OpenAI is at the frontier of artificial intelligence research and deployment, aiming to ensure that general-purpose AI benefits all of humanity. As a Software Engineer at OpenAI, you will be entrusted with cutting-edge technology projects within an inclusive and growth-oriented culture.
OpenAI seeks highly skilled engineers who are innovative, impact-driven, and autonomous. Key desirable skills include: - Proficiency in various programming languages (e.g., Python, C++, Golang). - Strong experience with cloud infrastructure, orchestration systems like Kubernetes, and distributed systems. - A scientific approach to experiments and data analysis, particularly in designing and implementing A/B tests. - Resilience and adaptability in rapidly changing environments. - Specific expertise in areas such as storage infrastructure, AI/ML data patterns, APIs, and security practices is highly valued.
Explore this guide to prepare effectively for your interview at OpenAI, and leverage tailored insights to excel in each stage of the process. Let’s shape the future of AI together!
Typically, interviews at OpenAI vary by role and team, but commonly Software Engineer interviews follow a fairly standardized process across these question topics.
To start your journey with OpenAI, you must submit a well-prepared application that mirrors your expertise and enthusiasm for joining the team. Carefully review the job description and customize your resume and cover letter to reflect the required skills and qualifications. Highlight your pertinent experience, using specific keywords from the job posting to catch the eye of hiring managers.
Once your application is reviewed, if you are among the shortlisted candidates, a recruiter from OpenAI’s Talent Acquisition Team may contact you. This screening call will typically last about 30 minutes and will help verify your experience, skill level, and interest in the position. The recruiter might also ask behavioral questions and give you an overview of the role and the company. Prepare to discuss your career goals and reasons for wanting to join OpenAI.
If you successfully pass the initial screening, the next step is the technical virtual interview. This round usually consists of multiple interviews that can last for several hours. You may be assessed on various topics such as coding (emphasizing infra knowledge), machine learning (ML) theory, and general computer science concepts. Candidates for research-oriented roles might be asked to present their research. The technical interview also often includes a combination of coding and ML-focused questions that can span theoretical understanding to practical implementation.
For some roles, OpenAI might assign a test task designed to evaluate your problem-solving skills and technical expertise in a real-world scenario. During your subsequent interviews, you may be required to discuss your approach and findings from this task.
After a follow-up call from the recruiter outlining the next steps, you will be invited to OpenAI’s office for onsite interviews. Depending on the position, this stage typically consists of multiple interview rounds that can cover a broad range of topics:
The final stage includes meetings with higher-ups or team leads, where you might have deeper conversations about the company’s mission, your potential role, and how you can contribute to OpenAI’s goals. If all goes well, you will receive an offer, and discussions around specifics such as relocation assistance, diversity inclusion, and other practical aspects may follow.
The entire recruitment process at OpenAI is quite thorough and can span several months. Despite its challenging nature, the interviews are enriched with thoughtful discussions, coding exercises, and explorative questions about your long-term career aspirations and your alignment with OpenAI’s mission.
Good luck, and prepare to bring your ingenuity and passion for AI to the forefront!
Practice for the OpenAI Software Engineer interview with these recently asked interview questions.