About the role#
The TikTok Search team builds the infrastructure and product features that help users find content. As an intern, you will work on systems that support a multi-billion-user scale. You will help solve search challenges for a global audience and contribute to the platform that helps users discover content as their interests change. This is a conversion-oriented internship for students looking for full-time opportunities.
What you'll do#
- Improve TikTok Search features to support product growth and user experience.
- Optimize system performance and enhance service stability.
- Maintain efficient search architecture and offline data processing systems.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a Master's degree in Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
- Proficiency in coding, data structures, and algorithms.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to use AI coding tools and workflows to debug issues and improve efficiency.
- Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
- Interest in backend services development.
- Experience or coursework in backend services for large-scale applications is preferred.
- Familiarity with modern search systems or an interest in how they evolve is a plus.
- Understanding of AI infrastructure, including model serving, reliability, and large-scale systems, is preferred.
Location & details#
- Location: San Jose, California.
- Employment: Full-time internship.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Rolling basis.
- Compensation: $45 per hour.
About TikTok
TikTok operates as an entertainment provider. The company maintains a global presence with offices in cities including Los Angeles, Singapore, New York, London, and Tokyo. It employs over 92,000 people. The organization is privately held.
How to get in at TikTok
Landing an internship at TikTok requires speed because early applicants often get seen before the pile grows. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you can apply among the first. This gives you a better chance of your resume being reviewed while the team is still actively filling the position. You should aim to be one of the first people to submit your materials. Reaching out to the right person can also improve your chances of getting a response. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the role or a referral. This direct approach often works better than waiting for a response from a general application queue.


