How to Get Hired at Top AI Companies: Insider Tips from a Techie Who Worked at OpenAI and Meta

An Indian tech professional has revealed the secrets to landing a job at leading artificial intelligence firms. Prakhar Agarwal shared his career advice after moving from OpenAI to Meta’s Superintelligence Labs. His insights offer a rare look into the hiring process at the world’s most advanced AI companies.

According to Business Insider, Agarwal’s career path includes roles at Apple and OpenAI. He explained the key qualities that top AI employers are seeking in new candidates today.

The Unconventional Path to AI Success

Prakhar Agarwal began his career at Apple in 2020 as a machine learning engineer. He spent nearly five years with the technology giant before making his move to OpenAI in January 2025. His tenure at Sam Altman’s company lasted approximately seven months before joining Meta this past summer.

He described the timing of his transition. Many professionals were making similar career moves within the AI sector during this period. The competition for positions at these elite companies remains incredibly fierce.

Agarwal emphasized that practical experience provides crucial advantages. Getting hands-on with real problems builds the intuition that separates outstanding candidates from the rest. This practical knowledge often proves more valuable than theoretical understanding alone.

What Top AI Companies Really Want

Companies are particularly interested in candidates who can operate effectively in ambiguous situations. The ability to navigate uncertain domains has become increasingly valuable in fast-moving AI research. Confidence in tackling undefined problems stands out during interviews.

Advanced education certainly helps, with PhD holders often having an advantage. However, Agarwal stressed that communication skills and problem-solving abilities matter just as much. Employers want people who can identify gaps in existing approaches and propose effective solutions.

The number of available positions at leading AI firms remains relatively small. This naturally pushes companies toward candidates with proven track records and substantial experience. Building a strong professional network can also create valuable opportunities.

**For aspiring AI professionals, the path forward requires both technical excellence and practical wisdom. Understanding what top companies truly value could make all the difference in this competitive field.**

Thought you’d like to know

What educational background helps for AI company jobs?

Agarwal completed his engineering degree at BITS Pilani before pursuing advanced studies at the University of Washington. Specializing in machine learning during graduate school provided crucial foundation. Higher education certainly helps, but practical experience matters tremendously.

How important is work experience for these roles?

Experience plays a huge role according to the techie. Most top AI companies have limited positions available. They naturally prefer candidates with proven track records and substantial practical knowledge.

What specific qualities do employers seek?

Companies want candidates who can operate in ambiguous domains and communicate effectively. The ability to handle complex problems and identify solution gaps is crucial. Confidence in tackling undefined challenges stands out during interviews.

How can beginners start preparing?

Agarwal recommends following industry experts who share knowledge regularly. Beginners might not understand everything immediately but will gradually build understanding. Getting hands-on with actual problems provides the most valuable learning experience.

Does networking help in getting these jobs?

After establishing his career, Agarwal found that companies began reaching out to him directly. Building a strong professional reputation can create opportunities without formal applications. Networking within the AI community often leads to valuable connections.