Job Title: Strategic Information/Management Information Systems Specialist
Subject: USAID/UGANDA: Solicitation for Personal Services Contractor (PSC) for Strategic Information/Management Information Systems Specialist, GS-13 or FSN10 equivalent
ISSUANCE DATE: November 15, 2010
CLOSING DATE: November 29, 2010
The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development
(USAID)/Uganda, is seeking applications from qualified individuals: US Citizen, U.S.
Resident Alien (residing in Uganda), Cooperating Country National (CCN – Ugandan Citizens or other nationals residing in Uganda) interested in providing PSC services as described in the attached solicitation.
Applicants interested in applying for this position MUST submit the following materials:
1) Complete and hand-signed federal form OF-612.
2) Supplemental document specifically addressing the three Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) outlined in the solicitation.
3) Curriculum vitae or resume.
4) Three (3) to five (5) references with current contact information.
No exceptions to the minimum document submission requirements will be allowed. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
All application reviews will be based on the documentation submitted with the application. Applications that are incomplete or received without a handwritten signature and supplemental QRF document will not be considered for the position. Applicants are responsible for submitting materials that are in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. There will be no exceptions.
References must be able to provide substantive information about past performance relevant to the applicant's ability to execute the duties and responsibilities as detailed in the scope of work. USAID/Uganda reserves the right to obtain from previous employers relevant information concerning the applicant's past performance and may consider such information in its evaluation.
Any questions may be directed to Grace Nakaddu or Edward Michalski, who may be reached by email gnakaddu@usaid.gov (telephone 256-414-259-791/5 or 256-414-306-001 or fax 256-414-306-661).
Offerors should retain for their records copies of all enclosures that accompany their application.
ATTACHMENT TO
SOLICITATION FOR PERSONAL SERVICES CONTRACTOR
Strategic Information/Management Information Systems Specialist
1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 617-0000-11-0001
2. ISSUANCE DATE: November 15, 2010
3. CLOSING DATE: November 29, 2010
4. POSITION TITLE: Strategic Information/Management Information Systems Specialist
5. MARKET VALUE: GS-13 or FSN 10
6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: A base of two years from date of appointment with three annual options to extend to a maximum of five years. Exercising the option to extend will depend on the U.S. Government’s continuing need of services and availability of funds, and satisfactory or better performance by the incumbent contractor. The U.S. Government shall give the contractor a preliminary notice of its intent to extend at least thirty (30) days before the contract expires. This preliminary notice does not commit the Government to an extension.
MARKET VALUE: The position is classified at the equivalent of a GS-13 with an annual salary range of $71,674 to $93,175 or FSN-10 Uganda Shillings 54,522,809/= to 78,523,720/= (inclusive of allowances). Salary will be negotiated within this range and determined based on past salary and work history, experience, and educational background of the successful candidate.
7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: USAID/Uganda, Kampala, Uganda
8. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: US Citizen and U.S. Resident Alien (locally recruited),
CCN (resident in Uganda)
9. SECURITY ACCESS: Employment Authorization Level
10. POSITION DESCRIPTION:
A. BACKGROUND
This position is located in USAID/Uganda’s Strategic Objective 8 (SO8), Investing in People. SO8 is the largest Strategic Objective Team within USAID/Uganda, with 36 staff and an annual budget of US$210M. The SO8 is divided into three subteams – HIV/AIDS, Health, and Education and has a cross-cutting Strategic Information Unit. This position is a member of the Strategic Information Unit and will focus on providing strategic and coordinated support to the strengthening of management information systems in health, education and HIV/AIDS and will provide technical support to the health and education subteams in the areas of performance monitoring and reporting.
The Health Subteam manages programs in malaria, family planning/reproductive health, tuberculosis, maternal and child health, health systems strengthening, avian influenza, and neglected tropical diseases. As a multisectoral initiative, many elements of the HIV/AIDS response fall within the general health sector and are supported by the Health Subteam. The annual Health Subteam budget is approximately US$40M.
In 2005, the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) was launched and Uganda is one of the original PMI focus countries. PMI is a five-year initiative to rapidly scale-up malaria prevention and treatment interventions in high-burden countries of sub-Saharan Africa. The goal is to reduce malaria-related mortality by 50% by 2010. This will be achieved by reaching 85% coverage of the most vulnerable groups (children less than five years of age, pregnant women, and people living with HIV/AIDS), with proven preventive and therapeutic interventions.
The Family Planning/Reproductive Health Program includes activities to: improve family planning service delivery; promote improved reproductive health through couples communication, health education, prevention of gender-based violence, and fistula repair; and improve the supply and distribution of contraceptives to both the public and the private sector.
Maternal and Child Health activities support improved maternal and childhood nutrition, safer pregnancy and delivery, more complete vaccination coverage, improved well- and sick-child capacity at health facilities, distribution of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and zinc, safe water, and an improved logistics and supply chain for essential drugs.
