AI Algorithm Engineer Intern (TikTok Search) - 2026 Start (BS/MS)

Responsibilities

Team Introduction
Our Search Team focuses on LLM application algorithms for TikTok Search, with core scenarios including AI Search and TikTok AI Bot. We build search question-answer cards via LLM-powered generation and develop TikTok's official AI assistant, leveraging LLM ChatBot, Agent, and RAG technologies to deliver accurate, real-time responses. By closely integrating technical innovation with business scenarios, we bridge users with information and services, driving TikTok's business growth.

We are looking for talented individuals to join us for an internship in 2026. Internships at TikTok aim to offer students industry exposure and hands-on experience. Watch your ambitions become reality as your inspiration brings infinite opportunities at TikTok.

Candidates can apply to a maximum of two positions and will be considered for jobs in the order you apply. The application limit is applicable to TikTok and its affiliates' jobs globally.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis - we encourage you to apply early.
Successful candidates must be able to commit to at least 3 months long internship period.

Responsibilities
- Build AI Search Agents with planning, memory, and tool-use capabilities. Apply reinforcement learning, knowledge representation, and automated decision-making to solve complex problems end-to-end.
- Enhance LLM-based query understanding: process multi-turn conversations, conduct semantic analysis on queries and documents, and ensure accurate, objective search results via LLM reasoning.
- Optimize RAG and LLM pipelines: improve retrieval and ranking algorithms, train and optimize LLMs for answer generation (e.g., fine-tuning, inference optimization), and enhance the relevance and structured presentation of search results.
- Translate research (e.g., Agent/LLM innovations) into production, collaborating with cross-functional teams to drive product upgrades.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree or above in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or related technical fields.
- Proficient in C++/Python; strong command of algorithms and data structures (e.g., retrieval, graph algorithms).
- Basic understanding of LLM fundamentals (e.g., prompt engineering, fine-tuning workflows).

Preferred Qualifications:
- Hands-on experience with LLM/Agent technologies: RAG optimization, RLHF/SFT for LLMs, or Agent framework development (e.g., planning/memory modules).
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with a track record of exploring new technologies and driving technical advancements with teams.