GENERAL INFORMATION

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

1. SOLICITATION NO.: 72061524R10049
2. ISSUANCE DATE: June 28, 2024
3. CLOSING DATE AND TIME FOR RECEIPT OF OFFERS: July 21, 2024 (4:30 PM East Africa Time).
4. POINT OF CONTACT: USAID Kenya and East Africa Human Resources, e-mail at [email protected]
5. POSITION TITLE: USAID Project Management Specialist (Geographic Information Systems)
6. MARKET VALUE: 5,565,120.00 to Ksh. 9.460,674.00 KSH per year, equivalent to FSN-11 grade level in accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Kenya and East Africa. The salary range provided is inclusive of all allowances and annual bonus. All applicable taxes will be deducted from the stated gross market rate. Final compensation will be negotiated within the listed market value.
7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: Five (5) years estimated to start o/a December 17, 2024. The services provided under this contract are expected to be of a continuing nature that will be executed by USAID through a series of sequential contracts, subject to the availability of funds, the continued need for services and successful performance.
8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Nairobi, Kenya; with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties.
9. ELIGIBLE OFFERORS: Open to qualified Cooperating Country National (CCN) (an individual who is a cooperating country citizen or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country). Employees presently on probation are ineligible to apply.
10. SECURITY LEVEL REQUIRED: Security certification issued by the US Embassy RSO.

STATEMENT OF DUTIES

General Statement of Purpose of the Contract

The USAID Strategic Planning and Analysis (SPA) Office is responsible for broad program support, coordination, and project management functions for the combined USAID platform in Nairobi which manages two operating units (OUs)-the bilateral Kenya and the East Africa Regional OUs. SPA provides leadership and serves as principal advisor to the Mission Director on: (a) social, economic, and cross-cutting developmental issues; (b) strategic planning and programming; (c) project and activity development; (d) monitoring and evaluation and learning of the platform's portfolio; (e) management of current year budget obligation and out-year mission-wide budget planning; and (f) program implementation of activities that fall within the platform's ongoing Development Objectives under the $2 billion Kenya Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) and $300 million East Africa Regional Cooperation Development Strategy (RDCS). In addition, this office keeps a pulse of major development trends in Kenya and the East Africa region to inform new programming needs.

The Project Management Specialist (GIS) position is located within the Analytics/GIS Team of the Analytics, Planning, Partnerships and Strategy (APPS) Division. The Specialist reports to the Deputy Director of the APPS division and directly supervises three professional-level staff. The Specialist is responsible for leading Geographic Information Systems {GIS) support to USAID's programs, projects and activities by (1) Leading the integration of GIS in the program cycle for program design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation (2) Leading Activity location data collection efforts (3) Leading GIS training (3) Leading the development of GIS solutions (4)Implementing relevant policies on Activity location and GIS data collection, use, submission; and dissemination and (5)Leading spatial or geographic and other analysis of data to inform the strategies, designs and other planning processes.

The Specialist is the principal advisor and point of contact on all data analytics and aspects of geospatial technology at post and provides oversight for the GIS operations. The primary purpose of this position is to increase the Mission's capability to use data analytics and GIS to strategically plan, monitor, evaluate, and report on its development activities. The Specialist will consult with technical offices to ascertain their GIS needs, data requirements and provide solutions. S/he will strengthen partnerships with USAID Offices and Implementing partners that promote the use of data analytics and GIS in the Mission. S/he will also advise on resources required to deliver GIS services efficiently.

The Specialist may also serve as Contracting/Agreement Officer Representatives or Activity Manager on program support cycle mechanisms, analytics/GIS mechanisms and other mechanisms that support cross-cutting initiatives.

Statement of Duties to be Performed

Geospatial Analysis and Cartography - 30%

• The Specialist leads the development of analytic and thematic technical outputs for all USAID technical sectors. S/he generates custom data products on demand for technical staff and Mission management, using existing socio-economic data, geospatial databases and data layers. S/he facilitates the procurement of data and information from Government and partner organizations to respond to analytic requests. Where data is non­ existent provides guidance as to the potential costs and best methodology to secure it.
• The Specialist provides analytic support throughout the program cycle, during strategy development, project design, monitoring and evaluation as well as other planning processes. S/he will lead analysis using various statistical and geospatial models, interpret results and present findings and key messages. Investigate current spatial models, both biophysical and socio-economic, that exist around the world and make recommendations as to their suitability for use in the USAID Kenya and East Africa context. Develop best practices and standard information products including maps, charts and dashboards to assist Mission staff wishing to better utilize GIS for program planning and reporting purposes. Develop products that clearly articulate the development context, challenges and opportunities. Products such as those that contain key development challenges have an impact on influencing strategic approaches Mission-wide and within the USAID technical sectors for its $ 2 Billion portfolio.

