3P Architect

About the Role

As part of the Hardware organization, the 3P Architect will be responsible for ensuring that the designed systems meet the performance, cost, and operational efficiency needs of OpenAI's AI workloads. This role requires a unique blend of technical expertise, cross-functional leadership, and the ability to operate effectively across both internal teams and external ecosystems.

The 3P Architect will be part of a team that is passionate about pushing the boundaries of what is possible with AI. OpenAI is committed to creating general-purpose artificial intelligence that benefits all of humanity, and this role plays a critical part in achieving that mission.

What You Will Do

• Define rack- and cluster-level reference architectures for AI infrastructure deployments, considering factors such as performance, cost, power, reliability, and scalability.
• Translate workload requirements into clear system design specifications and partner deliverables, ensuring alignment with internal stakeholders and external partners.
• Collaborate with performance modeling teams to evaluate architectural trade-offs and system behaviors, using this information to inform design decisions.
• Align internal stakeholders and external partners on critical system attributes, driving consensus on design decisions.
• Identify gaps in current technology offerings and drive vendors to close those gaps, shaping future infrastructure capabilities.
• Influence and shape vendor roadmaps to meet future infrastructure needs, ensuring that OpenAI's requirements are considered in vendor development plans.
• Track emerging technologies and evaluate their applicability to AI systems, providing recommendations for adoption or further investigation.
• Define and lead proof-of-concept efforts to validate new architectures and technologies, working closely with internal teams and external partners.
• Act as a key interface between OpenAI and external partners, ensuring execution against design intent and resolving any issues that arise during the development process.

What We Are Looking For

• Strong experience in system architecture for large-scale infrastructure or data center environments, with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in these settings.
• Understanding of AI workload characteristics and how they map to system-level design decisions, including the ability to analyze complex workloads and identify key performance indicators.
• Experience working with performance modeling outputs to inform architectural direction, with the ability to interpret complex data and make informed design decisions.
• Experience working with or managing hardware vendors, including ODM/JDM, silicon, and networking vendors, with a strong understanding of the vendor ecosystem and the ability to drive alignment and collaboration.
• Ability to drive alignment across multiple stakeholders with competing constraints, with excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Track record of turning ambiguous requirements into clear, executable system designs, with a methodical and analytical approach to problem-solving.
• Proactive approach to identifying gaps and driving solutions across organizational boundaries, with a strong sense of initiative and a willingness to take on new challenges.

Nice to Have

• Experience defining rack- or cluster-level systems for hyperscale or AI workloads, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in these environments.
• Familiarity with accelerators such as GPUs/ASICs, interconnects, and data center networking architectures, with a strong understanding of how these components impact system performance and design.
• Experience influencing vendor roadmaps and reference designs, with a track record of successfully driving change and improvement in vendor-partnered development.
• Background in infrastructure deployment, hardware engineering, or systems integration, with a strong understanding of the practical considerations and challenges in these areas.
• Experience leading proof-of-concept efforts or early-stage hardware validation, with a willingness to experiment and take calculated risks in the pursuit of innovation.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive compensation package, with a salary that reflects the importance and challenge of this role.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI technologies and infrastructure, with access to the latest tools and techniques in the field.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment, with a team that is passionate about AI and committed to making a positive impact.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options and a hybrid work model that balances flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration.
• Professional development opportunities, including training, mentorship, and support for ongoing education and growth.
• Access to a wide range of benefits, including health insurance, retirement savings, and paid time off, with a comprehensive package that supports the well-being and quality of life of our employees.
• Relocation assistance for candidates who need to move to San Francisco, with a generous package that helps to make the transition as smooth as possible.

• Develop a strong understanding of AI workload characteristics and how they impact system design, with a focus on the unique challenges and opportunities in this area.
• Build relationships with vendors and external partners, with a focus on driving collaboration and alignment in the development of AI infrastructure.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest developments in AI technologies and infrastructure, including emerging trends and innovations that could impact the future of the field.
• Practice communicating complex technical ideas to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, with a focus on clarity, simplicity, and effectiveness.
• Be prepared to provide specific examples of your experience with system architecture and vendor management, with a focus on showcasing your skills and achievements in these areas.
• Consider the importance of adaptability and a willingness to learn in this role, with a focus on staying flexible and open to new challenges and opportunities.
• Review OpenAI's mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your experience and skills align with these, with a focus on demonstrating your commitment to the company's goals and ideals.