Director of Operations

About Us

Timaeus is an AI safety research organization working on applications of singular learning theory (SLT) to AI safety. Our mission is to empower humanity by making breakthrough scientific progress on AI alignment and interpretability. We are a growing team of dedicated researchers applying cutting-edge mathematics to prevent AI risks that could affect billions of people, supported by advisors from leading AI research organizations worldwide. 

Position Details

• Location: Berkeley or London strongly preferred, but we are open to exceptional remote candidates globally. Timaeus has hubs in Berkeley, London, and Melbourne.
• Type: Full-time
• Start Date: Immediate
• Salary: $135,000 – $162,000 annually, depending on seniority (for Berkeley-based candidates). Geographic adjustments apply: e.g., London: £90,858 – £109,029
• Reports to: Executive Director
• Team: You will work closely with our 14-person research team and collaborate with external partners across multiple time zones.

Role Overview

We're seeking an experienced Director of Operations to lead our operations and finance functions. As Director of Operations, you'll be the operational backbone enabling breakthrough AI safety research. Your systems and processes will directly free up our research team to focus on our core mission of advancing AI safety research. This is a high-impact role where operational excellence translates into scientific progress on one of humanity’s most pressing challenges.

Key Responsibilities

Operations

• Develop and implement efficient operational systems, policies, and procedures
• Oversee day-to-day operations and ensure smooth functioning of the organization
• Manage organizational logistics, including team retreats, travel arrangements, and event planning
• Contribute to strategic planning and organizational development
• Support seamless collaboration and communication across global team members (currently spanning 7+ time zones)
• Coordinate with external partners and collaborators on operational matters
• Oversee operational aspects of any office spaces

Finance

• Manage organizational budget and financial planning
• Oversee financial reporting, accounting, and compliance
• Manage relationships with fiscal sponsors and financial service providers
• Handle expense management, reimbursements, and procurement
• Support fundraising efforts through budget preparation, financial projections, and grant management
• Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and reporting requirements

People & Culture

• Help us identify and attract exceptional talent from a wide range of backgrounds and support inclusive hiring initiatives, including diverse candidate sourcing and bias-aware interview processes
• Help maintain a positive organizational culture across remote team members
• Assist with contractor agreements and payments
• Support visa sponsorship processes (for Berkeley/London-based team members)
• Ensure smooth implementation of benefits and employment policies

Qualifications

Required

• 5+ years of operations and/or finance experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Experience working with remote or distributed teams
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Experience managing budgets and financial reporting
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, financial management tools, and project management software
• Ability to work independently and take initiative
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to operational excellence

Preferred

• Experience in nonprofit, research, or academic organizations
• Understanding of the AI safety landscape
• Familiarity with startup operations
• Background in finance, business administration, or related field
• Experience with grant management or fundraising operations
• Experience managing international or cross-border operations
• Background in STEM fields or working with technical teams

We welcome candidates who may not check every box but are excited about the mission and eager to learn. We value people of all backgrounds, including those from underrepresented groups, career changers, and those with non-traditional paths; we are interested in each candidate’s unique perspective and potential impact. 

Benefits 

• Generous holiday allowance: 5 weeks of vacation per year, plus public holidays
• Health and well-being support: Comprehensive healthcare plan for US-based employees, or cash equivalent for international team members
• Paid professional development opportunities: Attendance at relevant conferences and events
• Team retreats: Bi-annual in-person staff retreats
• Organizational agility: We combine deep scientific rigor with startup-like flexibility. Minimal weekly meetings (2 - 3 hours total for most employees) while encouraging collaborative co-working sessions and focused work time 
• Work-life balance: We're a remote-first team that values both flexibility and collaboration. We have flexible working hours across time zones with regular opportunities for in-person connection
• Dedicated innovation time: Opportunity to test new tools and workflows

(Visa sponsorship for the United States is likely not possible for this role. Visa sponsorship for the UK is likely possible.)

Why Join Timaeus?

As Director of Operations, you'll play a vital role in advancing research that could help ensure AI systems remain beneficial as they become more powerful. You'll support a world-class team applying singular learning theory to understand how AI systems learn and behave. Your operational excellence will be a key enabler of scientific breakthroughs on AI alignment.

Application Process

We are committed to an inclusive, accessible selection process:

1. Application: Submit your application here by 11 June at 11:59 PM GMT
2. Assessment: Complete a 2 - 4 hour paid practical assessment ($30/hour) simulating typical responsibilities; accommodations available as needed
3. Initial Interview: 30-minute conversation with Jesse Hoogland, our Executive Director
4. Team Interview: Meet with 2 - 3 key team members you will work closely with
5. References: Share 2 - 3 references who can speak to your operational and leadership abilities

We will aim to complete our process by July 11th. 

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications by 11 June at 11:59 PM GMT.

Questions? Contact us at [email protected]. We are happy to discuss accommodations, visa questions, or how your background might fit. 

Timaeus Research Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating an inclusive environment where all team members can thrive.