Machine Learning Engineer Intern (TikTok Vertical Search) - 2026 Start (BS/MS)
Responsibilities
Team Introduction
The TikTok Search Team is building a large-scale, full-stack search engine to serve billions of users worldwide. Our mission is to deliver not just relevant results, but an ideal search experience that is fast, personalized, and insightful.
We work across both general and vertical search scenarios, including PhotoText, User Search, Live and more - applying Large Language Models (LLMs), NLP, and Multimodal Understanding to continuously push the boundaries of search quality and system design.
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.
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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
- Collaborate with full-time engineers to improve TikTok's core and vertical search quality (e.g., PhotoText, User, Live, etc).
- Support tasks in query understanding, content modeling, and ranking optimization.
- Participate in the exploration and application of LLMs, NLP, and multimodal models in real-world search scenarios.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
- Undergraduate or Postgraduate currently pursuing a Degree/Master in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or related technical fields.
- Proficient in at least one programming language: C++, Python, or Java.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a passion for large-scale system challenges.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Background or coursework in NLP, Search, Machine Learning, or related areas.
- Familiarity with LLMs or multimodal modeling techniques is a plus.
- Good 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
If you have any questions, please reach out to us at apac-earlycareers@tiktok.com
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.