Type of document: Contract Notice
Country: United States
Senior Aviation Advisor, Iraq
Agency:
Department of State
Official Address:
SA-4 Navy Hill, South Building
2430 E Street, N.W.
Washington DC 20037
Zip Code:
20037
Contact:
Victoria V. Stewart, Administrative Officer, Phone 321-783-9860 x33478, Fax 321-323-5948, Email stewartVv@state.gov
Link:
Date Posted:
07/03/2018
Classification:
R
Contract Description:
You have received this “Personal Services Contractor” (PSC) solicitation through the Department of State (DOS) Internet site. If you have any questions regarding this PSC, you may contact the DOS Official named in this solicitation. The Department is not responsible for any data and/or text not received when retrieving this document electronically. Amendments to solicitation documents generally contain information critical to the submission of an application.
Senior Aviation Advisor
Baghdad, Iraq
Issuance Date: 03/07/2018
Closing Date: 03/20/2018
SOLICITATION NUMBER: PSC-18-013-INL
SUBJECT
A solicitation for a Personal Services Contractor (PSC), Department of State (DOS), Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL)
The United States Government (USG), represented by the DOS, seeks applications from US citizens interested in providing PSC services as described in this solicitation.
PRE-AWARD ETHICAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF PSC (JUN 2011)
This solicitation may result in the award of one or more personal services contracts as defined in FAR 2.101. Prior to contract award, all offerors or quotes must advise the cognizant Contracting Officer if they have a personal conflict of interest, such as a financial conflict, that would prevent them from either meeting the requirements of the clause entitled, “Post-Award Ethical Responsibilities of Personal Services Contractors,” or otherwise objectively performing their contractual duties upon contract award.
HOW TO APPLY
Offerors proposal shall be in accordance with the requirements stated in this solicitation at the place and time specified. A proposal will be determined non-responsive and ineligible for consideration unless all required documents and information are included in the submission. Offerors shall ensure their resume demonstrates their possession of the minimum qualifications outlined in this Solicitation, as well as their ability to fulfill all required duties. The Government is not responsible for any costs incurred by the offeror during the solicitation process.
NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION
This solicitation in no way obligates the Department of State to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit the Department of State to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application.
Proposals must include the following and not exceed twenty (20) pages:
1) Form SF171 (Completed and signed)
2) Resume
3) Three letters of recommendation OR three references to include contact information
Note: Your resume should contain explicit information to make a valid determination that you fully meet the experience requirements as stated in this solicitation. This information should be clearly identified in your resume. Failure to provide explicit information to determine your qualifications for the position will result in loss of full consideration.
*** ONE PDF ATTACHMENT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
VETERAN’S PREFERENCE
Veteran’s preference is not applicable to this position therefore do not submit DD-214.
ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE, COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL AFFILIATION, NONDISQUALIFYING DISABILITY, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR OTHER NON-MERIT FACTOR.
Submit proposal via e-mail to the attention of:
INL/Victoria Stewart
E-mail: StewartVv@state.gov
Direct questions regarding this solicitation to:
INL/Victoria Stewart
E-mail: StewartVv@state.gov
INL will not accept proposals beyond the closing time/date; unless it can be determined DOS mishandled the proposal.
1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: PSC-18-013-INL
2. ISSUANCE DATE: 03/07/2018
3. CLOSING DATE: 03/20/2018
4. TIME SPECIFIED FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: 3:00 PM, EST
5. POSITION TITLE: Senior Aviation Advisor
6. MARKET VALUE: $105,123 – $136,659 (FS-01 Equivalent)
7. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One year from date of award, with four optional years
8. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Baghdad, Iraq
9. JOB DESCRIPTION: See below
GENERAL STATEMENT OF THE PURPOSE OF THIS CONTRACT
The US Department of State (DOS), Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Office of Aviation (INL/A) provides aviation support, under Chief of Mission (COM) authority, to meet transportation and/or Foreign Assistance Aviation Program requirements. Aviation support includes fixed and rotary wing travel in support of COM personnel to multiple domestic and international locations. Flights operations are conducted through a local entity known as Embassy Air, originating from Baghdad and Amman, Jordan and servicing numerous airfields, and helipads/heliports.
In addition to air transportation missions, Embassy Air may be required to perform rotary wing security operations in support of COM personnel ground movements, reconnaissance missions, Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, Quick Reaction Force transport, interdiction missions, and medical evacuations.
