Technical Program Manager

About the Team OpenAI's Research Data Team exists to accelerate the evaluation, safety and capabilities of our models and products. Made up of technical operators and software engineers, we design the methods in which we acquire and create data. About the Role This Technical Program Manager (TPM), Data Acquisition role partners with research, engineering, and operations to design the pragmatic solutions for acquiring data. It will be based in our SanFrancisco HQ and part of a team of TPMs pushing the frontier of data acquisition. Responsibilities Partner deeply with research: work with researchers to scope data needs, define success criteria, and translate priorities into clear execution plans. Shape the data acquisition pipeline: identify, evaluate, and advance high‑impact data opportunities—balancing research value, feasibility, quality, and responsible execution. Unblock yourself: move work forward even when the path is unclear, using technical judgement, creative problem‑solving, and scrappy execution to make progress while longer‑term solutions are still forming. Build lightweight systems and visibility: use SQL, Python, dashboards, and simple tooling to track performance, quality, and blockers. Drive technical roadmaps: collaborate with engineers to enhance data platforms, resolve blockers, and ensure security best practices such as access management. Scale your impact: equip vendors and internal teams with the context, standards, and operating rhythms needed to focus on the most important problems. Qualifications Proficient in SQL and Python for analysing datasets, querying databases, building dashboards, and generating actionable insights. Comfortable using APIs, automation, and AI tools such as Codex to accelerate workflows, remove manual overhead, and upskill quickly in unfamiliar technical areas. Experience sourcing, evaluating, or working with startups, founders, and vendors. Excited to understand the technicalities of cutting‑edge AI research and work alongside researchers from instantiation to launch. Ability to move fluidly between research context, commercial execution, and data operations. Hands‑on mindset—grit and creative problem‑solving will be required daily. Quick learner—create technical concepts exceptionally fast, seeking knowledge to become proficient in new areas. Operate with high horsepower, adept at frequent context switching, managing multiple projects simultaneously with expansive ownership and ruthless prioritization. Thrive in dynamic environments and navigate ambiguity with ease. Location SanFrancisco, California (HQ) Equal Opportunity Employment We are an equal opportunity employer, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other legally protected characteristics. #J-18808-Ljbffr