Network Software Development Engineer Intern (Network Switch) - 2027 Summer

ByteDance; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 51,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Housing allowance

Paid holidays

Paid sick time

Job summary

ByteDance Networking is seeking an intern to join the in-house Switch R&D team developing a cutting-edge Network Operating System (NOS) for data center networks. You will gain hands-on experience in high-performance, programmable systems and contribute to software and hardware co-design alongside senior engineers.

Current students pursuing a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Computer Science or related field will work on real-world networking challenges, with exposure to Linux, C/C++, Python, and

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Communications, or a related technical field.
• Proficient in programming languages (C, C++, Python, or Go) and algorithms/data structures.
• Interest in high-speed networking, hardware-software interaction, and hardware offloading.

Responsibilities

• Design and test core functionalities of the Network Operating System (NOS) for data center networks.
• Research and implement networking, monitoring, and telemetry technologies to improve data center infrastructure.

Skills

C/C++

Python

Go

DS & algorithms

Linux

Switching basics

Embedded systems

Networking

Hardware offloading

Network software

Protocol development

Vim/Emacs

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Communications, or related technical field

Tools

Linux

Job description

Responsibilities

ByteDance Networking is responsible for designing, building, and operating a global, intelligent network infrastructure that meets the highest standards of availability, scalability, and performance. Within this organization, the in‑house Switch R&D team plays a pivotal role by driving the co‑design of both switch software and hardware. This team is shaping the future of network infrastructure by developing a cutting‑edge Network Operating System (NOS) that runs on advanced switch silicon. Join us to shape networking innovation. You’ll work on high‑performance, programmable, resilient systems powering ByteDance’s global platforms—gaining hands‑on experience with large‑scale software development and network operations behind some of the world’s most used services.

We are looking for talented individuals to join us for an internship. Our internship program offers students hands‑on experience, industry exposure, and opportunities to apply their 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

• Design and test core functionalities of the Network Operating System (NOS) that powers data center networks
• Research and implement new networking, monitoring, and telemetry technologies to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and availability of data center infrastructure

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Communications, or a related technical field
• Possesses a solid understanding of algorithms and data structures; proficient in at least one programming language, including but not limited to C, C++, Python, or Go
• Demonstrates a strong interest in high‑speed networking, hardware‑software interaction, and hardware offloading technologies
• Has a basic understanding of the operation of switches and routers, along with fundamental knowledge of embedded systems and processor architecture
• Familiar with Linux systems; comfortable using the Linux command line and editors such as Vim or Emacs

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in network software or protocol development
• Strong problem‑solving skills and proficiency in software debugging and troubleshooting

Job Information

【For Pay Transparency】Compensation Description (Hourly) - Campus Intern

The hourly rate range for this position in the selected city is $45- $45.

Benefits may vary depending on the nature of employment and the country work location. Interns have day one access to health insurance, life insurance, wellbeing benefits and more. Interns also receive 10 paid holidays per year and paid sick time (56 hours if hired in first half of year, 40 if hired in second half of year). Interns who are not working 100% remote may also be eligible for housing allowance.

The Company reserves the right to modify or change these benefits programs at any time, with or without notice.

For Los Angeles County (unincorporated) Candidates

• Interacting and occasionally having unsupervised contact with internal/external clients and/or colleagues;
• Appropriately handling and managing confidential information including proprietary and trade secret information and access to information technology systems; and
• Exercising sound judgment.

About Us

Founded in 2012, ByteDance's mission is to inspire creativity and enrich life. With a suite of more than a dozen products, including TikTok, Lemon8, CapCut and Pico as well as platforms specific to the China market, including Toutiao, Douyin, and Xigua, ByteDance has made it easier and more fun for people to connect with, consume, and create content.

Why Join ByteDance

Inspiring creativity is at the core of ByteDance's mission. Our innovative products are 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 enrich life - a mission we work towards every day.

As ByteDancers, 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. 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

ByteDance 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 ByteDance, our mission is to inspire creativity and enrich life. 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.

Reasonable Accommodation

ByteDance 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/RA-request