Principal Recruiter, Strategic AI Talent

About the Role

The Research Recruiting team plays a critical role in Openai's success, working side by side with research staff to understand evolving priorities and shape the future of the company's talent. As a Principal Recruiter, you will be embedded in the research organization, working closely with research leaders to identify and attract the best talent in the industry. Your ability to build trust and establish relationships with candidates will be essential in this role, as you will be working with highly visible researchers, technical leaders, and other exceptional talent.

Openai's mission to build safe artificial general intelligence requires a team of experts who can push the boundaries of what's possible. As a Principal Recruiter, you will be part of a dynamic team that is shaping the future of AI research. Your contributions will have a direct impact on the company's success, and you will have the opportunity to work with some of the most exceptional talent in the industry.

What You Will Do

• Partner directly with the Head of Research Recruiting and research leadership team to define priority talent targets and shape bespoke engagement strategies
• Build and maintain deep market intelligence across frontier AI, research, engineering, and adjacent talent ecosystems
• Proactively identify, map, and cultivate exceptional high-profile talent before there is a formal or standard hiring process attached
• Translate weak signals, network intelligence, and market gossip into concrete recruiting actions, outreach plans, and leadership recommendations
• Manage highly tailored candidate journeys that may involve confidential outreach, senior stakeholder alignment, custom evaluation paths, and complex closing strategy
• Coordinate with executive search firms, sourcers, recruiting coordinators, and internal networks to move priority searches forward with speed and discretion
• Serve as a trusted advisor on candidate positioning, timing, risk, compensation, and closing strategy for especially sensitive or high-impact hires
• Develop and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including research leaders, hiring managers, and candidate networks
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments, applying this knowledge to inform recruitment strategies and best practices

What We Are Looking For

• Significant experience recruiting for highly technical, senior, executive, or otherwise specialized talent
• Strong judgment and discretion in handling sensitive candidate conversations and confidential searches
• A real instinct for talent intelligence: you know how to gather market context, read between the lines, and turn incomplete information into useful action
• Track record of building relationships with hard-to-reach candidates who are not actively looking or who require a highly personalized process
• Experience partnering closely with senior leaders and influencing recruiting strategy in ambiguous, fast-moving environments
• Comfort operating outside the standard process when needed, while still bringing structure, follow-through, and sound judgment
• Deep interest in AI research, technical talent markets, and the broader ecosystem of labs, companies, and people shaping the frontier
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities and deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust and establish relationships with candidates and stakeholders

Nice to Have

• Experience working in the AI or tech industry, with a deep understanding of the research ecosystem and key players
• Familiarity with executive search firms and recruitment agencies, with the ability to coordinate and manage external partners
• Knowledge of recruitment technologies and tools, including applicant tracking systems and candidate relationship management software
• Certification in recruitment or a related field, such as a CPC or CIR

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work with a dynamic and innovative team in the AI research industry
• Collaborative and supportive work environment with a focus on teamwork and open communication
• Access to cutting-edge technologies and tools, with opportunities for professional development and growth
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options and a hybrid work model
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule, with opportunities for travel and relaxation
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to the San Francisco area
• Opportunities for professional development and growth, including training and education programs

• Develop a deep understanding of the AI research ecosystem and key players, including labs, companies, and research institutions
• Build a strong network of contacts and relationships within the industry, including research leaders, hiring managers, and candidate networks
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments, applying this knowledge to inform recruitment strategies and best practices
• Be prepared to think creatively and outside the box, with the ability to develop bespoke engagement strategies and recruitment plans
• Focus on building trust and establishing relationships with candidates, with a deep understanding of their needs and motivations
• Be prepared to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple priorities and deadlines, with the ability to manage multiple searches and projects simultaneously
• Develop a strong understanding of recruitment technologies and tools, including applicant tracking systems and candidate relationship management software