Description The Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is seeking applications from qualified applicants for a Senior Laboratory Services Advisor position located in Hanoi, Vietnam. The resulting contract shall be a Personal Services Contract (PSC). See PL 109-149, Section 215(1), Reference 22U.S.C.2669(c). SOLICITATION NUMBER: 2008-N-10207 POSITION NUMBER: VM-PSC-01 ISSUANCE DATE: March 12, 2008 CLOSING DATE/TIME: April 12, 2008 at 4:00PM Eastern Standard Time POSITION TITLE: Senior Laboratory Services Advisor MARKET VALUE: $65,225 to $103,935 per year -- Final compensation will be based on individual salary history, work experience, and educational background. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: One Base Year and Four Option Years PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Hanoi, Vietnam SECURITY CLEARANCE: NACI AREA OF CONSIDERATION: United States (U.S.)Citizens, U.S. residents and third country nationals. Citizens and permanent residents of the host country are not eligible for this position. Duties and Responsibilities: This position is located in the National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention (NCHHSTP)/Global AIDS Program (GAP) with a duty station in Hanoi, Vietnam. The Personal Service Contractor (PSC) shall serve as Senior Laboratory Program Advisor providing expert scientific and technical laboratory support to the mission of the CDC-GAP Country Office and USG partners. The PSC functions as a focal point for clinical and public health laboratory science, coordinating the development of policy and programs affecting public health and clinical laboratory services provision in support of the President?s Emergency Plan For AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) in collaboration with the USG efforts in HIV/AIDS prevention, surveillance, treatment, and care programs. The PSC assists and advises the Country Director on matters relating to laboratory systems, including analyses, planning and development, operational research, and all aspects of laboratory quality assurance to support USG priorities and objectives in Vietnam. The PSC in this position provides laboratory technical assistance and support to include: 1) providing assistance in the implementing needs assessments of central and provincial laboratories, 2) formulating and implementing sound policies for laboratory quality assurance and control, 3) developing and implementing training activities to strengthen knowledge and skills of laboratory personnel in the operations and management of laboratories, 4) identifying appropriate resources to support on-going laboratory needs, 5) coordinating with international partners to provide laboratory technical assistance, and 6) enhancing working relationships between the central, provincial and local laboratories. The PSC?s activities will include a primary focus on developing and strengthening national laboratory capacity. The PSC shall serve as a key member and the lead technical advisor on laboratory issues for the PEPFAR Vietnam team to plan, develop, implement and evaluate project goals and objectives related to laboratory technical assistance. The PSC shall perform professional work to develop the capabilities of governments, public health authorities, non-governmental organizations and others to establish and conduct public health and clinical laboratory services. The PSC serves as the CDC expert on matters relating to the analysis, planning and development of laboratory, operational research, and all aspects of laboratory quality assurance. This position serves as the critical interface for CDC-GAP and PEPFAR partner laboratory collaboration and support (USAID, DOD, and DOS) The PSC coordinates, collaborates and consults on scientific and technical issues with high-ranking officials within the Ministry of Health (MOH), local and international public health agencies, and non-governmental organizations on the development, implementation and conduct of scientific and technical laboratory systems and services in Vietnam. The PSC shall develop and maintain professional relationships with international, national, and local laboratory policy makers, universities and schools of public health and key personnel in appropriate clinical and laboratory organizations. As a recognized expert in laboratory science and technology, the PSC shall provide scientific advice and consultation in devising solutions to critical problems by developing approaches consistent with current best practices. The PSC shall coordinate and collaborate with government and public health officials to identify and develop the infrastructure and other resources necessary to support local laboratory systems. The PSC shall provide guidance and direction to all staff and outside program collaborators on the implementation and management of laboratory projects that is consistent with CDC and international policies and guidelines. The PSC shall provide expert scientific advice on matters relating to organizational structure including physical laboratory structure and space issues, public health laboratory testing procedures and systems including the evaluation of new diagnostic technologies, quality assurance procedures and guidelines, laboratory management and staffing issues, and the provision of training in all areas of laboratory activity. The PSC shall serve as the lead in identifying and strategically developing pathways to meet short- and long-term laboratory staffing needs. The PSC shall conceive, develop, coordinate, implement and evaluate programs and services, direct local laboratory program activities