OpenAI is piloting a new step in its hiring process known as the “mission interview.” The program is currently being introduced for candidates applying to the marketing and human resources teams, the company told Fortune on Monday. The initiative aims to provide a dedicated space to discuss how potential hires will contribute to OpenAI’s core mission of ensuring that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity.
Testing Judgment and Trade-offs
The interview is designed to gauge how candidates think, specifically focusing on their judgment and ability to weigh complex trade-offs. As AI companies navigate the balance between technological advancement and potential risks, OpenAI emphasizes that there is no single “right” answer. An OpenAI representative noted that skepticism, disagreement, and intellectual diversity are actively encouraged during the process.
To ensure objectivity, the interviewer will be drawn from a different team than the one the candidate is applying for. OpenAI is also launching a training program to certify employees interested in conducting these specialized evaluations.
Standardization Amid Rapid Growth
The evolution of the recruiting process reflects OpenAI’s transition into a mature organization. With roughly 8,000 employees worldwide and 830 active job openings, the company is seeking consistent measures to evaluate talent across its expanding departments. This approach mirrors practices at other tech giants; for instance, Amazon utilizes “bar raisers” from outside hiring teams to assess leadership principles, while Anthropic reportedly tests whether candidates are motivated by the mission or the high salaries.
The financial stakes remain significant. Compensation in the AI sector is exceptionally high, with some software engineering roles at OpenAI reportedly commanding total packages worth up to $935,000, including base salary and restricted stock units (RSUs).