Embassy Air uses a mixed fleet of fixed and rotary wing aircraft to accomplish its mission. Aircraft perform their missions anytime, day and night, as well as under visual and instrumental meteorological conditions. Some missions, supporting the US Mission require 24-hour a day aircraft and crew availability. The SAA serves as the senior in-country aviation advisor and provides program implementation, direction, mission execution, contract oversight, compliance, and evaluation in support of all DOS funded aviation transportation services. The SAA serves in two broad roles as the 1) SAA and 2) Government Task Monitor (GTM). The SAA is responsible for overall management, coordination, and execution of aviation resources under INL/A contracts. The GTM, in conjunction with subordinate Aviation Advisors, monitors and evaluates aviation support contractor performance in all aviation functional areas, to include operations, maintenance, safety, and logistics through performance of oversight duties ensuring contractor compliance with INL/A standards of performance. Additionally, INL/A assumes responsibility for the management of designated Life Support Areas (LSAs), Embassy Landing Zones, and other aviation facilities.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Provide oversight and guidance to fixed wing and rotary wing operations, maintenance, and logistics to ensure efficient and safe support for Post’s need;
2. Interface with respective embassy stakeholders to ensure support for their respective aviation missions
3. Draft Post aviation standard operating procedures (SOPs) and other post documentation pertaining to the Embassy Air program
4. Optimize passenger scheduling to ensure maximum aircraft utilization
5. As directed, act as the Post Aviation Officer; interface with other agencies and departments, such as UN organizations, Department of Defense (DOD) , and host country officials, in the coordination of actions to further Post objectives
6. Perform oversight and evaluation of contractor operations, maintenance, logistics, and safety programs. Oversight includes, but is not limited to, ensuring compliance with INL/A policies/procedures/directives, reviewing and recommending approval of waivers to published directives, authorizing use of program aircraft, reviewing contractor flight operations procedures, and monitoring contractor pilot proficiency
7. Submit regular written reports of contractor performance and activities to INL/A and provide comprehensive monthly award term input to the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) regarding contractor performance
8. Direct and coordinate aircraft and personnel deployments in support of COM
9. Act as a point of contact for facilities construction and O&M facility support coordination in support of aviation operations
10. Manage Embassy Landing Zone and aviation hubs
11. Develop, coordinate, organize, implement, and ensure compliance with comprehensive operational systems and procedures in support of Post’s aviation missions; compliance documentation for operational systems and procedures include, but are not limited to, the DOS Aircrew Training Program, Aviation Operations Directives, Guide to Aviation Training and Standardization, Aircrew Training Manuals, Safety Directives, INL/A approved maintenance and logistics procedures, and INL/A and country-specific SOPs
12. Develop operational tactics and new training procedures (in conjunction with INL/A and contractor staff); this includes, but is not limited to, night vision goggle (NVG) operations, helicopter employment tactics, fixed wing passenger and cargo operations, rules of engagement, and aerial gunnery
13. Serve as a Government Task Monitor; provide operational direction and guidance to contract personnel; prioritize allocation of contractor efforts and workload to meet post requirements, assess contractor manning by skill level against contract requirements, recommend modifications as needed, plan work, set, and/or negotiate deadlines and completion dates, review and accept/reject final work, and evaluate contractor performance per the Aviation Support Services contract Quality Assurance Surveillance Plan
14. Delegate work to subordinate aviation advisors based on priorities, assignment difficulty, and employee capabilities; provide advice and instruction on technical and administrative matters; identify developmental and training needs, determine ways to improve work quality, and enhance overall performance standards for both USG and contractor personnel
15. Collect, review, and disseminate data on aviation tactics, techniques, and employment; frequently liaise with INL/A, DOD, DOS, Diplomatic Security, other US Government (USG) agencies, and the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to keep abreast of current policies, procedures, and rules pertaining to aviation operations
TRAINING & DISTANCE LEARNING
1. Must complete the Contracting Officer Representative (PA 296) distance-learning (DL) course through the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) within 120 days of arriving at Post.
2. Must complete the Introduction to Working in an Embassy (PN 113) distance-learning (DL) course through the Foreign Service Institute (FSI) within the first six (6) months of arriving at Post.
RELATIONSHIPS
The SAA works under the direct supervision of the Assistant Chief of Mission or his/her designated Federal representative; however, the individual exercises wide latitude for independent action by initiating projects and executing approved new programs under general supervision. He/She coordinates directly with the INL/A staff in performance of contract oversight, compliance, and issuing direction to the aviation support contractors to ensure compliance with INL/A policies and procedures and USG mandated regulatory guidance for Federal Aviation programs. In conjunction with subordinate Aviation Advisors, the SAA performs oversight duties at all INL/A contractor locations.
COMPLEXITY
This position involves providing aviation support, under Chief of Mission authority, to meet transportation and/or Foreign Assistance Aviation Program requirements. Aviation support includes fixed and rotary wing travel in support of COM personnel to multiple international locations. The SAA serves as the senior in-country aviation advisor in Iraq and provides program implementation, direction, mission execution, contract oversight, compliance, and evaluation in support of all DOS funded aviation transportation services.
SCOPE AND EFFECTIVENESS
The PSC performs broad and extensive assignments related to a complex aviation program in Iraq, known as Embassy Air. Flights originate from the Baghdad Diplomatic Support Center and Amman, Jordan and service numerous airfields and helipads/heliports. In addition to air transportation missions, Embassy Air may be required to perform rotary wing security operations in support of COM personnel ground movements, Search and Rescue (SAR) missions, Quick Reaction Force transport, and medical evacuations. Additionally, INL/A assumes responsibility for the management of designated Life Support Areas (LSAs), Embassy Landing Zones, and other aviation facilities.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
1. US Citizenship, able to obtain/maintain a Department of State Top Secret security and medical clearances, and ethics clearance, if applicable.
