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Algorithmic Trading Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Guidance & Control Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site +1

$82K - $220K/yr

Duties/Responsibilities Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design. Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques. Develops embedded ...

Data Modeler Mid-Level 112-012

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$56 - $72.75/hr

Assists Government with the development and use of complex models, tools and algorithms to identify ... Supports creating models to support analysis of alternatives, performance trades, design trades and ...

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Quantum SME

Springfield, VA · On-site

$86K - $114K/yr

Ability to conduct trade studies and provide analysis to review/asses proposed quantum machine ... of Quantum Algorithms, Quantum Machine Learning, Quantum Clouds, Quantum simulation tools ...

You will also drive enterprise‑level trade studies to define and refine requirements for future ... Perform detailed analysis of SAR processing chains, image formation algorithms, calibration ...

Senior FPGA Engineer

Herndon, VA

$133K - $171K/yr

... algorithms for real time embedded system implementation and Anti-Jam technologies * Supporting ... Ability to plan/perform analysis, studies/trade-offs in support of subsystem specification and ...

Senior FPGA Engineer

Herndon, VA

$133K - $171K/yr

... algorithms for real time embedded system implementation and Anti-Jam technologies * Supporting ... Ability to plan/perform analysis, studies/trade-offs in support of subsystem specification and ...

Senior FPGA Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$133K - $171K/yr

... algorithms for real time embedded system implementation and Anti-Jam technologies * Supporting ... Ability to plan/perform analysis, studies/trade-offs in support of subsystem specification and ...

Ability to conduct trade studies and provide analysis to review/asses proposed quantum machine ... of Quantum Algorithms, Quantum Machine Learning, Quantum Clouds, Quantum simulation tools ...

Ability to conduct trade studies and provide analysis to review/asses proposed quantum machine ... of Quantum Algorithms, Quantum Machine Learning, Quantum Clouds, Quantum simulation tools ...

You will also drive enterprise-level trade studies to define and refine requirements for future ... Perform detailed analysis of SAR processing chains, image formation algorithms, calibration ...

Satellite Payload Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$81K - $110K/yr

You will also drive enterprise-level trade studies to define and refine requirements for future ... Perform detailed analysis of SAR processing chains, image formation algorithms, calibration ...

Identifying critical analysis required, organizing and performing analysis tasks, organizing and performing system- and design-level trades, developing and evaluating algorithms, defining system ...

Identifying critical analysis required, organizing and performing analysis tasks, organizing and performing system- and design-level trades, developing and evaluating algorithms, defining system ...

Identifying critical analysis required, organizing and performing analysis tasks, organizing and performing system- and design-level trades, developing and evaluating algorithms, defining system ...

The Systems Engineer is expected to provide system level trade-space assessments of approaches ... Experience and knowledge of algorithms used for navigation, periscope detection, discrimination or ...

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Algorithmic Trading information

See Virginia salary details

$73.9K

$85K

$93.2K

How much do algorithmic trading jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for algorithmic trading in Virginia is $85,014.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,300.00 and $90,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is Algorithmic Trading?

Algorithmic trading involves trading in equities, currencies, or other financial instruments using computer programs. A trading program uses an algorithm to calculate current market conditions. This trading method is automated, so the program buys or sells the financial instrument when the algorithm says that the market meets all the requirements for a profitable trade. To create an algorithm, you perform mathematical and statistical analysis, also known as quantitative analysis, on an exchange or equity. After creating an algorithm with defined trading rules, you test it using historical market data. While this is primarily a technical field, you also need an understanding of the market.

Is algo trading a good career?

Algorithmic trading is a specialized career that involves developing and implementing automated trading strategies using programming skills, data analysis, and financial knowledge. It can be lucrative and offers opportunities in finance firms, hedge funds, and proprietary trading firms, but it requires strong technical skills, continuous learning, and risk management expertise.

What is algorithmic trading?

Algorithmic trading refers to the use of computer programs and algorithms to automatically execute trading orders in financial markets. These algorithms follow predefined rules based on factors like price, timing, and volume to optimize trading strategies and reduce human intervention. Algorithmic trading is widely used by institutional investors, hedge funds, and individual traders to increase efficiency, minimize costs, and capitalize on market opportunities. It can range from simple rule-based systems to complex strategies involving machine learning and artificial intelligence.

