I.  GENERAL INFORMATION

1.  SOLICITATION NO.: 21-106

2.  ISSUANCE DATE: September 15, 2021

3.  CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS:            October 6, 2021

4. POSITION TITLE: Acquisition and Assistance Specialist – Multiple          Positions.

5. MARKET VALUE: The full performance level of this career ladder position is equivalent to FSN-11, which is between 4,597,211.00 - 7,815,239.00 Kenya Shillings.  However, if USAID’s evaluation does not result in an award at the full performance level, USAID may make an award to a CCN at a lower level with contract options to place the contractor at each progressive level until the full performance level is reached.

The intermediate level of this position is equivalent to FSN-10, which is between 3,203,516.00 - 5,445,968.00 Kenya Shillings.

The entry level of this position is equivalent to FSN-9, which is between 2,577,704.00 -4,382,096.00 Kenya Shillings.

In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/KEA final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value of the performance level for which the CCNPSC is selected. 

6.  PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE (INCLUSIVE OF OPTIONS): Initial six (6) months probationary period, with an additional six (6) months upon successful completion of probation period. Additional four (4) option years contingent on fully successful or better performance rating, funds availability and the continued need to retain the position.

7.  PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Nairobi, Kenya; with possible travel as stated in the Position Description.

8.  ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS: Open to qualified Kenyan Citizens and current employees of the U.S. Mission. USAID provides equal opportunity and equitable treatment for employment of all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status or sexual orientation.                                                                                                                                                9. STATEMENT OF DUTIES

This position is established as Acquisition and Assistance Specialist (career ladder), position which includes positions at the entry level FSN- 9, intermediate level FSN- 10, and the full performance level of FSN- 11. The Position Descriptions for each level are attached to this solicitation.

10. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The position requirements do not involve rigorous physical demands.

 

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE FSN 9 ENTRY LEVEL POSITION

• The Specialist (Entry Level/EL) is responsible for providing basic acquisition and assistance (A&A) support to Mission Technical Offices, DO Teams, and any designated regional clients. USAID programs/projects/activities are diverse and multi-sectoral. These programs/ projects/ activities are implemented through complex A&A mechanisms, including but not limited to purchase orders, competitively negotiated contracts, task orders, cooperative agreements, Inter Agency Agreements (IAA), and sole source or limited competition awards, requiring the Specialist to become familiar with the full range of USAID instruments. Assignments are designed to provide diversified experience as a foundation for future responsibility. The Specialist performs complete A&A transactions for activities involving few complexities. The Specialist is eligible for temporary duty (TDY) travel to the US, or to other Missions abroad, to participate in the "Foreign Service National" Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.                                
• The Specialist (EL) is assigned work in such a manner as to enhance the knowledge and skills of the individual to work independently in the selection of the appropriate A&A instrument types to meet the Mission’s needs, and to accurately apply United States Government (USG) A&A laws, regulations, policies, and procedures governing each type of instrument. The developmental nature of the assignments provides exposure to the acquisition of goods and various types of services. The Specialist will become equally familiar with the procedures for acquisition of goods, for managing personal services and non-personal services contracting actions and managing and awarding assistance agreements.                                                                                                 
• The Specialist (EL) performs assignments under the guidance of higher-level Specialists/ Officers, and with technical specialists/ activity managers in DO Teams throughout the Mission and/or the Region, assisting in the preparation of annual A&A plans, clear and concise statements of work/statements of objectives/ program descriptions, and supporting documentation. The Specialist will develop the ability to provide well supported guidance to technical specialists/activity managers pertaining to their A&A-related responsibilities and procedures. 

Specific developmental duties include:

i.  PRE-AWARD DUTIES:

The Specialist participates in meetings on A&A planning; collects and analyzes data and prepares and updates tracking tools in order to monitor pending actions; works with clients to assist in the preparation of justifications, waivers, deviations, and other necessary approvals, as needed; and, reviews GLAAS Requisitions (REQs) for completeness and clarity before endorsing them to higher-level Specialists/Officers. The Specialist prepares solicitation documents in GLAAS, and electronically posts solicitations; and works with higher-level Specialists/ Officers to ensure compliance with FAR and AIDAR publicizing requirements, including publication of synopses and solicitations, as prescribed. The Specialist works with higher-level Specialists/Officers to prepare Requests for Proposal and Notices of Funding Opportunities. The Specialist assists higher-level Specialists/ Officers in pre-award activities for competitive solicitations, and with pre-award assessment surveys of potential contractors or recipients, in order to ensure eligibility prior to an award being made. The Specialist directly performs simple procurement actions for supplies or services below the simplified acquisition threshold (SAT) that require limited use of negotiation techniques and analysis.                                                                                                                       ii.  POST-AWARD DUTIES:

