Most assignments are self-generated and occur in the normal course of work and the jobholder exercises independence in most phases of his/her job responsibilities but determines those situations that must be coordinated with the supervisor or other team members. Completed work is accepted as technically correct and the overall work is reviewed in terms of results achieved.
- Supervisory Controls: The Specialist will formally supervise Project Management Specialist (FSN-11), Project Management Specialist (FSN-10), Project Management Specialist (FSN-10), and Project Management Specialist (FSN-11)
- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION
a. Education: Minimum of bachelor’s degree in development, humanitarian assistance, health, management, or social sciences.
b. Prior Work Experience: A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in Humanitarian Assistance, collaborating with and/or working for a large governmental organization, donor organizations, the host country government, or other related organizations.
c. Language: Excellent written and spoken English and Amharic (Level 4).
III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with candidates 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 candidates 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 candidates in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.
Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified candidates in comparison to other candidates. Candidates must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:
EVALUATION FACTORS
EDUCATION (5 points): Points will be given for (1) education above the minimum level and/or (2) specialized education pertinent to the position. and/or (3) specialized training pertinent to the position.
WORK EXPERIENCE (35 points): Points will be given for (1) experience above the minimum levels required, (2) specialized experience pertinent to the position, (3) experience in pertinent development assistance activities, (4) experience in development organizations that are large and/or international.
KNOWLEDGE (35 points):
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Humanitarian Assistance approaches and interventions. Demonstrated senior-level knowledge of the overall humanitarian context and knowledge of the key aspects of US Government foreign assistance to the country. Demonstrated knowledge of USG strategic direction, its chief accomplishments and its challenges.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES (25 points): Demonstrated technical and analytical skills in management; analytical and research; social and professional judgment; as well as interpersonal interaction in cross-cultural and multi-level settings. Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with mid-level and senior-level government officials and members of the business community; and an ability to maintain collaborative working relationships within a team structure. Demonstrated skills in communication, advocacy, and networking. Demonstrated conceptual and analytical skills to be able to quickly grasp and translate new concepts into operational plans and results. Demonstrated ability to exercise flexibility to be able to accept and react to evolving planning and implementation contexts. Demonstrated computer skills including skills with Microsoft Office, web-based databases, and electronic filing. Demonstrated judgment in his/her roles. Demonstrated skills in initiative and offers leadership in reviewing the progress of programs and projects under his/her responsibility, including performance reports, pipeline management, program implementation review. Demonstrated timely decision-making ability and extensive judgment in planning and carrying out tasks, using diplomacy and tact.
INTERVIEW PERFORMANCE (100 points)
BASIS OF RATING: Candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors.
Candidates should address these factors in the offer package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.
The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview and writing test. Interviews may be conducted either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion.
Final TEC recommendations for the candidates will be based on the initial evaluation of the applications, interview performance, and written test. USAID/Ethiopia will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.
Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned). Reference checks will be conducted only for the first-ranked candidate. Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If a candidate does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the candidate’s cover letter, and USAID will not contact those references without contacting the candidate.
IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit:
- The offer form DS-174 (Application for U.S. Federal employment) which can be found in the U.S. embassy website https://et.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/; or https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/work-with-us/careers/ds-form-174-ccn-application.
- A resume in English
- Letter of application (cover letter) that describes your experience with the evaluation criteria (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors), and
- Contact information for a minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including at least two references with direct knowledge of the offeror’s past performance.
Further Guidance:
To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation Number in the offer submission.
Application must be submitted ONLY via addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say– solicitation 72066323R10015, USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance). Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.
Please do not submit more than one application; and
The application must be submitted before or on the closing date at local Ethiopia time 5 p.m. (Local Ethiopia, Addis Ababa Time, or EAT). Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The Contracting Candidates will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award:
- Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)
- Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
- Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
VI, BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
- BENEFITS:
Group life insurance, medical coverage, annual leave and sick leave.
- ALLOWANCES (as applicable):
Meal allowance and miscellaneous benefit allowance.
VII. TAXES
Cooperating Country Nationals are expected to comply with all relevant Ethiopian laws and regulations.
- USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN and TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
- USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, “Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
- 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: Cost – Product Service Code: [e.g. R497] – Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS] |
1 | LOT | $ _TBD__ | $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_ |
- Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs
- 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.
- 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.
Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCNPSC to serve as USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance) in the office of Humanitarian and Assistance (Closes September 5, 2023)
I. GENERAL INFORMATION
- SOLICITATION NO.: 72066323R10014
- ISSUANCE DATE: 08/22/2023
- CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/5/2023, no later than 5:00 p.m (EAT) (close of business).
- POINT OF CONTACTS: John Marten, A/Supervisory EXO and Fekadu Tamirate, HR Specialist, e-mail at addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov.
- POSITION TITLE: USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance)
- MARKET VALUE: $29,075 – $52,355 yearly e., equivalent to FSN – 12. In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Ethiopia. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salary will be paid in local currency at the exchange rate in effect when the payroll is processed.
- PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature through a series of sequential contracts, subject to continued need, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funds.
The expected period of performance will be from 12/02/2023 – 12/01/2028.
- PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy, Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
- ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Cooperating Country Nationals (CCNs). “Cooperating country national” means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen, or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country.
- SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facilities access.
- STATEMENT OF DUTIES
- General Statement of Purpose of the Contract
USAID/Ethiopia’s Office of Humanitarian Assistance (OHA) is responsible for coordinating the USG’s emergency humanitarian response in Ethiopia and supporting Ethiopia’s relief-to-development continuum. In coordination with USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), OHA provides life-saving humanitarian assistance—including food, water, shelter, emergency healthcare, sanitation and hygiene, and critical nutrition services, and takes a holistic look at humanitarian aid, providing assistance before, during and after a crisis—from readiness and response, to relief and recovery. This includes non-emergency programming that is foundational to linking humanitarian assistance to long-term development to ensure USG and GoE development gains are protected.
The Specialist is a key member of the OHA Office, Humanitarian Team. The jobholder reports to the Senior Humanitarian Advisor and has supervisory responsibility over staff members within their team. The Jobholder provides expert-level technical leadership and strategic direction, activity management, contributes to strategic planning and reporting for the Office of Humanitarian Assistance, and supervises a Humanitarian Programs Team. Technical and activity management functions include providing technical and strategic guidance on multi-sectoral humanitarian programs, serving as an AOR/COR and activity manager for BHA and Mission awards, and monitoring BHA activities. The Jobholder represents USAID on donor working groups and contributes to annual reports.
- Statement of Duties to be Performed.
Supervision, Coaching/Mentoring and Staff Support (40%)
- Supervises other staff which includes developing annual work objectives, identifying appropriate training opportunities, mentoring and coaching them in facilitation of professional development.
- Conduct regular performance reviews and address any performance challenges that may arise.
- Work with direct reports to determine training needs, helps identify appropriate training opportunities and ensure fair participation in training. Provide expert advice and guidance to direct reports on matters relating to humanitarian assistance and programming.
Technical Leadership & Strategic Direction (20%)
- Serve as a technical expert and lead on humanitarian issues, providing high level technical guidance to the Mission, the Government of Ethiopia, and other humanitarian partners on issues pertaining to life saving programs.
- Provide overall strategic and technical guidance and direction on humanitarian programs.
- Provide expert technical assistance and support to staff and humanitarian partners in one or more of the following areas: program development and implementation, operational oversight, and humanitarian coordination activities.
- Work closely with leadership across the humanitarian sector to ensure that the quality of programs implemented by partners are adequately addressed.
- Through field travel, literature review, research and regular communications with local and international stakeholders, keep abreast of emerging developments in humanitarian approaches; advise on how these policies and strategies can most effectively be incorporated to enhance Mission approaches.
- In collaboration with colleagues, lead the development of innovative monitoring and evaluation approaches and tools to support measuring the impact and outcomes of USAID project/program activities. Coordinate evidence and learning agenda as it relates to humanitarian assistance, including the collection and analysis of data and the identification of lessons learned.
- Identify and arrange for procurement of short-term technical assistance and ensure that the objectives of this assistance are consistent with and support the furtherance of the Mission’s humanitarian portfolio.
- Organize site visits and prepare orientation materials for delegations from USAID headquarters, the State Department, and other agencies.
- Identify potential external partners and develop relationships with private sector, non-governmental and other non-traditional humanitarian organizations through formal and informal outreach, personal contacts and networking, to build/maintain key relationships with senior officials and executives from potential external partners.
- Build capacity for partner engagement throughout the Mission.
Program/Project/Activity Management (20%)
- Lead the design of project mechanisms and activities supporting the work with humanitarian partners to save lives, reduce suffering, and mitigate the economic and social impact of humanitarian needs. Primary areas of programming will include food assistance, nutrition, water, sanitation, and hygiene, health, agriculture, and non-food assistance.
- Once proper certification and delegation is received, expected to serve as AOR/COR
- Serve as Activity Manager for up to seven (7) awards. Keep the Office Director regularly informed of program implementation progress, results, and issues/problems on a timely basis.
- Participate in, and ensure the effectiveness of, site and other field visits.
- In rare instances and when requested in connection with a declared emergency, provide short-term TDY assistance to a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) in another country or to a Response Management Team (RMT) in Washington, approved by the mission director.
Representation and Reporting (20%)
- Represent the Mission at designated national, regional and international meetings that relate to Humanitarian Assistance, including regular participation in national-level technical working groups and related committees.
- Establish strategic working relationships with senior government officials at the national and district levels, humanitarian partners, civil society organizations, private sector counterparts and professional organizations to enhance regular and timely sharing of information on issues related to Humanitarian Assistance, including changes in key policies, and legal and regulatory environments that would affect the implementation of USAID programs.
- Provide strategic leadership in the preparation of key annual and mid-term planning and reporting documents, including the Country Operation Plan, the Congressional Budget Justification, Technical Notifications, and Quarterly, Semi-Annual and Annual Progress Reports.
The contractor is eligible for travel to the U.S., or to other locations abroad, for training, for temporary duty, or to participate in the “Foreign Service National” Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.