How much do Algo traders make?

Algorithmic traders' salaries vary based on experience, location, and performance, but they typically earn from $80,000 to over $200,000 annually. Successful traders with strong quantitative skills and advanced programming knowledge can earn significantly more through bonuses and profit sharing. Compensation often includes base salary, performance incentives, and benefits, especially in financial firms or hedge funds.

What is the difference between Algorithmic Trading vs Quantitative Analyst?

AspectAlgorithmic TradingQuantitative Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in finance, computer science, or related field; programming skillsDegree in mathematics, statistics, or finance; strong analytical skills
Work EnvironmentTrading firms, hedge funds, financial institutions; fast-pacedInvestment banks, asset management firms; research-focused
Employer & Industry UsageUsed to automate trading strategiesDevelops models to inform trading decisions

While both roles involve quantitative skills and finance knowledge, Algorithmic Traders focus on implementing automated trading systems, whereas Quantitative Analysts develop models and strategies that may be used by traders or firms. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in their primary focus: execution versus modeling.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals in algorithmic trading, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in algorithmic trading often encounter challenges such as developing strategies that remain effective in rapidly changing markets, minimizing latency for faster execution, and managing the risks associated with automated trading systems. To address these challenges, it's essential to stay updated with the latest market trends and technological advancements, conduct rigorous backtesting of algorithms, and implement robust risk management protocols. Collaboration with quantitative analysts, software engineers, and risk managers is also key to ensuring strategies are both innovative and resilient.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Algorithmic Trader, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Algorithmic Trader, you need a strong background in quantitative analysis, programming (often Python, C++, or Java), and a solid understanding of financial markets, typically supported by a degree in mathematics, engineering, finance, or computer science. Familiarity with statistical modeling tools, trading platforms, and backtesting systems is essential, and certifications such as CFA or FRM can be advantageous. Superior problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial to developing, implementing, and refining trading strategies that can operate profitably and reliably in fast-moving financial environments.

Is algorithmic trading illegal?

Algorithmic trading is legal in most jurisdictions when conducted within regulatory frameworks that require proper registration, compliance, and risk management. Traders and firms must adhere to rules set by financial authorities to prevent market manipulation and ensure fair trading practices.
What are the most commonly searched types of Algorithmic Trading jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Algorithmic Trading jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Algorithmic Trading jobs in Virginia? For Algorithmic Trading jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Data Engineer with Security Clearance

Variable Constant

Reston, VA

$119K - $143K/yr

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Data Engineer Build sophisticated ETL pipelines and data processing systems for mission-critical DoD
applications. Design data governance frameworks ensuring compliance with federal
requirements while maintaining high throughput and low latency for systems supporting
tens of thousands of concurrent users, workflow automation, and AI-driven analytics.
Architect data pipelines for streaming and batch processing, design data transformation
logic, and build monitoring systems for data quality and lineage. Work with multiple data
stores, implement field-level encryption, and ensure proper access controls across all data
layers. Build data infrastructure supporting workflow engines, robotic process automation
systems, and AI prompt engineering that dynamically answers complex questions.
Solve algorithmic challenges around efficient data transformation, deduplication at scale,
and maintaining data consistency across distributed systems. Design data models
supporting complex authorization requirements, workflow state tracking, automation audit
trails, and AI training datasets. Work on real problems: processing sensitive data across multiple classification levels,
implementing sophisticated encryption schemes, ensuring data integrity throughout
complex pipelines, and preparing datasets for AI-driven analysis. Required: Active TS/SCI with CI Poly, 4+ years data engineering, ETL/data processing at
scale, data governance, DoD familiarity. #Java Bonus: Algorithm design, distributed systems,
streaming data platforms. This company specializes in advanced hardware and software solutions for the
Department of Defense. We are a small, agile company with a reputation for solving
problems others cannot. No bureaucracy, no trade shows - we move fast and ship solutions
that directly support national security missions. You will work on sophisticated authorization systems, high-performance data processing,
advanced encryption, distributed architectures at massive scale, workflow automation,
robotic process automation, and AI-driven solutions. Real technical challenges with real
impact.