• The Specialist assists higher-level Specialists/Officers in monitoring performance as required by the terms and conditions of the award, through reviews of performance and reviews of financial reports. The Specialist administers the awards in the assigned developmental portfolio, monitoring funding levels and preparing incremental funding modifications; and, under the guidance of higher-level Specialists/Officers, works with CO/AO Teams/ CORs/ AORs to assure targets/milestones are set and being met (or that remedial action is taken), and that the overall goals of the program/project/activity are met. As assigned, the Specialist conducts site visits and attends meetings. The Specialist provides guidance to technical personnel and assists in programmatic duties as required to avoid contractual/legal improprieties, seeking guidance from higher-level Specialists/Officers as required. The Specialist assists in researching and resolving issues that may arise during contract performance, including changes, work stoppages, disputes, implementation problems, defaults, cost overruns, unacceptable performance, and payment problems.                       

iii.  AWARD CLOSEOUT:

• The Specialist assists in the closeout process for acquisition and assistance awards (i.e., contracts, task orders, grants, cooperative agreements) after completion. These include ensuring contract audits are conducted in a timely manner, preparing performance documentation, and resolving outstanding issues noted in audits.                                                                                              POSITION ELEMENTS REQUIRED FOR THE FSN 9 ENTRY LEVEL POSITION

A.  SUPERVISION RECEIVED: The Acquisition and Assistance Specialist works under the general supervision of the CO/AO or a higher-level Acquisition and Assistance Specialist/Contracting Officer, who assigns work in terms of objectives and priorities; assistance is provided on new or unusual assignments. The Specialist exercises initiative and judgment in developing and coordinating the A&A package up to recommendation for award, in accordance with standard practices and established procedures. The Specialist will independently initiate necessary coordination with requesting Mission CORs/AORs, Technical Offices, Office of Financial Management (OFM), and DO Teams, providing policy guidance on how to best fulfill requirements, obtaining advice from the supervisor or senior specialist on unanticipated problems or complex issues. The Specialist will keep the higher-level Specialist/Officer, and/or the CO/AO and/or his/her designee, updated through status reports and verbal briefings. The supervisor or a higher-grade contract specialist reviews the recommendations made by the Specialist to ensure that adequate analysis has been made, and that the recommendations are supported by sound judgment and adequate justification.

B.  SUPERVISION EXERCISED: This is a non-supervisory position.

C.  AVAILABLE GUIDELINES: At this level the Specialist will be introduced to the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), USAID Acquisition Regulations (AIDAR), 2 CFR 200 and 700, the Automated Directives System (ADS), USAID policies, US Department of State Standardized Regulations (DSSR), Federal Travel Regulations (FTR), Mission Orders, etc. Guidelines often are not directly applicable to the task at hand, and the Specialist is expected to use limited judgment in their application, requesting guidance in cases where the Specialist has not used the particular guideline in the past.

D.  EXERCISE OF JUDGMENT: The Specialist will exercise a limited judgment in handling pre-award and post-award actions, when advising CORs/AORs and Mission staff, and when interacting with implementing partners (IPs) to resolve issues arising during program/project/activity implementation. The Specialist must apply good judgment in dealing with visitors and callers; in the analysis of cost, financial, and other characteristics of prospective contractors and recipients; and, in deciding what questions need to be asked of client Mission representatives and potential contractors/recipients, to ensure A&A objectives are achieved. The Specialist uses judgment in selecting among authorized A&A methods and techniques, and in the application of regulations and procedures. The supervisor is consulted when decisions on very complex issues are needed, or deviations are proposed.

E.  AUTHORITY TO MAKE COMMITMENTS: At this level, the Specialist will primarily participate in discussions and negotiations with potential contractors and grantees to reach agreement on statements of work/ program descriptions and budgets, under the guidance of a higher-level Specialist/CO/AO. The Specialist may be delegated the authority to conclude negotiations and to structure the final terms and conditions of less-complex USAID acquisition and assistance awards. The agreements will be reviewed by a higher-level Specialist or CO/AO, and approved and signed by a warranted CO/AO, in order to obligate funds. The Specialist is not authorized to make formal commitments.

F.  NATURE, LEVEL, AND PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: The Specialist is in daily contact with staff throughout the Mission, with managers of any serviced Missions/Offices in the Region, IPs, potential IPs, visitors, and mid-level officials from both the public and private sectors, in order to exchange and/or collect information, and to provide advice relating to program implementation.