- Supervisory Relationship: The Specialist will report to the Senior Humanitarian Advisor in the Office of Humanitarian Assistance. Most assignments are self-generated and occur in the normal course of work and the jobholder exercises independence in most phases of his/her job responsibilities but determines those situations that must be coordinated with the supervisor or other team members. Completed work is accepted as technically correct and the overall work is reviewed in terms of results achieved.
- Supervisory Controls: The Specialist will formally supervise Project Management Specialist (FSN-11), Project Management Specialist (FSN-10), Project Management Specialist (FSN-11), and Project Management Specialist (FSN-11).
- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION
a. Education: Minimum of bachelor’s degree in development, humanitarian assistance, health, management, or social sciences.
b. Prior Work Experience: A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in Humanitarian Assistance, collaborating with and/or working for a large governmental organization, donor organizations, the host country government, or other related organizations.
c. Language: Excellent written and spoken English and Amharic (Level 4).
III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with candidates 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 candidates 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 candidates in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.
Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified candidates in comparison to other candidates. Candidates must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:
EVALUATION FACTORS
EDUCATION (5 points): Points will be given for (1) education above the minimum level and/or (2) specialized education pertinent to the position. and/or (3) specialized training pertinent to the position.
WORK EXPERIENCE (35 points): Points will be given for (1) experience above the minimum levels required, (2) specialized experience pertinent to the position, (3) experience in pertinent development assistance activities, (4) experience in development organizations that are large and/or international.
KNOWLEDGE (35 points):
Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Humanitarian Assistance approaches and interventions. Demonstrated senior-level knowledge of the overall humanitarian context and knowledge of the key aspects of US Government foreign assistance to the country. Demonstrated knowledge of USG strategic direction, its chief accomplishments and its challenges.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES (25 points): Demonstrated technical and analytical skills in management; analytical and research; social and professional judgment; as well as interpersonal interaction in cross-cultural and multi-level settings. Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with mid-level and senior-level government officials and members of the business community; and an ability to maintain collaborative working relationships within a team structure. Demonstrated skills in communication, advocacy, and networking. Demonstrated conceptual and analytical skills to be able to quickly grasp and translate new concepts into operational plans and results. Demonstrated ability to exercise flexibility to be able to accept and react to evolving planning and implementation contexts. Demonstrated computer skills including skills with Microsoft Office, web-based databases, and electronic filing. Demonstrated judgment in his/her roles. Demonstrated skills in initiative and offers leadership in reviewing the progress of programs and projects under his/her responsibility, including performance reports, pipeline management, program implementation review. Demonstrated timely decision-making ability and extensive judgment in planning and carrying out tasks, using diplomacy and tact.
INTERVIEW PERFORMANCE (100 points)
BASIS OF RATING: Candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors.
Candidates should address these factors in the offer package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.
The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview and writing test. Interviews may be conducted either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion.
Final TEC recommendations for the candidates will be based on the initial evaluation of the applications, interview performance, and written test. USAID/Ethiopia will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.
Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned). Reference checks will be conducted only for the first-ranked candidate. Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If a candidate does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the candidate’s cover letter, and USAID will not contact those references without contacting the candidate.
IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit:
- The offer form DS-174 (Application for U.S. Federal employment) which can be found in the U.S. embassy website https://et.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/; or https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/work-with-us/careers/ds-form-174-ccn-application.
- A resume in English
- Letter of application (cover letter) that describes your experience with the evaluation criteria (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors), and
- Contact information for a minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including at least two references with direct knowledge of the offeror’s past performance.
Further Guidance:
To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation Number in the offer submission.
Application must be submitted ONLY via addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say– solicitation 72066323R10014, USAID Project Management Specialist (Humanitarian Assistance). Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.
Please do not submit more than one application; and
The application must be submitted before or on the closing date at local Ethiopia time 5 p.m. (Local Ethiopia, Addis Ababa Time, or EAT). Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The Contracting Candidates will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award:
- Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)
- Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
- Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
- BENEFITS:
Group life insurance, medical coverage, annual leave and sick leave. - ALLOWANCES (as applicable):
Meal allowance and miscellaneous benefit allowance.
VII. TAXES
Cooperating Country Nationals are expected to comply with all relevant Ethiopian laws and regulations.
VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN and TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
- USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, “Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
- 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: Cost – Product Service Code: [e.g. R497] – Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS] |
1 | LOT | $ _TBD__ | $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_ |
- Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs
- 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.
- 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.
Solicitation to serve as USAID Project Management Specialist (Operations and Security) in the office of Humanitarian and Assistance (Closes September 5, 2023)
I. GENERAL INFORMATION
- SOLICITATION NO.: 72066323R10013
- ISSUANCE DATE: 08/22/2023
- CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/5/2023, no later than 5:00 p.m (EAT) (close of business).
- POINT OF CONTACTS: John Marten, A/Supervisory EXO and Fekadu Tamirate, HR Specialist, e-mail at addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov.
- POSITION TITLE: USAID Project Management Specialist (Operations and Security)
- MARKET VALUE: $29,075 – $52,355 yearly e., equivalent to FSN – 12. In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Ethiopia. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salary will be paid in local currency at the exchange rate in effect when the payroll is processed.
- PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature through a series of sequential contracts, subject to continued need, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funds.
The expected period of performance will be from 12/02/2023 – 12/01/2028.
- PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy, Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
- ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Cooperating Country Nationals (CCNs). “Cooperating country national” means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen, or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country.
- SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facilities access.
- STATEMENT OF DUTIES
- General Statement of Purpose of the Contract
USAID/Ethiopia’s Office of Humanitarian Assistance (OHA) is responsible for coordinating the USG’s emergency humanitarian response in Ethiopia and supporting Ethiopia’s relief-to-development continuum. In coordination with USAID’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA), OHA provides life-saving humanitarian assistance—including food, water, shelter, emergency healthcare, sanitation and hygiene, and critical nutrition services, and takes a holistic look at humanitarian aid, providing assistance before, during and after a crisis—from readiness and response to relief and recovery. This includes non-emergency programming that is foundational to linking humanitarian assistance to long-term development to ensure USG and GoE development gains are protected.
The Specialist is a key member of the OHA Office, Humanitarian Team. This position is located in the Office of Humanitarian Assistance (OHA) of USAID/Ethiopia. Under the supervision of the Office Director (OD), s/he directly provides operational and security support to OHA which includes assessing security conditions on the ground, develops the OHA security and operations plans in coordination with the Regional Security Officer (RSO), and links OHA team members with external safety and security and operational partner planning.
- Statement of Duties to be Performed.
Safety and Security 50%
A. Fosters and cultivates professional relationships and information networks with partners at all levels of government, the private sector, non-governmental organizations, host nation governments, and other groups to ensure effective operations and security.
B. Provides day to day support to OHA office and Office Director on safety and security planning for field missions in conjunction with Administrative Coordinator and other office staff.
C. Identifies and solves major obstacles to plan for future programs and operations.
D. Provides context analysis, travel related assessments and staff briefings.
E. Provides safety and security planning, maintains incident reporting, and assures staff safety when on duty travel.
F. Establishes and maintains key relationships within USAID/Embassy, including Regional Security Officer (RSO), Department of State (DOS) and other offices as needed.
Logistics 50%
A. Provides commodity planning support to program utilizing nutrition and food committees, while liaising directly within USAID and USDA and UN counterparts including the logistics cluster
B. Monitors and tracks the status of food and nutrition commodities, non-food items, and agreements related to these commodities.
C. Ensures proper provision of equipment to staff traveling to high and medium security zones and ensure proper coordination on these requirements with RSO.
D. Assists in trip planning in OHA and the US Embassy, on request.
The contractor is eligible for travel to the U.S., or to other locations abroad, for training, for temporary duty, or to participate in the “Foreign Service National” Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.
- Supervisory Relationship: The Security and Operations Specialist will receive supervision, policy direction and guidance from the Office Director or designate. The incumbent is expected to work independently and exercise considerable judgment in conducting his/her responsibilities. Work is assigned primarily relative to desired results, suggested approaches, and performed in consultation with the direct hire supervisor who will approve the incumbent’s annual work objectives. Performance is evaluated primarily in terms of accomplishments. The incumbent will receive minimal oversight in conducting his/her daily tasks and achieving longer-term work objectives
- Supervisory Controls: The incumbent will not have any supervisory role.
- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION
a. Education: Minimum of bachelor’s degree in development, humanitarian assistance, health, management, or social sciences.
b. Prior Work Experience: A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in Humanitarian Assistance, collaborating with and/or working for a large governmental organization, donor organizations, the host country government, or other related organizations.
c. Language: Excellent written and spoken English and Amharic (Level 4).
III. EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with candidates 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 candidates 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 candidates in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.
Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified candidates in comparison to other candidates. Candidates must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:
EVALUATION FACTORS
EDUCATION (5 points): Points will be given for (1) education above the minimum level and/or (2) specialized education pertinent to the position. and/or (3) specialized training pertinent to the position.
WORK EXPERIENCE (35 points): Points will be given for (1) experience above the minimum levels required, (2) specialized experience pertinent to the position, (3) experience in pertinent development assistance activities, (4) experience in development organizations that are large and/or international.
KNOWLEDGE (35 points): Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Humanitarian Assistance approaches and interventions. Demonstrated senior-level knowledge of the overall humanitarian context and its current priorities as well as the key aspects of US Government foreign assistance to the country. Demonstrated knowledge of USG strategic direction, its chief accomplishments and its challenges.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES (25 points): Demonstrated technical and analytical skills in management; analytical and research; social and professional judgment; as well as interpersonal interaction in cross-cultural and multi-level settings. Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with mid-level and senior-level government officials and members of the business community; and an ability to maintain collaborative working relationships within a team structure. Demonstrated skills in communication, advocacy, and networking. Demonstrated conceptual and analytical skills to be able to quickly grasp and translate new concepts into operational plans and results. Demonstrated ability to exercise flexibility to be able to accept and react to evolving planning and implementation contexts. Demonstrated computer skills including skills with Microsoft Office, web-based databases, and electronic filing. Demonstrated judgment in his/her roles. Demonstrated skills in initiative and offers leadership in reviewing the progress of programs and projects under his/her responsibility, including performance reports, pipeline management, program implementation review. Demonstrated timely decision-making ability and extensive judgment in planning and carrying out tasks, using diplomacy and tact.
