Network Security Software Engineer Intern (Security Engineering) - 2027 Fall

About the role

Join the Network Security team, which builds enterprise-grade network security products and solutions that protect online businesses from cyberattacks and disruption. We are a group of engineers who challenge the status quo and solve real-world security problems effectively and efficiently. We set ambitious goals, value teamwork, and favor open, direct communication. This internship offers hands-on experience, industry exposure, and opportunities to apply your knowledge to real-world challenges while building a strong foundation for personal and professional growth. Interns will gain practical experience, explore potential career paths, and participate in social events, learning programs, and development workshops alongside industry professionals.

Responsibilities

• Participate in the design and development of network security products for hyperscale environments, including firewalls, WAF, IDS, and similar systems, under the guidance of senior engineers
• Assist in building security capabilities for AI-native systems, including LLM/Agent abuse prevention, risk detection, and behavioral analysis
• Support the team in delivering customized security solutions for ByteDance's business units that meet compliance and security requirements
• Take ownership of well-scoped modules or features, participate in code reviews, and contribute to team documentation and testing

Requirements

• Currently pursuing an Undergraduate, Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Networking, or a related discipline
• Solid foundation in data structures, algorithms, computer networks, and operating systems
• Proficiency in at least one of C, Go, or Python, demonstrated through coursework, personal projects, research, or prior internships
• Exposure to or coursework/project experience with LLM/Agent-based systems (e.g., tool/function calling, context management, or related security implementations)
• Self-driven problem solver with strong communication and collaboration skills, comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Personal projects, research, CTF experience, or coursework related to LLM/AI security (e.g., prompt injection defense, abuse prevention, content safety, model risk control)
• Familiarity with firewall, WAF, or IDS products, or networking/security-related open-source contributions
• Prior internship experience in security, networking, or backend infrastructure

Pay

The hourly rate range for this position is $45–$60.

Benefits

• Day one access to health insurance, life insurance, and wellbeing benefits
• 10 paid holidays per year
• Paid sick time (56 hours if hired in the first half of the year, 40 if hired in the second half)
• Eligibility for housing allowance (for interns not working 100% remote)

About Us

Founded in 2012, ByteDance's mission is to inspire creativity and enrich life. With a suite of products including TikTok, Lemon8, CapCut, and Pico, as well as platforms specific to the China market like Toutiao, Douyin, and Xigua, ByteDance makes it easier and more fun for people to connect with, consume, and create content. Our innovative products help people authentically express themselves, discover, and connect. As ByteDancers, we strive to do great things with great people, leading with curiosity, humility, and a desire to make an impact in a rapidly growing tech company.