Applied Data Scientist, Unit Economics Understanding

Details

This role focuses on building the strategic unit economics understanding of OpenAI to guide sustainable growth. You will lead the development of causal inference and data science models and frameworks to predict and quantify the drivers of customer lifetime value (LTV), translating deep data insights into strategic decisions and growth levers. The role requires both technical depth and executive-level communication.

Responsibilities

• Build causal inference and predictive analytics capabilities to measure and forecast LTV across customer segments (B2C and B2B) and quantify the incremental impact of actions or product features on customer LTV.
• Design customer "happy paths" by identifying adoption journeys that maximize lifetime value while ensuring customers gain the most from the ecosystem.
• Analyze price elasticity to guide product packaging, monetization, and pricing strategies.
• Partner with cross-functional teams (Finance, Product, Data Engineering, GTM, and other DS teams) to build causal inference and predictive models that drive business decisions.
• Develop and maintain LTV models across product lines and customer cohorts.
• Architect scalable frameworks and models that democratize economic insights for leadership and functional teams.
• Support strategic pricing and investment decisions with robust analytical and causal evidence.
• Lead cross-functional data science initiatives, ensuring analytical rigor, clarity, and timely delivery.

Requirements

• MS or PhD in a quantitative field (Statistics, Economics, Applied Math, Operations Research, Computer Science, etc.).
• 7+ years of experience in applied data science, causal inference, or quantitative strategy.
• Strong experience with Python and SQL.
• Technical breadth spanning ROI analysis, causal inference, statistical modeling, and ML predictive models.
• Proven record of delivering high-impact insights to executive leadership and strong executive communication skills.
• Experience building scalable analytical frameworks and models that inform business decision-making.

Location & Work Model

• Based in San Francisco HQ with a hybrid work model (three days in office per week).
• Relocation assistance is available.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base pay range: $255,000 - $405,000 (offers equity). Total compensation may include equity and performance-related bonuses. Base pay may vary by market location, skills, and experience.
• Benefits include medical/dental/vision insurance, Health Savings Account contributions, pre-tax FSA accounts, 401(k) with employer match, paid parental leave, paid time off, paid company holidays, mental health support, employer-paid life and disability coverage, learning & development stipend, daily meals in offices and meal credits, relocation support, and other fringe benefits.

About OpenAI

OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company dedicated to ensuring that general-purpose artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. The company emphasizes safety and diverse perspectives in building and deploying AI systems. Background checks and accommodations policies are described in the job posting.