UPDATE: OpenAI is urgently hiring for a new position titled “head of preparedness,” offering a staggering $555,000 per year. The company’s CEO, Sam Altman, announced this on X just yesterday, emphasizing that applicants should expect a “stressful job” that demands immediate immersion into high-stakes challenges.
This role is critical as OpenAI grapples with significant safety concerns regarding its AI models, including ChatGPT and Sora. These technologies have faced intense scrutiny for their performance in real-world contexts. Just last year, reports revealed instances of ChatGPT hallucinating in legal documents and triggering mental health crises among users. Additionally, OpenAI’s models have been linked to a wrongful death suit concerning Adam Raine, where it is alleged that guidance from ChatGPT contributed to his tragic demise.
In his announcement, Altman noted the growing need for a nuanced understanding of the potential harms posed by AI technologies. He stated, “We are entering a world where we need more nuanced understanding and measurement of how those capabilities could be abused,” highlighting the urgency of this new role in safeguarding users and society.
The head of preparedness will be responsible for evaluating and mitigating risks associated with OpenAI products. The job description indicates that this individual will “own OpenAI’s preparedness strategy end-to-end,” ensuring that the company can navigate the balance between innovation and safety. This includes evolving the preparedness framework to address new risks as they arise.
OpenAI is under immense pressure to dramatically increase its revenue, with Altman aiming to skyrocket earnings from over $13 billion to $100 billion within two years. This ambitious goal underscores the urgency of the new hire, who will also oversee the development of cutting-edge products designed to “automate science” and other groundbreaking technologies.
As the world watches, the stakes for the head of preparedness are exceptionally high. Success in this role could mean the difference between safe AI integration and potential societal harm. With the future of AI at a critical juncture, this position is not just a job; it represents a pivotal responsibility in shaping how these technologies interact with daily life.
For those intrigued by the prospect of managing the ethical and practical implications of AI advancement, OpenAI’s head of preparedness role is open for applications now. However, candidates should prepare for an intense environment where the pressure to innovate responsibly is paramount.
