1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 306-08-56/OD
2. ISSUING DATE: April 17, 2008
3. CLOSING DATE: May 16, 2008
4. POSITION TITLE: Field Program Officer – Special Projects *
5. Number of Positions: *Three
6. MARKETING VALUE: GS-13 ($68,625 – $89,217)
7. ORGANIZATIONAL LOCATION OF POSITION: USAID/AFGHANISTAN
8. DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Development Advisor to CJSOTF-A located in Bagram *
9. SUPERVISORY CONTROL: *The position entails supervision of FSN staff (a local Afghan Project Management Specialist). *
10. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: *Thirteen months (13 months) with an option for renewal. *
11. SECURITY ACCESS: *USG SECRET LEVEL
12. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S CITIZENS ONLY *
POSITION DESCRIPTION: USAID FIELD PROGRAM OFFICER – SPECIAL PROJECTS.
A. INTRODUCTION:
The USAID mission is part of a larger US Government and International Community intervention to assist the people and government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (IRoA). In recent years, Afghanistan, with the help of the international community, has made remarkable progress on many fronts. Presidential and Parliamentary elections have been held. Agricultural output has doubled. Fiscal, banking, trade, customs and regulatory reforms are being instituted. Private investment is growing. Reconstruction of the highway that rings the country is well underway. Enrollment in primary school has risen dramatically, and the quality of basic health services is improving.
However, many of the root causes of conflict, insecurity and political instability in Afghanistan remain unaddressed: widespread poverty, ethnic mistrust and imbalance of power; slow progress on demobilization, and external extremist influences.
USAID’s mission is to support the rapid transition of Afghanistan to a more stable and productive state through the promotion of democracy, rule of law and sustainable economic and social development that is responsive to citizens’ needs. Its mission is centered on working with Afghans and others to achieve three interlinked Strategic Objectives: ? A thriving economy led by the private sector; ? A democratic government with broad citizen participation; ? A better educated and healthier population.
B. PROGRAM OVERVIEW
In order to help expand the assistance of the US Government and the International Community beyond large cities, Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRTs) have been established throughout Afghanistan. The military, diplomatic, and development personnel stationed at PRTs are part of an interagency (and often multinational) team whose purpose is to extend the reach and enhance the legitimacy of the central government in outlying and often less secure regions of the country through security sector reform, the promotion of good governance, and the facilitation of reconstruction and development. In addition to staffing PRTs with USAID FPO’s, for nearly two years the USAID PRT program has assigned Special Project FPO’s (FPOSP) with the U.S. Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan (CJSOTF-A). USAID’s FPOs stationed in the PRTs across Afghanistan as well as their counterparts working with U.S. Special Forces (USSF) are a key entry point for USAID/Afghanistan to engage in this part of the U.S. Government effort to stabilize the country.
The coordination with the USSF in Afghanistan is designed to enable USAID programming to gain access to more remote and insecure areas in order to achieve the U.S. government objective of stabilization. The USAID FPOSP’s working with the CJSOTF-A units serve as advisors for development activities that can be carried out in support of counterinsurgency (COIN) operations. In addition, FPOSP’s are able to identify strategic communities where USAID quick impact resources can be brought to bear in these transitional development scenarios.
USAID has four objectives operating in the COIN environment: (1) strengthen local ties to national government, (2) demonstrate benefits of alliance with the IRoA, (3) reward communities who drive insurgents out of the area, and (4) strengthen local will and ability to resist insurgents. In coordination with CJSOTF-A, FPOSP’s are able to access remote and non-permissive areas in order to carry out these objectives. This requires traveling and working in multiple provinces.
The overall objective of the LGCD program is to help the IRoA and local citizens develop the institutions, processes, and practices that will create a stable environment for long-term political, economic, and social development.
The $244 million USAID/PRT Local Governance and Community Development Program (LGCD) is a vital component of the field office program operations. The objective of the PRT implemented LGCD program is to create linkages and confidence between communities and the district, provincial and central government of Afghanistan. These linkages are created through the process of conceptualizing, planning, and implementing projects in coordination with the LGCD implementing partners. To this end, the program supports 4 Component areas of programming:
? Component One: Support to local public administration and governance ? Component Two: Community mobilization and development ? Component Three: Local stability initiatives ? Component Four: Provision of sector specialists to PRTs
See USAID website at: Website: for description of the PRT function and structure, and for more information on LGCD.
