Administrative Management Specialist (Security Liaison Specialist), FSN-11 Equivalent (m/f)

USAID is recruiting an Administrative Management Specialist (Security Liaison Specialist), FSN-11 Equivalent (m/f), to be based in Maputo, Mozambique.

Description

• USAID/Mozambique manages the U.S. Government’s development program in Mozambique. The Mission portfolio includes a broad range of economic growth, democracy, education, stabilization, and health activities which require communications and outreach support. The Security Liaison Specialist position is located in Maputo, the capital city of Mozambique at USAID/Mozambique which is collocated with the US Embassy. In addition to Maputo, the incumbent will provide security support for USAID Implementing Partners (IPs) operating throughout the country. The incumbent will travel to USAID/Mozambique program activity implementation sites. The basic function of the Specialist is to provide a high level of safety, security, and operational support to USAID/Mozambique Implementing Partners (IPs) through proactive engagement including meetings, site visits, written communications, and SMS texts. Additionally, the Specialist will liaison and coordinate with Mozambique security elements, other Host Government Entities, and International Donor Organizations. This position is based in Maputo with travel throughout Mozambique. Work is performed under the general supervision of the Supervisory Executive Officer
• SUBJECT: Solicitation for a Cooperating Country National Personal Service Contractor (CCNPSC - Local Compensation Plan) – Administrative Management Specialist (Security Liaison Specialist), FSN-11 Equivalent
• Dear Prospective Offerors:
• The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in Mozambique is seeking applications from qualified persons to provide personal services under contract as described in this solicitation
• Offers must be in accordance with Attachment 1, Sections I through V of this solicitation. Incomplete offers will not be considered. Offerors should retain copies of all offer materials for their records
• USAID will evaluate all offerors based on the stated evaluation criteria. USAID encourages all individuals, including those from disadvantaged and under-represented groups, to respond to the 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 offers. Any questions must be directed in writing to the Point of Contact specified in the attached information
• Solicitation No. 72065622R10017 opened to all Mission current employees and external candidates who meet the stated qualifications
• Market Value: USD59,111– USD82,761 per annum, equivalent to FSN-11 (Step1-12) In accordance with AIDAR Appendix J and the Local Compensation Plan of USAID/Mozambique). Final compensation will be negotiated within the market value
• Period of Performance:
• The base period will be one year, estimated to start on or about December 2022
• Based on Agency need, the Contracting Officer may exercise additional option periods for the dates estimated as follows:
• Base Period: December 2022 - December 2023
• Option Period 1: December 2023 -November 2027
• Place of performance: Maputo, Mozambique with possible travel as stated in the Statement of Duties
• Eligible Offerors: To meet basic eligibility requirements, the applicant must be a cooperating country citizen or a non-cooperating country citizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence in the cooperating country
• To ensure consideration of offers for the intended position, Offerors must prominently reference the Solicitation number in the offer submission
• Only interviewed candidates will be informed in writing of the Selection Committee’s final decision
• List of Required Forms Prior to Award:
• Once the Contracting Officer (CO) informs the successful Offeror about being selected for a contract award, the CO will provide the successful Offeror instructions about how to complete and submit the required forms
• Benefits and Allowances:
• This is a local position and compensation will be in accordance with the Local Compensation Plan
• USAID regulations and policies governing CCN/TCN PSC awards are available at these sources:
• 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/sites/default/files/documents/1868/aidar_0.pdf
• 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 as described below:
• 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 
• 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/OGE%20Regulations
• 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: PSCOmbudsman@usaid.gov

Duties

• The Specialist is responsible for monitoring critical security information and performing the full range of safety, security, and operational activities responsive to USAID IPs. This includes but is not limited to:

Research, Analysis and Security and Safety Support (75%)