 Geospatial Awareness Building and Training - 30%

• The Specialist maintains collaborative relationships with a wide range of contacts in the Mission and USAID Washington. S/he acts as the primary Point-Of- Contact (POC) for geospatial data and technical solutions. S/he advises the leadership of the SPA Office and other Mission staff on how to maximize analytic approaches throughout the program cycle and leads the implementation of agency required GIS regulations and standards.
• The Specialist guides AORs/CORs at all stages of the program cycle on how to include activity location and geographic data requirements as per USAID policies, the required language during solicitation, how to implement the GIS data collection, how to ensure compliance and how to report and use the GIS data to improve effectiveness of programs.
• The Specialist leads the training agenda, designs, authors and executes requested training courses. Leads customization of existing USAID training materials for use in Kenya and East Africa context. Leads development of activity location data collection templates and processes as well as training to ensure proper collection and submission as per USAID regulations. S/he also trains staff and Implementing partners on the use of activity location templates, data and tools to support design and implementation of activities.

Analytics/GIS Technical and Strategic Leadership - 20%

• The PMS {GIS) serves as an advisor to USAID/KEA's Mission Strategic Planning and Analysis (SPA) and all Technical Offices on analytics/GIS policies and their implementation. S/he keeps abreast of new policies, regulations, technologies, services and issues and advises the Mission on GIS implementation to maximize program impact. S/he leads the development of annual work plans and required reports that provide direction and determine expected deliverables over the short and medium term from the Analytics/GIS team.
• The Specialist directly supervises two GIS employees - the Development Assistance Specialist {GIS) FSN 10 and the Development Assistance Assistant {GIS) FSN 9. S/he will be responsible for their annual, daily and weekly work plans and supervise the delivery of all services and products. S/he manages staff performance by providing daily guidance, quarterly feedback and annual performance assessments. The Specialist also supervises an Information Officer USPSC­ LH GS 12 who provides reports, briefs and other communication products from Mission information systems including Management Analysis_and Planning System (MAPS), Development Information Solution {DIS), as we_llas other budget, performance and activity trackers.
• The Specialist is responsible for annual budget formulation for training, equipment and software for the Analytics/GIS team. S/he acts as a Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for technical equipment procurements, GIS and statistical software licenses that ensure the reliable operation and availability of all GIS services. S/he liaises with staff from the Information Systems Division (ISO) and Communications and Records(C&R) to monitor the performance and functionality of hardware associated with all GIS applications.
• The Specialist guides the further development of GIS products and Services and provides technical backstopping to the PMS (GIS) FSN 10 and DAA(GIS) FSN 9. S/he initiates and manages complex Analytics and GIS projects for the mission. Guides the establishment and maintenance of a Mission-based GIS database, containing USAID Partner activity location information and other socioeconomic and geographic datasets. Ensure that all USG, USAID and relevant ISO standards on GIS data use, storage, submission and dissemination are implemented. Lead all efforts that require the integration of GIS into Mission Management Information Systems such as DIS (Development Information Solution)

Special Program and Representational Duties - 20% 

• The Specialist represents USAID and the USG with internal and external audiences as required, including representation at Government led sector working groups and other donor coordination fora. S/he will serve as liaison to host government counterparts; donors, contractors and grantees, and all other U.S. Government agencies on matters pertaining to data analytic and GIS. As the primary PoC for USAID/KEA, the Specialist will be required to establish and maintain working level relationships with data analytics, GIS, research, statistical authorities and other technical experts within Government both at the national and county level. The Specialist represents the Mission at both local and international events and GIS technical working groups where the opportunity to explain the Mission's approach is available. S/he will work to facilitate knowledge management through exchange of analytics/GIS related information and ideas as well as collaborate on cross-cutting issues, and promote collaboration, learning, and adapting.
• The Specialist may also serve as Contracting Officer Representative or Activity Manager on program support cycle mechanisms including those on strategy, project design, analytics, GIS and other cross cutting mechanisms. S/he manages all aspects of contract administration as assigned which includes analyzing program performance and financial reports.

The contractor is eligible for temporary duty (TDY) travel to the United States, or to other Missions abroad, to participate in the "Foreign Service National" Fellowship Program, in accordance with USAID policy.

Prior Work Experience

Five (5) years of increasingly responsible professional experience demonstrating progressive experience at an International Organization, Non-Governmental Organization, Donor Agency or Embassy. Technical experience in database management, data analysis, report writing and working with various GIS software. Experience leading a GIS team is required.