C. BASIC FUNCTION OF THE POSITION:
The incumbent will have the following duties and responsibilities:
The FPOSP’s working with CJSOTF-A report through a USAID Development Advisor based in Bagram to the PRT office management in Kabul. The USAID/USSF program currently consists of one Development Advisor to CJSOTF-Living arrangements vary depending on the area of work. FPOSP’s live on Special Forces firebases or forward operating bases as opposed to PRTs. Often times, FPOSP’s will be based out of larger U.S. military bases and deploy with Special Forces teams to smaller firebases in order to work on the ground. The conditions vary but are often rustic.
The FPOSP responsibilities are threefold:
1. First, the FPOSP will serve as the representative of the USAID/Afghanistan mission in the field. In this capacity, the FPOSP is responsible for coordinating with USAID technical offices in Kabul to ensure the scope of USAID activities is represented in the reconstruction effort in that province as well as to deconflict ongoing reconstruction efforts of the PRTs, military, other donors, and various international organizations. The role of the FPOSP is not to manage the USAID mission’s technical programs in the field, but rather to assist the USAID Cognizant Technical Officers (CTOs) with assessing, planning, implementing and/or monitoring of these contractor/grantee implemented programs in the field . In addition, the FPOSP will also be responsible for coordinating and working closely with the UN Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) and other civilian international assistance organizations working in the area.
2. The second role of a FPOSP is to facilitate, as a field program activity manager, the implementation of the USAID PRT Kabul managed $244 million Local Governance and Community development (LGCD) program in the field. Under Component Three, Local Stability Initiatives, there is a Special Initiatives subcomponent designed for FPOSP’s working with USSF. The FPOSP serves as the activity manager for this subcomponent – providing oversight of the program on the ground and making recommendations to the CTO in Kabul on approval of activities, and on the strategic and operational implementation of the program on the ground in the target districts and communities of the province. The activities implemented under this subcomponent are designed to achieve the following:
? Enable proactive planning ? Provide initial baseline community assessments ? Improve cross communication and multi-component implementation ? Support local government institutions to be responsive to community needs
3. The third role of a FPOSP is to serve as an advisor for development activities carried out in priority areas for counterinsurgency (COIN) operations. See U.S. State Department “Counterinsurgency for U.S. Government Policy Makers: A Work in Progress” (the “Interim Guide”) at as one of several complementary efforts to develop whole-of-government approaches to complex operations, which include COIN.
The Coalition approach to COIN integrates 3 stages of stability and reconstruction: clear, hold and build. During the “clear” phase, FPOSP’s take part in pre-operational integrated development and security planning. Prior to military operations - which are often led by Afghanistan National Security Forces and USSF teams - FPOSP’s integrate into the planning mechanisms to determine access points offering start points for reconstruction and assistance in the post-operational phase. In the “hold” phase, FPOSP’s work closely with USSF and civil affairs teams to design an integrated plan to engage and seek development partnerships with communities in order to maintain positive momentum. FPOSP’s also work with traditional community leadership, such as village elders, to identify short and medium term community-driven projects for quick implementation. In the majority of USSF operational areas, they have yet to reach the “build” stage, characterized by more sustainable development programs.
D. Duties and Responsibilities
Specific duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
1) Provide development expertise presence at the battalion, company, and team level to ensure the USSF is apprised of all USAID development activities in their areas of operation. As required the FPOSP may work with USAID management and technical offices located in Kabul, to modify current programs and/or design new programs. The primary duties and responsibilities in this area will be to ensure all USAID activities in the assigned area and projects are coordinated with other stakeholder partners on the ground, and to keep USAID Technical Office in Kabul abreast of any problems with programmatic implementation, coordination or other issues which need to be resolved to ensure success of development programs and activities.
2) Integrate into USSF staff, and take part in pre and post-operational planning and development assessments.
3) Attend meetings with senior USSF leadership and advise, when appropriate, on development strategies and approaches in their areas of operation.
4) Travel with USSF teams to remote locations to work on-the-ground with communities to forge productive development activity partnerships.
5) Coordinate with USAID FPO’s working on PRTs on activities and programs when working in the provinces. Sharing information and, in some cases, handing over projects to the USAID FPO’s will be an important aspect to integration with the overall, strategic plan for the province.
6) Work closely with LGCD implementing partner(s) to create developmentally sound processes for identifying, coordinating, implementing, monitoring, and certifying completion of LGCD projects.
7) Responsible for all administrative and accountability requirements related to USAID office operations and ensure that these are handled in accordance with established policies and procedures provided by the Executive and Financial Management Offices in Kabul. Handle logistics, prepare materials and deliver briefings for visitors as needed.