Other health initiatives include coordinating and contributing to USG epidemic preparedness activities for avian influenza, and supporting the control or elimination of several “neglected” tropical diseases still endemic in Uganda.
The Education team is currently supporting basic education in Uganda through support to the national Ministry of Education for the roll-out of the new thematic curriculum; improving the quality of education through teacher training and materials; strengthening community involvement; and, HIV/AIDS education through a national Presidential initiative.
Recognizing the global HIV/AIDS pandemic as one of the greatest health challenges of our time, President George W. Bush announced the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in 2003. Uganda received approximately US $283million in FY 2010 to support comprehensive HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment programs; systems strengthening and overall improvements in service delivery.
B. BASIC FUNCTION - OVERVIEW
The incumbent will coordinate and manage SO8’s activities in the area of Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) strengthening and performance monitoring and reporting for USAID’s health and education activities. S/he will manage and coordinate the MIS strengthening portfolio to 1) assist SO8 to develop strategic and coordinated MIS strategies and programs to support the GOU’s health, education and orphans and other vulnerable children; 2) provide management oversight and technical assistance to our contractors and grantees supporting MIS strengthening 3) plan, coordinate and monitor closely with Government of Uganda counterparts, development partners and other key stakeholders; 4) oversee performance monitoring and reporting for SO8’s health and education subteams, coordinate closely with the HIV/AIDS SI Advisor; and 5) coordinate SO8’s assistance to MIS and performance monitoring and reporting with the larger Agency.
C. OVERALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Management Information Systems: Provide strategic, programmatic and technical leadership on USAIDS’s support to strengthening management information systems within the health, education and vulnerable children sectors. Support includes but is not limited to: evaluate current plans and activities against short-and long-range objectives; develops recommendations for improving USAID support to MIS strengthening to ensure cost-effective and developmentally appropriate MIS at every level in the system; identify and foster opportunities for collaboration, coordination and integration of support to the different systems at every level. (20%)
2. Performance Monitoring and Reporting: Track and maintain multiple sets of key indicators for the health and education subteams: common indicators related to standard components used in all USAID programs/projects; indicators at the SO level; and, detailed indicators at the activity level. Work with USAID’s Contracting/Agreement Officer Technical Representatives (COTR/AOTR) and implementing partners (IPs) to ensure activity work plans and monitoring plans include relevant and effective performance measures, that together provide greater results and more accurate SO measurements. Ensure that data are properly collected; and, ensure that each indicator is an appropriate measure of its corresponding result. Advise and train health and education team staff on the process of defining measurable indicators and targets for the desired results addressed by their activity, and assist them on their contribution to the monitoring portion of the Annual Report through regular consultations and specialized training. Work with IPs to ensure their understanding of the Performance Monitoring Plan system and process, and their role in the process, and advise them on specific measurement techniques appropriate for their programs. (30%)
3. Project Management: Project management of USAID funded grants and activities, particularly MIS related, includes technical, financial and programmatic oversight of grants and contracts as required by USAID. Basic functions: ensure USAID supported activities are implemented within the USG foreign assistance framework and are directly linked to attainment of USG and USAID’s strategic objectives; review and approval of annual workplans, performance monitoring plans, and quarterly/annual reports; review quarterly financial accruals and pipelines; quarterly (minimum) site visits; and monitoring of planned outcomes. (20%)
4. Evaluation and Reports: Assist health and education team staff with planning, designing, and implementing their respective and appropriate evaluation plans. Support cross-cutting evaluations and findings for more than one activity or Strategic Objective (SO). Work closely with the GoU to ensure that national-level data is available and reliable, and work on an inter-agency basis to ensure that USG support and data contributes to an accurate picture of the situation on the ground. Ensure that ad hoc evaluations of SOs or of individual activities are properly planned and carried out in a high-quality and professional manner; assist in drafting appropriate scopes of work for evaluation teams; participate in evaluations; ensure team comments on draft evaluation reports are reflected in final reports.
Evaluate complex reports and information from a variety of outside sources. Write and present clear summaries of the findings and analyses to USAID staff as well as to the external community. Prepare, present and disseminate materials, briefings, reports, etc. on HMIS to serve reference, informational and advocacy purposes. Present findings and recommendations on complex issues or problems impacting major programs. (20%)
5. Representational: Build and foster partnerships with Government of Uganda counterparts, development partners, other USG agencies working on MIS, population-based surveys and other studies and evaluations, and overall performance monitoring of the health and education sectors. Represent USAID with mid-senior level technical advisors within the Ministries, development partners and other key stakeholders. Serve as active member of interagency working groups. Participate in and support high level delegations and visitors from Washington and other agencies. (10%)
D. POSITION ELEMENTS
Supervisory Controls: Work will be performed under the general supervision of and with substantial interaction and direction from the SO8 Senior Strategic Information Advisor. Performance is evaluated annually based on accomplishments. Close collaboration with the health, education and HIV/AIDS subteams is critical.