• Providing security assistance for and responding to USAID IP safety and security needs throughout Mozambique
• Developing and managing a SMS notification system to warn IPs in security and emergency situations
• Serving as a liaison with USAID IPs, UN agencies, NGOs, Host Government Entities, international donor organizations, and other entities, as needed
• Conducting informal site visits on a quarterly basis with IPs, UN agencies, NGOs, Host Government Entities, international donor organizations, and other entities to address any security concerns and obtain security-related information as it pertains to USAID IPs and projects
• Upon coordination with numerous contacts, sharing, analyzing, and disseminating timely and significant security related information/incidents to IPs
• Conducting trend analysis based on information collected, to be disseminated to, and for the benefit of, IPs
• Meeting and coordinating with newly arrived IPs to provide security briefings
• Liaising with the Mozambique Military and Police Force Attending/representing USAID PLSO at IP meetings within and outside of Maputo.
• Providing technical security expertise to IPs based on subject-matter-expert contact information to help ensure the implementation of successful USAID funded programs in highrisk environments
• Managing the USAID/Mozambique Personnel Recovery Program
• Facilitating IP access to the in-country Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) as well as work to identify other potential sources of information and security support available to IPs through the Embassy RSO
• Holding regular meetings with IPs and Mission entities with a vested interest to focus on security issues affecting the IP community. The Specialist may also attend regularly held meetings with Mission security entities, when possible
• Maintaining a formal online community among USAID IPs to support the exchange of pertinent security-related information

Data Management and Reporting (25%)

• Writing weekly activity reports reflecting IP reported safety and security incidents
• Writing a weekly activity report containing pertinent information regarding support provided to IPs and any security-related issues or concerns communicated by IPs
• Writing detailed reports based on all site visits. Reports will be submitted within three working days of each visit
• Maintaining a current database of key personnel (Contractors, USAID Chief of Parties, Deputy Chief of Parties and Security Managers) of USAID partners. This database will include contact information and location of projects sites
• Encouraging and assisting IPs with the documentation and reporting of security incidents to the Office of Acquisition and Assistance (OAA), as needed, and developing a template for IPs to use for incident reporting
• Producing Mozambique region-specific security reports and analyses on a weekly basis
• Advising the Mission Director, EXO, CO/AO, other senior USAID personnel, SEC/ISP, the RSO, and other individuals or groups with a need-to-know on all security matters pertaining to IPs
• Position Elements
• Supervisory Relationship: Work is performed under the general supervision of the Supervisory Executive Officer
• Supervisory Exercised: None
• Available Guidelines: USG Safety and Security and related regulations and procedures, relevant FAM/FAH, CFR, GTR, Records Management Policies, Mission Orders, oral and written guidance from RSO and EXO
• Exercise of Judgment: Balanced judgment, initiative, empathy, strict discretion, and patience in dealing with all categories of the IPs’ personnel and Host Country officials is absolutely necessary to resolve broad range of issues the incumbent may face when there is no immediate or clear solution and requiring considerable analysis of multiple guiding sources to identify and recommend the best and timely course of action, especially, when supervisor is not available. The employee handles most work independently in accordance with regulations, established USG policies, procedures, and administrative guidelines. Considerable independence and sound judgment should be exercised in the analysis and application of job specific administrative policies and procedures. Excellent judgment is also required to maintain the integrity and security of the USAID/Mozambique’s official and working documentation
• Authority to Make Commitments: The incumbent will have no independent authority to make any resource commitments or commit U.S. Government (USG) or Mission funds on behalf of the U.S. Government, USAID/Mozambique, or the Executive Office. After securing concurrence from the Executive Officer and Regional Security Officer, negotiates and coordinates actions in a course of performing the job. Schedules his/her work time and directs work of counterparts in accordance with priority of actions and ensures deadlines are met and quality of work is appropriate
• Nature, Level, and Purpose of Contacts: Builds networks with external groups, including other USG agencies, international organizations, host Government entities, international organizations, NGO’s, local Mozambique Government officials, the host population, and other entities. Coordinates and works closely with RSO as necessary. Strong diplomatic communications skills critically necessary to ensure cooperation of all entities and personalities involved. With all contacts applies tact, diplomacy, sound judgment, empathy and discretion to establish strong rapport and explain complex information clearly and deliver difficult messages delicately, ensures maintenance of strict confidentiality
• Time Expected to Reach Full Performance Level: One year
• Support Items: The incumbent will be provided with office space, equipment, and supplies
• Post Entry Training: The incumbent is expected to possess the necessary technical training, administrative and management skills/abilities required to carry-out/perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. Post-entry training will, therefore, be focused primarily on the USG and Agency’s established policies, procedures and regulations which govern USG specific procedures. Completion of certified Safety and Security training programs (FEMA, OFDA, Red Cross, etc.) and completion of a certified First Aid program

