Director of Operations

Timaeus

📍Remote (Global) 🕔 Full Time
💰$135,000 USD ⏳ 11/06/2025

We’re seeking an experienced Director of Operations to lead our operations and finance functions. As Director of Operations, you’ll work directly with the Executive Director to ensure Timaeus runs smoothly and efficiently, enabling our research team to focus on their core mission of advancing AI safety research. This is a high-impact role ideal for someone passionate about supporting cutting-edge scientific progress in AI alignment through operational excellence.

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 remote collaboration and communication across global team members

  • 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 and financial projections

  • Ensure compliance with relevant regulations and reporting requirements

• People & Culture

  • Support hiring and onboarding 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

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

• Visa sponsorship: Available for Berkeley or London-based candidates

• Paid professional development opportunities: Attendance at relevant conferences and events

• Team retreats: Bi-annual in-person staff retreats

• Organizational agility: We strive to be a fast-moving research organization, combining deep scientific engagement with startup-like flexibility and speed. We prioritize productivity with minimal weekly meetings while encouraging collaborative co-working sessions

• Flexible work arrangements: We are a remote-first team that really prioritizes work-life balance, while also valuing in-person collaboration

• Dedicated innovation time: Opportunity to explore new tools and workflows

Why Join Timaeus?

As Director of Operations, you’ll play a vital role in an organization working on one of the most important problems of our time. You’ll support a team of dedicated researchers applying cutting-edge mathematics to AI safety challenges, while working with advisors and collaborators from top AI research organizations. If you’re passionate about operational excellence and enabling scientific progress, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Application Process

1. Application: Submit your application here by 11 June at 11:59 PM GMT

2. Assessment: Complete a paid practical assessment simulating typical Director of Operations responsibilities

3. Initial Interview: 30-minute conversation with our Executive Director

4. Team Interview: Meet with key team members

5. References: Share references who can comment on your operational and leadership abilities

Interested candidates should submit their applications by 11 June at 11:59 PM GMT using this application form. Join us in shaping the future of AI alignment research. Apply now to be part of the Timaeus team!

Please submit any questions to careers@timaeus.co.