Building TikTok: Join Data Center Infrastructure Team!

The Data Center Infrastructure Team plays a critical role in TikTok's growth by building and operating our data centers around the world. Currently, there are countless roles available across Europe providing cloud solutions and developing scalable, reliable infrastructure services.
We spoke to Jose, Raj and Jialin about their work on Dublin's Data Center Infrastructure Team and how it's essential in TikTok's mission to protect user data. In addition, Khushboo from the recruitment team shares tips and information on the TikTok hiring process.

What makes TikTok's data center infrastructure teams special?

Jose: This team has a unique opportunity to create impact. TikTok is still early in its data center journey in Europe, which means you can have meaningful influence on decision-making. From building procedures, to creating new processes, to defining our ways of working, we get to constantly innovate within the company and the industry.

Raj: I've been working in data centers for close to a decade and I can say with confidence the team at TikTok has something no other infrastructure team has: an opportunity to define standards and put their stamp on things in one of the most high-profile areas in the industry.

Khushboo: Data security is such a high-profile and fast-growing area in the technology sector, and is set to continue to grow for many years to come as tech plays a bigger role in all of our lives. The possibilities are limitless.

Talk about the projects the infrastructure team is currently spearheading.

Raj: We're experiencing extensive development in the European region. We're continuing to enhance our Dublin sites, and plan to expand to the Hamar region of Norway later this year as part of our strategy to strengthen data safety across Europe. There's an opportunity to see how these greenfield sites are built into full data centers, and for our teammates to manage the centers through that journey. It's going to be a very interesting challenge for us.

Jose: We're in "build mode" at the moment, so if you're joining TikTok now you're going to be instrumental in shaping the data infrastructure of the region. This team is responsible for turning strategic roadmaps into reality – we're heavily investing in this space and this team.

How instrumental is this work for the wider TikTok business?

Jose: This team is at the forefront of demonstrating how serious TikTok is about data protection. We have a strong culture of compliance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) standards, which is extremely important for us. We're committed to leading the global conversation when it comes to keeping user data protected.

Jialin: The European team plays a massive part in ensuring we have 24/7 global coverage when it comes to troubleshooting and business support. We use a “follow the sun” model to pass work through various time zones, meaning TikTok can operate the whole infrastructure at all times, while everyone is still working within their comfortable hours. The work and its impact are global.

What do you look for in those interested in joining the team?

Jose: We're in the unique position of building the TikTok infrastructure into maturity, while also expanding as a team. What we're currently looking for is not only the technical skill set, but also people who foster a culture of collaboration and creativity. That's the only way we can be successful; with a global team willing to jump in and help each other out.

Raj: I've hired individuals in the past whose key strengths are problem-solving and communication, and they were some of the best engineers I've hired. When we hire at TikTok, we dig into a potential teammate's mindset, attitude, and how they approach problems. Because we work locally and think globally, we ask ourselves, "are the solutions only for Europe, or can we develop, scale, and implement them to help other regions?"

Khushboo: We're working in hyper-scale environments, so having experience at large-scale is definitely favorable. This is an amazing opportunity for those joining us from bigger organizations – we offer more growth opportunities and a larger voice in decision-making. We want to meet people who are excited at the prospect of building from the ground up, and scoping out new ways of doing things.

Which one of the company's values resonates with you most, and why?

Jose: Be Candid and Clear. I find with the best teams, the only way you build trust is through truth. When a team trusts each other, there is nothing they can't accomplish together. This relies on us being candid with each other: celebrating great work as well as holding each other accountable when we've missed the mark. Both are vital to helping us improve and aim higher as a team.

Raj: Seek Truth and Be Pragmatic resonates with me the most. If we communicate with one another in an honest way, it will save time, help us connect with each other authentically, and accomplish more every day.

What does the recruitment process look like here at TikTok?

Khushboo: Once we've reviewed the application submitted to one of our open roles, we'll have an initial screening call to see if you might be a match. We'll cover your motivations, values, and how your experience aligns with the position. During the conversation, we'll also be able to share more about the role, team, and life at TikTok.

If that conversation goes well, you'll progress to the technical stage of the process where you'll meet with members of the team, giving you a sneak peek into our ways of working. You'll also walk us through your data center experience alongside your project management skills to understand how you manage multiple complex projects through to delivery. If all goes well, we'll move to extend you an offer.

What advice do you have for candidates interested in joining the team?

Khushboo: We're always on the lookout for candidates who can demonstrate innovation and creativity. We also want to build a team with diverse skill sets and experiences. We believe diversity of thought is critical, so come prepared to talk about the impact you think you can have here with your expertise and unique approach. Finally, make sure to review our values and think about whether you embody them in your approach. Our process is very candid, so don't be afraid to ask questions!

TikTok's mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy to our vibrant community. We value external feedback from the global security research community on potential vulnerabilities that help strengthen our overall platform security posture. We know that staying ahead of next-generation cyber threats requires continuously strengthening the security of our platform, which is why we work to enhance our security standards and collaborate with industry-leading experts to test our defenses.

The Data Center Infrastructure Team is a dynamic department at the forefront of protecting user data. If you're interested in joining this vital and growing organization at TikTok, check out available positions here.