R -- Senior Energy Advisor

Ladies/Gentlemen: SOLICITATION NUMBER: 167-Pristina-PSC-FY07-01 ISSUED BY: Executive Office, USAID/Kosovo SUBJECT: Personal Service Contractor (USPSC) - Senior Energy Advisor The United States Government, represented by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID),is seeking applications (Standard Form 171 or Optional Form 612) from qualified individuals interested in providing PSC services as described in the attached solicitation. Submittals shall be in accordance with the attached information at the place and time specified. Any questions on this solicitation may be directed to Executive Officer, John Liebner or to Human Resources Specialist, Mimoza K?puska at the Executive Office of USAID/Kosovo in Pristina, who may be reached by phone:(++381)(38)243673,fax:(++381) (38) 249 493, email: [email protected]: [email protected] Applicants should retain for their records copies of all enclosures which accompany their applications. All applications and the required documents should be submitted via fax, internet as email attachments, or by DHL courier as follows: BY EMAIL TO: Mimoza Kepuska, Human Resources Specialist: [email protected], BY DHL, consign documents to: Address: Attention Mimoza Kepuska, Executive Office USAID/Pristina, Kosovo Arberia I, Ismail Qemali, No.1 Pristina, Kosovo Telephone 381 38 243 673 Sincerely, Signed John Liebner Please make sure your application form is signed, otherwise it will not be taken into consideration. 1. SOLICITATION NUMBER: 167-Pristina-PSC-FY07-01 2. ISSUANCE DATE: October 25, 2006 3. CLOSING DATE/TIME SPECIFIED FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: November 22, 2006 4. POSITION TITLE: Senior Energy Advisor USAID/Kosovo 5. MARKET VALUE: $ 91,507 - $ 118,957 per annum (GS 15 equivalent) 6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: February 2006-February 2008 7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE: Pristina, Kosovo 8. POSITION DESCRIPTION: A. Basic Function of the Position Based in Pristina, the Senior Energy Advisor will be assigned to the USAID/Kosovo Economic Growth Office and will be responsible for development and oversight of the Mission?s energy sector policies and activities. The Senior Energy Advisor will serve as the Mission?s principal technical resource on energy sector development and as the Mission?s primary point of contact on matters relating to energy programming. As a highly qualified professional, substantial reliance will be placed on the Senior Energy Advisor to independently plan and carry out the specific activities entailed in fulfilling major duties and responsibilities. Energy is one of the Mission?s most challenging, high-profile and important sectors, requiring constant interaction with Kosovo?s highest-level officials. As the Mission?s senior-level advisor on energy, the Senior Energy Advisor will exercise significant independent judgment on matters of policy and technical direction, and will be required to independently make decisions that ensure successful program implementation. The Senior Energy Advisor will also be the Mission?s principal day-to-day liaison with other U.S. Government agencies, in particular the US Office in Pristina, and international organizations and foreign donors engaged in providing assistance in Kosovo?s energy sector. He/she will report frequently to senior Mission management and will advise senior-level USOP and other senior officials from Department of State, donor, and host government officials on energy policy and reform and USAID support strategy to the energy sector. He/She will meet regularly with heads of offices, including UNMIK, the World Bank, IMF, the European Agency for Reconstruction and European liaison offices. The Senior Energy Advisor will serve as the focal point for all USAID assistance relating to the energy sector. He/She will be responsible for formulating strategies for energy sector reform and development and managing energy activities. This will include ensuring that the design and implementation of all USAID energy activities are coordinated with the Kosovar government, international organizations, and bilateral and multilateral donors active in the energy sector in Kosovo. Development of the energy sector is a key element of accomplishing USAID?s strategic objectives in Kosovo including the following: SO 4.1 Social stabilization achieved through special applications (Commercial viability of KEK improved), SO 1.3 Accelerated growth of the private sector, and SO 1.2 Establishment of an institutional, legal and regulatory framework for economic growth. B. Background Kosovo has large reserves of high-quality lignite which, if properly managed, can be used to transform Kosovo into a major energy exporter in Europe. However, 15 years of neglect, under-investment, and poor planning have resulted in a deteriorated energy infrastructure. KEK (Korporata Energjetike e Kosov?s) is Kosovo?s vertically integrated electric utility that includes coal mining, generation, transmission and dispatch, network and supply. It is a Publicly-Owned Enterprise administered by the Kosovo Trust Agency under the United Nation Mission in Kosovo (UNMIK), EU Pillar IV. Despite almost seven years of efforts by both Kosovars and the international community, there remain serious deficiencies in KEK?s ability to deliver electricity. A primary problem is that KEK does not collect approximately two-thirds of the value of electricity delivered (this includes technical and commercial losses and non-payment of bills). While this situation has improved somewhat over the past year, the inability of KEK to collect for the electricity produced means that KEK lacks the financial ability to do required maintenance or make other capital investments. Insufficient revenue generation is widely considered to be the primary cause of KEK?s