Software Engineer Intern(Video-on-Demand Algorithm) - 2026 Summer (BS/MS)
Responsibilities
The Video-on-Demand (VoD) Algorithm team is responsible for optimizing the app experience related to performance for TikTok users. This team collaborates with all teams within and beyond the VoD team, to provide algorithmic support for end-to-end optimization solutions, including video shooting, uploading, processing, delivery, and playback, etc.
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 ByteDance / 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
Responsibilities
- Design and implement media streaming-related algorithms to improve TikTok user experience. Examples include video preloading, adaptive bitrate streaming (ABR), network bandwidth estimation, CDN traffic allocation, and transport-layer algorithms, to name a few.
- Contribute to end-to-end media ecosystem design to improve the algorithmization of the multimedia system.
- Run controlled experiments on millions of streaming sessions to validate improvements.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
-Currently pursuing an Undergraduate/Master in Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related technical discipline
- Able to commit to working for 12 weeks during Summer 2026
- Industry or academic experience in the multimedia or network domain.
- Proven ability to develop new algorithms and identify problems in existing solutions.
- Fluent in statistics and data analysis.
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Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with shipping software on behalf of a major brand at scale is a big plus.
- Experience with learning-based model development is a big plus.
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.