G.  TIME EXPECTED TO REACH FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL: Fully successful performance at each level could be achieved in one year, however, this will not necessarily indicate that the Specialist has demonstrated all of the Job Knowledge or Skills and Abilities necessary to be placed at the next higher level. Automatic promotions based on time in grade are not possible. Promotions to the next grade are merit based.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE FSN 10 INTERMEDIATE LEVEL POSITION

• The Specialist (Intermediate Level/IL) is responsible for providing acquisition and assistance (A&A) support to Mission Technical Offices, DO Teams, and any designated regional clients. USAID programs are diverse and multi-sectoral. The Specialist is required to provide assistance with acquisition and assistance processes to designated Technical Offices, and/or DO Teams, and to support a variety of activities. These activities are implemented through complex A&A mechanisms, including but not limited to purchase orders, competitively negotiated contracts, task orders, cooperative agreements, Interagency Agreements (IAA), and sole source or limited competition awards, requiring the Specialist to become familiar with the full range of USAID instruments. Assignments are designed to provide more advanced experience with the intent that the Specialist will be responsible for all phases of the A&A process for complex actions in the future. The Specialist performs complete A&A transactions for activities involving moderate complexities. The Specialist is eligible for temporary duty (TDY) travel to the US, or to other Missions abroad, to participate in the "Foreign Service National" Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.            
• The Specialist (IL) must understand the USG laws, regulations, policies and procedures governing each type of A&A mechanism and apply these requirements to make recommendations to the supervisor or higher-level Specialist/Officer regarding the appropriate instrument type for the situation at hand. The Specialist is assigned work in such a manner as to enhance the knowledge and skills of the individual to work independently in the selection of the appropriate A&A instrument types to meet the Mission’s needs, and to accurately apply United States Government (USG) A&A laws, regulations, policies, and procedures governing each type of instrument. The Specialist should have an operating knowledge of the procedures for acquisition of goods, for managing personal services and non-personal services contracting actions and managing and awarding assistance agreements.                                 
• The Specialist (IL) performs his/her assignments semi-independently, seeking the guidance of higher-level Specialists/ Officers for more complex activities. The Specialist works directly with technical specialists/activity managers in DO Teams throughout the Mission and/or the Region, assisting in the preparation of annual A&A plans, clear and concise statements of work/statements of objectives/program descriptions, etc., and supporting documentation. The Specialist provides well supported guidance to technical specialists/activity managers pertaining to their A&A- related responsibilities and procedures.

Specific duties include:

i.  PRE-AWARD DUTIES:

• The Specialist assists the Technical/DO Teams with A&A planning and advises on the selection of the appropriate A&A mechanisms to achieve program objectives. The Specialist collects and analyzes data, and prepares and updates tracking tools in order to monitor pending actions; works with clients to assist in the preparation of justifications, waivers, deviations, and other necessary approvals, as needed; and, reviews GLAAS Requisitions (REQs) for completeness and clarity before endorsing them to higher-level Specialists/Officers. With limited assistance, the Specialist conducts pre-award activities for moderately complex competitive solicitations, assisting technical personnel in the preparation of required descriptions of proposed activities, including SOWs, specifications, and program descriptions.                                                                                         
• The Specialist advises on the adequacy of evaluation criteria and the extent of advertising required. The Specialist prepares Requests for Proposal and Notices of Funding Opportunities for review by higher-level Specialists/Officers. The Specialist, with assistance as necessary from higher-level Specialists/Officers, ensures compliance with FAR and AIDAR advertisement requirements, including publication of synopses and solicitations. The Specialist assists in the development of pre-negotiation cost objectives in conjunction with the CO/AO or higher-level Specialist; recommends the competitive range; negotiates with potential awardees with guidance from higher-level Specialists/ Officers; documents negotiations in writing; assists in technical and cost evaluations; recommends the selected contractor and prepares contract files to include making required certifications and determinations necessary for each A&A action. The Specialist works with higher-level Specialists/Officers on pre-award assessment surveys of potential contractors or recipients in order to ensure eligibility prior to an award being made. The Specialist, with limited assistance, prepares award documents that accurately reflect all discussions and provisions relevant to the type of award mechanism to be implemented.                                                                             

ii.  POST-AWARD DUTIES:

• The Specialist monitors performance as required by the terms and conditions of the award, through reviews of performance and reviews of financial reports. The Specialist administers the awards in his/her assigned developmental portfolio, monitoring funding levels and preparing incremental funding modifications; and, with assistance as needed from higher-level Specialists/Officers, works with CO/AO Teams/CORs/AORs to assure targets/milestones are set and being met (or that remedial action is taken), and that the overall goals of the program/project/activity are met. As assigned, the Specialist conducts site visits and attends meetings. The Specialist provides guidance to technical personnel and assists in programmatic duties as required to avoid contractual/ legal improprieties, seeking guidance from higher-level Specialists/ Officers as required. The Specialist researches and makes recommendations to resolve issues that may arise during contract performance, including changes, work stoppages, disputes, implementation problems, defaults, cost overruns, unacceptable performance, and payment problems.                                          

ii.  AWARD CLOSEOUT:

• The Specialist conducts closeout of acquisition and assistance awards (i.e., contracts, task orders, grants, cooperative agreements) after completion. This includes ensuring contract audits are conducted in a timely manner, preparing performance documentation, and resolving outstanding issues noted in audits.

POSITION ELEMENTS REQUIRED FOR THE FSN 10 INTERMEDIATE LEVEL POSITION

A.  SUPERVISION RECEIVED: The Acquisition and Assistance Specialist works under the general supervision of the CO/AO or a higher-level Acquisition and Assistance Specialist/Contracting Officer, who assigns work in terms of objectives and priorities; assistance is provided on new or unusual assignments. The Specialist exercises initiative and judgment in developing and coordinating the A&A package up to recommendation for award, in accordance with standard practices and established procedures. The Specialist will independently initiate necessary coordination with requesting Mission CORs/AORs, Technical Offices, Office of Financial Management (OFM), and DO Teams, providing policy guidance on how to best fulfill requirements, obtaining advice from the supervisor or senior specialist on unanticipated problems or complex issues. The Specialist will keep the higher-level Specialist/Officer, and/or the CO/AO and/or his/her designee, updated through status reports and verbal briefings. The supervisor or a higher-grade contract specialist reviews the recommendations made by the Specialist to ensure that adequate analysis has been made, and that the recommendations are supported by sound judgment and adequate justification.

B. SUPERVISION EXERCISED: This is a non-supervisory position.

C. AVAILABLE GUIDELINES: At this level the Specialist will be introduced to the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), USAID Acquisition Regulations (AIDAR), 2 CFR 200 and 700, the Automated Directives System (ADS), USAID policies, US Department of State Standardized Regulations (DSSR), Federal Travel Regulations (FTR), Mission Orders, etc. Guidelines often are not directly applicable to the task at hand, and the Specialist is expected to use limited judgment in their application, requesting guidance in cases where the Specialist has not used the particular guideline in the past.

D. EXERCISE OF JUDGEMENT: The Specialist will exercise a developed degree of judgment in handling pre-award and post-award actions, when advising CORs/AORs and Mission staff, and when interacting with implementing partners (IPs) to resolve issues arising during program/ project/activity implementation. The Specialist must apply good judgment in dealing with visitors and callers; in the analysis of cost, financial, and other characteristics of prospective contractors and recipients; and, in deciding what questions need to be asked of client Mission representatives and potential contractors/ recipients, to ensure A&A objectives are achieved. The Specialist uses judgment in selecting among authorized A&A methods and techniques, and in the application of regulations and procedures. The supervisor is consulted when decisions on very complex issues are needed, or deviations are proposed.

E. AUTHORITY TO MAKE COMMITMENTS: The Specialist is required to hold discussions and negotiations with potential contractors and grantees to reach agreement on statements of work/program descriptions and budgets. The Specialist has the authority to conclude negotiations and to structure the final terms and conditions of USAID acquisition and assistance instruments, as assigned as long as they are within the approved pre-negotiation objectives. The agreements must be approved and signed by a warranted Contracting Officer/Regional Contracting Officer, in order to obligate funds. The Specialist is not authorized to make formal commitments.

F. NATURE, LEVEL, PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: The Specialist is in daily contact with staff throughout the Mission, with managers of any serviced Missions/Offices in the Region, IPs, potential IPs, visitors, and mid-level officials from both the public and private sectors, in order to exchange and/or collect information, and to provide advice relating to program implementation.