inability to provide 24-hour electricity. Additionally, public perception of KEK is very low, with a June 2006 survey revealing that 62% of Kosovars view KEK as having a high level of corruption. Thus, to this day, Kosovo experiences significant power outages and use of generators is common. Because unreliable energy is frequently cited as the primary impediment to business expansion, improving the delivery of electricity is a critical part of USAID?s strategy for accelerating economic growth. The Ministry of Energy and Mines (MEM) is a new ministry, only established in November 2004. MEM has produced the Energy Strategy for Kosovo 2005-2015 which emphasizes the need to attract private capital in the development of new mines, construction of new generation capacity, and rehabilitation of existing power plants. Accordingly, MEM, in partnership with the World Bank, is implementing the Lignite Power Technical Assistance Project (LPTAP) with an objective of attracting private sector investors to develop new mines and generation in Kosovo. An estimated Euro 2 to 3 billion will be required to develop mines and new generation under LPTAP. Thus, this will be Kosovo?s largest investment in the near future. LPTAP will not be successful unless there is improved electricity distribution by KEK. Thus, a strategy for improving electricity delivery, including a plan for private sector participation in KEK is needed. The Energy Regulatory Office (ERO) is also a relatively new institution, established in 2004. While ERO has drafted much of its secondary legislation and operating procedures, it is still nascent and struggling to become an effective regulator. The Independent Commission for Mines and Minerals is likewise a new institution. Previous USAID assistance for support of the energy sector has taken a number of forms, including assistance to KEK?s billing and collections department, drafting energy laws, and technical assistance to the new regulator. During the past two years, the Mission has become increasingly involved in energy issues, to the point where energy issues require substantial time commitments from mission staff, including the Mission Director and the Director of Economic Growth Office. Currently, USAID/Kosovo provides policy and legal advice to MEM, primarily in support of LPTAP. In addition, USAID has plans for a new energy project, beginning January 2007, to provide technical assistance to KEK. While USAID does not currently contemplate additional assistance to the energy sector, that possibility is not ruled out. In any event, USAID assistance will require involvement with all relevant institutions. C. Major Duties and Responsibilities As an overarching requirement, the Senior Energy Advisor must understand and analyze all of the complex interdependent pre-conditions, requirements and approaches for development of the energy sector in Kosovo. The complexity and difficulty of the preconditions and needs cannot be overstated. The Senior Energy Advisor must possess a broad field of expertise as noted below. While the potential for developing Kosovo?s lignite is great, the amount of work to be done and the complexity of this work equally large. On the one hand, the Senior Energy Advisor will be involved in helping to further develop the requisite Kosovar institutions, as well as helping the government develop important national energy policies. At the same time, the Senior Energy Advisor must also have a firm grasp of what the private sector will require, including a knowledge of such diverse subjects as project finance, law, energy regulatory regimes, technical aspects of electricity delivery (e.g., transmission), tariff issues, and regional as well as local politics affecting energy. It will be the task of the Senior Energy Advisor to ensure that USAID assistance is well-placed and well-implemented to support the LPTAP project in going forward as planned, bringing the Euro 2 to 3 billion of private sector investment into Kosovo. At the same time, the Senior Energy Advisor must help reforms in the entire sector, including radical improvements to electricity distribution. All of this must occur in an environment, including a regulatory environment, that is supportive of these reforms and the Senior Energy Advisor will be required to monitor and support this progress. All these tasks will require constant attention and a high-level of expertise. More specifically, the Senior Energy Advisor's major duties and responsibilities include: Strategy Development a) Providing analysis, advice, and recommendations to senior Mission management and staff regarding the formulation of mission strategy for assistance for development of the energy sector and on the management and implementation of energy activities in the Mission?s portfolio. b) Participating, as required, in the development of Mission strategic plans, performance monitoring plans, budgets and proposals for funding as well as reporting documentation. c) Determining what additional analyses, assessments, or reviews are required for the development of Mission strategy or activities in the area of energy sector development; designing and overseeing the implementation of such analyses or assessments; and following-up as necessary. Program Management a) Day-to-day management of energy activities within the Mission EG portfolio, including determination of work priorities, making decisions on activity implementation matters, identifying and resolving energy program issues, assuring that all activities are carried out in a technically sound and cost-effective manner, assigning responsibility for program management and implementation matters to subordinates, and assuring that activities are carried out in accordance with all applicable Mission and Agency directives and requirements. He/she may also be called upon, from time to time, to manage other