Supervision Exercised: Staff supervision will not be a responsibility for the incumbent in this position.
Exercise of Judgment: A high degree of judgment will be required to provide guidance and assistance to complex MIS activities in Uganda. Substantial reliance will be placed on the incumbent to independently plan, prioritize, and carry out the specific activities entailed in fulfilling major duties and responsibilities. The incumbent will be expected to resolve problems that arise by determining the approaches to be taken and methodologies to be used, making independent judgments that can be defended as necessary.
Knowledge Required: The position requires: (1) Mastery of a wide range of methods for the assessment and improvement of complex programs, processes and systems, particularly multisectoral management information systems. (2) Skill to plan, organize, and implement programs, plans, and proposals involving substantial agency resources, or that require extensive changes in established procedures. (3) Demonstrated understanding of performance monitoring and reporting.
Authority to Make Commitments: Because the position will be procured through a personal services contract, the incumbent cannot make financial commitments on behalf of the U.S. Government. However, because of the incumbent’s expertise and standing as a highly qualified professional in his/her field, weight will be given to his/her conclusions and recommendations when commitments are made by those with the authority to do so.
Nature, Level and Purpose of Contacts: The incumbent will maintain contacts and work with USAID technical staff in USAID/Uganda and other USG agencies, mid-senior level technical staff in government agencies, implementing partners and other stakeholders.
E. QUALIFICATION, EXPERIENCE AND EVALUATION CRITERIA
USAID/Uganda expects to award a two year personal services contract from on or about January 2011 or sooner if possible. The contract period may be extended by three-one year extensions based on continued need, employee performance, and availability of funds.
The successful applicant must be capable of securing a U.S. Government "Employment Authorization" security clearance. She/he must be able to secure a medical clearance.
Applicants meeting the required qualifications for the position will be evaluated based on information presented in the application and obtained through reference checks. USAID reserves the right to conduct telephonic interviews with the most highly ranked applicants and make the interview a deciding factor in selection.
Education: A Bachelor’s Degree or the host country equivalent in a field relevant to development with a focus on strategic information is required. Candidates who do not meet this minimum education are considered NOT qualified for the position.
Candidates must submit a supplemental document specifically addressing the three QRFs below. Submissions will be evaluated and ranked based on the indicated selection criteria:
Evaluation Criteria—Quality Ranking Factors:
A. Demonstrated Technical Experience and Skills (50%)
-- Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience working for a U.S. Government agency and/or a development organization, at least 3 of which were spent in a developing country supporting development programs.
-- Strong technical knowledge of strengthening national management information systems within a decentralized service delivery system.
-- Demonstrated understanding and application of performance monitoring and reporting.
-- Technical knowledge related to the development of one or more of the following sectors is required: health, education, human resource management or vulnerable children in a developing country.
-- Knowledge of and appreciation for outcomes achieved through multi-sectoral and integrated programming.
-- Understanding the USG foreign assistance framework and USAID’s strategic priorities.
-- Demonstrated experience working collaboratively with host-country counterparts at national and decentralized levels.
-- Demonstrated experience in providing effective oversight of project activities including financial management, programmatic and human resources.
B. Teamwork and Interpersonal Skills (25%)
-- Demonstrated strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural setting.
-- Demonstrated ability to work in a team.
-- Demonstrated ability to take on leadership in a technical area.
-- Demonstrated experience working closely with government decision-makers and program mangers at central and decentralized levels in a developing country.
C. Language, Communication and Computer Skills (25%)
-- Strong written and verbal communication skills. Must be fluent in English (FSI Level 4) and have proven ability to communicate quickly, clearly and concisely in both speech and writing. Excellent writing skills must include ability to produce and edit documents in a timely manner.
-- Able to facilitate meetings and make logical and persuasive oral presentations to senior officials and partners in a multi-cultural context.
-- Strong computer skills. Able to produce concise, clear reports and utilize word processing, spreadsheet and database programs.
11. NOTICE TO APPLICANTS:
The most qualified candidates may be interviewed. Professional references and academic credential will be evaluated for applicants being considered for selection. USAID reserves the right to obtain from previous employers relevant information concerning the applicant’s past performance and may consider such information in its evaluation. USAID/Uganda shall not pay for any expenses associated with the interviews.
12. TERMS OF APPOINTMENT AND COMPENSATION:
Subject to availability of funds, this will be a two year contract, with an option to USAID to extend for three one-year contract periods depending upon continuing need of the services, and satisfactory or better performance, pursuant to FSAR 52.217-9. Intended start date is during the first quarter of calendar year 2011.
