OpenAI unveils AI jobs platform set to rival LinkedIn

OpenAI has confirmed work on a dedicated employment marketplace that will use generative artificial intelligence to match candidates with employers. The initiative, called the “OpenAI Jobs Platform,” was announced by applications chief executive Fidji Simo and is scheduled to go live by mid-2026.

AI-powered matching for businesses of every size

According to OpenAI, the forthcoming service will analyze résumés and job descriptions with in-house language models in order to recommend qualified applicants. Simo stated that the platform will feature two distinct tracks: one for large corporations seeking specialized talent and another designed to help local businesses and municipal governments identify professionals who can deploy AI tools in day-to-day operations.

The company has not released pricing or feature details, but a spokesperson told TechCrunch the launch window is set for the first half of 2026. If that timeline holds, the product would compete directly with Microsoft-owned LinkedIn, which currently dominates professional networking and recruitment.

Certification program targets 10 million Americans

Alongside the jobs portal, OpenAI will expand its online learning hub, OpenAI Academy, with a structured certification track. The new credential will assess “AI fluency” at several levels, from basic workplace usage to advanced prompt engineering. Organizations will be able to integrate the certificates into internal training programs, and Walmart is already collaborating on the rollout.

OpenAI plans to certify 10 million U.S. workers by 2030. The curriculum will use ChatGPT’s Study mode, which prompts learners with questions and feedback rather than direct answers, echoing traditional tutoring methods.

Context: uneasy partnership with Microsoft

Microsoft has invested an estimated $13 billion in OpenAI and embeds the startup’s models across its product line. Despite the partnership, Microsoft identified OpenAI as a competitor in search and news advertising in its latest annual report, and the new recruitment platform could intensify overlap in professional networking services.

Labor-market impact under scrutiny

OpenAI’s announcement arrives amid widespread debate about automation and employment. Recent layoffs at technology firms, including Salesforce, have cited AI efficiencies as a factor. Research by labor-market analytics firm Lightcast indicates that roles requiring AI skills command higher average salaries than comparable positions without such expertise.

Simo acknowledged the “disruptive” nature of AI but argued that expanding access to training and credentials can help workers transition. The company framed the initiative as part of a broader commitment to the White House’s AI literacy efforts.

Government contracts and infrastructure projects

The employment and education projects add to OpenAI’s growing government portfolio. On 16 June, the firm introduced “OpenAI for Government” and secured a U.S. Department of Defense contract worth up to $200 million. OpenAI is also involved in the $500 billion Stargate program, which aims to expand domestic AI infrastructure over the next four years.

Next steps

The company has not disclosed beta testing dates or initial partner companies beyond Walmart. More information on feature sets, privacy safeguards and integration with existing human-resources software is expected closer to launch.

For readers tracking how technology reshapes the labor market, our Finance News Update section offers regular coverage of employment, automation and economic policy.

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