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Associate Trader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CAPTRUST

Associate Trader

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

CAPTRUST is seeking an Associate Trader for an early-career investment role designed for individuals seeking to build a career in trading, investment research, and portfolio management. The position ...

CAPTRUST

Associate Trader

Costa Mesa, CA

CAPTRUST is seeking an Associate Trader for an early-career investment role designed for individuals seeking to build a career in trading, investment research, and portfolio management. The position ...

CHRONO & COSMO

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TCG Sales Associate - Trading Card Games

Fontana, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $25.90/hr

TCG Sales Associate - Trading Card Games Location: Fontana, CA 92335 Job Type: Part-Time Pay Range: $16.90 per hour Expected Hours: 20 - 25 per week About the Role We are a growing Trading Card Game ...

CHRONO & COSMO

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TCG Sales Associate - Trading Card Games

Fontana, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $25.90/hr

TCG Sales Associate - Trading Card Games Location: Fontana, CA 92335 Job Type: Part-Time Pay Range: $16.90 per hour Expected Hours: 20 - 25 per week About the Role We are a growing Trading Card Game ...

Crossing Inc

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Retail Sales Associate | Trading Cards & Collectibles

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

About Us We're a growing trading card and collectibles retailer specializing in Pokémon, Kayou ... We're looking for enthusiastic, dependable Retail Sales Associates who enjoy helping customers ...

PIMCO

Associate, Short Term Trader

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Strong trading and/or portfolio management background, broadly including corporate bonds, US and non-US Agency/Supranational securities, and asset-backed securities. Understanding of short-term risk ...

PIMCO

Associate, Short Term Trader

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Strong trading and/or portfolio management background, broadly including corporate bonds, US and non-US Agency/Supranational securities, and asset-backed securities. Understanding of short-term risk ...

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All JobsAssociate Trader JobsAssociate Trader Jobs in California

Associate Trader information

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How much do associate trader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate trader in California is $18.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $19.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Associate Traders face when adapting to fast-paced market conditions?

Associate Traders often work in environments where market conditions shift rapidly, requiring quick decision-making and the ability to process large amounts of information under pressure. One challenge is staying updated with constantly changing regulations and trading platforms, while maintaining accuracy in high-stakes situations. Effective communication with senior traders and other team members is also essential, as collaboration helps mitigate risks and seize opportunities promptly. Developing a disciplined approach to risk management and learning from experienced colleagues can help new Associate Traders thrive in this dynamic role.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior investment bankers, hedge fund managers, and top traders like associate traders can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and commissions. These positions typically require extensive experience, strong analytical skills, and advanced certifications or degrees in finance or related fields.

What does an associate trader do?

An associate trader supports senior traders by executing trades, analyzing market data, and monitoring financial instruments. They often use trading platforms and require strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of financial markets. The role typically involves working in a fast-paced environment and may require relevant certifications or training.

What are Associate Traders?

Associate Traders are entry- to mid-level professionals who assist in buying and selling financial securities, such as stocks, bonds, or derivatives, on behalf of clients or firms. They support senior traders with market analysis, trade execution, and monitoring of trading positions. Associate Traders also help manage risk, ensure compliance with regulations, and may interact with clients to relay information. This role is often a stepping stone to becoming a full trader and requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a good understanding of financial markets.

Is 30 too old to become a trader?

Associate traders and other trading professionals come from diverse backgrounds and ages; starting a trading career at 30 is common and feasible. Success depends on skills, education, and experience in financial markets, not age. Many traders develop their expertise through certifications like the Series 7 or Series 63 and gain experience over time.

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

To thrive as an Associate Trader, you need strong quantitative and analytical skills, a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or a related field, and a solid understanding of financial markets. Proficiency in trading platforms like Bloomberg Terminal, Excel, and familiarity with programming languages such as Python is highly beneficial. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These capabilities enable accurate trade execution, efficient risk management, and strong collaboration in high-pressure, fast-paced trading environments.

What does an entry level trader do?

An entry-level trader assists with executing trades, monitoring market conditions, and analyzing financial data under the supervision of senior traders. They often use trading platforms and may be responsible for research, data entry, and supporting trading strategies to gain industry experience.
What are the most commonly searched types of Trader jobs in California? The most popular types of Trader jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Trader jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Trader job openings:
Associate Trader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Trader job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,031 per year, or $18.8 per hour.
Associate Trader

