Find Engineering & Architecture RFPs in Illinois

The Brooks Act (40 U.S.C. §§ 1101–1104) requires federal agencies to select architect-engineer firms based on qualifications, not price. Firms submit SF330 forms demonstrating competence, then the most qualified firm negotiates a fair and reasonable price. If negotiations fail, the agency moves to the next-ranked firm. Most states have similar QBS laws for state-funded A/E work.

SF330 (Architect-Engineer Qualifications) is the standard federal form for A/E proposals. Part I covers project-specific qualifications: key personnel, relevant experience, project approach, and organizational chart. Part II is a firm-level overview filed separately. Strong SF330s emphasize specific relevant projects, named key personnel who will do the work, and clear project understanding.

IDIQ contracts establish a multi-year framework (typically 5 years) with a minimum and maximum dollar value. Once awarded, the agency issues individual task orders for specific projects. USACE, NAVFAC, and GSA all use IDIQ/MATOC vehicles extensively. Getting on an IDIQ is highly competitive but provides a steady pipeline of work without rebidding each project.

PE (Professional Engineer) licensing is mandatory. SBE/DBE certification is valuable for DOT-funded work — states must meet DBE goals on federal highway projects. ISO 9001 quality management certification is increasingly requested. LEED accreditation helps for sustainable design projects. Security clearances are needed for DOD/intelligence facility design.