Software Engineer Graduate (Analytical Database) - 2026 Start (BS/MS)

Role Overview

This graduate opportunity is with ByteDance’s team building a next-generation, high-performance analytical database for fast, data-driven decisions on very large-scale data sets. The original system was based on ClickHouse, but it has since undergone major redesign work to improve efficiency, scalability, and fit with elastic cloud-native infrastructure. After extensive internal use in extremely large environments, the product is being prepared for broader delivery through multiple cloud providers.

The company is seeking graduates for a 2026 start. Successful applicants must be available to begin onboarding by the end of 2026 and should clearly mention both their graduation date and availability in their resume.

Candidates may submit applications for up to two roles across ByteDance and its affiliates worldwide. Applications are assessed on an ongoing basis, so early submission is encouraged.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement distributed database systems built on cloud-native principles and modern infrastructure.
• Investigate and improve core engine and platform components to resolve reliability and performance issues in large production environments.
• Create high-performance systems from the ground up, combining hardware and software thinking with business and cloud-native needs.
• Keep pace with new developments in database technology and look for ways to apply emerging ideas such as advanced hardware, intelligent optimizers, and lakehouse-style architectures.
• Explore how AI and large language models can be integrated with databases, including multimodal analysis, AI-assisted operations automation, and intelligent agent-based support tools.

Minimum Qualifications

• You are in your final year or have recently graduated with a degree in Software Development, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or another related technical field.
• You have a strong grasp of core computer science topics such as operating systems, databases, algorithms, data structures, networking, probability, and statistics.
• You are a capable programmer in at least one language, such as C, C++, Java, Python, or Golang.
• You understand distributed algorithms and database systems at a foundational level.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with database kernel development, or a strong interest in building a career in that area, is preferred.
• Research publications in distributed systems or database engineering, or contributions to open-source projects in the big data ecosystem, are considered advantages.
• You have a basic understanding of AI and LLM concepts, including how large language models work, prompt engineering, and machine learning fundamentals.
• Hands-on experience connecting AI with databases, such as using machine learning to improve query performance, is a plus.

Additional Information

By applying for this role, you agree to the company’s global applicant privacy policy. Questions about the role can be directed to apac-earlycareers@bytedance.com.

About ByteDance

Founded in 2012, ByteDance aims to inspire creativity and enrich life. Its product portfolio includes TikTok, Lemon8, CapCut, Pico, and several China-market products such as Toutiao, Douyin, and Xigua, helping people connect, consume, and create content more easily and enjoyably.

Why Join ByteDance

ByteDance places creativity at the center of its mission. The company builds products that help people express themselves, discover content, and connect with others. Its global and diverse teams contribute to that mission every day. Employees are encouraged to work with curiosity, humility, and impact, while embracing an “Always Day 1” mindset to create meaningful breakthroughs.

Diversity & Inclusion

ByteDance emphasizes inclusion and values people for their skills, experiences, and perspectives. The workplace is designed to reflect the diverse communities the company serves, and the organization is committed to fostering an environment where those differences are respected and celebrated.