TikTok→

Software Engineer Intern (TikTok Search… at TikTok · San Jose

InternshipOn-siteSan Jose, CA$94k–$94k/yr

Skills

data structures and algorithmsoperating systemsc++pythongojavainformation retrievalmachine learningnatural language processinglarge language modelsrecommendation systemsdistributed systems

Job Description

Summary: TikTok is a short-form mobile video platform focused on inspiring creativity and helping users discover and connect. The Software Engineer Intern will build and optimize large-scale search systems, explore the integration of search technologies with LLMs, and apply machine learning, information retrieval, NLP, and distributed systems techniques to improve search quality and user experience.

Responsibilities:
- Build and optimize search systems and features that serve hundreds of millions of users globally
- Work on large-scale, complex technical problems in search quality, ranking, query understanding, retrieval, and system reliability
- Explore the integration of search engine technologies and LLMs to improve user experience and search result relevance
- Develop algorithms and systems that support next-generation search experiences and new search interaction paradigms
- Collaborate with product managers, researchers, and engineers to understand user needs and translate them into scalable technical solutions
- Apply modern machine learning, information retrieval, NLP, and LLM techniques to improve search quality and user perception

Required Qualifications:
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related technical discipline
- Solid foundation in computer science fundamentals, with strong understanding of data structures, algorithms, and operating systems
- Strong programming skills and good coding habits; experience with one or more programming languages such as C++, Python, Go or Java
- Strong curiosity, willingness to learn, and ability to quickly understand and solve complex technical problems
- Good communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment
- Able to commit to a 12-week internship in 2027

Preferred Qualifications:
- Currently pursuing a Master's degree in Computer Science or a related technical discipline
- Experience in search, recommendation systems, machine learning, NLP, LLMs, distributed systems, or related areas
- Demonstrated software engineering experience through internships, research projects, open-source contributions, or publications
- Award-winning experience in programming competitions such as ICPC, CCPC, NOI, IOI, or other comparable competitions is a plus
- High levels of creativity, self-motivation, and strong problem-solving capability

Required Skills: Data Structures and Algorithms, Operating Systems, C++, Python, Go, Java, Information Retrieval, Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing, Large Language Models, Recommendation Systems, Distributed Systems

Internship Start Date: Start in 2027 Summer

Benefits: Interns have day one access to health insurance, life insurance, wellbeing benefits and more., Interns also receive 10 paid holidays per year and paid sick time (56 hours if hired in first half of year, 40 if hired in second half of year)., Interns who are not working 100% remote may also be eligible for housing allowance., Internship program offers students hands-on experience, industry exposure, and opportunities to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges while building a strong foundation for personal and professional growth., Interns will gain practical experience, explore potential career paths, and participate in social events, learning programs, and development workshops alongside industry professionals.

Benefits

Interns have day one access to health insurance, life insurance, wellbeing benefits and more.

Interns also receive 10 paid holidays per year and paid sick time (56 hours if hired in first half of year, 40 if hired in second half of year).

Interns who are not working 100% remote may also be eligible for housing allowance.

Internship program offers students hands-on experience, industry exposure, and opportunities to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges while building a strong foundation for personal and professional growth.

Interns will gain practical experience, explore potential career paths, and participate in social events, learning programs, and development workshops alongside industry professionals.