and provide leadership in developing scientific policy related to laboratory practice for services and systems for HIV prevention, surveillance, treatment, and care. These include, but are not limited to, TB, HIV, STI, ARV resistance testing, international standards, training and quality assurance. The PSC will participate in all decisions related to the commitment of resources, including the allocation of personnel and funds, for projects related to laboratory technical assistance, as well as procurement, logistics and personnel management for laboratory services. The PSC shall assist central and provincial laboratories in establishing and maintaining controls, management information systems, policies and guidelines concerning laboratory equipment and services. The PSC shall support the development and strengthening of national laboratory capacity. The PSC shall consult on scientific training and education programs, and coordinate the development and delivery of public health-related training programs. The PSC works in collaboration with peers including - USG partners, relevant host nation Ministries, regional and international non-governmental organizations to identify, develop and conduct local and regional training. The PSC shall evaluate training programs for appropriate content and recommend changes to assure accurate and current scientific information. The PSC coordinates the development and distribution of scientific and technical laboratory-related educational materials and promote the sharing of scientific information and assistance in the region. The PSC shall write reports, abstracts, articles, opinions, orally present and disseminate operational research findings, to advocate for laboratory programs and services in the region. The PSC provides consultation to public, private, professional, and academic partners (which may include universities, public and private foundations, international health leaders, Ministries of Health in other countries, and local and international organizations) in substantive matters related to public health and clinical laboratory services, practice and training. This includes scientific and technical assistance in methodology and project and data management. The PSC provides oversight of laboratory activities conducted by the PEPFAR-supported National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE) and the Department of Therapy and their partners in the provinces. The PSC conducts periodic reviews of cooperative agreement activities to assure progress toward national laboratory and cooperative agreement objectives and to be certain that laboratories comply with all applicable international safety policies and procedures that include but are not limited to the wearing or the use of prescribed personal protective equipment while engaged in work. The PSC regularly and routinely inspects/reviews assigned workspace to identify and correct unsafe conditions, deficiencies, processes and procedures. Minimum Qualifications: 1. Broad perspective and thorough knowledge of the principles of public health programs and practice. 2. Demonstrated history of supervision of laboratory scientists, preferably in a public health laboratory setting.6.Demonstrated history of cooperative working relationships with host government ministries, public health bureaus, NGOs and other partners to effectively implement laboratory and other technical services activities. 3. Strong interpersonal communication and negotiation skills in achieving results with a wide range of program partners. 4. Ability to readily analyze, understand, and discuss new program design, management, and implementation approaches. 5. Demonstrated ability to identify priority actions, generate and complete work plans within short time frames. 6. Strong oral and written skills and ability to clearly communicate new program and technical concepts to technical and non-technical counterparts. English language fluency at level 4 is required. 7. Masters level degree in Biomedical Research, Laboratory Science, or related laboratory field . 8. Eight years of progressively responsible work as a subject matter expert in a laboratory related field (microbiology, virology, serology, molecular diagnostics), including at least 5 years of public health laboratory supervision and management experience with responsibility for interacting with supervisors, subordinates and professional staff from other institutes or organizations. 9. Strong computer literacy and aptitude to rapidly acquire and apply additional skills. Desired Qualifications: 1. Knowledge of how the CDC Vietnam program operates, program areas that it supports and how these areas can be tailored to fit local need. 2. Knowledge of the laboratory technical area of PEPFAR including how different US Government agencies work together to meet the President?s goals and objectives; . 3. Knowledge of USG (specifically HHS/CDC) including its mission and operational protocol, including program goals, objectives, principles, priorities and funding mechanisms through which PEPFAR funds are channeled. 4. A thorough technical familiarity with the public health laboratory system in Vietnam. 