Associate Trader

CAPTRUST

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Overview
WHO are we looking for?
CAPTRUST is seeking an Associate Trader for an early-career investment role designed for individuals seeking to build a career in trading, investment research, and portfolio management. The position supports the firm's trading and investment teams through portfolio analysis, account reviews, trade implementation, investment reporting, and research initiatives. Working alongside experienced Traders, Portfolio Managers, and Wealth Advisors, the successful candidate will gain broad exposure to the investment management process, including portfolio construction, asset allocation, rebalancing, trade execution, fixed income portfolio management, and equity research. This role provides a unique opportunity to develop real-world investment experience within a leading wealth management and investment advisory firm while building the analytical and technical skills necessary for long-term success in the investment industry.
The internal title for this role is intended to be Associate | Portfolio Management.
Responsibilities
Reporting & Investment Materials
  • Prepare and distribute daily, weekly, and monthly reports, including economic, market, and fundamental investment analysis, supporting the Trading Team and Wealth Advisors.
  • Assist in the preparation of client and prospective client portfolio reviews and investment analyses.
  • Maintain, update, and enhance presentations and investment materials utilized by the Wealth Management Team.

Trading & Portfolio Management Support
  • Review client accounts relative to target asset allocations and portfolio objectives.
  • Identify rebalancing opportunities and recommend trades based on target allocations, market conditions, tax considerations, capital gains constraints, and client-specific requirements.
  • Execute portfolio rebalancing and assist with the implementation of account-specific and firm-wide strategy trades.
  • Assist Fixed Income Traders with bond trade allocations and portfolio management activities.
  • Coordinate with Wealth Advisors and Traders to implement client-directed trades and investment requests.

Investment Research
  • Support the Equity Team with security analysis and company, industry, economic, and market research projects.
  • Gather and organize data used in investment recommendations, portfolio reviews, and market commentary.
  • Contribute to the development of investment presentations and supporting research materials.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Accounting, Mathematics, Statistics, Business, or a related field.
  • 0-3 years of experience in trading, investment management, wealth management, financial analysis, or a related field.

Desired Qualifications/Skills:
  • Experience with Bloomberg Terminal and Bloomberg analytics tools.
  • Experience with Python for data analysis, reporting automation, and investment research.
  • Familiarity with portfolio management systems, trading platforms, and performance reporting software.
  • Knowledge of asset allocation, portfolio construction, rebalancing methodologies, and capital markets.
  • Understanding of tax-aware portfolio management and investment implementation.
  • Currently pursuing or intending to pursue the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation.
  • Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
  • Strong to advanced Microsoft Excel skills, including complex formulas, PivotTables, data analysis, lookup functions, and financial modeling, with the aptitude and desire to develop expert-level proficiency.
  • Strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Team-oriented with the ability to collaborate effectively across investment, advisory, and operations teams.
  • Ability to perform under pressure and manage competing priorities in a fast-paced, time-sensitive environment.
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Demonstrated interest in financial markets, investing, and portfolio management.

WHAT can you expect from your career at CAPTRUST?
Our colleagues, like our clients, tend to stay with CAPTRUST for years. There's a reason for it; it's a great culture in which to work and grow. We all work together, each of us motivating those around us with our commitment to high standards. At CAPTRUST, expect a fully stocked break room, fun employee events, and a quality team surrounding you with opportunities for personal growth.
Our Employee Benefits Package shows how much we value our team. Some benefits include:
  • Company discretionary bonus.
  • Health, dental, and vision coverage, employer 401(k) plan and company match, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, and voluntary supplemental plans subject to plan terms.
  • Company-paid benefits such as life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability, subject to applicable waiting periods.
  • Paid time off (PTO) or Paid Sick Leave (PSL)
  • Compensation range (depending on location and experience): $85,000-$95,000

WHERE will you be working?
1124 Bristol Street | Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Due to the nature of the role, this is not a remote or work from home position. #LI-Onsite
HOW do we build a world class organization one brick at a time?
We make it a priority to hire those who have a commitment to service, a real interest in other people, and a passion to continuously improve. Simply put: the difference at CAPTRUST is the quality of our people and depth of our bench. If you are ready to make your mark, we want to talk to you.
Are you the next brick?
To get it done the CAPTRUST Way, an individual should exhibit the following characteristics:
  • Ability to build successful, collaborative, and trusting relationships
  • Instinctive aptitude for consistently creating accurate, concise, respectful, and easy-to-understand verbal and written communications conveying complex information
  • A strong sense of urgency about getting work done and solving problems to achieve results that benefit our clients and colleagues, even when faced with challenges
  • Inherent desire to give back to our communities and enrich the lives of those around us
  • An other-centered mindset
  • Integrity through maintaining objectivity

EEO/Diversity Statement:
At CAPTRUST, we are committed to building and maintaining a diverse workforce and inclusive work environment where ALL colleagues feel authentically seen, respected, and supported.
It is our intent to maintain a work environment that is free of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation because of sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or other related medical conditions), gender, race (including hair texture or hairstyles associated with race), religion, color, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, protected veteran status, uniformed service, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local laws.
This position will remain open until filled. #associate #entry

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