8) Report regularly to the Development Advisor and USAID office in Kabul through weekly reporting mechanism, handover documents, and other mechanisms as required.
E. EVALUATION CRITERIA/SELECTION CRITERIA:
1. Education: (25 Points)* Candidate must possess a Bachelors degree, a Masters degree is preferred, with studies in areas such as social sciences, anthropology, foreign area studies; governance, community development, engineering, agricultural, economic development, international relations, international development, international business or other development related specialties. In addition to the formal education requirements, above; training in conflict management and mitigation and/or military counter-insurgency, civil-military and/or civil affairs training, is a plus.
2. Work Experience: (25 Points) Three years experience preferred in areas to include democracy and governance, rural economic development, community development, or related areas. A demonstrated ability to learn new technical or sectoral skills relating to development quickly. Experience in project design, implementation, and management in an international context is preferred, or similar experiences working in closely related activities that provide the applicant with an understanding of program implementation. Prior successful management experience in a position of similar complexity, preferably working for USAID or a similar development organization. At least one year professional experience working in emergency, post-conflict, or transition environments and prior experience working in Afghanistan is desirable, but not required. Military background and/or experience working in civilian-military partnership; or as a civilian development worker in a conflict country operating environment, is preferred. Significant demonstration of excellence in previous position such as merit based promotion or award(s).
3. Knowledge, skills and abilities (50 points): Demonstrated ability to exercise significant professional judgment related to program and activity design, operational problems and issues requiring strategy development, policy decisions, innovative solutions, and/or options to enable practical resolution. Demonstrated ability to develop good working relationships with a wide range of different individuals in interagency and multi-cultural work environment. The incumbent must be able to interact effectively with military officials, mid-level officials in host governments, representatives of other donor agencies, leaders in the NGO community, village and tribal elders, as well as high-level dignitaries on occasion. The incumbent must have an ability to work collaboratively in teams, exercise leadership to build consensus, and effectively coordinate with a diverse collection of stakeholders. Interpersonal skills should include the ability to work well within multi-cultural environments, forge new development partnerships, and catalyze action; and/or make on-the-spot decisions within his/her authority guide, support and achieve development activity goals. A demonstrated ability to function with minimal supervision. Aptitude or experience operating in a sometimes chaotic and usually unstructured environment; ability to identify priorities, marshal resources, and achieve results. Ability to maintain a positive attitude despite resource constraints and/or a harsh and often dangerous environment.
Ability to quickly grasp and implement USAID nine principles of development and reconstruction assistance (e.g. ownership, capacity building, sustainability, selectivity, assessment, results, partnership, flexibility, accountability. See ); and lead program and activity (project) development in the field.
Capacity to manage for results, work within multi-disciplined strategic objective teams, conduct performance monitoring and reporting. Sound, experience-based knowledge of development and the implementation of foreign assistance programs, particularly USAID programs, is preferred.
A demonstrated knowledge of management procedures, budgetary and procurement processes in a developing country context is preferred.
Excellent English language communications skills, both written and oral, including public speaking skills is required as is a demonstrated ability to prepare required reports in proper format and language. Knowledge of Afghan culture, work environment, and language(s) is desirable, but not required.
A sound understanding of political, economic and development realities of the region is preferred.
The successful candidate must have good computer skills.
Maximum Points Available: 100.
F. Term of Performance *
The term of the contract will be for thirteen months from on/about June 15, 2008 to on/about July 14, 2009. Within 4 weeks after written notice from the Contracting Officer that all clearances have been received or, unless another date is specified by the Contracting Officer in writing, the incumbent shall proceed to Kabul to perform the above services which may be extended upon mutual agreement and subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funds. This position has been classified at a U.S. Government GS 13. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated depending on qualifications and previous salary history.
In addition, the Mission has a 35% Post Differential allowance and 35% Danger Pay. FICA and federal income tax will be withheld by USAID. During this one year period you will be entitled to two Rest and Recuperation trips (R&R) and two Regional Rest Breaks. While you will have to use your Annual Leave or Compensatory off for R&R, you will be entitled to 5 days Administrative Leave plus two days of travel time for each Regional Rest Break. There are 4 destinations for Regional Rest Break – they are: Dubai, New Delhi, Istanbul or Baku.
Afghanistan is a no-dependent post.
