OpenAI Careers
Updated November 20, 2023
- What Is OpenAI?
- What Type of OpenAI Careers Are Available?
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- OpenAI Remote Jobs
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- How to Find OpenAI Jobs
- What Is the OpenAI Application Process?
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- How to Find Other AI Jobs
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
OpenAI offers diverse and exciting careers in the field of artificial general intelligence (AGI), from research and development to data analysis and machine learning engineering.
With a focus on innovation and pushing the boundaries of artificial general intelligence (AI) technology, OpenAI careers are an ideal option for talented professionals passionate about shaping the future of AI.
If you have a professional interest in the world of AI, there are many paths you can follow, from research and development to data analysis and machine learning engineering.
With the exponential growth and potential of AI, careers in this field are considered some of the best jobs for the future.
In this article, we look specifically at careers with OpenAI, exploring the opportunities this leading AI company offers, how to find current OpenAI jobs and the steps involved in its application process.
What Is OpenAI?
Founded in 2015, OpenAI is a research laboratory and deployment company specializing in artificial general intelligence (AGI).
'AGI' refers to highly intelligent computer systems that can perform various tasks that typically require human intelligence, like:
- Generating natural language
- Interpreting visual information
- Complex problem-solving
OpenAI operates in diverse areas, like machine learning, robotics and reinforcement learning, focusing on the safe and ethical development of AGI technologies.
A key advantage of OpenAI careers is the opportunity to be at the forefront of AI innovation.
The company employs some of the industry’s most talented researchers and engineers and promotes a collaborative work environment.
It also offers competitive compensation packages, including attractive salaries, learning and development stipends and comprehensive benefits.
For anyone interested in AI research and development, OpenAI careers present an exciting opportunity to shape the future of artificial intelligence alongside leading experts in the field.
What Type of OpenAI Careers Are Available?
OpenAI offers a diverse range of career opportunities for individuals passionate about AI and its transformative potential.
While the specific job openings may vary over time, the following are examples of common OpenAI positions that are regularly available:
Research Scientists
OpenAI employs researchers with expertise in areas such as machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, natural language processing (NLP), computer vision, robotics and more.
Research scientists at OpenAI contribute to cutting-edge research projects, develop novel algorithms and models and push the boundaries of AI capabilities.
Engineers
OpenAI hires engineers specializing in software development, infrastructure, systems and AI engineering.
These professionals work on designing and implementing robust and scalable AI systems, developing tools and frameworks, optimizing algorithms and collaborating with researchers to bring their ideas to life.
Policy and Safety Specialists
Responsible and ethical AI development is a core part of the company’s ethos, and it employs experts and safety specialists who can shape the policies and guidelines surrounding AI technologies.
These professionals contribute to ensuring the safe deployment of AI systems, addressing ethical considerations, and driving the responsible use of AI for societal benefit.
Product Managers
OpenAI looks for product managers who can bridge the gap between technical research and real-world applications.
They collaborate with researchers and engineers to define and guide the development of AI products and services, understanding user needs and driving the adoption of AI solutions in various domains.
Business Operations
OpenAI also requires individuals with expertise in business operations, including finance, human resources, marketing and project management.
These roles support the company’s day-to-day operations, facilitate efficient functioning and enable the smooth execution of research and development initiatives.
OpenAI Remote Jobs
OpenAI’s work-from-home policy is not made public, and while hybrid work arrangements for the right talent may sometimes exist, fully remote jobs with OpenAI are rare.
The company’s leadership believes that creativity is hindered when teams cannot collaborate in person and that OpenAI remote jobs would not be conducive to its mission.
That said, the company does offer flexible working hours and a range of employee benefits to promote a healthy work-life balance.
OpenAI Internship
The OpenAI internship comes in the form of a six-month paid residency program aimed at researchers and engineers not currently specializing in AI-related fields.
There are two tracks available:
- AI software engineering: This track is designed for individuals with an engineering background who wish to advance to software engineering positions in AI.
- AI research: This track is ideal for those with a research background in scientific fields outside of machine learning who wish to transition.
Both tracks prioritize the quick teaching of AI skills and provide a pathway to full-time OpenAI careers.
How to Find OpenAI Jobs
To explore and find job opportunities at OpenAI, you can use the company’s dedicated job search page.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Visit the OpenAI careers page: you can access the page directly or navigate to it from both the main menu and footer on the OpenAI website.
Step 1. Explore OpenAI jobs
On the OpenAI careers page, you’ll find an overview of all OpenAI positions currently available.
You can scroll through the list or narrow your search to a specific area of interest.
Postings are listed alphabetically by job title and show location and department details.
Step 2. Expand for More Information
When you find a position of interest, click on the job title to expand the description.
