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Derivative Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Global Trading Lead, Derivatives

Houston, TX · On-site

$299K - $366K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Proven track record of strong derivative trading results What Makes You Stand Out - Preferred * Prior experience as a People Leader * Expertise in quantitative analysis * Experience with option ...

Global Trading Lead, Derivatives

Houston, TX · On-site

$299K - $366K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Proven track record of strong derivative trading results What Makes You Stand Out - Preferred * Prior experience as a People Leader * Expertise in quantitative analysis * Experience with option ...

VAR concepts, and derivatives market mechanics. * Ability to perform in a fastpaced, dynamic market environment. * Functional Skills Energy Commodity & Derivative Trading Negotiation Opportunity ...

Junior Derivatives Trader

Chicago, IL

$140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

At Valkyrie, Derivatives Traders are responsible for operating our proprietary trading system and being fully responsible for day-to-day PnL and risk. You're directly facing the market every day and ...

VAR concepts, and derivatives market mechanics. * Ability to perform in a fast‑paced, dynamic market environment. * Functional Skills Energy Commodity & Derivative Trading Negotiation Opportunity ...

VAR concepts, and derivatives market mechanics. * Ability to perform in a fast-paced, dynamic market environment. Functional Skills Energy Commodity & Derivative Trading Negotiation Opportunity ...

Junior Derivatives Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

At Valkyrie, Derivatives Traders are responsible for operating our proprietary trading system and being fully responsible for day-to-day PnL and risk. You're directly facing the market every day and ...

The ideal candidate will possess a solid understanding of options and other financial derivatives and be knowledgeable about options pricing, greeks and gamma hedging. While OTC trading experience is ...

The ideal candidate will possess a solid understanding of options and other financial derivatives and be knowledgeable about options pricing, greeks and gamma hedging. While OTC trading experience is ...

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Derivative Trader information

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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.
More about Derivative Trader jobs

What cities are hiring for Derivative Trader jobs?

Cities with the most Derivative Trader job openings:

What states have the most Derivative Trader jobs?

States with the most job openings for Derivative Trader jobs include:

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.

Director, Sr. Derivatives Analyst & Trader - Hybrid

Symetra

Farmington, CT • On-site

$194K - $262K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 25 days ago


Symetra rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

108th of 309 rated insurance


Job description

Symetra has an exciting opportunity to join our team as a Director, Sr. Derivatives Analyst & Trader!
About the Role
The successful candidate will have detailed derivatives execution expertise with responsibilities across various trading, analytical, and quantitative analysis functions within the derivatives front office of the investment management department. This includes the identification, execution and daily management of derivative trades in accordance with approved programs, analytical work on the underlying portfolio of assets as well as liabilities, ad-hoc and daily risk and P/L attribution, and coding in support of trading/risk analysis, trading tools/utilities development, process automation and reporting. The role demands a pragmatic, hands-on contributor who is comfortable working through operational details while keeping broader objectives in mind.
This is a hybrid work role based in Farmington, Connecticut
Company Overview
Symetra Investment Management ("SIM") is a SEC-registered investment advisory firm with approximately $78 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2025. Symetra Financial Corporation ("SFC"), a diversified financial services company with $68.4 billion in assets as of December 31, 2024, headquartered in Bellevue, Washington is the sole shareholder of SIM. SFC is also the holding company of Symetra Life Insurance Company ("Symetra Life"), which was founded in 1957, and has insurer financial strength ratings of 'A' by A.M. Best and Standard & Poor's and 'A1' by Moody's. Symetra Life is among the top 40 largest life insurance companies in the United States (based on statutory admitted assets as of December 31, 2024) and has approximately 2.3 million customers and over 2,600 employees nationwide. SFC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Life Insurance Company, a mutual life insurance company with head offices in Osaka and Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 1907, Sumitomo is one of the largest life insurance companies in Japan with $327 billion of assets as of March 31, 2025. SIM currently has recently begun marketing its investment management services to third-party institutional investors.
What you will do
  • Execution of derivative trades in accordance with the Company's approved derivatives programs. Execution in both cleared and bilateral derivatives markets using both exchange-listed and over-the-counter instruments with expert knowledge of the economics, risks, and market conventions of such derivatives. Positions will be taken in equity, rates, credit, commodity, and FX derivatives. Review and execution of trade confirmations and interfacing with the Operations team on all aspects of the trade lifecycle, including collateral management, trade booking, reconciliation, and settlements. Expertise on liability processes and coordination with insurance company stakeholders on resolving liability-related data issues and new product onboarding into trading and reporting systems.