5. MD or PhD in Biomedical Research, Laboratory Science, or related laboratory field with a Masters degree in. public health, public administration or business administration 6. Level 3 Languge skill in Vietnamese is desirable. Benefits/Allowances: Overseas allowances and differentials similar to those available to U.S. Government employees assigned abroad may be payable under this PSC, subject to eligibility. Actual benefits may vary from one candidate to the next and/or from one country of assignment to the next. A summary of the overseas allowances and differentials available to U.S. Government employees assigned abroad can be found at the following: Internet URL: http://www.state.gov/m/a/als/4311.htm. Specific benefit, allowance, and differential information will be provided in the "Offer of PSC Employment" letter sent to the successful applicant. Additionally, country specific information useful for U.S. Government employees assigned abroad can be obtained from Department of State Post Reports available at the following Internet URL: http://foia.state.gov/MMS/postrpt/pr_view_start.asp and Travel Warnings concerning certain countries, in many of which CDC conducts its international program activities, may be obtained at the following Internet URL: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/tw/tw_1764.html. Federal Taxes: Personal Service Contractors who are either United States citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens (i.e., ?green card? holders) of the United States are not exempt from payment of Federal Income Tax and, in some cases State income taxes on salaries earned abroad while working for the U.S. Government. CONTRACTOR-MISSION RELATIONSHIPS (a) The contractor acknowledges that this contract is an important part of the U.S. Foreign Assistance Program and agrees that his/her duties will be carried out in such a manner as to be fully commensurate with the responsibilities that this entails. (b) While in the Cooperating Country, the contractor is expected to show respect for the conventions, customs, and institutions of the Cooperating Country and not interfere in its political affairs. (c) If the contractor's conduct is not in accordance with paragraph (b) of this provision, the contract may be terminated under General Provision 16 of this contract. The Contractor recognizes the right of the U.S. Ambassador to direct his/her immediate removal from any country when, in the discretion of the Ambassador, the interests of the United States so require. (d) The Country Director is the chief representative of CDC in the Cooperating Country. In this capacity, he/she is responsible for the total CDC Program in the Cooperating Country including certain administrative responsibilities set forth in this contract and for advising CDC regarding the performance of the work under the contract and its effect on the U.S. Foreign Assistance Program. The contractor will be responsible for performing his/her duties in accordance with the statement of duties called for by the contract. However, he/she shall be under the general policy guidance of the Country Director, and shall keep the Country Director or his/her designated representative currently informed of the progress of the work under this contract. SOCIAL SECURITY, FEDERAL INCOME TAX AND FOREIGN EARNED INCOME (a) Since the contractor is an employee, F.I.C.A. contributions and U.S. Federal Income Tax withholding will be deducted in accordance with regulations and rulings of the Social Security Administration and the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, respectively. (b) As an employee, the contractor is not eligible for the 'foreign earned income' exclusion under the IRS Regulations (see 26 CFR 1.911- 3(c)(3)). INSURANCE (a) Worker's Compensation Benefits: The contractor shall be provided worker's compensation benefits in accordance with the Federal Employees' Compensation Act. (b) Health and Life Insurance: (1) The contractor shall be provided a maximum contribution of up to 50% against the actual costs of the contractor's annual health insurance costs, provided that such costs may not exceed the maximum U.S. Government contribution for direct-hire personnel as announced annually by the Office of Personnel Management. (2) The contractor will be provided a contribution of up to 50% against the actual costs of annual life insurance not to exceed $500.00 per year. (3) Retired U.S. Government employees will not be paid additional contributions for health or life insurance under their contracts. The Government will normally have already paid its contribution for the retiree unless the employee can prove to the satisfaction of the Contracting Officer that his/her health and life insurance does not provide or specifically excludes coverage overseas. In such case, the contractor would be eligible for contributions under paragraphs (b)(1) or (2) as appropriate. (4) Proof of health and life insurance coverage will be submitted to the Contracting Officer before any contribution is paid. On assignments of less than one year, costs for health and life insurance will be prorated and paid accordingly. (5) A contractor who is a spouse of a current or retired Civil Service, Foreign Service, or Military Service member and who is covered by their spouse's Government health or life insurance policy is ineligible for the contribution under paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this provision. MEDEVAC INSURANCE (NON U.S. CITIZENS ONLY) Non-U.S. citizens will not qualify for health unit access during the period of performance of the resultant contract and, if a contract is offered, will be responsible for obtaining required medical evacuation (medevac) insurance. CDC shall reimburse 100% of the cost of medevac insurance maintained by the contractor. CDC does not require that contractor obtains coverage from any one specific company. The contractor is responsible for and has the discretion to choose a provider. For information purposes only: The Department of State maintains a list of U.S. based providers on the