Security Software Engineer Intern (Security & Privacy, USDS) - 2026 Summer (BS/MS)

Responsibilities

The Security and Privacy team of TikTok USDS Joint Venture is missioned to ensure that TikTok is the most trusted social and entertainment platform, through protecting the safety and security of the business, our people, and users, building public trust, and complying with government requirements.

About The Role

We are looking for talented individuals to join us for an internship in 2026. Internships at our Company aim to offer students industry exposure and hands-on experience. Watch your ambitions become reality as your inspiration brings infinite opportunities at our Company.

As a Software Engineer Intern on the VnV team, you will focus on building the core components of a graph-driven attack chain analysis prototype. You will help engineer the graph backbone, design data ingestion and ETL processes for sanitized and synthetic datasets, and implement path-finding algorithms. Your work will directly enable the team to model ranked attack chains and generate automated disruption recommendations, helping the organization find the best place to break the chain.

Internships at Our Company aims 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.

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 Our Company and its affiliates' jobs globally. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis - we encourage you to apply early. Please state your availability clearly in your resume (Start date, End date).

Summer Start Dates:

June 8th, 2026

June 22nd, 2026

Responsibilities

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Data Science, or a related technical field. • Solid understanding of fundamental data structures (graphs, trees, hashmaps) and algorithms. • Programming experience in Python, Go, or TypeScript. • Foundational knowledge of databases, including SQL, NoSQL, or graph databases. • Ability to work with REST APIs and build basic ETL processes.

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 in 2026. • Knowledge of a coding language such as Python, C*, Go, Rust, or similar.

Preferred Qualifications

• Coursework or practical experience in graph theory and graph algorithms as well as a strong habit of writing clean, well-documented code. • Familiarity with distributed systems concepts and technologies. • Experience with data pipeline orchestration and observability (e.g., Airflow, Prometheus). • Basic understanding of core cybersecurity principles (e.g., CIA triad, defense-in-depth). • Awareness of security frameworks like the MITRE ATT&CK framework.

Job Information

About USDS

TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC is dedicated to the safety and security of millions of Americans who create, discover, and connect with what they love on the apps we operate. The Joint Venture has been established in compliance with the Executive Order signed by President Trump on September 25, 2025. Our foundation is a comprehensive data privacy and cybersecurity program we operate under defined safeguards to protect national security and secure U.S. user data, apps and the algorithm. We safeguard the U.S. content ecosystem, holding decision-making authority for trust and safety policies and moderation. USDS Joint Venture helps ensure Americans can continue to express their creativity, discover new hobbies and interests, and build thriving communities and businesses on a global scale.

On-site presence across teams allows the company to operate with greater speed, alignment, and agility — especially in areas like real-time decision-making, team development, and integrated execution. As such, the company is shifting from a hybrid work model to a fully in-person schedule up to 5 days a week.

Why Join Us

Inspiring creativity is at the core of TikTok's mission. Our innovative product is built to help people authentically express themselves, discover and connect – and our global, diverse teams make that possible. Together, we create value for our communities, inspire creativity and bring joy - a mission we work towards every day.

We strive to do great things with great people. We lead with curiosity, humility, and a desire to make impact in a rapidly growing tech company. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and innovate as one team. We're resilient and embrace challenges as they come. By constantly iterating and fostering an "Always Day 1" mindset, we achieve meaningful breakthroughs for ourselves, our company, and our users. When we create and grow together, the possibilities are limitless. Join us.

Diversity & Inclusion

TikTok is committed to creating an inclusive space where employees are valued for their skills, experiences, and unique perspectives. Our platform connects people from across the globe and so does our workplace. At TikTok, our mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy. To achieve that goal, we are committed to celebrating our diverse voices and to creating an environment that reflects the many communities we reach. We are passionate about this and hope you are too.

USDS Reasonable Accommodation

USDS is committed to providing reasonable accommodations in our recruitment processes for candidates with disabilities, pregnancy, sincerely held religious beliefs or other reasons protected by applicable laws. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation, please reach out to us at https://tinyurl.com/USDS-RA