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Algorithmic Trading Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Prepare data, fit algorithms, tune hyperparameters, and validate model robustness through cross-validation techniques. Clearly articulate trade-offs among different modeling approaches and their ...

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Algorithmic Trading information

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$84.4K

$97.1K

$106.5K

How much do algorithmic trading jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Algorithmic Trading jobs in Washington?

For Algorithmic Trading jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles 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 1% Internship, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,120 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Sensor Systems Engineer - Radar Signal Processing and Sensor Systems

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 75 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you excited to apply your technical skills to develop radar and sensor capabilities that help solve critical defense challenges? Do you want to help develop and evaluate sensing capabilities that move from analysis and prototyping to mission impact? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.
The Multi-Domain Sensing Architectures and Data Fusion Group develops advanced radar, signal processing, sensor system, classification, discrimination, and mission analysis capabilities that enable next-generation defense solutions. Our team combines expertise in radar and sensor systems, waveform and phenomenology analysis, modeling and simulation, systems analysis, algorithm development, and selective data fusion to solve complex technical challenges for our nation. We work closely with government sponsors and multidisciplinary teams to transition innovative concepts into operational capabilities, while fostering a collaborative environment that encourages technical excellence, hands-on learning, technical ownership, and leadership growth.
The successful candidate will contribute across the lifecycle of advanced sensing capabilities, including radar and signal processing algorithm development, modeling and simulation, system analysis, architecture evaluation, verification and validation, test data analysis, and transition of innovative technologies into operational applications. This role is designed for engineers with 1-2 years of relevant experience who are ready to deepen their technical skills, take ownership of focused technical tasks, and grow into technical leadership responsibilities.
As a Sensor Systems Engineer - Radar Signal Processing and Sensor Systems
  • Develop, evaluate, and mature signal processing, radar system, sensing, classification, and discrimination algorithms within complex system and system-of-systems architectures.
  • Take ownership of focused technical tasks, analyses, prototypes, or modeling efforts and drive them from problem definition through results and recommendations.
  • Support concept development, requirements analysis, architecture trades, and performance assessment for advanced radar and sensor systems.
  • Evaluate end-to-end radar and sensor system performance, including detection, estimation, discrimination, classification, and operational effectiveness measures.
  • Perform verification, validation, test data analysis, and performance assessment for prototype and operational sensing capabilities.
  • Analyze radar and sensor systems and architectures, including sensor phenomenology, waveform considerations, sensor integration, resource management, and system-of-systems interactions.
  • Design and execute modeling, simulation, analysis, verification, and validation studies to assess system performance and develop quantitative recommendations for future capabilities.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, government sponsors, and external organizations to identify, analyze, and solve challenging technical problems spanning signal processing, radar systems, sensor architectures, algorithms, and operational concepts.
  • Demonstrate technical leadership by organizing your technical approach, coordinating with teammates, communicating risks and findings, and delivering clear, data-driven recommendations.
  • Develop algorithmic prototypes, system analyses, and technical solutions that advance applied sensing, radar, discrimination, and classification capabilities.
  • Apply tracking and data fusion concepts where they support broader sensor system performance objectives, without making them the primary focus of the role.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a BS in electrical engineering, applied mathematics, physics, computer science, systems engineering, statistics, mathematics, or a related technical field.
  • Have 1+ years of relevant professional experience developing, evaluating, or assessing signal processing algorithms, radar systems, sensor systems, classification or discrimination algorithms, sensing architectures, modeling and simulation capabilities, or related technical analyses.
  • Have experience in one or more of the following areas: radar signal processing, detection and estimation theory, waveform analysis, sensor phenomenology, sensor modeling, target characterization or discrimination, electronic sensing systems, resource management, system performance assessment, verification and validation, or radar/EO/IR system analysis.
  • Have experience using MATLAB, Python, C/C++, Julia, or similar scientific programming languages for modeling, simulation, algorithm development, test data analysis, or performance assessment.
  • Have demonstrated technical ownership or emerging leadership through a project, internship, lab effort, capstone, sponsored project, or multidisciplinary technical task.
  • Can communicate technical results clearly through briefings, technical discussions, written analysis, and data-driven recommendations to technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Are willing and able to travel up to 10% of the time, as needed.
  • Hold an active Secret security clearance and ultimately a TS/SCI clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum qualifications if you...
  • Possess an MS in electrical engineering, applied mathematics, physics, computer science, systems engineering, statistics, mathematics, or a related technical field.
  • Have applied experience in radar systems, missile defense sensing, air and missile defense, integrated air and missile defense, multi-domain sensing, or related national security applications.
  • Have experience taking an algorithm, model, or analysis capability from initial concept through prototype implementation, performance evaluation, and recommended next steps.
  • Have experience with measured data, field test data, high-fidelity simulation data, or hardware/software-in-the-loop evaluation for radar or sensor systems.
  • Have experience coordinating a small technical effort, mentoring peers or interns, leading a student or early-career project team, or serving as a technical point of contact for a project stakeholder.
  • Have familiarity with digital engineering, system-of-systems analysis, sensor resource management, architecture evaluation, or advanced modeling and simulation.
  • Have familiarity with tracking, state estimation, multi-sensor data fusion, or data association concepts as supporting elements of end-to-end sensing performance.
  • Have experience collaborating with government sponsors, defense laboratories, industry partners, or multidisciplinary technical teams.
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance and are able to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

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About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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