G. TIME EXPECTED TO REACH FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL: Fully Successful performance at the FSN-10 level should be achieved in one year, however, this will not necessarily indicate that the Specialist has demonstrated all of the Job Knowledge or Skills and Abilities necessary to be placed at the FSN-11 level.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR THE FSN 11 FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL POSITION

• The Specialist (Full Performance Level/FPL) is responsible for providing professional level acquisition and assistance (A&A) support to Mission Technical Offices, DO Teams, and any designated regional clients. USAID programs are diverse and multi-sectoral. The Specialist is required to guide designated Technical Offices, and/or DO Teams, through acquisition and assistance processes to support a variety of activities. These activities are implemented through complex A&A mechanisms, including but not limited to purchase orders, competitively negotiated contracts, task orders, cooperative agreements, Interagency Agreements (IAA), and sole source or limited competition awards, requiring the Specialist to be expert with regard to the full range of USAID instruments. The Specialist coordinates the development of A&A objectives for assigned portfolios, taking primary responsibility for all phases of the A&A process for complex actions. The Specialist performs complete A&A transactions for complex activities. The Specialist provides guidance and mentoring to junior-level staff, trainees, procurement technicians, and assistants on basic principles of USG and USAID acquisition, assistance, general A&A management, A&A policy direction, new/changed procurement policies, etc., as required. The Specialist is eligible for temporary duty (TDY) travel to the US, or to other Missions abroad, to participate in the "Foreign Service National" Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.                                                                                               
• The Specialist (FPL) must fully understand the USG laws, regulations, policies and procedures governing each type of A&A mechanism, and to apply these requirements to make recommendations to the supervisor regarding the appropriate instrument type for the situation at hand. The Specialist works independently in the selection of the appropriate A&A instrument types to meet the Mission’s needs, and accurately applies United States Government (USG) A&A laws, regulations, policies, and procedures governing each type of instrument. The Specialist has an advanced knowledge of the procedures for acquisition of goods, for managing personal services and non-personal services contracting actions, and managing and awarding assistance agreements.                                                                                       
• The Specialist (FPL) performs his/her assignments independently, seeking the guidance of the Contracting/Agreement Officer (CO/AO) for the most complex activities. The Specialist works directly with technical specialists/activity managers in DO Teams throughout the Mission and/or the Region, assisting in the preparation of annual A&A plans, clear and concise statements of work/statements of objectives/program descriptions, etc., and supporting documentation. The Specialist provides well supported guidance to technical specialists/activity managers pertaining to their A&A-related responsibilities and procedures.

 Specific duties include:

i.  PRE-AWARD DUTIES:

• The Specialist assists the Technical/DO Teams with A&A planning and advises on the selection of the appropriate A&A mechanisms to achieve program objectives. The Specialist collects and analyzes data, and prepares and updates tracking tools in order to monitor pending actions; works with clients to assist in the preparation of justifications, waivers, deviations, and other necessary approvals, as needed; and, reviews GLAAS Requisitions (REQs) for completeness and clarity before endorsing them to the CO/AO. The Specialist conducts pre-award activities for highly complex competitive solicitations, assisting technical personnel in the preparation of required descriptions of proposed activities, including SOWs, specifications, and program descriptions. The Specialist applies a high degree of judgment and analysis when deciding among and between competing and often conflicting regulations and objectives, where the activities involved include multi-million-dollar issues, often with significant political and/or legal implications.                                                                                        
• The Specialist works with the requiring office to develop evaluation criteria and determine the extent of advertising required. The Specialist prepares Requests for Proposal and Notices of Funding Opportunities for review by the CO/AO. The Specialist ensures compliance with FAR and AIDAR advertisement requirements, including publication of synopses and solicitations. The Specialist responds to offeror/applicant questions during the proposal submission phase; and, determines the need for, and prepares, clarifying amendments as required for solicitation documents. As necessary, the Specialist holds pre-bid or consultative meetings with potential partners to fully explain the Agency’s needs, and discusses solicitation documents. The Specialist evaluates applications and offers for responsiveness to particular solicitations, guides DO Teams in the review of the applications or proposals, and obtains reports and references, ensuring that any past performance of the offeror is relevant and of a high quality. The Specialist develops pre-negotiation cost objectives for approval by the CO/AO. The Specialist performs analysis of cost issues, considering economic conditions and factors of material, labor, and transportation costs; examines cost and pricing data submitted by offerors, to substantiate direct and indirect costs and profit; determines reasonableness of costs submitted; ensures data provided is consistent with USAID requirements on eligible geographic sources, and that salary structures are consistent with Agency policy; and, identifies circumstances that may require a waiver/deviation. The Specialist analyzes cost proposals and technical scores from technical evaluation committees; and, based on the analysis, makes a recommendation to the Contracting Officer/Regional Contracting Officer to establish the competitive range.                                                                                                 
• The Specialist negotiates with potential awardees; documents negotiations in writing; recommends the selected contractor/ recipient; and, prepares contract files to include making required certifications and determinations necessary for each A&A action. The Specialist leads pre-award assessment surveys of potential contractors or recipients, ensuring that offerors have adequate management, accounting, personnel, and procurement systems, and appropriate corporate leadership, resources, and quality control systems to satisfactorily carry out contracts, in order to ensure eligibility prior to an award being made. The Specialist prepares award documents that accurately reflect all discussions and provisions relevant to the type of award mechanism to be implemented. The Specialist organizes and conducts orientation meetings with selected contractors, to ensure that mobilization efforts will be conducted efficiently, and that all terms and conditions of A&A instruments are clear and well-understood by all parties. The Specialist provides support in debriefings to unsuccessful offerors.

