Employees at leading artificial intelligence companies are trading in specific titles like “chief technical officer” and “senior software engineer” for the vague designation “member of the technical staff.” The title has become increasingly common across firms such as Anthropic, Open AI, x AI, and Microsoft AI. According to a Stanford University analysis by researchers Nick Bloom and Gideon Slocum Moore, 39 percent of Anthropic employees, 31 percent at Open AI, and 26 percent at x AI listed the title on LinkedIn as of last December. Its use has risen by 50 percent in the past year.

Proponents argue the title emphasizes collaboration and focus on work over hierarchy. Bob Mc Grew, a former Open AI executive, noted it fosters a “level playing field.” Historian Margaret O’Mara suggests the title signals a shift from business roles to research and technology, though she warns it may reduce accountability. The term dates back to Bell Labs in the 1920s and was used by IBM, Texas Instruments, and Hughes Aircraft in the 1960s.

As AI reshapes software engineering, the title may offer flexibility and prestige amid evolving roles.