Requisites

• Minimum Qualifications Required for this Position:
• Education: A bachelor’s degree in international development; administration; disaster response; safety & security operations; crisis management; development planning, etc., or any other relevant field is required.
• Prior Work Experience: A minimum of five years’ experience working in post conflict and/or post disaster programs for emergency relief, humanitarian assistance or reconstruction; experience traveling and working in remote, rugged terrain in Mozambique is required. demonstrated experience in managing sensitive information in a professional manner. Experience in working on a humanitarian development assignment is required.
• Language Proficiency: Level IV fluency (speaking/reading/writing) in English and Portuguese is required (this will be tested)
• Job Knowledge: Specialized expertise in supporting safety and security operations of a USG agency, bilateral organization, international non-governmental organization, or private company. Demonstrated knowledge regarding what a comprehensive safety and security operations plan should contain and how it should be managed on a dayto-basis. Knowledge of generic safety and security protocols in high-risk environments
• Knowledge of Geographic information systems (GIS). Strong knowledge of Safety, Security, and First Aid principles and methodology. Knowledge of the political situation and security risks particular to Mozambique. Comprehensive knowledge of Mozambican legislation and Government and Law enforcement entities involved into citizens and facilities protection, security and safety, related procedures. Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of social and cultural specifics of all provinces and Mozambique in general
• Skills and Abilities: Demonstrated ability to work effectively and efficiently with a broad client base and host country counterparts on safety and security related issues is required. Demonstrated liaison experience with the ability to work independently and with little oversight. Ability to identify future safety and security trends which may affect IP operations and proactively address them. Ability to work effectively and make sound decisions in high-stress and crisis situations. Skilled in effectively collecting, synthesizing, and presenting information from diverse sources. Strong ability to build networks with external groups, including other USG agencies, international organizations, host Government entities, international organizations, NGO’s, local Mozambique Government officials, the host population, and other entities. Proficient use of MS office suite of products required. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing in English is required

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

The following evaluation factors are established

• Education - 5 points
• Prior Work Experience - 25 points
• Language Proficiency - 10 points
• Job Knowledge - 35 points
• Skills and Abilities - 25 points
• Maximum Points: 100 points

Notes

• A cover letter in English with CV/Applicant Resume as well as academic transcripts/diplomas
• Names, contact numbers, and e-mail addresses of three professional references from individuals who are not family members or relatives. Reference checks will be conducted for the final selected candidate for the Contracting Officer to make a responsibility determination. USAID/Mozambique reserves the right to solicit references from other sources as deemed appropriate
• Any application received in Portuguese will not be considered. Only English applications will be considered
• 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/OGE%20Regulations
• Per this scoring Skills and Abilities and Job Knowledge are the most important factors, followed by Prior Work Experience, Language Proficiency and Education. Applications will initially be screened for conformity with minimum requirements. Only applicants who meet the minimum qualification requirements for the position will be considered. Candidates will be evaluated based on relevant education, prior work experience, knowledge, language proficiency, skills and abilities demonstrated in their application packages. A Technical Evaluation Committee (TEC) will be convened to review applications and evaluate them in accordance with the evaluation criteria. Applications from candidates who do not meet the required selection criteria will not be scored. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted and will be invited for a language test. Candidates successfully passing the language exam will be invited for an oral interview and may also be required to pass a written test. No response will be sent to unsuccessful applicants
• Professional references will be conducted for the top ranked candidate and will be utilized to supplement the TEC’s recommendation to the Contracting Officer to offer the position to the top ranked candidate. USAID/Mozambique reserves the right to solicit references from other sources as deemed appropriate Final selection will be based on the application package, language abilities, oral interview and reference checks. This is a local position and compensation will be in accordance with the Local Compensation Plan
• Please note that USAID and the U.S. Government NEVER require payment of any money in connection with a job application
• Physical Demands: The work requested does not involve undue physical demands
• However, there may be some physical exertion including long periods of standing, walking, or traveling and working in remote, rugged terrain in Mozambique
• Point of Contact: Mission-Maputo-HR@usaid.gov