INTERVIEW PERFORMANCE (100 points)
BASIS OF RATING: Candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors.
Candidates should address these factors in the offer package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.
The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview and writing test. Interviews may be conducted either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion.
Final TEC recommendations for the candidates will be based on the initial evaluation of the applications, interview performance, and written test. USAID/Ethiopia will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.
Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned). Reference checks will be conducted only for the first-ranked candidate. Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If a candidate does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the candidate’s cover letter, and USAID will not contact those references without contacting the candidate.
IV. SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit:
- The offer form DS-174 (Application for U.S. Federal employment) which can be found in the U.S. embassy website https://et.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/; or https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/work-with-us/careers/ds-form-174-ccn-application.
- A resume in English
- Letter of application (cover letter) that describes your experience with the evaluation criteria (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors), and
- Contact information for a minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including at least two references with direct knowledge of the offeror’s past performance.
Further Guidance:
To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation Number in the offer submission.
Application must be submitted ONLY via addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say– solicitation 72066323R10013, USAID Project Management Specialist (Operations and Security). Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.
Please do not submit more than one application; and
The application must be submitted before or on the closing date at local Ethiopia time 5 p.m. (Local Ethiopia, Addis Ababa Time, or EAT). Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The Contracting Candidates will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award:
- Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)
- Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
- Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
- BENEFITS:
Group life insurance, medical coverage, annual leave and sick leave.
- ALLOWANCES (as applicable):
Meal allowance and miscellaneous benefit allowance.
VII.TAXES
Cooperating Country Nationals are expected to comply with all relevant Ethiopian laws and regulations.
VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN and TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
- USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, “Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
- 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: Cost – Product Service Code: [e.g. R497] – Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS] |
1 | LOT | $ _TBD__ | $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_ |
- Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs
- 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.
- 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.
Supervisory USAID Development Assistance Specialist (Economic Growth) (Closes September 1, 2023)
I. GENERAL INFORMATION
- SOLICITATION NO.: 72066323R10011
- ISSUANCE DATE: 08/17/2023
- CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: 09/01/2023, no later than 5:00 p.m (EAT) (close of business).
- POINT OF CONTACTS: James Cerwinski, Supervisory EXO and Fekadu Tamirate, HR Specialist, e-mail at addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov.
- POSITION TITLE: Supervisory USAID Development Assistance Specialist (Economic Growth)
- MARKET VALUE: $35,053 – $63,097 yearly e., equivalent to FSN-13. In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Ethiopia. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value. Salary will be paid in local currency at the exchange rate in effect when the payroll is processed.
- PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature through a series of sequential contracts, subject to continued need, satisfactory performance, and the availability of funds.
The expected period of performance will be from 12/31/2023 – 12/30/2028.
- PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: US Embassy, Entoto Road, Addis Ababa, with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
- ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Cooperating Country Nationals (CCNs). “Cooperating Country National” means an individual who is a cooperating country citizen, or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country.
- SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Facilities access.
- STATEMENT OF DUTIES
- General Statement of Purpose of the Contract
The Supervisory USAID Development Assistance Specialist (Economic Growth) serves as Chief of the Economic Growth & Resilience Office Strategic Coordination Division and as one of two Deputy Office Directors. The Office has an annual operating budget of approximately USD200M. The Specialist is relied upon to provide exceptional leadership, management, organizational, technical, writing/editing, diplomatic, and interpersonal skills. The Specialist works closely with the Office Director and the Deputy for Program Implementation to manage an Office of approximately forty (40) staff, including USDH, FSNs/CCNs, and USPSCs, in professional- and assistant-level positions. The Specialist is directly responsible for supervision of a Division staff of approximately ten (10) professional- and assistant-level staff involved in policy and external engagement; and learning and operations).
The Specialist plays a lead role in engagement with the Government of Ethiopia (GoE), including the Ministries of Finance and Economic Development, Industry (and the Industrial Parks Development Commission), Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Labor and Skills, Ministry of Women & Youth, the Ministry of Urban Development and Infrastructure, Ministry of Mines, Ministry of Planning & Development (Environment and Climate Change Authority, Space Science and Geospatial Institute, and Ethiopian Statistics Service), Ministry of Water and Energy, Ministry of Agriculture (and its Agricultural Transformation Institute), Ministry of Lowlands and Irrigation, the Office of the Federal Auditor General, the Ethiopian Investment Holdings Company, and the Prime Minister’s Ethiopian Food Systems Council, at both national and regional levels, to ensure policy engagement coherence and the successful implementation of USAID’s development strategy. The Specialist represents the Office and the Mission with bilateral donors, UN organizations, NGOs, the private sector, and other pertinent agencies and organizations.
- Statement of Duties to be Performed
- TECHNICAL AND PROGRAMMATIC LEADERSHIP – 35%
- As a technical resource and advisor, the Specialist advises on and backstops foreign development assistance activities in economic growth.
- The Specialist advises on activities within the Office by reviewing and analyzing data and advising on analytics and operations, partnerships, policy, and systems.
- The Specialist takes a leadership role in formulating, coordinating, and managing strategy, policies, concepts, procedures, guidelines, and models for establishing programs in the economic growth, environment, and food security sectors.
