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Derivative Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ExxonMobil

System Trader

Spring, TX · On-site

Identifies hedging requirements but is not authorized to trade derivatives Job Role Responsibilities Collaborate with Optimizers to implement commercial strategies that ensure system balance and ...

ExxonMobil

System Trader

Spring, TX

Identifies hedging requirements but is not authorized to trade derivatives Job Role Responsibilities Collaborate with Optimizers to implement commercial strategies that ensure system balance and ...

ExxonMobil

System Trader

Spring, TX

Identifies hedging requirements but is not authorized to trade derivatives Job Role Responsibilities Collaborate with Optimizers to implement commercial strategies that ensure system balance and ...

Athene

Senior Analyst, Derivative Operations

Greenwich, CT · On-site

$85K - $128K/yr

The Senior Derivative Operations Analyst will have responsibilities associated with derivative middle-office trade support, data management, investment accounting oversight, and derivative legal ...

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$53K

$101.5K

$196K

How much do derivative trader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for derivative trader in the United States is $101,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $181,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a derivative trader?

Derivative traders are financial professionals who buy and sell derivative contracts, such as options, futures, and swaps, which derive their value from underlying assets like stocks, commodities, or currencies. Their role involves analyzing market trends, assessing risks, and executing trades to profit from price movements or to hedge against potential losses. Derivative traders can work for investment banks, hedge funds, or as independent traders, and they require strong analytical skills, risk management expertise, and knowledge of financial markets.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a derivative trader?

To thrive as a Derivative Trader, you need strong quantitative analysis, risk management, and financial market knowledge, often supported by a degree in finance, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with trading platforms (such as Bloomberg Terminal), programming languages (like Python or R), and certifications such as CFA or FRM are typically required. Exceptional decision-making, stress management, and communication skills help traders stand out in high-pressure, fast-paced environments. These skills are crucial for making informed, timely trades while effectively managing risk and collaborating with colleagues.

What are some common challenges faced by derivative traders in their daily work?

Derivative traders often face the challenge of managing high levels of market volatility and risk, which requires quick decision-making and strong analytical skills. Keeping up with rapidly changing market conditions, regulatory updates, and technological advancements can also be demanding. Additionally, derivative traders must maintain effective communication with other team members, such as risk managers and analysts, to ensure informed trading strategies. Staying disciplined and adhering to risk limits is crucial for long-term success in this fast-paced environment.

What is the difference between Derivative Trader vs Futures Trader?

AspectDerivative TraderFutures Trader
CertificationsOften requires FINRA licenses, Series 7, 63, or 55Typically holds similar licenses, including Series 7 and 63
Work EnvironmentWorks in trading firms, investment banks, or hedge funds, focusing on various derivativesOperates mainly in futures exchanges or trading desks specializing in futures contracts
Industry UsageCommon in financial services, hedge funds, and proprietary tradingPrimarily in commodities, financial futures, and derivatives markets

Both Derivative Traders and Futures Traders work in financial markets, often holding similar licenses and working in related environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Derivative Traders handle a broad range of derivatives like options and swaps, while Futures Traders specialize in trading futures contracts. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How much do derivative traders make?

Derivative traders' salaries vary based on experience, location, and performance, but they typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually. Senior or highly successful traders can make significantly more, especially with bonuses tied to trading profits. Many also receive benefits and may work long hours in fast-paced financial environments.

How to get a job in derivative trading?

To get a job as a derivative trader, candidates typically need a strong background in finance, economics, or mathematics, along with proficiency in trading platforms and risk management. Relevant certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Financial Risk Manager (FRM) can enhance prospects, and internships or entry-level roles in trading firms provide valuable experience. A solid understanding of financial markets, analytical skills, and the ability to work under pressure are essential for success in this field.
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Derivative Trader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Derivative Trader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 65% Physical, 9% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,533 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Associate Trader/Trader, Derivatives

Russell Investments

Seattle, WA • On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Salary Range:
$90,000 USD - $140,000 USD
Specific compensation will be based on candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, commercial considerations, and other job-related factors permitted by law. At Russell Investments, salary is just one part of our compensation package. Our total rewards approach includes an annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility criteria) in addition to participation in our competitive benefits programs including healthcare, retirement, vacation, and wellbeing programs.
Job Description:
This is an opportunity for you to join the derivatives trading team in Seattle. You will be part of a team that is responsible for trading and advising on customized portfolio overlays and hedging strategies across Russell Investments' funds and third-party clients.
You will have a specific derivatives focus which will encompass trading and subject matter expertise across equity, fixed income, and commodity derivatives. Instruments to be traded include listed futures, swaps (bilateral OTC and cleared), listed and OTC options.
A successful candidate will have a relentless attention to detail and a desire to develop a deep understanding of a broad set of financial products. You will partner with other internal trading teams, portfolio managers, and external clients to trade and implement a wide range of derivatives strategies. This position calls for a highly organized, conscientious individual with strong analytical, quantitative, and collaborative skills.
***Traditionally, the team starts around 5:30 am to cover US market hours. The trading desk liaises with other international offices and is involved in global trading and portfolio management events, flexibility with working hours is expected. A several months long rotation covering Asia markets will be required (3:00pm - 12:00am). ***
Specific compensation will be based on candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, commercial considerations, and other job-related factors permitted by law. At Russell Investments, salary is just one part of our compensation package. Our total rewards approach includes an annual performance bonus (subject to eligibility criteria) in addition to participation in our competitive benefits programs including healthcare, retirement, vacation, and wellbeing programs.
Associate Trader Salary Range: 90,000 to 120,000
Trader Salary Range: 120,000 to 140,000
Your Core Responsibilities:
  • Trade execution across derivatives products including listed futures - equity index, fixed income, and commodities. Other instruments in scope are listed and bilateral OTC equity index and fixed income options and swaps.
  • Research and advise on a broad range of derivative instruments and implementation strategies to understand liquidity, tracking error, and transaction costs. Work with internal and external stakeholders to provide subject matter expertise on derivative strategies and ad hoc requests.
  • Prepare regular reporting surrounding trading volumes, trade cost analysis, market color, and performance related reporting.
  • Assist the trading, operations, and technology teams with feedback for process improvements.

Your Expertise:
  • Bachelor's degree in finance or a related area.
  • 1-5 years of experience with derivatives trading, operations, or portfolio management. Experience with Fixed Income and/or options is a plus, but not a requirement.
  • CFA and/or CAIA designation or progress toward designation is a plus.
  • Detailed-oriented, intellectually curious, and excellent communication skills.
  • Driven self-starter looking to take on new responsibilities in a challenging environment.
  • Highly proficient with Excel is preferred.
  • Experience with Bloomberg is a plus.

This role is not eligible for employment-based immigration sponsorship. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship, now or in the future.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Russell Investments is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all associates and employment applicants regardless of race, religion, ancestry, creed, color, gender (including gender identity which refers to a person's actual or perceived sex, and includes self-image, appearance, behavior or expression, whether or not different from that traditionally associated with a person's biological sex), age, national origin, citizenship status, disability, medical condition, military status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, past or present unemployment status , or any other characteristic protected by law.

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