2. Designation as a Military aviator or a minimum of ten (10) years commercial aviation management experience, including experience in a hostile environment with threats to aircraft and ground personnel
3. Senior level management experience in a medium to large size aviation organization, government, civil, or military, with experience dealing with diverse stakeholders with differing goals
4. Demonstrated experience coordinating programs within the interagency or international community
5. Demonstrated knowledge of US FAA regulations, including, but not limited to, the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) Part 1, 61, 67, 91, 135, 137, 141, 143, and NTSB 830
6. In-depth knowledge of fixed and rotary wing aircraft tactical employment in aviation operations, including knowledge of INL/A aircraft capabilities, limitations, and techniques
7. Broad knowledge and experience in formulating plans and policies pertaining to operations and unit level flight training activities; basic knowledge of command communications, government intelligence procedures, and flight operations procedures 8. Specialized skill in operating an aircraft as a pilot
9. Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
PREFERRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
1. Knowledge of USG contract administration procedures
2. Successful completion of a military or civil senior officer/manager training program
3. Basic knowledge of the FAR
4. Previous experience within the DOS, serving in an embassy, or in a joint or combined staff in the US military
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Work is both physical and sedentary in nature and involves activity at the main and field locations. Physical exertion and dexterity is a possibility. The Advisor must possess the ability to perform fieldwork independently in remote areas for extended periods without assistance. The use of Personal Protective Equipment is a frequent occurrence. This position will require the carriage of weapons in conjunction with oversight duties.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
Primarily, the Advisor works in an office or aircraft hangar with some travel in the field for meetings, conferences, activity reviews, field inspections, and program evaluations. The Advisor is in significant risk when servicing in field sites declared hazardous duty locations by the DOS due to hostile activities of armed groups. This position will require the carriage of weapons in conjunction with oversight duties. Incumbent may be required to complete initial and recurrent weapons qualifications IAW Diplomatic Security requirements and must comply with the Post Firearms and Use of Force policies.
EVALUATION CRITERIA:
Factor 1: Aviation Program Officer (25 points)
Experience and ability to interface with Embassy officers and stakeholders to assist, define, and clarify aviation requirements; assist in allocating of resources and identifying needs to meet requirements, aid in prioritizing requirements, and manage aviation fleet centrally to meet requirements safely and efficiently.
Ability to represent post management, as directed, with other USG agencies, host nation representatives, or international organizations to ensure the accomplishment of USG goals
Ability to develop, coordinate, organize, and implement comprehensive operational systems and procedures in support of Embassy Air Missions and post requirements
Factor 2: Contract Oversight (25 points)
Demonstrated ability to perform oversight and evaluation of contractor performance in all functional areas, to include ensuring compliance with policies/procedures/directives, review and recommend approval of waivers to published directives, authorize use of aircraft, review contractor flight operations procedures, and monitor contractor pilot proficiency.
Experience providing operational direction and guidance to contractors in the execution of all aviation operations that comprise the mission set; approved by INL/A
Factor 3. Develop Operational Tactics, Techniques, & Procedures (25 points)
Ability to develop operational tactics and new training procedures for emerging mission sets approved by INL/A and developing non-tactical passenger and cargo handling systems to sustain and improve service to stakeholders.
Factor 4: Past Performance (25 points)
Past performance evaluation of applicant’s ability to perform under the contract. In conducting the evaluation, the USG reserves the right to utilize all evaluation information available at the time of evaluation, whether provided by the applicant or obtained from other sources
PRE-DEPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
1. If applicable – Consultations with the INL Program Office may be required.
The most qualified candidates may be interviewed, required to provide a writing sample, and demonstrate an ability to operate commonly used office applications. INL will not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews. In addition, applications (written materials and interviews) will be evaluated based on content as well as on the applicant’s writing, presentation, and communication skills. In the event that a candidate has fully demonstrated his/her qualifications and there are no other competitive applicants, INL reserves the right to forego the interview process. Professional references and academic credentials will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection.
COMPENSATION (BASE PAY)
For award, INL will negotiate for this contract based on the market value as outlined above and overall experience relevant to the solicitation requirements.
BENEFITS & ALLOWANCES
AS A MATTER OF POLICY, INL NORMALLY AUTHORIZES THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES
BENEFITS – IF APPLICABLE
• Employee’s FICA/Medicare Contribution
• Contribution toward Health and Life Insurance
• Pay Comparability Adjustment
• Annual Increase
• Eligibility for Worker’s Compensation
• Annual, Sick and Home Leave
• 401K Plan
• MEDVAC
ALLOWANCES IN ACCORDANCE WITH DEPARTMENT OF STATE STANDARDIZED REGULATIONS (DSSR) – IF APPLICABLE
• Temporary Quarters Subsistence Allowance (TQSA) or Per Diem upon arrival at Post
• Housing Allowance
• Post Allowance
• Supplemental Post Allowance
• Maintenance Allowance (SMA)
• Education Allowance
• Educational Travel (full-time United States based secondary)
• Post Hardship Differential
• Danger Pay
• Shipment of HHE, UAB, POV and Consumables
Response Date:
032018
Sol Number:
PSC-18-013-INL
