About the role#
The Recommendation algorithm team drives critical product decisions and platform growth. As an intern, you will contribute to production recommendation models and support the development of emerging technologies. This role involves hands-on work with machine learning researchers and engineers to influence our product direction.
What you'll do#
- Build and improve recommendation systems.
- Deliver end-to-end machine learning solutions for challenges in content understanding, LLMs, robustness, and fairness.
- Manage and optimize the full-stack ML pipeline, covering everything from algorithm design to system infrastructure.
- Work with cross-functional teams to create product strategies and intelligent solutions that support growth.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a PhD program for Computer Science, machine learning, or a related field.
- Strong grasp of theoretical and empirical research methods.
- Experience with deep learning frameworks like PyTorch or TensorFlow and familiarity with deep neural network architectures.
- Research experience in areas such as applied machine learning, large-scale recommendation systems, or ML infrastructure.
- A record of first-author publications in top AI conferences or journals.
- Proficiency in C, C++, Python, and shell programming, along with a solid understanding of data structures and algorithms.
- Prior internship experience in an AI research organization.
Location & details#
- Location: San Jose, California, United States.
- Modality: On-site.
- Employment: Full-time internship.
- Compensation: $60 per hour.
- Process: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
About TikTok
TikTok operates as an entertainment provider. The company maintains a global presence with offices in cities including Los Angeles, Singapore, New York, London, and Tokyo. It employs over 92,000 people. The organization is privately held.
How to get in at TikTok
Landing an internship at TikTok requires speed because early applicants often get seen before the pile grows. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you can apply among the first. This gives you a better chance of your resume being reviewed while the team is still actively filling the position. You should aim to be one of the first people to submit your materials. Reaching out to the right person can also improve your chances of getting a response. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can contact them directly to ask about the role or a referral. This direct approach often works better than waiting for a response from a general application queue.
