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Software Engineer Intern (Monetization Technology - Ads Creative) - 2026 Start (BS/MS)

2 days ago San Jose, CA

Responsibilities

A "creative" is the ad (in the form of a short-form video) served to TikTok users, composed of video, background music, call-to-action card, post-click landing page, and other formats that get delivered to users. A quote goes "creativity is the soul of advertising", because a good ad creative is effective, yet difficult to produce, especially at the scale of TikTok advertising.

The TikTok Ads Creative & Ecosystem team's mission is to solve the above dilemma, by building industry-leading tech solutions for ads creative/landing page understanding, production/generation, and optimization, to inspire and empower advertisers, creators, and other 3rd parties in the ecosystem to create and deliver the best engaging creative experiences to the end users. Our work is at the core of TikTok and creator monetization. Examples of our team's work include TikTok video editor, AI-powered smart video generation (we are also exploring AIGC), and TikTok creative exchange (a creative marketplace to connect TikTok advertisers with creators or third-party creative agencies).

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We are user/product oriented and dedicated to technical excellence. We aim to drive and lead the technology renovation in the ads tech and creative industry, powering products and driving values for our clients, creators, and the whole ecosystem. We are excited to grow advertisers' and users' business understanding, build highly scalable and reliable software/infrastructure, partner across functions with global teams, and make big impacts. If you are someone who welcomes challenges, we are eager to have you on the team!

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

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:
1. Assist in developing innovative products for brand and influencer collaborations, leveraging core technologies such as AI and content understanding to help establish TikTok as a leading influencer monetization platform.
2. Contribute to driving technical direction and supporting strategic goals to maximize business growth in TikTok ads and creator monetization.
3. Collaborate with senior engineers to learn and assist in providing technical leadership and guidance within the creative ecosystem team.
4. Support the technical design and implementation of key projects within the creator monetization ecosystem, ensuring scalability and reliability.
5. Work with team members to ensure that systems align with product objectives and requirements.
6. Participate in defining and helping execute long-term technical roadmaps, gaining exposure to strategic technical decisions.
7. Collaborate effectively with global R&D and product management teams, adapting to the fast-paced and dynamic environment of TikTok.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
1. Undergraduate or Postgraduate currently pursuing a Degree/Master in Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
2. Some experience (e.g., through academic projects or internships) working with software engineering teams, including contributing to team collaboration, problem-solving, and technical tasks.
3. Solid understanding of data structures and algorithms, with proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, Go, Java).
4. Strong communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a team and take ownership of tasks.
5. Passion for exploring new technologies and a keen interest in developing problem-solving and analytical skills.

Preferred Qualifications:
1. Previous internship or academic experience in a collaborative engineering environment.
2. Exposure to working in cross-functional teams or across regions through academic projects or team-based activities.

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

Client-provided location(s): San Jose, CA
Job ID: TikTok-7532460740410738952
Employment Type: INTERN
Posted: 2025-07-31T00:38:34

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

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