How to bid on NIST Cameca IMS1270E7 Service Agreement

What NIST is buying and why it matters

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) needs maintenance, repair, and calibration services for its Cameca IMS1270E7 large-geometry secondary ion mass spectrometer. This instrument is crucial for the Surface and Trace Chemical Analysis Group's research in measurement science, isotopic measurements, materials characterization, and nuclear forensics.

NIST intends to award a sole-source, firm-fixed-price contract to Cameca Instruments, the original equipment manufacturer (OEM). They believe Cameca is the only source with the proprietary software, specialized tools, documentation, and factory-trained engineers required for this specific equipment. If you believe your firm can provide equivalent OEM-level service, you are invited to submit a capability statement.

Key dates and what happens at the deadline

This notice was published on July 24, 2026. The deadline for submitting capability statements is August 10, 2026, at 9:00 AM ET. Responses received by this date will be considered by the Government. This is not a request for competitive quotes, but an opportunity for other responsible sources to demonstrate their ability to meet the requirements.

Who this opportunity suits

This opportunity is primarily for firms that can demonstrate they are capable of providing OEM-equivalent maintenance, repair, and calibration services for the Cameca IMS1270E7 large-geometry secondary ion mass spectrometer. The relevant NAICS Code is 811210 – Electronic and Precision Equipment Repair and Maintenance, with a size standard of $34 Million. While NIST expects to negotiate with the OEM, they are open to considering other sources that can prove they meet the minimum requirements.

How to respond

To access the original opportunity, click “View original source” on the portal. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click it again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always necessary for all bids.

This is not a request for competitive quotations, and no solicitation package will be issued. Instead, you should submit a capability statement demonstrating your ability to provide OEM-equivalent service for the Cameca IMS1270E7.

Tips for preparing a competitive response

Even though this is an intent to sole-source, a strong capability statement can still be effective. Focus on clearly articulating your firm's expertise and resources directly relevant to the Cameca IMS1270E7. Highlight any specialized training, proprietary tools, or access to documentation that would allow you to perform maintenance, repair, and calibration to OEM standards.

Provide specific examples of your experience with similar high-precision scientific equipment, especially mass spectrometers. Detail your technical staff's qualifications and certifications. Emphasize how your services would ensure reliable operation and minimize downtime for NIST's critical research, directly addressing the agency's stated needs.