OpenAI has been in the headlines for offering big compensation packages to its employees. Now, the ChatGPT maker is looking for a new employee, offering more than $500,000 a year for a senior leadership role focused on managing the growing risks posed by advanced artificial intelligence systems, according to CEO Sam Altman. The role, as described by Altman, is stressful and demanding.
Taking to X, Altman said the new head of preparedness will be thrown into the deep end almost immediately, calling it an important position at a time when AI capabilities are accelerating rapidly. The role sits within OpenAI’s Safety Systems team and is tasked with identifying, evaluating, and mitigating potential threats linked to AI deployment.
Altman also mentioned emerging concerns, including AI’s impact on mental health and the growing ability to uncover serious security vulnerabilities. While modern AI systems are delivering major benefits, he noted that they are also beginning to create real-world challenges that require proactive oversight.
Also read: iPhone 17 Pro, 17, 16, iPad Air, Watch Ultra 3 get price cut during Apple Days Sale
The job opening comes at a time when OpenAI continues to face scrutiny over how its products are being used. ChatGPT, now among the most used chatbots for everyday tasks such as writing, research, and planning, has also been used by some individuals as a substitute for therapy. This has raised concerns about harmful interactions, including the reinforcement of delusions or self-harm tendencies. Previously, the company confirmed that it is working with mental health experts to safeguard in such cases.
The one who will be hired for this position will be the replacement for Aleksander Madry, the company’s former head of preparedness, who moved into a different role last year. As per the job listing, the new hire will lead capability evaluations, threat modelling and safety mitigations designed to scale along with OpenAI’s advanced models. The role reportedly offers an annual salary of around $555,000, along with equity.