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Research, Post-Training

Thinking MachinesSan FranciscoResearch
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Salary
$350K - $475K USD
Job type
Full-time
Work mode
Remote
Posted
4 Aug 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

Thinking Machines is hiring a full-time Post-Training Researcher in San Francisco, with remote options available, to shape how frontier artificial intelligence learns and collaborates with humans. This evergreen position suits individuals who thrive on combining deep theoretical research with hands-on systems engineering.

Role Overview

Post-training researchers form the core of the technical roadmap at Thinking Machines. This position serves as the vital link between raw foundational intelligence and a safe, practical system for human use. The workflow unites fundamental research and applied engineering into a single mandate. Professionals in this group write high-performance software, analyze complex reports, and directly influence the trajectory of human-AI interaction.

Key Responsibilities

Design and refine training recipes by adjusting datasets, training stages, and hyperparameters to evaluate metrics.
Establish and continuously improve evaluation metrics to ensure that performance measurements reflect truly meaningful outcomes.
Investigate unexpected training behaviors, debug distributed workflows, and build deeper theoretical insights.
Scale existing methodologies and research novel training datasets to analyze performance trends.
Publish and present findings, sharing code and data insights to advance the broader scientific community.

Requirements

Strong proficiency in Python alongside working knowledge of deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow.
Ability to debug distributed training setups and write scalable code.
Hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Machine Learning, or a related field.
Clear written communication skills capable of explaining intricate technical topics.

Nice to Have

Solid understanding of statistics, probability, and core machine learning fundamentals.
Hands-on background in RLHF, RLAIF, preference modeling, or reward learning for large-scale models.
Experience overseeing human data collection initiatives or large annotation workflows.
Previous research or engineering work focused on AI alignment, human-AI collaboration, or data-centric intelligence.
A PhD in a relevant quantitative discipline or equivalent industry research experience.

Skills and Tools

Python
PyTorch
TensorFlow
JAX
Distributed training debugging
Machine learning and statistical analysis frameworks

Salary and Benefits

Expected annual salary range spans from $350,000 to $475,000 USD, determined by background, skills, and experience.
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision health coverage.
Unlimited paid time off and paid parental leave.
Relocation assistance provided as needed.
Visa sponsorship support available for qualified candidates.

About the Company

Thinking Machines builds artificial intelligence designed to extend human will and judgment. The organization trains frontier models using Inkling, creates tools like Tinker for personalized model creation, and designs intuitive interfaces to expand communication between humans and machines.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application directly through the official Thinking Machines careers page.

Skills and tech stack

Questions candidates ask

What is the salary range for the Post-Training Researcher role?

The expected annual salary ranges from $350,000 to $475,000 USD, depending on individual background, skills, and experience.

Is remote work available for this position?

Yes, this role offers remote flexibility while being based out of San Francisco, California.

Does Thinking Machines offer visa sponsorship?

Yes, the company sponsors visas and works closely with qualified candidates through the visa process.

What technical skills are required?

Applicants must be proficient in Python, familiar with deep learning frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow, and capable of debugging distributed training.

What benefits are included with employment?

Benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage, unlimited PTO, paid parental leave, relocation support, and visa sponsorship.

What is an evergreen role at Thinking Machines?

An evergreen role is kept open continuously to gather expressions of interest, allowing the company to review applications and contact candidates as new project opportunities emerge.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official Thinking Machines careers page.

Apply on company site