OpenAI is inviting applications for its Research Engineer/Research Scientist (RL/Reasoning) role based in San Francisco, California. This is a high-impact opportunity for experienced machine learning and reinforcement learning researchers who want to advance the next generation of AI reasoning systems that power frontier models.
The position offers a hybrid work model (three days per week in the office), relocation assistance for successful candidates, and a competitive compensation package ranging from US$295,000 to US$445,000 plus equity.
About the OpenAI RL/Reasoning Team
The RL and Reasoning team is responsible for advancing OpenAI’s reinforcement learning and reasoning capabilities. The team has contributed to major breakthroughs in AI reasoning and focuses on developing intelligent, aligned, and scalable generative models.
Researchers and engineers work on cutting-edge reinforcement learning methods, experimental AI systems, and large-scale model training that directly influences the future of artificial intelligence.
Position Summary
As a Research Engineer or Research Scientist, you will design, implement, and evaluate reinforcement learning algorithms while contributing to the development of next-generation AI systems.
The role combines research, engineering, experimentation, and deployment, making it ideal for candidates who enjoy solving technically challenging problems within fast-paced research environments.
Location: San Francisco, California, USA
Work model: Hybrid (3 days per week in office)
Relocation support: Available
Compensation: US$295,000–445,000 + Equity
Key Responsibilities
Successful candidates will contribute across multiple areas of AI research and engineering, including:
- Developing advanced reinforcement learning methods for reasoning models.
- Building and improving large-scale machine learning systems.
- Designing controlled experiments to evaluate model performance.
- Debugging and optimizing complex machine learning codebases.
- Iterating rapidly on research ideas and production-quality implementations.
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary researchers and engineers to deploy AI systems at scale.
The role emphasizes rigorous experimentation, trustworthy scientific conclusions, and practical engineering excellence.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should have a strong background in machine learning, reinforcement learning, or closely related fields.
OpenAI is looking for professionals who demonstrate:
- Experience conducting reinforcement learning research.
- Excellent programming and software engineering skills.
- Deep understanding of machine learning theory and applications.
- Ability to rapidly prototype and iterate on research ideas.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Confidence working within large ML infrastructure and codebases.
- Collaborative communication and ownership of technical projects.
Candidates who enjoy frontier AI research and scalable engineering are especially encouraged to apply.
Salary and Benefits
OpenAI offers one of the most competitive compensation packages in AI research.
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary | US$295,000–445,000 annually |
| Equity | Included |
| Work model | Hybrid |
| Office attendance | 3 days per week |
| Relocation | Assistance provided |
| Location | San Francisco, California |
The final offer will depend on experience, technical expertise, and role alignment.
Why Join OpenAI?
Working at OpenAI provides an opportunity to contribute to some of the world’s most advanced AI systems while collaborating with leading researchers and engineers.
Highlights include:
- Conduct groundbreaking reinforcement learning research.
- Build AI reasoning systems used at global scale.
- Work alongside world-class ML researchers.
- Receive relocation assistance and equity.
- Influence the future of safe and aligned artificial intelligence.
- Solve complex technical challenges with real-world impact.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should prepare a strong CV highlighting their research, publications, machine learning experience, and software engineering expertise. Applications are submitted through OpenAI’s official careers portal.
Since no application closing date has been announced, early submission is recommended.
