Backend Software Engineer Intern (TikTok-Social-Photo and Text) - 2026 Summer (BS/MS)
Responsibilities
The Photo & Text team is responsible for exploring and building new, fun, and innovative content creation and consumption experiences on TikTok. Our goal is to inspire creativity, increase content mobility, and entertain our users with diverse and informative content. Our team members are working on exciting product areas such as Photo Mode, and the Explore Feed. You will be able to design, implement, and ship new product experiences that will deliver fun and joy to millions of TikTok users.
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. Turn your ambitions into reality as your inspiration brings infinite opportunities at TikTok.
Internships at TikTok aim to provide students with hands-on experience in developing fundamental skills and exploring potential career paths. A vibrant blend of social events and enriching development workshops will be available for you to explore. Here, you will utilize your knowledge in real-world scenarios while laying a strong foundation for personal and professional growth. It runs for 12 weeks.
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 as early as possible. Please state your availability clearly in your resume (Start date, End date).
Summer Start Dates:
- May 11th, 2026
- May 18th, 2026
- May 26th, 2026
- June 8th, 2026
- June 22nd, 2026
Online Assessment
Candidates who pass resume screening will be invited to participate in TikTok's technical online assessment.
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Responsibilities:
- Work closely with our talented mobile and product team to develop and ship new, innovative user features on TikTok
- Participate in improving system design and architecture to ensure service reliability, performance, and extensibility
- Learn and understand how TikTok products work and help build end-to-end solutions
- Promote robust and maintainable code, clear documentation, and deliver high-quality work in a rapid environment
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
- Currently pursuing an Undergraduate/Graduate/Master in Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline
- Proficient in at least one coding language, including but not limited to Go, Java, Python, C++, Javascript, TypeScript
- Ability to understand and debug large and complex codebases
- Able to commit to working for 12 weeks during Summer 2026;
Preferred Qualifications
- Graduating December 2026 onwards with the intent to return to degree program after the completion of the internship.
- Good team communication and collaboration skills
By submitting an application for this role, you accept and agree to our global applicant privacy policy, which may be accessed here: https://careers.tiktok.com/legal/privacy
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
- Health Insurance
- Dental Insurance
- Vision Insurance
- HSA
- Life Insurance
- Fitness Subsidies
- Short-Term Disability
- Long-Term Disability
- On-Site Gym
- Mental Health Benefits
- Virtual Fitness Classes
Parental Benefits
- Fertility Benefits
- Adoption Assistance Program
- Family Support Resources
Work Flexibility
- Flexible Work Hours
- Hybrid Work Opportunities
Office Life and Perks
- Casual Dress
- Snacks
- Pet-friendly Office
- Happy Hours
- Some Meals Provided
- Company Outings
- On-Site Cafeteria
- Holiday Events
Vacation and Time Off
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Personal/Sick Days
- Leave of Absence
Financial and Retirement
- 401(K) With Company Matching
- Performance Bonus
- Company Equity
Professional Development
- Promote From Within
- Access to Online Courses
- Leadership Training Program
- Associate or Rotational Training Program
- Mentor Program
Diversity and Inclusion
- Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program
- Employee Resource Groups (ERG)
Company Videos
Hear directly from employees about what it is like to work at TikTok.