following website: http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/health/health_1185.html. CDC provides no endorsement, expressly or implied, of any emergency medical service provider. Contractors have full discretion to consider providers not provided in this list, but are expected to verify that the coverage they do obtain will adequately cover an evacuation due to a medical situation that arises in the location of contract performance. CDC shall approve a fair and reasonable amount for obtaining the required coverage as a direct cost to the contract. In order for CDC to reimburse the cost of medevac insurance, CDC shall require the contractor to furnish evidence of obtaining medevac insurance for the employee and all accompanying family members on U.S. Government travel orders and its cost, after issuance of an offer letter. INHERENTLY GOVERNMENTAL FUNCTIONS An individual serving under a CDC PSC may not perform "inherently governmental functions," which include: ? Committing the U.S. Government (USG) to a specific course of action or performing Services, which involve discretionary exercise of Government authority; ? Exercising signatory authority on behalf of the USG; ? Directing policy formulation or making policy decisions; ? Approving program plans; ? Officially representing the CDC (representation); ? Controlling USG-owned property; ? Acting as a cashier or sub-cashier; or, ? Supervising Government FTE staff. An individual serving under a PSC may: ? Provide advice or make recommendations to Government FTE staff; ? Perform services (other then the prohibited services listed above) in support of program activities; ? Direct projects or teams (as long as supervision of Government FTE staff is not involved); and, ? Supervise other PSCs, Personal Services Agreement Employees (PSA), grantees or fellows. How to Apply: A complete application shall consist of a completed Optional Form 612 (Optional Application for Federal Employment) or resume or curriculum vitae that provides the same information required in a OF 612, as well as references, current (or highest recent) salary documentation, and Benefit Eligibility Form. Optional Form 612, Optional Application for Federal Employment: The Optional Form (OF) 612, Optional Application for Federal Employment, can be located at: http://www.opm.gov/Forms/html/of.asp. References: Each applicant shall submit three Professional references other than family members. Two references shall be from a current and previous supervisor. The following information is required: Name, Address, telephone Number, Title, and Email Address. Current (or Highest Recent) Salary Documentation: Each applicant shall submit supporting documentation that reflects their current or highest recent salary. Examples of such supporting documentation are the most recent earning statement, an official letter from current employer signed by the applicant?s current supervisor or Human Resources Representative, or the applicant?s most recent U.S. Federal tax return. Each applicant shall also include a letter indicating the minimum salary in U.S. dollars the applicant would accept for the position. Benefit Eligibility Form: Each applicant shall submit the attached Benefit Eligibility Form with the application. Submission of Application: A complete application package (OF 612 or equivalent, references, salary documentation, and Benefits Eligibility Form) must be received at the following location no later than the closing date and time identified above: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Procurement and Grants Office Mailstop K75, Branch 7 Attn:Zalerie Moore, Contract Specialist Solicitation 2008-N-10207 2920 Brandywine Road Atlanta, GA 30341-5539 Complete application packages can be emailed to the attention of Zalerie Moore at
[email protected]. Facsimile copies will not be accepted. Applications received after the closing date and time will not be accepted. Refer to Federal Acquisition Regulation 15.208 regarding submission of late proposals: (http://www.acqnet.gov/far/current/html/Subpart%2015_2.html#wp1125227). All applications must be legible and submitted in the English language. The solicitation number identified above must be included on all documents submitted with the application package, as well as any other correspondence regarding this solicitation. Selection Factors: The applicant that represents the best value to the Government will be considered for award of Senior Laboratory Services Advisor PSC. To determine best value, the following factors will be considered: 1. The extent an applicant meets the minimum and desired qualifications based on information obtained through the application package and interviews. Note that interviews may or may not be conducted; therefore, the application package should clearly identify how well the applicant meets the minimum and desired qualifications of this position. Interviews, if conducted, may be either in-person or via telephone. 2. Information collected from reference checks. References will only be verified for those applicants determined to have a reasonable chance of being selected for award. 3. Results of a cost assessment. The cost assessment will determine the total cost (salary plus benefits and allowances) of the applicant for the complete term of the contract (base period plus any option years). Basis for Award In determining best value, paramount consideration will be given to technical merit (applicant qualifications and reference checks) rather than to cost. In cases where applicants are determined to be essentially equal, then cost may become the determining factor.