Quantitative Researcher - Algorithmic Trading
1 day ago
Chicago
Job Description Why This Is a Great Opportunity • Work on cutting-edge quantitative research that directly powers automated trading in highly competitive global markets., • Partner closely with traders, software engineers, and fellow quants to design, test, and deploy strategies end-to-end., • Choose a focus aligned with your strengths: alpha modeling or execution/microstructure optimization., • Senior-level path for candidates with 3+ years of relevant experience and a strong track record. Job Description • Apply advanced quantitative methods to solve problems in financial modeling, algorithm development, and system optimization., • Collaborate with traders and developers to improve a complex, evolving algorithmic trading infrastructure., • Design and implement tools for traders, explore new trading ideas, and refine existing strategies., • Build, test, and maintain automated trading algorithms and risk management logic from scratch., • Analyze and optimize system performance, including latency, stability, and execution quality., • Conduct historical research and back-tests using large data sets and database tools., • Communicate market developments, model behavior, and research insights to traders and other stakeholders., • For modeling-focused work: design automated market-making and risk management algorithms, and build statistically driven position-taking strategies., • For execution-focused work: perform post-trade analysis, investigate system behavior, optimize algorithm parameters, study market microstructure, and drive execution system improvements. Requirements Qualifications • 2+ years of full-time, professional experience in a quantitative research, trading, or high-performance technology role, ideally at an algorithmic trading firm or similar environment., • Degree in mathematics, physics, engineering, computer science, or a closely related quantitative field., • Ability to write and maintain clean, organized, object-oriented Python code; C++ experience is a plus., • Proven experience in at least one of the following: options and volatility modeling, statistical analysis on large data sets, or diagnosing and optimizing algorithm logic in latency-sensitive or high-throughput distributed systems., • Expertise working with MySQL or similar databases for historical research and back-testing., • Passion for innovation and solving open-ended, data-rich problems., • Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex technical ideas clearly., • Collaborative attitude with a competitive drive and comfort with metrics-based performance evaluation., • Practical, production-focused mindset with a track record of delivering impactful solutions. Why You’ll Love Working Here • Competitive base salary in the 155,000 to 190,000 range, plus annual discretionary performance bonus., • Top-tier medical and dental coverage, along with additional benefits., • Relocation assistance package if you are moving to Chicago., • Generous vacation policy and ongoing training and continuing education opportunities., • Catered lunch, snacks, and beverages provided daily., • Regular group outings, company events, and a casual dress environment., • Dental insurance, • Paid time off, • Retirement plan, • Vision insurance