ii.  POST-AWARD DUTIES:

• The Specialist monitors performance as required by the terms and conditions of the award, through reviews of performance and reviews of financial reports. The Specialist administers the awards in his/her assigned developmental portfolio, monitoring funding levels and preparing incremental funding modifications; works with CO/AO and CORs/AORs to assure targets/milestones are set and being met (or that remedial action is taken), and that the overall goals of the activity are met. The Specialist ensures timely submission of technical progress reports, and works with the COR to develop Contractor Performance Assessment Reports (CPARs) that are consistent with implementation progress and performance; makes periodic visits to contractor work sites, and represents the Office at performance-related meetings; assists any client Missions to develop appropriate indicators for work plans and contract documents; ensures contractors are fully compliant with performance standards contained in the Contract, and seeks corrective action in cases of non-compliance; expedites Change Orders or revisions when circumstances require it; and, issues ‘show cause' or ‘cure notices,’ and/or recommends termination of contracts for default or for convenience, and negotiates termination settlements.                                                                                     
• The Specialist analyzes and takes action to resolve procurement system review and audit findings, such as cost items questioned or unresolved; supports recommendations with detailed analysis of each cost, category, or element as necessary; prepares necessary documents to resolve all aspects of audits, questioned or ineligible costs, and accounting issues; and presents documentation to the CO/AO for signature.

iii.   AWARD CLOSEOUT:

• The Specialist reviews completed (after physical completion) contract files to determine that all contractual actions are satisfied, and that there are no pending administrative actions to be resolved; ensures that all file documents are signed, that there are no litigation actions pending, and that the contract is complete in every respect and ready to be closed; and, ensures that contracts nearing anniversaries or completion have a completed performance report from the COR/AOR, and submits reports to the Contractor for comment. The Specialist conducts closeout of acquisition and assistance awards (i.e., contracts, task orders, grants, cooperative agreements) after completion. This includes ensuring contract audits are conducted in a timely manner, preparing performance documentation, and resolving outstanding issues noted in audits.   

POSITION ELEMENTS FOR THE FSN 11 FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL POSITION

A.   SUPERVISION RECEIVED: The CO/AO, and/or his/her designee, makes assignments in terms of a portfolio of A&A actions to be performed. The Specialist plans and implements the procurement approach, and exercises initiative and judgment in developing and coordinating the A&A package up to recommendation for award. The Specialist will independently initiate necessary coordination with requesting Mission CORs/AORs, Technical Offices, Office of Financial Management (OFM), DO Teams, and legal officers, providing policy guidance on how to best fulfill requirements, obtaining advice from the supervisor on unanticipated problems or complex issues when necessary. The Specialist will keep the CO/AO and/or his/her designee, informed of progress, potentially controversial issues, or matters that affect policy. The supervisor reviews the final work product of the Specialist to ensure that thorough analysis has been made, and that the determinations are supported by sound judgment and adequate justification. The Specialist has considerable latitude in dealing with problems arising during pre-award or post-award phases of the action.

B.  SUPERVISION EXERCISED: This is a non-supervisory position, but the Specialist provides support and guidance to lower-level Specialists. Continuing supervision of other office staff is not contemplated.

C.  AVAILABLE GUIDELINES: At this level the Specialist will be familiar with the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), USAID Acquisition Regulations (AIDAR), 2 CFR 200 and 700, the Automated Directives System (ADS), USAID Policies, US Department of State Standardized Regulations, Federal Travel Regulations (FTR), Mission Orders, etc. Guidelines often are not directly applicable to the task at hand, and the Specialist will use judgment in their application, requesting guidance in cases where the Specialist has not used the particular guideline in the past.

D.  EXERCISE OF JUDGMENT: The Specialist will exercise a developed degree of judgment in handling pre-award and post-award actions, when advising CORs/AORs and Mission staff, and when interacting with IPs to resolve issues arising during program/project/activity implementation. The Specialist must apply good judgment in dealing with visitors and callers; in the analysis of cost, financial, and other characteristics of prospective contractors and recipients; and, in deciding what questions need to be asked of client Mission representatives and potential contractors/recipients, in order to ensure achievement of A&A objectives. The Specialist uses judgment in selecting among authorized A&A methods and techniques, and in the application of regulations and procedures. The supervisor is consulted when decisions on very complex issues are needed or deviations are proposed.

