Combine Solicitation – Senior Development Outreach and Communications (DOC) Officer
| Federal Information & News Dispatch, Inc. |
Notice Type: Combine Solicitation
Posted Date:
Office Address:
Subject:
Classification Code: R - Professional, administrative, and management support services
Solicitation Number: 663-S-14-002
Contact: Tamirate Fekadu, HR Specialist, Phone 251111306002, Email [email protected] - RAHEL MILLION, HUMAN RESOURCES ASSISTANT, Phone 251111306043, Email [email protected]
Setaside: N/AN/A
Place of Performance Country: ET
Description:
Overseas Missions
Ethiopia USAID-
2. ISSUANCE DATE:
3. CLOSING DATE
4. POSITION TITLE:
5. MARKET VALUE GS-14 (
6. PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE: The PSC Contract will be for two years, with the possible option for an additional one year extension. PSC contracts generally cannot exceed a five year period of performance.
7. PLACE OF PERFORMANCE:
8. DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Deputy Mission Director
9. SECURITY ACCESS: The final selected candidate must obtain an Employment Authorization (Facilities Access Clearance) for employment and a medical clearance within a reasonable period of time (USAID will provide details regarding these clearances to the selected candidate). If such clearances are not obtained within a reasonable time or negative suitability issues are involved, any offer made may be rescinded.
10. AREA OF CONSIDERATION: U.S. Citizens and U.S. Permanent Residents (Green card).
11. JOB DESCRIPTION: A. INTRODUCTION
Develop and orchestrate implementation of the Mission's communications and outreach strategy to increase understanding of, and support for, USAID programs among external target audiences. The Mission Communications Strategy should take into account the cost/benefits of particular inputs to outputs in order to optimize communications tools and distribution to the broadest numbers of priority audiences possible. Manage any communications-related contracts for services to implement the strategy, such as events management, photography, video production, advertising, translation, and so forth. When warranted, develop and execute blanket purchase agreements for these services. Incumbent will manage DOC annual budget and performance monitoring. Supervise, develop work plans, and mentor the PSC Communication Specialist (s), DOC TDY support and interns. The S/DOC drafts or reviews and substantively edits proposed speeches and public statements for Mission officials, or the Ambassador when engaged in USAID events; content for briefing material, videos on project activities, the website and social media, brochures, booklets, handouts, signs, and other public relations materials to evaluate quality and appropriateness of messaging and presentation for target audiences as well consistency with USAID communications priorities, key messages, and branding. Provide guidance and advise implementing partners (who receive USAID funding) on Mission and Agency-wide communications and outreach priorities, messages, online and other vehicles for dissemination, communications and media policies. Convene implementing partner (including contractors, grantees, and business) meetings with participation of the Mission Director and Chief of Mission to convey and update on USG foreign assistance goals in country and priorities for outreach. Brief implementing partner meetings convened by technical offices on communications and outreach priorities, policies, and best practices. Oversee and ensure consistency of branding and marking per guidelines and advise USAID staff and contractors and grantees on developing branding and marking plans; coordinate with the
In collaboration with and under the guidance of the PAO and Information Officer, serve as the principal USAID contact for representatives of the local and international media in
Oversee the maintenance of the external website to ensure that content has optimal impact for providing information about USAID Ethiopia and its programs for a wide range of U.S., international, and local audiences. Supervise the DOC team in the selection of information displayed on the website, clear website content, and oversee content placement, ensuring links to all other relevant usaid.gov sections and pages. Ensure any independently maintained USAID project websites comply with LPA requirements and guidance. Other Perform any other duties as assigned or required. D. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EVALUATION CRITERIA: QUALIFICATIONS: This position requires a combination of leadership, expertise, analytical, technical, and managerial skills. The incumbent must have excellent writing skills and be able to work under severe time pressures. The incumbent must be familiar with and be able to work well in an overseas environment and with a wide range of governmental, non-governmental and corporate counterparts, and have experience with local, regional and international press. The successful candidate must be capable of crafting a strategic communications plan and information messages in various media formats (e.g. press releases, website content, stories, tweets, blogs, presentations, etc.) targeting a variety of audiences. The successful candidate will demonstrate experience in a time-sensitive environment, and demonstrate knowledge and expertise regarding planning, strategy, and adherence to policies and procedures regarding all development outreach communications activities. Knowledge of how the press operates to facilitate troubleshooting and ability to advise the Mission on the best press outlets to use for given purposes is essential. Knowledge of USAID's work, business practices and protocols is highly desired, as is a general understanding of U.S. and international development assistance and familiarity with the region. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Education: A Bachelor's degree and at least ten years' experience as a communications and outreach specialist or strategic communications professional in international development or international affairs. A Master's degree is preferred with coursework in relevant fields. Relevant fields include - but are not limited to - journalism, communications, public relations or affairs, international relations, international development, public administration, development/area studies, and social studies. Work Experience: The candidate must have at least five years' relevant experience working (preferably in residence) in a developing country(ies). Relevant experience is defined as work in journalism, public relations or marketing, public affairs, communications, and/or outreach. At least ten years' experience in public affairs, or international relations or development, or journalism is required. Proven coordination and organizational skills within multi-cultural work environments are required. