Technical Program Manager, Governance

As a Technical Program Manager at OpenAI, your primary responsibilities will include managing key risk areas and stakeholders, overseeing the quality of human data campaigns, and standardizing the lifecycle of risk assessment. You'll also be involved in keeping track of existing and future mitigations to ensure safe deployment of models, conducting pre-launch safety reviews, and developing comprehensive documentation related to safety practices and metrics.

To qualify for the Technical Program Manager role at OpenAI, candidates should possess an advanced degree in a hard science, with a PhD being advantageous. Additionally, a proven track record in successfully delivering complex technical projects and expertise in designing scalable processes are essential. Strong written and verbal communication skills and a deep understanding of content integrity and regulatory guidelines are also important.

A successful Technical Program Manager at OpenAI should demonstrate technical acumen, the ability to collaborate effectively with high-caliber engineering and research teams, and a resourceful mindset to thrive in ambiguous environments. Having strong knowledge of content integrity, exceptional communication skills, and a commitment to AGI safety are also crucial for excelling in this role.

The Technical Program Manager plays a crucial role in contributing to AI safety at OpenAI by overseeing the integration of safety research into product deployments, managing risk assessments, and ensuring that all safety practices meet the highest standards. By tracking safety research progress and collaborating with various teams, the TPM ensures that all products are well-prepared for safe deployment.

OpenAI offers numerous opportunities for growth for Technical Program Managers, including the chance to lead high-profile projects, collaborate with top talent in the AI field, and influence the development of safety standards in the industry. There’s also potential involvement in exciting research initiatives and opportunities to publish and share learnings with the broader community.

When addressing this question, focus on specific projects you've managed. Share details about your role, the stakeholders involved, and the outcomes of the projects. Highlight your organizational skills and your ability to facilitate communication between diverse teams.

Discuss your systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks. Include examples of tools or frameworks you use for risk management and how you've effectively communicated risks to stakeholders in the past.

Highlight your strategies for fostering clear communication, such as regular update meetings, collaboration tools, and documentation practices. Providing examples where your communication approach has led to successful collaboration would be beneficial.

Share a specific instance where you successfully met a tight deadline. Detail the challenges you faced, how you prioritized tasks, and the strategies you employed to ensure timely completion while maintaining quality.

Discuss your understanding of safety standards related to AI and how you have applied these standards in your previous work experiences. Mention any specific regulations you've dealt with and how you ensured compliance.

Explain your prioritization methodology, whether it's through using project management tools, setting clear milestones, or regularly assessing project impacts. Offer specific examples of how you’ve efficiently managed competing deadlines.

Discuss your methods for relationship-building, such as regular check-ins, empathy in communication, and being proactive in understanding the needs and strengths of team members from different functions.

Talk about the importance of active listening and open dialogue. Explain how you would engage with the stakeholder to find common ground and ensure that their concerns are integrated into the project plan without compromising its objectives.

Emphasize the importance of documentation for tracking progress, ensuring accountability, and maintaining clarity across teams. Share specific types of documentation you’ve found most useful in previous projects.

Express your genuine interest in AGI safety and the ethical implications of AI deployment. Discuss how this passion motivates you to make a difference in the industry and how your skills as a Technical Program Manager align with this goal.