Application Guide
How to Apply for Country Operations Technical Project Advisor I
at Population Services International
๐ข About Population Services International
Population Services International (PSI) is a global nonprofit dedicated to improving the health of people in developing countries by focusing on malaria, reproductive health, child survival, and HIV. With a mission-driven approach and a network spanning over 50 countries, PSI combines social marketing with private sector innovation to create sustainable health impact. Working here means contributing to life-saving interventions and being part of a collaborative, results-oriented culture.
About This Role
The Country Operations Technical Project Advisor I is a full-time remote role that supports PSI's country offices in implementing technical projects, ensuring operational efficiency, and aligning with organizational strategies. This position involves coordinating with cross-functional teams, managing project timelines, and providing technical guidance to local teams, making it critical for driving impactful health outcomes in underserved communities.
๐ก A Day in the Life
A typical day might start with a virtual check-in with a country team in Africa to review project milestones and address technical challenges. Midday, you could analyze supply chain data from several countries and prepare a briefing for the regional director. Afternoon might involve drafting a guidance document on M&E best practices or leading a training webinar for field staff.
๐ Application Tools
๐ฏ Who Population Services International Is Looking For
- Experienced in project management within global health or international development, with a track record of coordinating multi-country initiatives.
- Proficient in technical areas such as supply chain, monitoring & evaluation, or health systems strengthening, and able to advise country teams on best practices.
- Strong communicator and collaborator, comfortable working remotely across time zones and cultures, with fluency in English and preferably French or Spanish.
- Data-driven and detail-oriented, skilled in using project management tools (e.g., Asana, MS Project) and analyzing data to inform decisions.
๐ Tips for Applying to Population Services International
Tailor your resume to highlight specific project management experience in global health, especially any work with PSI's focus areas (malaria, reproductive health, etc.).
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your technical skills (e.g., supply chain, M&E) to PSI's mission and provide examples of how you've used them to drive impact.
Research PSI's current country programs and mention one or two that align with your expertise to show genuine interest.
Since the role is remote, emphasize your experience with virtual collaboration tools and self-management in your application.
Check PSI's careers page for any specific application instructions or required documents (e.g., writing sample) and follow them precisely.
โ๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your passion for global health and alignment with PSI's mission to make health products and services accessible to the underserved.", 'Specific examples of managing technical projects in cross-cultural settings, including how you overcame challenges and achieved measurable outcomes.', 'Your ability to provide technical guidance and build capacity among country teams, demonstrating both expertise and mentoring skills.', 'Your adaptability to remote work and experience coordinating across time zones, with concrete tools or strategies you use.']
Generate Cover Letter โ๐ Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- โ Read PSI's latest annual report and strategic plan to understand their current priorities and impact metrics.
- โ Explore PSI's country-specific websites or project pages for the regions you're most interested in to see their on-the-ground work.
- โ Familiarize yourself with PSI's core technical areas (e.g., social marketing, digital health) and any recent innovations or partnerships.
- โ Check PSI's LinkedIn or blog for recent updates, leadership changes, or thought leadership pieces to bring up in conversation.
๐ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
โ ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application without referencing PSI's specific mission or programs; this signals lack of genuine interest.
- Overlooking the remote nature of the role and not demonstrating your ability to work independently and manage time zones.
- Focusing only on technical skills without showing how you can advise and collaborate with country teamsโthis role requires both.
๐ Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Population Services International!