- OpenAI is hiring a Head of Preparedness and we know the salary will be $555,000 plus equity
- In 2025, there was a “preview” of how AI models can affect mental health
- The role is set to be very stressful, so think twice before applying
Sam Altman has shared that OpenAI is looking for a new Head of Preparedness, citing its rapidly improving AI tools, models and emerging risks.
The ChatGPT maker is offering a salary of $555,000 plus equity to one lucky person, but CEO Altman has warned that the “Head of Preparedness” job is set to be a very stressful role.
Key to the position is understanding how advanced models can be misused, managing security decisions and securing OpenAI’s systems to mitigate risks.
OpenAI is hiring a Head of Preparedness
Altman said in his post that OpenAI saw a “preview” of model-related mental health impacts in 2025, apparently acknowledging a number of deaths related to ChatGPT interactions. OpenAI had already rolled back a GPT-4o update after admitting it could amplify malicious user behavior.
“We are entering a world where we need more nuanced understanding and measurement of how these properties could be abused, and how we can limit these disadvantages both in our products and in the world, in a way that lets us all enjoy the enormous benefits,” he wrote.
The soon-to-be-appointed manager will lead a “small [but] high-impact” team that adheres to OpenAI’s Preparedness framework.
Aleksander Madry previously held the role, but he was reassigned by OpenAI. Later, Joaquin Quiñonero Candela filled the role, but Candela is now head of recruitment. Lilian Weng also spent some time as head of emergency.
“This is going to be a stressful job, and you’re going to jump off the deep end pretty much right away,” Altman warned.
The company has previously been criticized by former employees for prioritizing commercial opportunities and AGI targets, but Altman’s latest push for a Head of Preparedness combined with a healthy pay package could mark an important shift.
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