activities in the EG portfolio either as an activity manager or the Cognizant Technical Officer for contract-related matters. b) Monitoring energy program progress and results, and preparing reports as required for regular or special Mission reporting. c) Planning, implementing, participating in, commenting upon, or preparing mission views on evaluations, assessments or audits of mission energy activities. d) Planning and developing new program or activity initiatives in the energy sector. Coordination, Technical Advice, and Policy Dialogue a) Participating in, coordinating, or managing USAID inputs into energy sector assessments conducted in conjunction with host government institutions, other USG agencies, international organizations, and other donors. b) Maintaining close contact, providing technical advice, and engaging in policy dialogue as appropriate with staff and senior representatives of host government institutions, international organizations and missions (particularly UNMIK and OSCE), the Kosovar legal community, foreign donors active in the energy sector. c) Organizing and attending donor coordination meetings relating to the energy sector. General Management a) Continuously keeping current on developments affecting the energy sector in Kosovo and reporting such developments to mission management and staff. b) Ability to work within the USAID Mission, in line with Agency regulations and procedures to rapidly shift resources in response to changed circumstances/needs and requirements of sector transition. c) Supervising the work of up to three Foreign Service National (FSN) Program Assistants who will support the Senior Energy Advisor in carrying out the tasks described above. d) Identifying opportunities for publicity of USAID energy activities and coordinating press release or other information with the Mission Information Officer. e) Carrying out such other tasks related to Mission energy programming and other EG activities as may be assigned from time-to-time by the EG Office Director. The Senior Energy Advisor will handle all assigned work either independently or as part of the teams identified above, according to established Mission policies, practices and programmatic guidance, and in accordance with all applicable USAID regulations and guidance as provided in the USAID ADS and elsewhere. The Senior Energy Advisor is expected to make independent judgments that can be defended as necessary. The Senior Energy Advisor will resolve problems that arise by determining the approaches to be taken and methodologies to be used. The Senior Energy Advisor will develop, coordinate, and clear proposed solutions with all necessary parties and then take appropriate actions necessary to resolve the problem. Travel within and outside of Kosovo will be required. D. Reporting Requirements The Senior Energy Advisor will be required to prepare and provide reports as required to effectively carry out the duties and responsibilities described above. The Senior Energy Advisor will also provide, orally or in writing, such reports on work progress as may be required from time-to-time by the EG Office Director or senior mission management. The Senior Energy Advisor may also be required to submit a work plan covering all or part of the contract period for review and approval of the EG Office Director and Deputy Mission Director. The Senior Energy Advisor will also submit a trip report on all travel performed outside of Kosovo during the contract period. E. Supervision and Relationships The Senior Energy Advisor will work under the direct supervision of the USAID/Kosovo Economic Growth (EG) Office Director, or, in his/her absence, of the acting EG Director or Deputy Director. All work will be carried out under the general guidance and direction of the Mission Director and Deputy Mission Director, USAID/Kosovo. The Senior Energy Advisor will supervise and work closely with up to three FSN Advisor/Program Assistants and may assign technical and administrative tasks to the FSN staff. The Senior Energy Advisor will maintain contact and interact technically and professionally in a highly collaborative manner with a wide range of parties, including high level officials in the PISG, UNMIK, the World Bank, other donors active in the energy sector (in particular EAR and KfW). The Senior Energy Advisor will also collaboratively interact with senior officials of the U.S. Office Pristina (USOP). The Senior Energy Advisor will also coordinate as necessary with the Mission?s Democracy and Governance Office. F. Length of Contract: Two years with option for renewal (subject to mutual agreement between USAID and selected applicant). G. Evaluation Criteria for Competitive Procurement Qualifications include: 1. Education and Prior Work Experience The following educational and work experience are desirable to qualify for this position: (a) An advanced degree in an area such as energy, finance, business, engineering, law or related relevant field; (b) A minimum of 10 years of progressively more responsible work experience; (c) A minimum of 5 years experience working in development programs in developing or transitional countries, particularly in the energy sector; (d) Experience operating in a highly collegial and collaborative working relationships, requiring close consultation and coordination. Experience working in multi-lateral development programs, and particularly with energy professionals and technical experts from other countries, including high level government officials and representatives of international organizations; and (e) Experience working in the energy sector in a developed country, such as the US, Canada or other developed country. 2. Language and Communication Skills Fluent English speaking, reading, and writing proficiency is required. The candidate must have excellent oral and written communication skills. Knowledge of Albanian or Serbian would be an asset. 