E.  AUTHORITY TO MAKE COMMITMENTS: The Specialist is required to hold discussions and negotiations with potential contractors and grantees to reach agreement on statements of work/program descriptions and budgets. The Specialist has the authority to conclude negotiations and to structure the final terms and conditions of USAID acquisition and assistance instruments, as assigned, as long as they are within the approved pre-negotiation objectives. The awards must be approved and signed by a warranted CO/AO in order to obligate funds. The Specialist is not authorized to make formal commitments.

F.  NATURE, LEVEL, AND PURPOSE OF CONTACTS: The Specialist is in daily contact with staff throughout the Mission, with managers of any serviced Missions/Offices in the Region, IPs, potential IPs, visitors, and mid-level officials from both the public and private sectors in order to exchange and/or collect information, and to provide advice relating to program implementation.

G.  TIME EXPECTED TO REACH FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL: Fully successful performance at each level could be achieved in one year, however, this will not necessarily indicate that the Specialist has demonstrated all of the Job Knowledge or Skills and Abilities necessary to be placed at the next higher level. Although this is the full performance level of this “ladder” position, the Specialist is required to continue his/her professional development.

FSN 9 ENTRY LEVEL POSITION:

PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE: A minimum of three years of progressively responsible experience in acquisition and assistance, development assistance, or a position that requires closely related skills, such as program management, law, or financial management, is required. One year of this experience must have been gained working in a position equivalent to no less than the next lower level of FSN responsibility in this or an occupation that requires similar skills, within a USG organization, the Host Government, the private sector, or within an international or donor organization.

• Note: Additional experience will NOT be substituted for Education.

JOB KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of public and/or private-sector business processes, or the ability to quickly gain such knowledge, is required. An understanding of USG A&A regulations and policies, and/or knowledge and understanding of how to execute and administer a complex acquisition and assistance portfolio, and/or the ability to quickly gain such understanding, is required, particularly as it relates to acquisition through methods of negotiation, sealed bidding, simplified acquisition procedures, and that result in standard and established contract types.

FSN 10 INTERMEDIATE LEVEL:

PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE: A minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in acquisition and assistance, development assistance, or a position that requires closely related skills, such as program management, law, or financial management, is required. One year of this experience must have been gained working at a Fully Successful level in a position equivalent to no less than the next lower level of FSN responsibility in this or an occupation that requires similar skills, within a USG organization, the Host Government, the private sector, or within an international or donor organization.

• Note: Additional experience will NOT be substituted for Education.

JOB KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of public and/or private-sector business processes is required. An understanding of USG A&A regulations and policies, and/or knowledge and understanding of how to execute and administer a moderately complex acquisition and assistance portfolio, is required, particularly as it relates to acquisition through methods of negotiation, sealed bidding, simplified acquisition procedures, and that result in standard and established contract types. A good knowledge of host-country and regional markets pertaining to activity requirements for services and commodities, and a good knowledge and understanding of US/local market and pricing methods, is required.

FSN 11 FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL POSITION:

PRIOR WORK EXPERIENCE: A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in acquisition and assistance, development assistance, or a position that requires closely related skills, such as program management, law, or financial management, is required. One year of this experience must have been gained working at a Fully Successful level in a position equivalent to no less than the next lower level of FSN responsibility in this or an occupation that requires similar skills, within a USG organization, the Host Government, the private sector, or within an international or donor organization.

• Note: Additional experience will NOT be substituted for Education.

JOB KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of public and/or private-sector business processes is required. Professional level knowledge of USG A&A regulations and policies, and/or knowledge and understanding of how to execute and administer a complex acquisition and assistance portfolio is required, particularly as it relates to acquisition through methods of negotiation, sealed bidding, simplified acquisition procedures, and that result in standard and established contract types. A professional level of knowledge of host-country and regional markets pertaining to program/project/activity requirements for services and commodities, and a good knowledge and understanding of US/local market and pricing methods is required.