- The Specialist analyzes constraints to achieving economic development, both sector-wide and country- and county-specific, in consultation with relevant stakeholders and recommends courses of action.
- The Specialist takes a lead role in performance management assessment for the office portfolio and staff and leads strategy and activity co-creation with internal and external stakeholders, including collaboration with other offices at the Mission.
- The Specialist serves as a development advocate at the Mission and externally, ensuring that priorities of the host country are considered throughout the program cycle while ensuring inclusivity.
- The Specialist serves as the FSN/CCN in the Office, assisting in planning for a broad range of activities, including identifying opportunities for integrating development assistance principles with economic growth programs, building and managing partnerships, strategic information and data analytics, managing supply chain operations and technology; taking a leading role in policy formation and guidelines to further economic growth activities in the geographic area; and, coordinating program development, implementation, and performance monitoring plans that encourage economic growth as stipulated in the Mission five-year Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS).
- The Specialist advises and serves as a strategic thought leader and partner to the Office, the Mission, and USG leadership, technical Office teams, and Mission CORs/AORs on important aspects of USAID programming.
- The Specialist makes recommendations to the Office Director, Mission senior management, and USAID/Washington on changes in office budgets.
- The Specialist provides Office input for the long-term resource requirement section of the Mission strategy document.
- The Specialist provides Office input for the Mission’s annual planning documents, such as the Mission Resource Request (MRR), Congressional Budget Justification, Mission Performance Plan and Report (PPR), Operational Plans, and the Bureau Budget Submission.
- The Specialist prepares Office justifications and rationale for requested resources for, submission to USAID/Washington, State, and the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).
- The Specialist leads and oversees development, management, and assessment of economic growth programs in critical program areas, as per the goal, objectives, and projects in the CDCS.
- The Specialist participates and assists in the development of plans and programs for technical assistance, capital assistance, and other activities within the sector.
- The Specialist leads strategic development, implementation, financial management, and monitoring and evaluation of economic growth programs that complement GoE priorities.
- The Specialist manages a broad range of key activities, including development of in-depth analysis of existing programs and projects, portfolio reviews, and makes policy recommendations to strengthen USAID programs.
- The Specialist leads in accomplishing work related to the conceptualization, design, documentation, and/or management of centrally administered programs/projects in designated regions and areas.
- The Specialist develops concept papers, project authorizations, and project amendments, in line with agency regulations and guidance.
- The Specialist performs a central role in conceptualizing and operationalizing Office efforts to effectively advance Ethiopia in its journey to sustainable development, including playing a leading role in reorienting the Office’s strategies, partnership and business models, and program practices, in order to achieve greater and sustainable development outcomes.
- The Specialist works with other team members to enhance relationships with GoE entities, and the multinational donor community.
- The Specialist responds to taskers and urgent requests by the Mission Front Office and the Embassy, delegates tasks, while remaining responsible to appropriate Office technical experts and project managers, writes briefers and strategic documents, and supports and provides input into the development of new programs and projects.
- STRATEGIC COORDINATION AND REPRESENTATION – 35%
- The Specialist serves as a key advisor on economic growth-related donor coordination activities and policy forums.
- The Specialist represents USAID with a wide range of stakeholders from the GoE, at the national and county levels, academia, research institutions, and development partners, as well as in a variety of settings with regional stakeholders.
- The Specialist participates on county and national-level representation teams – including with business associations – to enhance the voice of the private sector.
- The Specialist engages with, identifies, and maps key structures for success with the national government, and with other stakeholders, toward achieving Mission objectives and goals.
- The Specialist facilitates the convening of diverse groups, and negotiates for common ground on crucial issues.
- The Specialist undertakes tasks and roles as determined in coordination with the Office Director to strengthen the USAID – GoE relationship in target areas, supporting national and local government engagement and coordination, and staying abreast of changes in processes and policies, in order to keep the Office and Mission leadership informed.
- The Specialist plays a leadership role in the coordination, planning, and management of activities related to relevant partnerships and operations, strategic information and data analytics, products and technology, policy, and financing.
- The Specialist coordinates assigned activities with GoE institutions, other donor and international organizations, the Department of State, other USG agencies, and the private sector within Ethiopia.
- The Specialist acts as a liaison with counterparts in other USAID regional and central bureaus, on behalf of the Office and the Mission, to develop agency-wide policies, strategies, performance indicators, assessments, and evaluations of programs.
- The Specialist liaises directly with USAID/Washington, in order to orient the Mission economic growth program to align optimally with economic growth principles and program objectives.
- The Specialist represents USAID in Technical Working Groups, and in meetings with donors, implementing partners, and senior GoE officials, in regional settings, and with a variety of other stakeholders.
- The Specialist liaises with partner-country and regional officials of other ministries and government entities on economic growth and programs, leading the Division in collaborating with government officials, civil society organizations, and in-country donors in promoting a country-owned program.
- The Specialist seeks out and establishes partnerships with in-country multilateral organizations, associations of economic growth professionals, civil society organizations that advocate for economic growth, and private firms to marshal complementary resources, foster country ownership, and promote sustainability.
- The Specialist leads the integration of the Office portfolio with other technical office portfolios within the Mission, and coordinates to ensure that the Office maintains extensive contact with the corporate sector, impact investors, philanthropists, and financial institutions to further USAID’s programming in Ethiopia.
