Tool Software Engineer Intern (TikTok-Intelligent Creation-Effect House) - 2026 Summer (BS/MS)

ocus on building a unified algorithm system that delivers numerous cutting-edge AR algorithms to various TikTok products. Our AR Effect Platform enables the breakthrough AR interactive experience, consumed by hundreds of millions of TikTok users around the world.

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. Turn your ambitions into 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

Online Assessment
Candidates who pass resume screening will be invited to participate in TikTok's technical online assessment.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement new features for Effect House, TikTok's effects editor.
• Define the future direction of our editing tools core technology, creation workflows and pipeline.
• Support our fast growing effect creator community and internal effect production team to achieve their creative vision.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently pursuing an Undergraduate/Graduate/Master in Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Engineering or a related technical discipline
• Able to commit to working for 12 weeks during summer 2026;
• Past experience working on 3D games and/or film production (Knowledge of game engines, real time rendering, animation, VFX pipelines, visual programming, etc.).
• Solid data structure and algorithm foundations.
• Proficient with native programming concepts (C++, multi-threading, memory management, etc.)
• Excellent system design skills, and UI/UX product design sense.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working on AR/VR projects OR Web Technologies (React, JavaScript/TypeScript, nodeJS).
• Experience with Cross-Platform PC and Mobile development (macOS, Windows, iOS, Android).
• Familiar with graphics APIs (OpenGL, WebGL, DirectX, Metal, or Vulkan) and GPU architectures.
• Experience creating developer-facing APIs or libraries or navigating in a cross-functional environment.
• Have good product sense, passionate about great user experiences.
• Passionate about TikTok, augmented reality, as well as creating the most fun, original and creative ideas and experiences.

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