Program Manager, Foundations Data and Operations

OpenAI OpenAI · AI Frontier · San Francisco, CA · Research

This role is for a Program Manager focused on acquiring training data for AI models. The responsibilities include defining data needs with researchers, managing acquisition workflows, leading vendor engagements, and establishing quality metrics. While the role supports AI model development, the core function is program management and data acquisition operations, not direct AI/ML model building or research.

What you'd actually do

  1. Work closely with research to understand data needs and define acquisition priorities and timeline that are aligned with our research roadmap.
  2. Translate research objectives into clear technical requirements and operational plans, ensuring data workflows, timelines, and quality standards are executed to the highest quality standards.
  3. Lead vendor and partner engagements for data sourcing – including evaluating suppliers, negotiating agreements, and managing delivery.
  4. Establish and maintain metrics for data quality, throughput, efficiency, and overall program performance, ensuring visibility to leadership and cross-functional partners.
  5. Identify gaps in our data ecosystem and proactively drive initiatives to strengthen our data acquisition and creation capabilities over time.

Skills

Required

  • Program Management
  • Operations Management
  • Stakeholder Management
  • Requirements Definition
  • Vendor Management
  • Data Acquisition Strategy
  • Process Improvement
  • Metrics and Reporting
  • Strategic Planning
  • Cross-functional Collaboration
  • Communication Skills
  • Analytical Skills

Nice to have

  • Experience in AI/ML data operations
  • Experience in strategy, venture capital, private equity, or consulting

What the JD emphasized

  • 8+ years of experience
  • at least 5 years operating within a company
  • end-to-end ownership of large, ambiguous problems
  • breaking them down into clear, actionable plans
  • engaging with executives and senior leaders to influence and drive strategic decisions
  • high motor and exceptional adaptability and flexibility in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
  • highly analytical
  • sophisticated in your understanding and approach to analyses
  • ask and answer the most important questions
  • present results clearly to leaders to influence decision making
  • comfortable operating at all altitudes
  • excellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skills