Here, you’ll find more information about the role, the responsibilities you’d be taking on and the team you’d be working in.
You’ll also find details on the skills, qualifications and personal attributes you’ll need to succeed and the compensation package on offer.
Step 3. Start the Application Process
When you find a job that aligns with your goals and experience, you can start the OpenAI careers application process.
This is explained in more detail below but typically involves filling out an application form, submitting your resume and completing various assessments and interviews.
In addition to the OpenAI Careers page, you can also explore other reputable job sites that might list OpenAI jobs.
Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed and Glassdoor often feature job postings from OpenAI and provide additional search functionalities and application options.
What Is the OpenAI Application Process?
The application process for OpenAI jobs involves several stages, each designed to assess your passion, your enthusiasm and your potential to make an impact on the development of AI.
At each stage, you’ll be expected to demonstrate your unique strengths and alignment with OpenAI’s mission and values.
While the exact application process can vary by role, the company aims to provide a consistent candidate experience, typically involving the steps below.
Online Application and Resume
The first step is to complete an online application form and submit your resume through the OpenAI careers page.
For the application form, you’ll be asked to fill out your contact details and answer questions about your motivations for applying and your past technical achievements.
For AI developer careers, you’ll also be asked to provide samples of your code.
With your resume, make sure this is tailored to the role you’re applying for and highlights all the key skills detailed in the job description.
Initial Phone Interview
If it sees potential in your application, the OpenAI careers team will aim to contact you within a week to arrange an introductory phone call.
This serves as an opportunity for the company to learn more about your background, skills and interests.
For this stage of the process, review the job description, familiarize yourself with OpenAI projects and prepare to discuss your personal goals, motivations and experience.
Skills Assessments
For most positions, OpenAI will administer skills assessments to evaluate your technical abilities and suitability for the role.
For example, for AI software careers, you may be asked to complete coding challenges, problem-solving exercises and technical questions relating to the role.
To prepare for these, revisit relevant technical concepts and familiarize yourself with the programming languages or frameworks mentioned in the job description.
Final Interviews
If you successfully pass your skills assessments, you’ll be invited to attend a series of final interviews, lasting anywhere between four to six hours in total.
These typically take place over one or two days and are conducted by a panel of OpenAI team members, including hiring managers, researchers, engineers and other relevant stakeholders.
The format may include technical questions, competency questions and discussions about your qualifications, experience and fit for the role and company culture.
Final interviews are usually virtual, though you can choose to attend in person at the company’s San Francisco office, should you wish.
Offer/Decision
After the final interviews, the OpenAI careers team will evaluate all candidates and make an offer to the successful applicant or applicants.
This offer will include details about the compensation package, benefits and other relevant information.
If you are successful in your application, take the time to review everything carefully before accepting the job offer.
How to Find Other AI Jobs
AI is a rapidly growing field, and numerous companies across various industries are seeking experts to leverage the power of AI technologies.
While a career at OpenAI is an exciting prospect, it’s important to consider other organizations that value AI expertise.
Other places you might look for careers in AI include:
- Tech giants and established companies – Technology giants such as Google, Microsoft, Facebook and Amazon consistently offer AI-related roles, while established companies in sectors like healthcare, finance, manufacturing and transportation are increasingly incorporating AI into their operations.
- AI startups – The startup ecosystem is teeming with innovative AI-driven companies, so in addition to OpenAI you might consider the likes of Frame AI, Moveworks, Synthesia and Assembly AI careers.
- Consulting firms – Consulting firms that specialize in technology and digital transformation actively look for experts who can contribute to AI-driven consulting engagements and provide technical expertise to clients.
- Research institutions and universities – Employers such as national laboratories and academic institutions often have AI-focused research teams where you can contribute to cutting-edge research projects.
- AI-related roles in non-AI companies – Many non-AI companies are building in-house teams to leverage the technology, and you’ll find AI software careers available across industries including healthcare, finance, e-commerce and automotive.
There are also plenty of platforms and resources to help you with your search:
- Job search websites – Use popular job search sites LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor and Monster to find AI-related job openings.
- Company Websites – Visit the career pages of companies you’re interested in to explore their job listings.
- AI conferences and events – Attend AI conferences, workshops and networking events to connect with professionals in the field.
- AI-focused communities – Engage with online communities, forums and social media groups dedicated to AI and data science.
Frequently Asked Questions
Salaries at OpenAI, like at any organization, can vary depending on factors such as job role, seniority, location and individual negotiations.
That said, online resources state an average salary of around $102,500, with a top salary range of approximately $115,200.
To get an accurate picture of salaries offered for different OpenAI jobs, visit its dedicated careers page, where you’ll find salary information and compensation packages advertised with individual job postings.
OpenAI does allow remote work to a certain extent, with flexible arrangements available for the right talent.