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are required. Language Proficiency: The candidate must be fluent in both spoken and written English and be able to serve as both editor and speechwriter when called upon producing high quality narrative. Native level fluency in English (reading, writing, and speaking) is required. Effective written and oral communications are absolutely critical to perform successfully in this position. Writing and Editing Skills: Applicants must provide at least two writing samples with their application. These samples should be no less than 350 and no longer than 1,500 words (preferably 750 to 1,000 words), and should demonstrate the applicant's ability to clearly communicate complex ideas to the public. Samples must be by the applicant; co-written articles are not accepted. Skills and Abilities: The candidate must have a demonstrated capacity in the following skills and abilities: Demonstrated ability to exercise sound, independent, professional judgment. Excellent organizational and critical thinking skills. Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a demonstrated ability to translate highly technical material into easy to understand narrative. Good interpersonal skills with the ability to influence relationships positively. Superior project management skills and the ability to take initiative working with the direction of management; must be able to take ownership of projects, creatively problem solve and see through to completion. Strong and demonstrated knowledge of the principles and practices of strategic communications, public/media relations, journalistic writing and reporting techniques. Knowledge of technical aspects involved in the production process of different public outreach products and activities, such as editing, graphic design, printing, photography, video, broadcasting, advertising, and publishing. Familiarity with using a digital camera, tablet and smartphone, and ability to plan and oversee photography, print, video production processes are required USG Facility Access security clearance (or the ability to attain one) is required.
Computer and Internet Proficiency: Computer skills in Microsoft Office, especially Word and PowerPoint, layout, photo editing, and other relevant software are required. Internet and social media skills in targeting specific audiences are required (e.g Twitter, Facebook, You Tube, Flickr, or equivalents). Familiarity with databases, website content management systems (e.g Drupal), blog or online newsletter software, a plus. E. SELECTION CRITERIA AND PROCESS
Applicants who do not meet the required minimum qualifications will be considered unqualified for the position and will not be assessed using the additional selection criteria below.
All other applicants will be scored, and then ranked based on the following selection criteria. The application package (including the required summary statement) must provide evidence and examples of:
Work Experience/Technical Knowledge (50 points) * At least ten years of progressively responsible experience as a communications and outreach specialist or strategic communications professional in international development or international affairs. At least five years' experience working overseas. * Demonstrated success in developing multi-format strategies to disseminate information to a variety of target audiences. * Demonstrated success in designing and implementing effective public relations or communications programs to target specific audiences as well as the general public. * Demonstrated ability to plan and execute media outreach and to plan and manage events including staging and logistics, publicity, programming, and so forth. * Demonstrated ability to craft information messages in various media formats (press releases, web sites, stories, etc.) targeting a variety of audiences. * Evidence of broad understanding of issues related to international development. * Extensive writing and editing experience. * Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain collegial relations with media contacts and exercise sound judgment in representing the USG while discussing program activities with the press and media. * Experience supervising staff and work flows, working as a team member, and providing leadership in the areas of his/her competencies. * Broad operational planning experience, analytical ability, and the capacity to convert planning concepts into firm plans to meet a variety of contingencies. * Previous work experience with the USG is highly desirable.
Writing Skills - (20 points) Applicants must provide at least two writing samples with their application. The samples should be 350 to 1,500 words (preferably 750-1,000 words). They can be excerpts from larger articles or papers, and do not have to concern development or be written specifically for this solicitation. The samples should demonstrate the applicant's ability to clearly and lucidly communicate complex ideas to the public. The samples must be by the applicant, co-written articles are not accepted. Final applicant(s) may be asked to take a written test.
Education and Training (15 points) * A Master's degree, preferably in journalism, communications, international relations, international development, public administration, development/area studies, social studies or a related field. An undergraduate degree in similar disciplines with additional work experience. * Training in two or more of the following areas: international development, communications, writing and editing, journalism or media relations, marketing and events management, web site content management, presentation or graphic design skills, print or online publishing, photography or video, or other areas that are relevant to the detailed duties and responsibilities outlined in the solicitation. * Proficient computer skills in Microsoft Office, notably Word and PowerPoint, layout, photo editing, and other relevant software. Internet and social media skills in targeting specific audiences (e.g Twitter, Facebook, You Tube, Flickr,and others). Familiarity with databases, website content management systems (e.g Drupal), blog software, a plus.
Communication Skills / Group Dynamics (15 points) * Effective team leadership skills and the ability to work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary, multi-cultural team. * Ability to make cogent arguments clearly and succinctly in written and oral presentations. * Initiative and proactive engagement with colleagues to complete assigned tasks in accordance with agreed timetables. * Ability to work independently, managing several activities at once, and to work under pressure to meet very short deadlines. * Evidence of outstanding coordination and organizational skills.
Total Possible Points: 100 The highest-ranked applicants will be interviewed by telephone. Professional Reference Checks Applicants must provide at least three references with current contact information, preferably both an e-mail address and a telephone number. (The Selection Committee will conduct reference checks of the highest ranked applicants). References will be asked to complete a questionnaire that assesses the applicant's technical knowledge, work performance, communication skills, and group dynamics, using the above specific criteria. The references will be asked to provide a general assessment of the applicant's suitability for the position. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure submitted references are available to provide a written or verbal reference in a timely manner.
F. TERMS OF PERFORMANCE, COMPENSATION AND LIVING CONDITIONS:
The term of the contract will be for two years from
H. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: ACQUISITION AND ASSISTANCE POLICY DIRECTIVES (AAPDs) contain information or changes pertaining to USAID policy, regulation and procedures concerning acquisition and assistance including Personal Service Contracts. Please refer to the USAID website http://www.usaid.gov/procurement_bus_opp/procurement/psc_solicit/ to locate relevant AAPDs. Additional Appendix D also applies to PSCs can be found at:http://www.usaid.gov/policy/ads/300/aidar.pdf As a matter of policy, and as appropriate, a PSC is normally authorized the following benefits. 1. ALLOWANCES: as applicable.* Temporary Lodging Allowance (Section 120). Living quarters allowance (Section 130). Post Allowance (Section 220). Supplemental Post Allowance (Section 230). Separate Maintenance Allowance (Section 260). Education allowance (Section 270).
Pay Comparability Adjustment - Annual across the board salary increase for USG employees and USPSCs Eligibility for Worker's Compensation Annual & Sick Leave Access to Embassy medical facilities, and pouch mail service Note: If a US citizen, the Contractor's salary will be subject to employee's FICA and
F. APPLICANTION PROCESS: All Applicants must address how they meet the Minimum Qualifications, as described below: a. Submit a fully completed and hand-signed copy of an Optional Application for Federal Employment Form (OF-612), cover letter and a current resume/curriculum vita (CV) containing the following information which clearly demonstrates your education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities as they relate to the evaluation criteria. Forms are available at the USAID website, http://www.usaid.gov/forms/ or internet http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/formslibrary.do formType=ALL or at Federal offices).
POINTS OF contact:
To ensure consideration of applications for the intended position, please cite the solicitation number and position title within the subject line of your email application. The highest ranking applications may be selected for interview. Applications must be received before the closing time and date in item number three of this solicitation. Applications received after that date and/or time may not be considered. Any attachments provided via email shall be Microsoft Word or PDF and should not be zipped. Note that attachments to email must not exceed 3 MB.
Cleared by: GLINDEN_____________
Link/URL: https://www.fbo.gov/spg/AID/OM/ETH/663-S-14-002/listing.html
| Copyright: | (c) 2013 Federal Information & News Dispatch, Inc. |
| Wordcount: | 5132 |


Combine Solicitation – Audiology Equipment Service
Combine Solicitation – USPSC – OTI Safety & Security Operations Assistant
Advisor News
- RICKETTS RECAPS 2025, A YEAR OF DELIVERING WINS FOR NEBRASKANS
- 5 things I wish I knew before leaving my broker-dealer
- Global economic growth will moderate as the labor force shrinks
- Estate planning during the great wealth transfer
- Main Street families need trusted financial guidance to navigate the new Trump Accounts
More Advisor NewsAnnuity News
- An Application for the Trademark “DYNAMIC RETIREMENT MANAGER” Has Been Filed by Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company: Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company
- Product understanding will drive the future of insurance
- Prudential launches FlexGuard 2.0 RILA
- Lincoln Financial Introduces First Capital Group ETF Strategy for Fixed Indexed Annuities
- Iowa defends Athene pension risk transfer deal in Lockheed Martin lawsuit
More Annuity NewsHealth/Employee Benefits News
Life Insurance News
- The 2025-2026 risk agenda for insurers
- Jackson Names Alison Reed Head of Distribution
- Consumer group calls on life insurers to improve flexible premium policy practices
- Best’s Market Segment Report: Hong Kong’s Non-Life Insurance Segment Shows Growth and Resilience Amid Market Challenges
- Product understanding will drive the future of insurance
More Life Insurance News