Research Engineer, Safety Systems

As a Research Engineer in Safety Systems at OpenAI, your main responsibilities include designing and implementing advanced machine learning models focused on AI safety. You’ll work on safety measures at every stage—from pre-training data filtering to continuous monitoring of deployed models, ensuring they align with human values and safety standards.

To qualify for the Research Engineer, Safety Systems position at OpenAI, candidates should demonstrate a strong foundation in deep learning and transformers, along with proficiency in programming frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow. A solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and collaborative experience across multidisciplinary teams are also essential. Familiarity with training methodologies for large language models is highly valued.

The Research Engineer, Safety Systems at OpenAI plays a critical role in advancing AI safety by developing and implementing robust safety measures throughout model deployment. This involves continuous evaluation and monitoring of AI systems, ensuring safe and reliable integration of advanced AI into real-world applications.

At OpenAI, a Research Engineer in Safety Systems will collaborate with engineers, researchers, and product managers to address complex business challenges. This team-oriented approach fosters an environment where ideas are shared freely, enhancing the development of innovative AI-powered solutions.

The Research Engineer, Safety Systems will significantly influence the deployment of AI technologies by ensuring they are developed and implemented safely and ethically. Your work will directly contribute to the mission of making AI beneficial and trustworthy for all of humanity.

When answering this question, share specific projects where you utilized deep learning techniques and transformer models. Highlight any challenges you faced and how you overcame them, making sure to connect your experience with the implications for AI safety and reliability.

Discuss your knowledge of various methods like pre-training data filtration and post-training evaluations. Be sure to provide examples of how you implemented these strategies in past projects, emphasizing your commitment to maintaining AI alignment with safety standards.

Talk about the resources you use to stay current—such as research papers, online courses, or industry conferences. Share any relevant communities you may engage with to demonstrate your proactive approach to continuous learning in the rapidly evolving field of AI.

Provide an example that illustrates your ability to work in a collaborative environment. Focus on your role in that team, the dynamics involved, and how you contributed to achieving common goals, particularly related to AI safety.

Discuss specific challenges related to AI safety measures you have encountered. Talk through your problem-solving approach, what resources you leveraged, and how your actions led to successful outcomes.

Explain your strategies for optimizing models, detailing any specific techniques or frameworks you've used. Highlight past projects where your optimizations led to significant performance improvements.

Detail your experiences with training and fine-tuning large language models, including the techniques you've used (like supervised fine-tuning and policy optimization). Provide real-world examples that demonstrate your expertise.

Share your perspective on AI alignment with human values. Discuss key aspects such as safety, fairness, transparency, and accountability, providing examples of how these considerations impact the development cycle.

Discuss practices such as conducting code reviews, engaging in knowledge-sharing activities, and leveraging best practices in software engineering. Emphasize your commitment to maintaining quality and reliability in AI model deployment.

Convey your enthusiasm for contributing to meaningful AI solutions. Share what excites you about the role and how you see it impacting society positively, making connections to OpenAI's mission and goals.