However, the company believes in-person collaboration to be the best approach for the advancement of AI technology, making full-time OpenAI remote jobs a rarity.
Where the opportunity to work from home does exist, specific arrangements will vary depending on the role. For more information, it’s best to reach out to the recruitment team directly.
There are a few key steps you can take to prepare for your OpenAI interview.
First, thoroughly research OpenAI’s mission, projects and values to demonstrate your alignment with its goals, and familiarize yourself with the specific job description and requirements to understand what skills and experiences it’s looking for.
Next, brush up on your technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities, particularly in areas related to artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Practicing coding challenges, reviewing relevant algorithms and staying updated with the latest developments in the field will be beneficial.
Finally, be ready to effectively communicate your ideas, thought processes and passion for AI and prepare examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills, teamwork and contributions to AI-related projects.
While a PhD can be beneficial for certain roles, OpenAI considers a range of qualifications and experiences when evaluating candidates for employment.
The company seeks individuals with a deep understanding of artificial intelligence, machine learning and related fields, which can be obtained through various paths such as academic research, industry experience or personal projects.
Above all, OpenAI looks for candidates who demonstrate expertise, passion and a strong track record of innovation and contribution in their respective areas.
OpenAI offers a wide range of job opportunities across various disciplines, from AI developer careers to jobs relating to core business functions.
These include roles in research, engineering, software development, product management, operations and more.
Within these domains, specific positions may involve tasks such as developing cutting-edge AI models, conducting AI research, designing and implementing AI algorithms, creating AI applications, managing AI projects or providing technical support.
Whatever your specific area of interest, OpenAI careers are open to talented individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise who can contribute to advancing artificial intelligence technologies and applications.
The best place to look for current OpenAI jobs is on the company’s official careers page.
Here you can browse through the available job listings, select a position that aligns with your skills and interests, and click on the job to access the detailed description.
From there, follow the application instructions provided, which typically involve submitting your resume and completing an online application form.
Ensure that your application highlights your qualifications, experiences and passion for artificial intelligence.
Note that OpenAI may also require interviews and skills assessments as part of the application process.
The hiring process at OpenAI involves multiple stages. After submitting an online application and resume, candidates are usually invited to an initial phone interview to discuss their background and qualifications.
After this, skills assessments may be conducted to evaluate technical abilities before successful applicants are asked to attend a series of final-stage interviews.
Throughout the process, candidates are carefully assessed on their potential to make impactful contributions to the work and mission of OpenAI.
While specific experiences may vary depending on roles and teams, working at OpenAI provides an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of AI advancements.
OpenAI jobs offer a stimulating and innovative environment where employees collaborate on cutting-edge research and contribute to groundbreaking projects.
The company also encourages diverse perspectives and fosters a culture of continuous learning where individuals can grow professionally and make meaningful contributions to the field.
OpenAI offers a residency program in place of an OpenAI internship.
This is a six-month paid placement aimed at talented researchers and engineers who wish to transition from their current field into the world of AI.
There are two tracks available: AI software engineering and AI research.
Both offer participants the chance to gain practical experience, collaborate with AI experts and quickly develop the necessary skills to contribute to the development of AI technologies.
There are several benefits to OpenAI jobs, both in terms of financial reward and professional fulfillment.
First, the company is at the forefront of AI research and development, offering the chance to collaborate with world-class experts and contribute to groundbreaking research.
It places a strong emphasis on an inclusive work environment and promotes a culture of innovation and learning.
Finally, it offers competitive compensation and benefits packages, professional development opportunities and access to state-of-the-art resources.
OpenAI engages in a wide range of projects that span various areas of artificial intelligence and its applications, including natural language processing, machine learning, reinforcement learning, computer vision, robotics and more.
The company is best known for its research in language models, such as GPT-3, but its primary focus is on advancing AI technology while considering ethical considerations, fairness and safety.
The company is committed to developing AI systems that benefit humanity and address important societal challenges, with projects covering fields like healthcare, education, climate change and economic systems.
The work culture at OpenAI is known for being collaborative, innovative and inclusive, where individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to contribute their perspectives and expertise.
It’s also known for recognizing the importance of work-life balance, with flexible work arrangements, family-focused benefits and mental health support services offered to all employees.
Final Thoughts
OpenAI careers offer an exciting opportunity to make impactful contributions to the ethical and responsible development of artificial general intelligence.
During the application process, it’s crucial to showcase your passion for AI, your alignment with OpenAI’s mission and your ability to contribute effectively to the company’s goals.
Be prepared to highlight relevant experiences, technical skills and any unique perspectives or projects that demonstrate your capabilities in the field of AI.
Building a strong portfolio of AI-related work and keeping up with the latest OpenAI advancements will also enhance your chances of success.