 

FSN 9 ENTRY LEVEL:

SKILLS AND ABILITIES: The ability to plan and administer simple A&A activities and provide A&A support for Agency programs and projects in a timely manner, is required. The ability to apply contracting and assistance regulations, procedures, and policies to acquisition and assistance programs involving few complexities, is required. Skill in solving practical problems relating to A&A is required. An ability to deal effectively with mid- to high-level representatives of the US, local, and regional business community, and with colleagues in USAID Missions and/or host governments throughout the region, is required. Skill in the use of most elements of the Microsoft Office suite is required. Good analytical, negotiating, and time management skills, along with strong proofreading skills and attention to detail, are required. The ability to work calmly, tactfully, and effectively under pressure is essential, as well as the ability to maintain strict CONFIDENTIALITY, and meet all STANDARDS OF CONDUCT/ETHICS STANDARDS in accordance with US law throughout all phases of the A&A process, is required.                                       

FSN 10  INTERMEDIATE LEVEL:                                                                                                                                                                       SKILLS AND ABILITIES: The ability to semi-independently plan and administer A&A activities and provide A&A support for Agency programs and projects in a timely manner, is required. The ability to apply contracting and assistance regulations, procedures, and policies to acquisition and assistance programs involving moderate complexities, is required. The ability to manage the competition phase of new agreements and contracts of moderate complexity, and to perform cost or price analysis in both a competitive and non-competitive environment, is required. Skill in solving practical problems relating to A&A is required. An ability to deal effectively with mid- to high-level representatives of the US, local, and Regional business community, and with colleagues in USAID Missions and/or host governments throughout the Region, is required. Skill in the use of most elements of the Microsoft Business suite is required. Good analytical, negotiating, and time management skills, along with strong proofreading skills and attention to detail, are required. The ability to work calmly, tactfully, and effectively under pressure is essential, as well as the ability to maintain strict CONFIDENTIALITY, and meet all STANDARDS OF CONDUCT/ETHICS STANDARDS in accordance with US law throughout all phases of the A&A process, is required.

FSN 11 FULL PERFORMANCE LEVEL:

SKILLS AND ABILITIES: The ability to independently plan and administer complex A&A activities and provide A&A support for Agency programs and projects in a timely manner, is required. The ability to apply contracting and assistance regulations, procedures, and policies to complex acquisition and assistance programs, is required. Ability to manage the competition phase of new agreements and contracts and to perform cost or price analysis in both a competitive and non-competitive environment is required. Skill in solving practical problems relating to A&A is required. An ability to deal effectively with mid- to high-level representatives of the US, local, and Regional business community, and with colleagues in USAID Missions and/or host governments throughout the Region, is required. Skill in the use of most elements of the Microsoft Business suite is required. Good analytical, negotiating, and time management skills, along with strong proofreading skills and attention to detail, are required. The ability to work calmly, tactfully, and effectively under pressure is essential, as well as the ability to maintain strict CONFIDENTIALITY, and meet all STANDARDS OF CONDUCT/ETHICS STANDARDS in accordance with US law throughout all phases of the A&A process, is required.

 

EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS

Offerors seeking consideration for the full performance level will be considered in isolation first, and only if no acceptable offeror is found at that level, the Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) will proceed to review offerors at the lower levels. 

Offerors must submit a resume/cv which describes how their relevant professional experience and education has prepared them to meet the specific challenges of the duties and responsibilities described above.  As part of the interview process, those applicants ranked highest will be required to submit a timed writing sample on a topic provided and develop an Excel budget.  The selection committee may conduct reference checks at any time during the selection process.

Applications that do not meet the required minimum qualifications will not be scored. 

• Prior work experience  (30 points)
• Job Knowledge (30 points)
• Skills and abilities  (40 points)

Total possible points:   100

Offerors meeting the above required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented in the application and reference checks.  References will be asked to assess the applicant’s technical knowledge, work performance, communication skills, and group dynamics, using the above criteria.  USAID reserves the right to conduct interviews with the top ranked short-listed applicants.  The interview will be one of the determining factors in the final selection.

HOW TO APPLY

Step 1: Register in MyJobsInKenya at www.myjobsinkenya.com       

Step 2: Qualified Current USG Employees: Attach an updated curriculum vitae/resume (no more than five pages), a copy of your most recent Performance Evaluation Report, and copies of all relevant certificates. Scan and upload all the documents to MyJobsInKenya.

                                                          OR

External Applicants/Not Current USG Employees: Attach an updated curriculum vitae/resume (no more than five pages) and copies of all relevant certificates. Upload all the documents to MyJobsInKenya.

Note to Applicants:

1.  Applications must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted through myjobsinkenya.com as stated in Section IV.

2. Submissions will only be accepted through myjobsinkenya.com. Late and Incomplete applications (those that do not contain the applicant’s most current and up to date detailed CV and relevant education certificates) will not be considered for the position. The closing date for receipt of applications is indicated above.

3. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. Any form of canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification.

4. USAID provides equal opportunity and equitable treatment for employment of all people without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status or sexual orientation.

5. USAID DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING) AND DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS' BANK ACCOUNTS.