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Algorithmic Trading Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Senior Scientist with Security Clearance

Herndon, VA · On-site

$94K - $128K/yr

Test and evaluate emerging algorithms, exploitation tools, and analytic platforms; contribute to trade studies and capability assessments. * Prepare and deliver technical briefings, findings, and ...

Test and evaluate emerging algorithms, exploitation tools, and analytic platforms; contribute to trade studies and capability assessments. * Prepare and deliver technical briefings, findings, and ...

Senior Scientist

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$94K - $128K/yr

Test and evaluate emerging algorithms, exploitation tools, and analytic platforms; contribute to trade studies and capability assessments. * Prepare and deliver technical briefings, findings, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Algorithmic Trading information

See Washington salary details

$84.4K

$97.1K

$106.5K

How much do algorithmic trading jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 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.

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.

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.

Do algorithmic traders make money?

Algorithmic traders can make money by developing and implementing automated trading strategies that exploit market opportunities. Success depends on skills in programming, quantitative analysis, and risk management, and profitability varies based on strategy performance and market conditions. Not all algorithmic traders are profitable, and many face significant competition and operational costs.

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Algorithmic Trading jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Algorithmic Trading jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Algorithmic Trading jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Algorithmic Trading job openings:

Infographic showing various Algorithmic Trading job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,120 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Technical Scientist - SME with Security Clearance

GRVTY

Springfield, VA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is looking for a Senior Scientist to support research, algorithm development, and advanced analytics for overhead persistent infrared and electro-optical/infrared sensing systems. This is a technically demanding role centered on OPIR phenomenology, optical signature characterization, and sensor performance analysis in direct support of national security missions at a Customer site in Herndon, Virginia. You will work alongside algorithm engineers, data scientists, and intelligence analysts to develop and apply physics-based models, image science methods, and multi-platform remote sensing analytics. The work is fast-paced and mission-driven - requirements shift, collection windows are finite, and the analysis you produce informs real decisions. We are looking for someone who has done this work before, can operate with autonomy, and brings enough depth in OPIR to hit the ground running. What You'll be Owning * Lead research and development of advanced algorithms for OPIR and EO/IR remote sensing systems, with emphasis on target detection, tracking, location, and characterization. * Design, implement, and evaluate algorithms for EO/IR sensor and camera system performance - including noise modeling, radiometric calibration, and sensitivity analysis. * Analyze optical signature data to extract target phenomenology, characterize signatures, and generate technically rigorous intelligence insights. * Conduct multi-platform remote sensing analytics across varied sensors, collection geometries, and data streams. * Support the full TCPED process for OPIR - from tasking and collection planning through exploitation and dissemination. * Review and validate analytic products for technical accuracy and mission relevance; identify gaps and recommend improvements. * Maintain detailed, reproducible analysis logs documenting workflows, assumptions, methodologies, and results. * Respond to real-time EO/IR analysis requests and adapt quickly to evolving mission priorities. * Test and evaluate emerging algorithms, exploitation tools, and analytic platforms; contribute to trade studies and capability assessments. * Prepare and deliver technical briefings, findings, and written reports to customer and program stakeholders. * Mentor junior analysts; contribute to analytic standards and methodology development across the team. What You Must Have * Active Top Secret clearance with ability to obtain SCI and CI polygraph. * Bachelor's degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Atmospheric Science, Applied Mathematics, or a closely related field. * 5+ years of hands-on OPIR experience, with demonstrated work in EO/IR phenomenology, optical signature analysis, or sensor performance assessment. * Experience with image processing and digital signal processing tools for short-wave and mid-wave infrared data. * Experience applying algorithms for target detection and background suppression in OPIR or EO/IR contexts. * Familiarity with multi-data stream ingest and analysis techniques. * Working knowledge of the TCPED process as applied to OPIR collection and exploitation. * Strong documentation and communication skills - you will be writing technical reports and briefing customers, not just doing the analysis. * Able to work independently and manage priorities without significant hand-holding. What Would be Nice to Have * Master's degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field. * Direct experience with optical signature modeling and EO/IR phenomenology characterization. * Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, IDL, or C/C++ for algorithm development or data analysis. * Experience with geospatial and exploitation tools such as ArcGIS, Google Earth, Opticks, or Palette. * Background in radiometric calibration, sensor noise modeling, or end-to-end sensor performance modeling. * Experience supporting collection planning and requirements definition for remote sensing systems. * Familiarity with AI/ML-enhanced analytics as applied to remote sensing or signature exploitation. * Prior experience in a defense or intelligence community environment supporting classified programs.