This position has been classified at a U. S. Government GS-13 level or FSN-10 equivalent. The actual salary of the successful candidate will be negotiated within the range depending on qualifications and previous earning history.
This solicitation is for a local hire American national or Resident Alien Personal Services Contractor with no offshore benefits or for a CCN paid under the local compensation plan. Benefits and allowances will be paid in accordance with the policies and procedures set out in USAID Acquisition Regulation (AIDAR) Appendix D or J depending on whether the successful candidate is locally hired US Citizen, U.S. Resident Alien or CCN found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar/pdf: These are summarized below.
A. LOCAL HIRE AMERICAN OR RESIDENT ALIEN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
1. Employee’s F.I.C.A & MEDICARE contributions
2. Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance
-- 72% of Health Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $7,266)
-- 50 % of Life Insurance Annual Premium (not to exceed $500)
3. Pay Comparability Adjustment
--Annual across the board salary increase for USG employees and USPSCs
4. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade
5. Eligibility for Worker's Compensation
6. Annual & Sick Leave
Federal Taxes: USPSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion.
B. CCN BENEFITS AND ALLOWANCES:
If the selected candidate is a CCN Personal Services Contractor, the following benefits and allowances in accordance with the AIDAR Appendix J will normally apply:
1. Contribution toward Medical Insurance for up to 6 dependents.
2. Pay Adjustment based on changes in the Local Compensation Plan.
3. Annual Step Increase except if at the top step of the grade.
4. Annual & Sick Leave.
5. Retirement benefit.
ALL QUALIFIED APPLICANTS WILL BE CONSIDERED REGARDLESS OF AGE, RACE, COLOR, SEX, CREED, NATIONAL ORIGIN, LAWFUL POLITICAL AFFILIATION, NON-DISQUALIFYING HANDICAP, MARITAL STATUS, SEXUAL ORIENTATION, AFFILIATION WITH AN EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION, OR OTHER NON-MERIT FACTOR.
Various Contract Information Bulletins (CIBs) and Acquisition and Assistance Policy Directives (AAPDs) pertaining to PSCs are available at: http://www.usaid.gov/business/business_opportunities/cib/
CIBs and AAPDs contain changes to USAID policy and General Provisions in USAID regulations and contracts. Please refer to the website to determine which CIBs and AAPDs apply to this contract. Additionally, AIDAR Appendixes D and J also apply to PSCs, which can be found at: http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf
C. SECURITY AND MEDICAL CLEARANCES:
Security Clearance: Prior to signing, the selected individual will be required to obtain an Employment Authorization Security Clearance. For U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens, this will be handled by AID/Security in Washington DC. For a CCN, the U.S. Embassy in Kampala will conduct the investigation upon submission of the required documentation.
Medical Clearance: Prior to signing of the contract, a statement of good health must be obtained from individual’s physician/medical doctor of medicine.
NOTE: If a temporary security clearance and medical clearance are not obtained within 4 months, the offer may be rescinded.
List of Required Forms:
(A) Optional Form 612
Note: The forms listed below B through G shall only be completed upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job.
(B) Contractor Physical Examination (DS Form 1843)
(C) EQIP Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security (SF-86) or
(D) EQIP Questionnaire for Non-Sensitive Positions (SF-85)
(E) EQIP Signature Forms (3-CER, REL, MEL)
(F) Finger print Card (SF-87) (available from requirements office)
(G) AID 6-85 (Foreign Residence Data)
13. INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS:
HOW TO APPLY
Qualified individuals MUST submit:
A. Completed and hand-signed U.S. Government Optional Form 612 available websites Shortcut to: http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/of612.pdf;
B. Supplemental document specifically addressing the three Quality Ranking Factors (QRFs) outlined in the solicitation;
C. Curriculum vitae/resume;
D. Three (3) to five (5) references with current contact information.
To ensure applications are received in the Executive Office before the closing date, applications shall be submitted preferably by email. Additionally, fax, handcarry, DHL or FEDEX air courier are acceptable.
VIA EMAIL: To gnakaddu@usaid.gov copy to gmuntu@usaid.gov
VIA FAX: To Fax Number: 256-414-306-661
(VIA HANDCARRY/INTERNATIONAL COURIER)
Executive Officer
USAID/Uganda
US Embassy Compound – South Wing
Plot 1577 Ggaba Road
P. O. Box 7856, Kampala, Uganda
CLOSING DATE: Applications must be in the USAID/Uganda Executive Office no later than 4:45 p.m. Ugandan time Monday, November 29, 2010.
NOTE REGARDING GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS FOR THIS SOLICITATION
This solicitation in no way obligates USAID to award a PSC contract, nor does it commit USAID to pay any cost incurred in the preparation and submission of the application.
Filling this position is contingent upon availability of funding and completion of final internal administrative approvals.
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