3. Special Skills Must be knowledgeable of and able to effectively use word processing and data management systems and applications, including Microsoft Windows, Word, Excel, Power Point, the Internet, and e-mail applications. H. Logistical Support Assignments of U.S. personnel to Kosovo are accompanied. Spouses and dependents over 21 years of age are authorized to accompany the contractor to post. Current post danger pay for Pristina is 20%. Current post differential pay is 20% and cost of living allowance is 15%. Please note that all allowances are subject to change. FICA and federal income tax will be withheld by USAID. USAID/Kosovo will provide the contractor with suitable housing and office space and equipment, consistent with mission standards and requirements. The Contractor will have post privileges, such as check cashing, medical care, and in-coming and out-going personal mail service in accordance with USOP rules and regulations. I. Period of Service The target start date for this position is February 2007. Within 3 days after written notice from the Contracting Officer that all clearances have been received or, unless another date is specified by the Contracting Officer in writing, the Contractor shall proceed to Pristina to perform the above services. The Contractor?s period of service is expected to be two years, with the option for renewal (mutually agreed to by USAID and selected applicant 9. OTHER REQUIREMENTS: US Citizens who apply for this position must obtain USAID security clearance and medical clearance. 10. BENEFITS: AS A MATTER OF POLICY, AND AS APPROPRIATE, A PSC IS NORMALLY AUTHORIZED THE FOLLOWING BENEFITS: 10-1. BENEFITS Employee's FICA Contribution toward Health & Life Insurance Pay Comparability Adjustment Annual Increase Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Access to medical facilities Pouch mail service as per post policy 10-2. ALLOWANCES (if Applicable). * (A) Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120) (B) Living Quarters Allowance (Section 130) (C) Post Allowance (Section 220) (D) Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230) (E) Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260) (F) Education Allowance (Section 270) (G) Education Travel (Section 280) (H) Post Differential (Chapter 500) (I) Payments during Evacuation/Authorized Departure (Section 600) (J) Danger Pay (Section 650) * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). C. FEDERAL TAXES: PSCs are not exempt from payment of Federal Income taxes under the foreign earned income exclusion. 11. APPLYING Qualified individuals are requested to submit a U.S. Government Optional Form 612 or SF 171. This form is available at the USAID website, http://www.info.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/forms or http://fillform.gsa.gov or at local US Federal offices. OF 612 shall be submitted by fax, e-mail, DHL air courier by the closing date. To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please reference the solicitation number on your application, and as the subject line in any cover letter. 12. CONTRACT INFORMATION BULLETINS (CIBs and AAPDs) PERTAINING TO PSCs 06-11 Home Leave and Revised General Provision 5, Leave and Holidays (August 2006) 06-03 Updated Contractor Salary Approval Threshold Policy/Procedures 06-01 Medical Evacuation Update 05-10 Calculation of Vacation Leave for U.S. Personal Services Contractor?s (USPSC) 05-08 Personal Service Contracts (PSCs) Annual Health Insurance Costs 05-02 Clarification of Policy for Personal Services Contracts with Anticipated Contract Performance periods Exceeding Five (5) Years 04-15 Cash Awards for USPSCs and TCNPSCs 01-07 Clarification of the Extension/Renewal Policy Regarding Personal Services Contracts 01-10 Revision of Medical Clearance Process - Personal Services Contracts ("PSC") with U.S. Citizens 00-08 Revision of Competitive Process - Personal Services Services Contracts ("PSCs") with U.S. Citizen 00-3 2000 FICA & Medicare Tax Rates for Personal Services Contracts (PSCs) 99-7 Contractual Coverage for Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) Services 98-25 Defense Base Act (DBA) Coverage and DBA Waiver List 98-24 Use of Compensatory (Comp) Time by PSCs 98-23 Guidance Regarding Classified Contract Security and Contractor Personnel Security Requirements 98-16 Annual Salary Increase for USPSCs 98-14 Change in Required Application Form for USPSCs 97-16 Class Justification for Use of Other Than Full & Open Competition for Personal Services Contracts with U.S. Citizens Contracted with Locally with CCNs and TCNs Subject to the Local Compensation Plan, and for Overseas Contracts of $250,000 or Less 97-3 New USAID Contractor Employee Physical Examination 96-23 Unauthorized Provision in Personal Services Contract 96-19 U. S. Personal Services Contract (USPSC) - Leave 96-8 Determining a Market Value for PSCs Hired Under Appendix D, Handbook 14 94-9 Sunday Pay for U.S. Personal Services Contractors (PSCs) 93-17 Financial Disclosure Requirements Under a Personal Services Contract (PSC) 13. LIST OF REQUIRED FORMS FOR PSCs For initial consideration: 1. Optional Form 612 or SF 171. Resume or CV may be attached. Upon advice by the Contracting Officer that the applicant is successful the following forms will be needed: 2. Contractor Employee Biographical Data Sheet (AID 1420-17) 3. Contractor Physical Examination ( Form DS 1843) 4. Questionnaire for Sensitive Positions (for National Security) (SF-86) 5. Finger Print Card (FD-258). ** (Available from the law enforcement offices or in USAID/Washington). * Standardized Regulations (Government Civilians Foreign Areas). ** Forms 2 through 5 shall be completed only upon the advice of the Contracting Officer that an applicant is the successful candidate for the job. SUBJECT TO FUNDS AVAILABILITY