- OFFICE MANAGEMENT AND SUPERVISION – 30%
- The Specialist serves as Division Chief and one of two Deputy Office Directors, undertaking roles delegated by the Office Director to participate in management of an office of approximately forty (40) staff; in this role, the Specialist supports the Director in day-to-day management and oversight of Office technical programs.
- The Specialist has direct supervisory responsibility for two of the Office’s five Teams, Policy and Engagement Division, and Learning and Operations.
- The Specialist leads and directs the Division in planning, budgeting, organizing, and management of the Teams, and their approximately ten (10) professional and administrative staff.
- The Specialist, together with the Office Director and the other Deputy Director, manages internal Office operations, including development and implementation of personnel strategy, workforce planning and recruitment of staff, budget and resource planning, implementation and reporting, establishing systems, and ensuring the office is responsive to strategic opportunities.
- As a well-developed economic growth Specialist, the Job Holder advises members of staff, and provides mentoring, coaching, and guidance to newly hired FSN/CCN and USDH staff within the Mission.
- The Specialist trains and mentors staff in all aspects of economic growth program design, development, and implementation activities, and provides technical support and leadership in the areas of reporting and documentation, monitoring and evaluation, and budget and data analysis; additionally, the Specialist coaches staff to set professional development goals, identifying relevant training opportunities to advance those goals and strengthen the overall USAID/Ethiopia Mission.
- During the absence of the Office Director, the Specialist, as Deputy, may take on an “Acting” Office Director role and, as such, productively engages with the Mission Director and Deputy Mission Directors, participates in senior leadership meetings and discussions, and represents the Office in external meetings and functions.
The contractor is eligible for travel to the U.S., or to other locations abroad, for training, for temporary duty, or to participate in the “Foreign Service National” Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.
- Supervisory Relationship
The Supervisory USAID Development Assistance Specialist (Economic Growth) works under the general supervision of the Economic Growth & Resilience Office Director and as one of two (2) Office Deputy Directors. The Specialist performs the work with a wide degree of latitude and independence. Typically, the Office Director and the Specialist discuss possible alternative methods, but the decision on which methods to use is often left to the discretion of the Job Holder. The Specialist is expected to exercise this discretion in a manner that serves Office, Mission, and Agency goals. Work performance is reviewed in a general, overall manner, with regard to progress toward objectives, the soundness and effectiveness of decisions and actions, and results achieved. The wide latitude given reflects the Office Director’s confidence in the Specialist’s abilities. The Specialist is required to deal with serious obstacles to programming in Ethiopia, applying an in-depth understanding of the GoE, the private sector, and civil society organizations to consider complex, on-the-ground realities.
- Supervisory Controls
The Specialist exercises full supervisory responsibility over approximately ten (10) professional and assistant-level staff, through two subordinate supervisors, assigning tasks and reviewing completed work. Managerial experience is required to handle a range of managerial tasks such as annual plans and work objectives, budgetary control, managing the assigned portfolio, and contributing to the management of the overall Office staff of approximately forty (40) staff.
- PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The work requested does not involve undue physical demands.
II. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED FOR THIS POSITION
a. Education: Master’s degree in business or public administration, economics, economic development, finance, agricultural development, environmental sciences, international management or a related field.
b. Prior Experience: Minimum of ten (10) years of professional-level experience managing and implementing economic growth (to include economic transformation, environment, or food security) programs in developing countries, with an emphasis on establishing public-private partnerships, and managing large-scale economic growth operations, supply chain, data analytics and strategic information. At least five years’ experience working for a development organization/institution and/or a donor organization, in a developing country context focusing on economic growth programs, preferably in East Africa or a similar development context, at progressively higher program management levels. One year of working in an office leadership role, with direct supervisory responsibility, in an office with a large portfolio.
c. Language: English and Amharic at Level IV.
III.EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with candidates 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 candidates 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 candidates in the competitive range to the greatest number that will permit an efficient competition among the most highly rated offers. The FAR provisions referenced above are available at https://www.acquisition.gov/browse/index/far.
Rating factors are used to determine the competitive ranking of qualified candidates in comparison to other candidates. Candidates must demonstrate the rating factors outlined below within their resume, as they are evaluated strictly by the information provided. The rating factors are as follows:
EVALUATION FACTORS
- APPLICATION REVIEW BY THE TECHNICAL EVALUATION COMMITTEE (Education (25 pts) + Work Experience (25 pts) + Knowledge (25 pts) + Skills and Abilities (25 pts) = 100 pts):
EDUCATION (25 points): Points will be given for (1) education above the minimum level and/or (2) specialized education pertinent to the position. and/or (3) specialized training pertinent to the position.
WORK EXPERIENCE (25 points): Points will be given for (1) experience above the minimum levels required, (2) specialized experience pertinent to the position, (3) experience in pertinent development assistance activities, (4) experience in development organizations that are large and/or international.
KNOWLEDGE (25 points):
- Demonstrated comprehensive knowledge of the GoE and regional economic growth strategy, policies, and development programs, including GoE and regional economic growth, policy analysis, and policy development.
