Research Communications Manager, Safety

About the Role

As part of the Platform & Research Communications team, the successful candidate will work closely with the Research Communications Lead and partner deeply with safety researchers, alignment researchers, and cross-functional teams. The primary focus will be on shaping how OpenAI's safety research is understood by various stakeholders, including researchers, journalists, policymakers, and the broader public. This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of AI safety research communications, working with a team that is dedicated to advancing the safe development and deployment of increasingly capable AI systems.

The role is based in San Francisco, CA, and follows a hybrid schedule, with three days per week spent in the office. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate, highlighting OpenAI's commitment to attracting and retaining top talent from around the world.

What You Will Do

• Develop clear, credible external narratives around OpenAI's safety research, including alignment, evaluations, preparedness, interpretability, and other areas connected to the safe development of frontier AI.
• Translate complex technical work into accessible stories without oversimplifying, overstating impact, or creating unnecessary alarm.
• Help define and reinforce OpenAI's POV on key safety research topics and how they connect to OpenAI's broader research roadmap and mission.
• Work directly with safety and alignment researchers to understand their work, identify the most important ideas, and help position those ideas publicly.
• Serve as a communications thought partner to researchers, helping them anticipate questions, clarify implications, and communicate with precision.
• Build communications plans that help researchers share their work through the right channels, at the right level of depth, and with the right context.
• Develop proactive storytelling opportunities across blogs, explainers, video, podcasts, events, and other channels beyond traditional media.
• Help identify creative ways to elevate safety research and make the work more legible to expert and non-expert audiences.
• Look across the safety research portfolio to identify broader themes, narrative opportunities, and moments where OpenAI can contribute meaningfully to public understanding.
• Partner with research teams to plan communications for major papers, evaluations, model-related research, safety initiatives, and other technical publications.
• Collaborate with editorial, design, social, policy, and research teams on blogs, explainers, visuals, briefing materials, and supporting content.

What We Are Looking For

• A strong background in science, technology, or a related field, with the ability to understand and communicate complex technical information.
• Excellent storytelling instincts and experience in developing compelling narratives for various audiences.
• Proven experience in communications, preferably in a research or technology setting, with a focus on safety or a related area.
• Ability to work closely with researchers and cross-functional teams to develop and execute external communications strategies.
• Strong strategic judgment and hands-on execution skills, with the ability to navigate a fast-moving environment.
• Experience with Excel and other data analysis tools.
• Ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with science, technology, AI, and business journalists.
• Strong understanding of the AI landscape and the importance of safety research in the development of frontier AI.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and precision.

Nice to Have

• Experience in media engagement, including proactive and reactive media relations.
• Knowledge of design principles and the ability to collaborate with design teams on visual content.
• Familiarity with content management systems and experience in managing and publishing content across various channels.
• Certification in communications, public relations, or a related field.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive compensation package.
• Opportunity to work with a leading AI research organization at the forefront of safety research.
• Hybrid work schedule with relocation assistance available.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
• Professional development opportunities, including training and education support.
• Health and wellness programs, including mental health support and employee assistance programs.
• Retirement savings plan and equity options.
• Flexible PTO policy and paid holidays.

• Understand the AI landscape: Before applying, make sure you have a solid grasp of the current AI landscape, including the latest developments in safety research and its implications.
• Develop your storytelling skills: The ability to translate complex technical information into accessible stories is crucial. Practice developing compelling narratives for various audiences.
• Build a strong network: Establish relationships with professionals in the AI and communications fields to stay updated on the latest trends and best practices.
• Highlight your technical background: Emphasize your technical skills, especially in areas related to AI safety research, to demonstrate your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
• Prepare a portfolio: Compile a portfolio of your communications work, including samples of your writing, design, and media engagement efforts, to showcase your skills and experience.
• Be ready to discuss safety research: Come prepared to discuss the latest developments in AI safety research and how you can contribute to OpenAI's mission in this area.
• Show enthusiasm and passion: Demonstrate your passion for AI safety research and your commitment to communicating complex ideas with clarity and nuance.