Program Manager, Foundations Data and Operations

Details

The Foundations Data and Operations team acquires the data OpenAI needs to build frontier AI models. They run high-impact data acquisition programs (such as a web crawler and data partnerships) and work closely with research to build training datasets that advance model capabilities. This role leads programs to acquire training data, translating research objectives into technical requirements and operational plans, and establishing processes to execute them at scale. The role requires strategic thinking and hands-on execution, managing cross-functional stakeholders across technical and business teams. This position may require living close to some physical operations across the US and hybrid travel to San Francisco.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with research to understand data needs and define acquisition priorities and timelines aligned with the research roadmap.
• Translate research objectives into clear technical requirements and operational plans, ensuring data workflows, timelines, and quality standards are met.
• Lead vendor and partner engagements for data sourcing, including evaluating suppliers, negotiating agreements, and managing delivery.
• Establish and maintain metrics for data quality, throughput, efficiency, and overall program performance; ensure visibility to leadership and cross-functional partners.
• Identify gaps in the data ecosystem and proactively drive initiatives to strengthen data acquisition and creation capabilities over time.

Requirements

• Typically 8+ years of experience in operations, strategy, venture capital, private equity, or consulting, with at least 5 years operating within a company; OpenAI will consider high-trajectory candidates with fewer years at top companies.
• Experience taking end-to-end ownership of large, ambiguous problems and breaking them down into clear, actionable plans.
• Direct experience engaging with executives and senior leaders to influence and drive strategic decisions.
• Ability to excel under pressure with strong adaptability and a high motor in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly analytical; able to conduct sophisticated analyses, ask and answer key questions, and present results clearly to leaders.
• Comfortable operating at all altitudes — discussing strategy with executives and troubleshooting operations with individual contributors and external partners.
• Excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.
• Passionate about technology and artificial intelligence and interested in its impact on business and society.

Compensation

• Base salary range: $162,000 - $240,000 per year. In addition to base pay, total compensation may include equity and performance-related bonuses. Base pay may vary depending on market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance with employer contributions to Health Savings Accounts.
• Pre-tax accounts for Health FSA, Dependent Care FSA, and commuter expenses.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
• Paid parental leave (up to 24 weeks for birth parents and 20 weeks for non-birthing parents) and paid medical/caregiver leave (up to 8 weeks).
• Paid time off (flexible PTO for exempt employees; up to 15 days annually for non-exempt employees).
• 13+ paid company holidays and multiple coordinated company office closures; paid sick or safe time as required by law.
• Mental health and wellness support.
• Employer-paid basic life and disability coverage.
• Annual learning and development stipend.
• Daily meals in offices and meal delivery credits as eligible.
• Relocation support for eligible employees.
• Additional taxable fringe benefits such as charitable donation matching and wellness stipends.

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, diverse perspectives, and inclusion in building and deploying AI systems. Background checks will be administered in accordance with applicable law, and reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities.