Scale AI

Scale AI offers a 401(k) plan with employer matching, though the specific match percentage is modest compared to larger tech companies. The plan supports standard pre-tax and Roth contributions up to IRS annual limits. Scale AI's benefits package has been expanding as the company has grown, and retirement offerings may continue to improve.

As a mid-stage startup focused on AI data infrastructure, Scale AI's retirement benefits reflect the company's prioritization of equity compensation and cash conservation. Employees evaluating total compensation should weigh the 401(k) match alongside the potentially significant upside of pre-IPO equity grants.

Scale AI grants stock options as its primary equity vehicle, with equity awarded upon board of directors approval. As a private company, equity is subject to double-trigger vesting for RSUs, meaning shares do not become fully liquid until both the vesting schedule is met and a qualifying liquidity event occurs (IPO, acquisition, or tender offer).

Scale AI's valuation has grown significantly as demand for AI training data has exploded. For employees who joined early, stock options can represent substantial potential wealth. The company may offer a mix of ISOs and NSOs depending on grant size and employee tax situation. Vesting schedules typically follow the standard four-year structure with a one-year cliff, and refresh grants are awarded based on performance and retention considerations.

Scale AI provides comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance. The company offers free catered lunch Monday through Friday and dinner Monday through Thursday at its offices, along with a monthly wellness stipend. Generous PTO and paid holidays are standard, and the company supports flexible work arrangements.

Additional benefits include a learning and development stipend for professional growth, commuter benefits, and an employee assistance program. Scale AI's office environments are modern and collaborative, reflecting its position as a high-growth AI company. The company has been investing in its benefits package as it competes for talent against larger, more established tech companies.

As a private company, Scale AI does not have publicly traded stock subject to traditional quarterly blackout windows. Employee equity is generally illiquid, with shares restricted from transfer without company approval. Liquidity opportunities have been limited to company-sponsored tender offers or secondary transactions when available.

Should Scale AI pursue an IPO, employees would become subject to standard insider trading policies, including quarterly blackout periods, pre-clearance requirements, and a post-IPO lock-up period. In the meantime, employees holding stock options should be aware of exercise windows, expiration dates, and the tax implications of early exercise (particularly for ISOs and the Alternative Minimum Tax).

Scale AI compensation packages include base salary, equity grants, and performance bonuses. According to Levels.fyi data, the median total compensation at Scale AI is approximately $217,000, with significant variation by role and level. Software Engineering Managers at the high end can earn over $800,000 in total compensation, while entry-level data roles start considerably lower.

Base salaries for software engineers typically range from $150,000 to $220,000, with equity grants comprising a meaningful additional component. Scale AI's compensation is competitive within the AI startup ecosystem, though base salaries may be lower than at larger public companies. The primary upside for employees is the potential appreciation of pre-IPO equity, which could be substantial if the company continues to grow and eventually goes public or is acquired.