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Algorithmic Trading Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Associate Trader

Washington, DC

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Trading innovation is the human intelligence behind our campaigns that help us to exceed performance goals. * Using MiQ's proprietary technology to create bespoke campaign setups & custom algorithms ...

... algorithms, tuning hyperparameters, and validating robustness through cross-validation techniques. Prior to development able to articulate the trade-off on different modeling techniques and ...

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Algorithmic Trading information

See Washington salary details

$84.4K

$97.1K

$106.5K

How much do algorithmic trading jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for algorithmic trading in Washington is $97,120.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $103,100.00 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.
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Image Processing Engineer III

Quantum Space

Rockville, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Quantum Space is a company focused on advanced technology solutions, and they are seeking an Image Processing Engineer III to transition algorithm prototypes to operational readiness. The role involves designing mathematical models for complex tracking problems and validating algorithms against mission requirements while integrating software and hardware systems.
Responsibilities:
• Algorithm Development & Engineering: Advance and mature image processing and computer vision prototypes into production-ready software solutions.
• Multi-Feature & Target Tracking: Design and implement robust estimation logic to track and localize multiple visual features simultaneously within dynamic or challenging environments.
• Statistical Error & Uncertainty Analysis: Develop mathematical models to estimate data confidence, handle measurement uncertainties, and provide reliable covariance metrics for downstream navigation or data fusion filters.
• Data Filtering & Optimization: Implement robust outlier rejection, noise filtering, and subpixel refinement techniques to ensure high data precision and system stability.
• Trade Studies & Benchmarking: Establish rigorous validation frameworks, simulation scenarios, and benchmarks to objectively evaluate and compare the performance of alternative algorithms.
• Hardware-Software Integration: Analyze and simulate the impacts of sensor and optical hardware characteristics (e.g., resolution, lens distortions, lighting sensitivity) on algorithm performance to guide system-level design choices.
• Interface & API Design: Define, maintain, and implement clear software interfaces, data contracts, and schema-validated API structures for seamless integration into larger architectures.
Qualifications:
Required:
• 5+ years of professional, hands-on experience in computer vision, image processing, and algorithm development.
• An advanced degree (e.g., a Ph.D. with substantial, relevant dissertation research) may count toward the minimum years of experience.
Company:
Quantum Space provides data buy services, deploys spacecraft, and performs space logistics for partners. Founded in 2021, the company is headquartered in Rockville, USA, with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.