Supervisory Relationship

The Specialist will work under the general supervision of the Strategic Planning and Analysis (SPA); Analytics, Partnerships, Planning and Strategy (APPS) Deputy Office Director. Assignments occur in the normal course of the work with the Specialist having significant latitude to manage his/her own work and priorities. The Supervisor provides overall policy direction and the goals and objectives to be achieved.

Supervisory Controls

The Specialist provides technical oversight of the Analytics/GIS team and supervises the Information Officer USPSC-LH GS 12, the Development Assistance Specialist (GIS) FSN 10 and the Development Assistance Assistant (FSN 9). Supervision encompasses full technical, programmatic, and administrative oversight of these staff including performance monitoring, mentoring and coaching, approval of leave, writing employee performance reports, and applying mid-term corrections.

EVALUATION AND SELECTION FACTORS
The Government may award a contract without discussions with offerors 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 offerors 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 offerors 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.

Job Knowledge (60 Points)

The position requires knowledge and understanding of the social, economic, political and cultural context of the region and Kenya. Good knowledge, or the potential to quickly acquire knowledge of USAID programming policies, regulations and procedures. Knowledge and understanding of the roles of Government and Partner organizations in providing, promoting, coordinating and using analytics and GIS for humanitarian and development programming.

Professional level knowledge of GIS principles, concepts, and practices especially as they relate to Development Programming across the region and Kenya. Comprehensive knowledge of strategies, methods, processes and techniques used to plan, develop and implement analytics and GIS projects within development organizations is required. Comprehensive knowledge in spatial data collection, management, analysis and reporting. Sound knowledge in database management and administration, in particular, geodatabases. Knowledge of structured query languages such as SQL is an added advantage.

Comprehensive knowledge of team management techniques to plan, organize and direct the GIS teams. Good working knowledge of budgeting and procurement processes.

Skills and abilities (40 Points)

The position requires fundamental understanding of USAID and its lead role in international development. Experience in the application of GIS technology including spatial analyses and quantitative methods to humanitarian and development challenges. Skills and ability to exercise considerable ingenuity and tact in applying GIS guidelines to unique and different settings, as the USAID portfolio is highly complex. Proficient communication skills with a high level of ability in explaining to USAID technical staff and others who are unfamiliar with GIS, the requirements and potential solutions. Successful track record communicating the benefits of GIS analysis to various audiences within USAID and its partners, External partners, Government and the Development Community. Ability to prepare and present Geospatial analytical reports is required. Extensive training skills, able to design and deliver analytics and GIS training to USAID and other partners.

Total possible points: 100

SUBMITTING AN OFFER
Step 1: Register in MyJobsInKenya at www.myjobsinkenya.com

Step 2: Complete the job application at www.myjobsinkenya.com

Step 3: Internal Offerors/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 attach all the documents and upload them to MyJobsInKenya.

OR

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

Note to Applicants:
1.Offers must be received by the closing date and time specified in Section I, item 3, and submitted through myjobsinkenya.com.
2.Submissions will only be accepted through www.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.
3.All Applicants must provide at least three professional references, who are not family members or relatives, with working telephone and e-mail contacts. The references must be able to provide substantive information about your past performance and abilities. USAID reserves the right to contact your previous employers for relevant information concerning your performance and may consider such information in its evaluation of the application.

LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS PRIOR TO AWARD
The CO will provide instructions about how to complete and submit any required forms after an offeror is selected for the contract award.

BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
Benefits and allowances are offered in accordance with the Local Compensation Plan (LCP).

TAXES
CCNPSCs are required to pay PAYE and statutory deductions. All applicable taxes will be deducted from the stated gross market rate.

USAID REGULATIONS, POLICIES AND CONTRACT CLAUSES PERTAINING TO PSCs
USAID regulations and policies governing CCN PSC awards are available at these sources:

1.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/ads/policy/300/aidar

2.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.

LINE ITEMS
ITEM NO (A) - 0001
SUPPLIES/SERVICES (DESCRIPTION) (B) - Compensation, Fringe Benefits and Other Direct Costs (ODCs)
- Award Type: Cost
- Product Service Code: [ R497]
- Accounting Info: [insert one or more citation(s) from Phoenix/GLAAS]
QUANTITY (C) - 1
UNIT (D) - LOT
UNIT PRICE (E) - $ TBD
AMOUNT (F) - $_TBD at Award after negotiations with Contractor_

3. 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.

4. 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/resources_standards-of-conduct.

5. 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: [email protected].

6. FAR Provisions Incorporated by Reference
52.204-27 - PROHIBITION ON A BYTEDANCE COVERED APPLICATION - JUN 2023