Machine Learning Engineer Intern - TikTok Search Local Services team - 2026 Summer (BS/MS)
Responsibilities
Team Introduction
The Data-Search-TikTok-Local Services team enhances local services by improving user discovery of hospitality, dining, and leisure experiences while driving ecosystem growth. They leverage large-scale machine learning to refine search and recommendation systems, focusing on personalized relevance, CTR/CVR prediction, and optimized conversion efficiency for billions of 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. Watch your ambitions become 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
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.
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This internship provides students the opportunity to join one of our engineering teams where you will have the opportunity to:
Participate in the improvement of the search core algorithm, possible directions include:
1. Large Language Model Application: Building AI search for local service needs by deploying and posttraining LLMs, constructing robust and comprehensive RAGs.
2. Content understanding/matching: Applying the industry's cutting-edge LLM technology to match the most relevant videos for each search query, and continuously improve the understading of queries and relevance of TikTok search.
3. User Behavior Modeling: solving the recommendation problem in search, letting TikTok search increase the ability of personalization on the basis of "relevant", and understand users better.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
• Currently pursuing a Bachelor/Master/PhD in Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Able to commit to working for 12 weeks during Summer 2026.
• Experience with coding in Python, Java, Golang, C#, or C++.
• Experience deploying, training LLMs or building LLM powered applications.
• Must obtain work authorization in the country of employment at the time of hire, and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment.
Preferred Qualifications
• Graduating December 2026 onwards with intent to return to degree-program after the completion of the internship.
• Experience deploying, training LLMs or building LLM powered applications.
• Demonstrated software engineering or natural language processing, deep learning experience from previous internship, work experience, coding competitions, or publications.
• High levels of creativity and quick problem-solving capabilities.
Privacy Statement
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.