- Demonstrated thorough knowledge of economic growth program design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation, data collection, and analysis techniques, along with a good understanding of supply chain issues and principles;
- Demonstrated well-developed knowledge of economic growth sector issues, national and regional perspectives, and programs in the region
- Demonstrated good knowledge, or the potential to quickly acquire such knowledge, of policies and practices relating to development assistance, programming, regulations, procedures, and documentation, and those of non-state actors (i.e., multilateral, and bilateral economic growth partners, civil society and faith-based organizations and private sector).
- Demonstrated substantial knowledge and understanding of the organization, and the respective roles of the different levels of government, to enhance effective communication, and to develop consensus on program/project/activity strategy and implementation plans.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES (25 points):
- Demonstrated diplomatic and leadership skills, with strong oral communication abilities at senior management levels is required.
- Demonstrated ability to analyze, understand and discuss new technical developments and approaches at regional level as well as program management and implementation approaches is required.
- Demonstrated ability to lead project teams and workgroups and to develop effective working relationships with national and international partners is required.
- Proven ability to provide complex explanations, facilitate meetings and make oral presentations to senior officials and partners in multi-cultural contexts and exercise ingenuity and tact in highly complex settings.
- Demonstrated capability of working independently, prioritizing, and managing several activities simultaneously.
- Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team environment to achieve consensus on policy, program and administrative matters is necessary.
- Demonstrated strong writing and computer skills with ability to produce concise and clear technical and financial reports.
- Demonstrated ability to travel extensively within Ethiopia, and to other countries within the region as the situation allows.
- WRITTEN TEST (40 points): A candidate must complete the written test to be considered for the interview.
- INTERVIEW PERFORMANCE (60 points)
BASIS OF RATING: Candidates who meet the Minimum Qualifications will be evaluated in accordance with the Evaluation and Selection Factors.
Candidates should address these factors in the offer package, describing specifically and accurately what experience, training, education and/or awards they have received as it pertains to the factors. Failure to address the Evaluation and Selection Factors may result in not receiving credit for all pertinent experience, education, training and/or awards.
The highest-ranking applicants may be selected for an interview and writing test. Interviews may be conducted either in person or by telephone/video call at USAID’s discretion.
Final TEC recommendations for the candidates will be based on the initial evaluation of the applications, interview performance, and written test. USAID/Ethiopia will not pay for any expenses associated with interviews.
Satisfactory Professional Reference Checks – Pass/Fail (no points assigned). Reference checks will be conducted only for the first-ranked candidate. Please be advised that references may be obtained independently from other sources in addition to the ones provided by an offeror. If a candidate does not wish USAID to contact a current employer for a reference check, this should be stated in the candidate’s cover letter, and USAID will not contact those references without contacting the candidate.
IV.SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Eligible Offerors are required to complete and submit:
- The offer form DS-174 (Application for U.S. Federal employment) which can be found in the U.S. embassy website https://et.usembassy.gov/embassy/jobs/; or https://www.usaid.gov/ethiopia/work-with-us/careers/ds-form-174-ccn-application.
- A resume in English
- Letter of application (cover letter) that describes your experience with the evaluation criteria (Section III: Evaluation and Selection Factors), and
- Contact information for a minimum of three and a maximum of five references, including at least two references with direct knowledge of the offeror’s past performance.
Further Guidance:
To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation Number in the offer submission.
Application must be submitted ONLY via addisusaidjobs@usaid.gov and the email subject must say– Solicitation 72066323R10011, Supervisory USAID Development Assistance Specialist (Economic Growth). Be sure to include your name and the solicitation number at the top of each page.
Please do not submit more than one application; and
The application must be submitted before or on the closing date at local Ethiopia time 5 p.m. (Local Ethiopia, Addis Ababa Time, or EAT). Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
V. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The Contracting Candidates will provide instructions about how to complete and submit the following forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award:
- Medical History and Examination Form (Department of State Forms)
- Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
- Fingerprint Card (FD-258)
VI. BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits and allowances:
- BENEFITS:
Group life insurance, medical coverage, annual leave and sick leave.
- ALLOWANCES (as applicable):
Meal allowance and miscellaneous benefit allowance.
VII. TAXES
Cooperating Country Nationals are expected to comply with all relevant Ethiopian laws and regulations.
VIII. USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN and TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
- USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR), Appendix J, “Direct USAID Contracts With a Cooperating Country National and with a Third Country National for Personal Services Abroad,” including contract clause “General Provisions,” available at https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
- 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: Cost – Product Service Code: [e.g. R497] – Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS] |
1 | LOT | $ _TBD__ | $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_ |
- Acquisition & Assistance Policy Directives/Contract Information Bulletins (AAPDs/CIBs) for Personal Services Contracts with Individuals available at http://www.usaid.gov/work-usaid/aapds-cibs
- 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.
- 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The U.S. Mission provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation. The U.S. Government also strives to achieve equal employment opportunity in all personnel operations through continuing diversity enhancement programs.
The EEO complaint procedure is not available to individuals who believe they have been denied equal opportunity based upon marital status or political affiliation. Individuals with such complaints should avail themselves of the appropriate grievance procedures, remedies for prohibited personnel practices, and/or courts for relief.