OpenAI Applied Emerging Talent Program

OpenAI Software Engineer Internship (Fall 2026) | Apply Now

Dive into the frontier of artificial intelligence by building cutting-edge tools that millions of people rely on daily. The OpenAI Software Engineer Internship for Fall 2026 offers an exclusive 15-week, in-person opportunity to join the Applied Engineering team in San Francisco. Step out of the classroom and collaborate closely with world-class researchers, designers, and product managers to engineer robust, scalable features for ChatGPT and the OpenAI API.

Particulars & Details

About the Role

OpenAI is an AI research and deployment company dedicated to ensuring that general-purpose artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. The Applied team works across research, engineering, product, and design to bring OpenAI's technology to the world safely and responsibly. As a Software Engineering Intern within the Emerging Talent program, you will work in a highly iterative, collaborative, and fast-paced environment. This role is designed for self-starters who care deeply about the end-user experience and take immense pride in building products that solve real customer needs.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Build and deploy new customer-facing features and end-to-end product experiences for ChatGPT and the OpenAI API.
• Collaborate daily with a diverse, cross-functional team consisting of engineers, researchers, product managers, designers, and operations staff to create cutting-edge AI products.
• Architect and optimize applications to ensure maximum speed and large-scale operational efficiency.
• Actively contribute to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace culture that makes all team members feel welcome.

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Status: Must be actively pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a closely relevant technical field.
• Graduation Timeline: Applicants must have at least one semester of schooling left after the completion of the internship.
• Availability: Must be available to work in-person at the San Francisco, CA office for a 15-week duration during the Fall 2026 term.

Qualifications, Skills and Competencies

• Programming Languages: High proficiency with JavaScript, React, and backend programming languages, with a strong preference for Python.
• Database Management: Practical experience working with relational databases such as Postgres or MySQL.
• Adaptability: A proven ability to move fast and execute effectively in an environment where parameters are sometimes loosely defined and deadlines or priorities may compete.
• Industry Interest: A strong interest in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (direct, hands-on experience in AI/ML is welcomed but not strictly required).

Internship Conditions & Benefits

• Compensation: This position offers a highly competitive pay rate of $60.00 per hour.
• Work Environment: Work in-person at the San Francisco headquarters, immersed in a collaborative culture focused on the safe deployment of AI.
• Equal Opportunity: OpenAI strictly enforces an inclusive hiring policy, functioning as an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristics.
• Background Checks: Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of background checks in accordance with applicable laws, including the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. Note that duties require access to secure information systems, bringing specific data security obligations.

How to Apply

1. Navigate to the official OpenAI Careers portal using the link provided below.
2. Review the complete job description to ensure you meet the strict criteria of having at least one semester of school remaining after Fall 2026.
3. Click the "Apply now" button to access the application platform and create your profile.
4. Upload your resume, ensuring you highlight relevant JavaScript, React, Python, and relational database experience.
5. Submit your application as early as possible.

Important Links

• Apply Online: Click Here to Submit Application
• OpenAI Careers Portal: [openai.com/careers](https://openai.com/careers)

FAQs

• Where is the internship located? The role requires you to work in-person at the OpenAI office in San Francisco, California.
• Is the internship paid? Yes, the position is paid at a rate of $60 per hour.
• Do I need prior experience in AI or Machine Learning? No, while an interest in AI/ML is required, direct experience in the field is not necessary to apply.
• Can I apply if I am graduating in Spring 2026? No, candidates must have at least one semester of schooling left after completing the Fall 2026 internship.

Disclaimer: This opportunity is shared for informational purposes only. We at 99jobs.org are not the organizing or recruiting institution. We do not accept or process applications and cannot influence selection decisions. Applicants must apply directly through the official organization website. Please verify all details from the official source before applying.

Also check: 

OpenAI Software Engineer Systems Research Summer 2026 Internship