Question-Answers

ACQ-27-0147 QA_Page 1

Will recruiters need access to USPTO systems, or may we use our own secure systems?

recruiters will need access to USPTO system

Will contractor staff need a background check or a security clearance?

yes

Section 5(c) prohibits transferring data outside the USPTO-granted ATO boundary. Does this apply to contractor-owned recruiting systems that hold candidate sourcing data the contractor develops, or only to USPTO-furnished data and systems?

Section 5(c) applies to all data collected, accessed, created, or maintained in connection with USPTO contract performance, regardless of whether the data originates from the USPTO or is developed by the contractor. This includes candidate sourcing data, referral records, screening notes, contact information, and other recruiting-related information generated or maintained while performing under the contract.

May contractors use their existing commercial recruiting platforms for sourcing and candidate yes but they must have the candidate apply through USA Jobs outreach, provided all applicable USPTO security requirements are met? May contractors use their existing commercial recruiting platforms for sourcing and candidate yes but they must have the candidate apply through USA Jobs outreach, provided all applicable USPTO security requirements are met? Candidate Attribution and Verification: Because candidates must submit applications directly through USAJobs, what specific candidate identification protocol or tracking mechanism (e.g., the contractor should send over a list with of their recommended candidates that we can compare to what we recieved in USA Jobs
candidate notification codes, direct HR confirmation) will the agency use to verify that a submission originated from contractor outreach?
USAJobs Training and SOPs: Will USPTO provide training, standard operating procedures (SOPs), or guidance materials for assisting candidates with the USAJobs.gov application process, including SES/SL-specific application requirements?

Unknown at this time. The RFI is to help develop the final SOW and procurement strategy.

Application Assistance Responsibilities: To what extent is the contractor expected to assist passive candidates with federal application materials (e.g., converting commercial resumes into federal formats or framing Executive Core Qualifications [ECQs]) while remaining compliant with Merit System Principles?

The contractor will assist the candidates with the application process, including explaining