OpenAI Research Scientist Interview Guide

OpenAI, a leader in AI research and deployment, is committed to ensuring that general-purpose artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. At OpenAI, you will have the opportunity to push the boundaries of AI technology and work on ground-breaking projects that shape the future of AI. Our Research Scientists play a critical role in advancing machine learning techniques and contributing to a unified research vision across the company.

What We're Looking For in a Candidate:

• A strong research background with proven ability to develop innovative machine learning techniques.
• Experience in areas such as computer vision, image generation, speech research, reinforcement learning, and AI safety.
• Proficiency in coding and handling large-scale ML models.
• A team player who thrives in collaborative environments and is passionate about AI's societal impact.

What This Guide Will Offer You:

• Interview Process: Insights into the multi-step interview process including coding tasks, ML theory, and broader topic discussions.
• Topics the Company is Interested In: Key focus areas like model training, RLHF, AI safety, and more.
• Salaries and Jobs Available: Overview of available positions and compensation packages.

Join OpenAI and contribute to our mission of creating a universally beneficial AI, while enjoying a supportive culture that fosters career development. This guide provides comprehensive details to help you navigate the interview process and stand out as a candidate.

Typically, interviews at OpenAI vary by role and team, but commonly Research Scientist interviews follow a fairly standardized process across these question topics.

Submitting Your Application

To initiate your journey with OpenAI, the first step is to submit an application that clearly showcases your technical skills and keen interest in contributing to OpenAI's mission. Whether you apply directly or are contacted by a recruiter, it is crucial to tailor your CV and cover letter to meet the specific qualifications listed in the job description.

Recruiter/Hiring Manager Call Screening

Once your application is shortlisted, a recruiter from OpenAI will reach out to schedule an initial screening call. During this call, the recruiter will verify your experience, discuss your technical proficiency, and assess your fit for the role. You may also encounter some behavioral questions.

This call provides an opportunity for you to ask any preliminary questions about the role and the organization. This conversation typically lasts around 30 minutes.

Technical Assessment

Upon successfully passing the initial screening, you will be invited to participate in a series of technical assessments. The precise nature of these assessments may vary depending on the role but usually include:

1. Coding Test: This may involve solving problems to demonstrate your programming skills.
2. Machine Learning Theory: Questions will assess your understanding of ML algorithms, model optimization, statistics, and general concepts in AI.
3. Practical Tasks: For some roles, a test task or take-home assignment might be given. This could involve data collection, synthetic data studies, or building and evaluating models. In some cases, you will be asked about your approach and insights during the subsequent interviews.

These assessments are designed to understand your technical ability and problem-solving skills.

Onsite Interview Rounds

If you move past the technical assessments, you will be invited for the onsite interview rounds, which may be conducted virtually if necessary. This stage generally includes multiple interview sessions over a few hours. The structured rounds typically are:

1. Deep Technical Discussions: In-depth questions regarding coding, ML theory, and practical applications related to the role.
2. Research Focus: For research-oriented roles, expect discussions on your past research projects, publications, and future research interests.
3. Behavioral Interviews: Evaluations of your soft skills, teamwork, and fit with OpenAI's culture.
4. Project Presentation: You may be required to present your take-home assignment or a past project, elaborating on your approach, methodologies, and outcomes.

Final Discussions

The final stage often includes conversations with senior team members or executives to ensure alignment with OpenAI's mission and values. These discussions focus on your motivation, vision, and how you can contribute to the organization's goal of achieving beneficial, safe AI for humanity.

Decision & Offer

After these comprehensive rounds, the hiring panel will review feedback from all interviewers and determine the best candidates. If selected, you will receive a call from the recruiter detailing the offer and next steps.

Joining OpenAI

Once you accept the offer, the Human Resources team will guide you through the onboarding process to get you integrated into OpenAI’s hybrid work environment, specifically designed to promote collaboration and innovation.

Welcome to OpenAI!

Practice for the OpenAI Research Scientist interview with these recently asked interview questions.