Application Guide

How to Apply for Project Director, Peru, Strengthening Infectious disease Detection Systems, Epidemic Preparedness & Response

at Path

🏢 About Path

PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to health equity, with a strong track record in infectious disease detection and epidemic preparedness. Working here means contributing to life-saving innovations in low-resource settings, with a collaborative culture that values scientific rigor and local partnerships.

About This Role

As Project Director for the Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems project in Peru, you will lead a critical initiative to enhance disease surveillance and response capabilities. This role offers the opportunity to directly impact epidemic preparedness in a region with diverse health challenges, coordinating with local authorities and global stakeholders.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a virtual check-in with the Peru-based team and local health partners to review surveillance data. You could then analyze project budgets, draft a donor report, and prepare for a stakeholder meeting with MINSA officials. Afternoons often involve strategic planning for epidemic response exercises or troubleshooting implementation challenges with field staff.

🎯 Who Path Is Looking For

  • A seasoned project manager with 10+ years in global health, specifically in infectious disease projects in Latin America.
  • Deep understanding of Peru's health system, including its decentralized structure and key players like MINSA and INS.
  • Bilingual fluency in Spanish and English, with ability to navigate cross-cultural communication and build trust with local partners.
  • Proven track record of managing complex budgets, donor reporting (e.g., USAID, CDC), and leading multidisciplinary teams.

📝 Tips for Applying to Path

1

Highlight specific projects in Peru or Latin America, detailing your role in strengthening disease surveillance or response.

2

Demonstrate fluency in Spanish by submitting a bilingual cover letter or including Spanish-language versions of key achievements.

3

Mention any experience with epidemic preparedness frameworks (e.g., IHR, JEE) or specific diseases like dengue, Zika, or COVID-19.

4

Showcase your ability to navigate donor compliance, especially with US government grants, by providing examples of successful audits or reporting.

5

Tailor your resume to emphasize leadership of cross-cultural teams and stakeholder management (e.g., Ministry of Health, WHO).

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your passion for health equity and experience in Peru or similar settings.', 'Concrete examples of leading infectious disease projects from design to implementation, including budget oversight.', 'Your collaborative approach with local governments and partners, emphasizing cultural sensitivity and adaptability.', "How your skills align with PATH's mission and the specific goals of the Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems project."]

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • Review PATH's recent work in Peru and Latin America, including projects on tuberculosis, malaria, or COVID-19.
  • Read about Peru's health system structure, particularly the role of the Ministry of Health (MINSA) and the National Institute of Health (INS).
  • Explore PATH's annual reports and donor landscape to understand key funders and reporting expectations.
  • Look into current disease outbreaks in Peru (e.g., dengue, chikungunya) to align your expertise with immediate needs.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you managed a project with tight deadlines and multiple stakeholders; how did you ensure alignment?
2 How would you approach strengthening disease surveillance in a remote region of Peru?
3 Discuss a challenge you faced with donor compliance and how you resolved it.
4 How do you build trust with local health authorities in a new context?
5 What is your experience with epidemic preparedness frameworks like the Joint External Evaluation (JEE)?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without specific references to Peru or Latin American health systems.
  • Overlooking the requirement for bilingual fluency; ensure both languages are clearly demonstrated.
  • Focusing only on technical skills without showing leadership and stakeholder management experience.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Path!