G. General information regarding living and working conditions in Afghanistan
Life in Afghanistan has somewhat improved since the establishment of the government, and great strides have been made to regularize the availability of services, utilities, and supplies of common consumer items. Living conditions, however, are still difficult but this is an historical opportunity to work closely with a dedicated team to assist the Afghans to bring about peace and stability to their war-torn country. Afghanistan is an unaccompanied post. All staff will be housed on the heavily guarded and fortified Embassy compound, at a military compound, or at a PRT.
H. Medical and Security Clearance
The selected applicant must be able to obtain a USG secret level security clearance and a Department of State Class I medical clearance.
I. Benefits:
As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the benefits and allowances listed in this section. [NOTE: A contractor meeting the definition of a U.S. Resident Hire PSC, shall be subject to U.S. Federal Income Tax, but shall not be eligible for any fringe benefits (except contributions for FICA, health insurance, and life insurance), including differentials and allowances.]
A. BENEFITS: o FICA Contribution o Contribution toward Health & life insurance o Pay Comparability Adjustment o Eligibility for Worker’s Compensation o Annual & Sick Leave o Access to Embassy medical facilities, commissary and pouch mail service as per post policy B. ALLOWANCES (If Applicable): (1) Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120) (2) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130) (3) Post Allowance (Section 220) (4) Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230) (5) Post Differential (Chapter 500) (6) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) and (7) Danger Pay (Section 650) (8) Education Allowance (Section 270) (9) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260) (10)Education Travel (Section 280)C. FEDERAL TAXES: PSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion.
J. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs/AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs* AAPD 06-11 Home Leave and Revised General Provision 5, Leave and Holidays AAPD 06-10 PSC Medical expense payment responsibility AAPD 06-07 AIDAR, Appendix D: Contract budget, salary determination and salary increase AAPD 06-01 Medical evacuation insurance CIB 01-10 Revision of medical clearance process – PSC with U.S. Citizens CIB 01-07 Clarification of the extension/renewal policy regarding PSCs CIB 01-05 Clarification of the Rest and Recuperation (R&R) policy regarding Third Country Nationals (TCNs) CIB 00-08 Revision of Competitive Process – PSCs with U.S. Citizens CIB 00-03 FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts CIB 99-22 PSC Policy CIB 98-23 Guidance regarding Classified Contract Security and Contractor Personnel Security Requirements CIB 98-16 Annual Salary Increase for USPSCs CIB 98-14 Change in Required Application Form for USPSCs CIB 98-11 Determining a Market Value for Personal Services Contractors Hired under Appendix D. CIB 97-17 PSC’s with U.S. Citizens or U.S. resident aliens CIB 97-16 Class Justification for use of Other Than Full and Open Competition for Personal Services Contracts with U.S. Citizens Contracted with Locally, with CCNs and TCNs Subject to the Local Compensation Plan, and for Overseas Contracts of $250,000 or less CIB 96-23 Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contracts CIB 94-09 Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contractors CIB 93-17 Financial Disclosure requirements under a Personal Services Contract CIB 89-29 Use of Government Bill of Lading for Transportation of Personal Service Contractor (PSC) Household Effects, Unaccompanied Baggage and Privately Owned Vehicles
Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertain to Personal Services Contracts can be found at:
Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D or J also applies to PSCs can be found at:
K. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs: * For initial consideration: -612, signed (electronic version required). 2. Contractor Employee Biographical Data Sheet (AID 1420-17) 3. Contractor Physical Examination (AID Form 1420-62). 4. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security) (SF-86) 5. Finger Print Card (FD-258). * (Available from the law enforcement offices or in USAID/Washington).
L. APPLYING
Qualified individuals are required to submit a U.S government OF-612 which is available at the USAID website , or at Federal Offices. Applicant’s CVs may also be included as an attachment.
All applications should be submitted electronically to: Attention: Seetha Chayapathi Human Resources Specialist USAID/Afghanistan
To Ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application and as the subject line of cover letter. The highest ranking applications may be selected for and interview. Applications may submit an application against this solicitation at any time but prior to May 16, 2008, unless revised. Please note that only short listed candidates will be notified.
List of Required PSC forms outlined below can be found at:
.
1. OF-612 2. Contractor Physical Examination (AID Form 1420-62) 3. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security) SF-86, or 4. Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85) 5. Finger Print Card (FD-258). Standardized regulations (government civilians foreign areas)
Forms 2 through 5 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. Note: The selected individual must be able to obtain a security and medical clearance.
Point of Contact * Seetha Chayapathi, Human Resources Specialist, Phone (in Afghanistan) – (202) 216-6288 Ext. 4440; Email:
Place of Performance * Address: USAID/Afghanistan U.S. Embassy Great Masoud Road Kabul, Afghanistan
