TPM Manager, Robotics

As a TPM Manager at OpenAI, your key responsibilities will include evaluating physical configurations of robotic systems, managing logistics in the data-gathering lab, and leading program management efforts throughout the project lifecycle. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, ensuring effective communication and collaboration while addressing any dependencies and risks.

To qualify for the TPM Manager position at OpenAI, candidates should have at least 10 years of experience in consumer or industrial electronics. It is crucial to demonstrate expertise in program management, leading engineering functions, and driving complex design engineering deliverables. Additionally, strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage teams effectively are essential.

The TPM Manager role is pivotal within OpenAI’s Robotics team, focusing on the integration of advanced AI models with physical robotic platforms. You will ensure that every design, test, and iteration aligns with our goal of developing adaptive and versatile robotics systems, shaping the future of embodied AI.

Success as a TPM Manager at OpenAI requires a blend of strong leadership, excellent communication skills, and a thorough understanding of program management in robotics. Being hands-on with problem-solving, defining program requirements, and managing project lifecycles will also be critical for achieving project goals.

The culture within OpenAI's Robotics team is collaborative and innovative, emphasizing the integration of diverse perspectives and experiences. The team values open communication and proactive problem-solving, ensuring that all voices contribute to shaping the future of robotics and artificial intelligence.

When answering this question, outline the project's objectives, your specific role, the challenges faced, and the outcomes achieved. Highlight your approach to managing dependencies and risks while fostering team collaboration.

Discuss your method for assessing project impact, urgency, and available resources. Provide examples of tools or techniques you use to keep track of priorities, ensuring that the most critical tasks are handled first.

Articulate your experience with developing communication plans, outlining how you tailor your messaging to different audiences, and the importance of regular check-ins to keep everyone aligned on project goals.

Share a specific scenario, detailing the nature of the obstacle, your thought process, and the steps you took to resolve the issue. Emphasize your ability to remain calm under pressure and provide solutions.

Discuss your experience in developing communication strategies and regular update meetings. Explain how you customize reporting for different stakeholders to ensure they receive the right level of detail and information they need to make decisions.

Talk about the project management tools and methodologies you've used, such as Gantt charts or agile practices. Share how these have helped you maintain transparency and organization throughout the project lifecycle.

Emphasize your commitment to inclusivity and understanding different perspectives. Provide examples of how you've fostered a positive team culture that encourages collaboration and innovation among team members.

Share your conflict resolution strategy, focusing on active listening, mediation, and finding common ground. Explain how you maintain a productive work environment, ensuring that conflicts are addressed constructively.

Detail your process for gathering stakeholder input to define clear program requirements, and how you analyze those requirements to set realistic, prioritized goals for your projects.

Discuss the metrics and KPIs you utilize to assess project outcomes. Share examples of how you've measured success, collected feedback, and implemented lessons learned in future projects.