I'm a software engineer who spent nearly 7 years at Twitter before joining OpenAI. Here's how I got hired and why I love it.

After nearly seven years at Twitter, Jigar Bhati sought a shift in his career, yearning for a more intimate, startup-like environment. OpenAI, known for its innovative approach, became the ideal destination for him. Since joining in 2023, he has been captivated by the rapid growth of the company and the unique challenges it presents. Bhati was already an admirer of ChatGPT before joining OpenAI, drawn in by its groundbreaking capabilities. This passion was fundamental in his decision to transition from a large tech company to a more agile setting. Reflecting on his experience, he notes that the opportunity to lead critical projects has significantly bolstered his professional development. With a background in infrastructure and distributed systems, Bhati's expertise proved invaluable to OpenAI, especially during a period of scaling challenges. He emphasizes the importance of aligning one’s skills with the needs of the team during the interview process, as this can greatly enhance the chances of a successful match. Networking played a crucial role in his journey, helping him stay connected with the latest technological advancements and industry leaders. Bhati believes that OpenAI's rapid growth requires employees to adapt quickly, engaging in a dynamic work culture that values speed and innovation. He also highlights that OpenAI is not limited to experienced professionals; the company actively recruits new graduates and interns, fostering an environment where fresh ideas and diverse perspectives thrive. This aspect of OpenAI’s culture excites him, as he witnesses firsthand the contributions of newcomers and their impact on the company's evolution. Despite its growth, Bhati insists that OpenAI maintains the spirit of a startup. The emphasis on productivity and collaboration creates an exhilarating atmosphere where engineers can deliver new products and features at an unprecedented pace. The rapid iteration cycle—shipping daily rather than monthly—fuels his enthusiasm for working in artificial intelligence. Bhati feels privileged to be part of a company that not only shapes the future of AI but also empowers every engineer to influence product development. With initiatives like GPT-5, he and his colleagues have the opportunity to guide its launch and enhance its functionalities for millions of users worldwide. For Bhati, the potential impact of his work at OpenAI is both thrilling and motivating.