  • Analytical work on derivative assets and insurance liabilities in support of the management of the derivatives portfolio, including derivatives pricing, modeling prototypes, comprehensive analysis of Greeks/risk exposures, analysis of new insurance product features, coordination with insurance lines of business, and various investment sector desks by providing accurate and timely responses to their queries. Coding in Python, VBA Macros, SQL and financial and statistical software packages in support of trading/risk/P&L analysis, trading tool/utility development and process automation

  • Reporting: Responsible for regular and on-demand reporting, including providing comprehensive and insightful commentary and actionable recommendations. Using reporting as a feedback tool to inform hedge execution. Hands-on experience with PowerBI to modernize reporting. Develop processes, systems and tools to support P/L reporting and attribution, risk reporting, scenario analysis, and transaction cost analysis. This work will include writing and maintaining SQL queries, building database and reporting functionality, market and trade data retrieval, and other elements common to the functionality and maintenance of derivatives analytic systems.

What we offer you
We don't take a "one-size-fits-all" approach when it comes to our employees. Our programs are designed to make your life better both at work and at home.
  • Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan and take advantage of immediate vesting and company matching up to 6%
  • Self-Managed Time Away along with paid holidays
  • Give back to your community and double your impact through our company matching
  • Want more details? Check out Symetra Benefits Overview

Compensation
Salary Range: Min $194,000 - Max $262,000 plus eligibility for annual bonus program and long-term incentives.
Who you are
  • Highly quantitative educational credentials in a quantitative discipline such as computer science, mathematics, engineering, or operations research.
  • 8+ years of experience in a hands-on derivatives trading and analysis role focused directly on hedging and/or the derivatives markets in an insurance company or asset management firm.
  • Ability to handle trade requests from multiple sources simultaneously and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Well organized, independent, entrepreneurial and self-motivated with the ability to maintain composure while working under pressure.
  • A roll-up the sleeves, "get it done" work ethic that supports the completion of tasks within specified timeframes, understanding that the work requirements of the position will sometimes embed inflexible deadlines.
  • Accurate, best practice trade execution with attention to detail and the ability to efficiently balance both project work and trading responsibilities.
  • Advanced spreadsheet and coding skills, including an emphasis on efficient automation and day-to-day maintenance of quantitative desktop trading and portfolio management tools in an independent manner.
  • Must have a sound understanding of derivatives-oriented technology platforms. A demonstrable understanding of derivatives pricing and hedging, including risk-neutral valuation and option pricing techniques.
  • Direct familiarity with index-linked insurance products, including indexed and/or variable annuity hedging programs, knowledge of equity index options, knowledge of NumeriX, knowledge of derivative collateralization regimes and requirements is preferred.

We empower inclusion
At Symetra, we aspire to be the most inclusive insurance company in the country. We're building a place where every employee feels valued, respected, and has opportunities to contribute.
Inclusion is about recognizing our assumptions, considering multiple perspective, and removing barriers. We accept and celebrate diverse experiences, identities, and perspectives, because lifting each other up fuels thought and builds a stronger, more innovative company. We invite you to learn more about our efforts here.
Creating a world where more people have access to financial freedom
Symetra is a national financial services company dedicated to helping people achieve their financial goals and feel confident about the future. In our daily work, we're guided by the principles of Value, Transparency and Sustainability. This means we provide products and services people need at a competitive price, we communicate clearly and openly so people understand what they're buying, and we design products--and operate our company--to stand the test of time. We're committed to showing up for our communities, lifting up our employees, and standing up for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Join our team and help us create a world where more people have access to financial freedom.
For more information about our careers visit: https://symetra.eightfold.ai/careers
Work Authorization
Employer work visa sponsorship and support are not provided for this role. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States at hire and must maintain authorization to work in the United States throughout their employment with our company.
Please review Symetra's Remote Network Minimum Requirements:
As a remote-first organization committed to providing a positive experience for both employees and customers, Symetra has the following standards for employees' internet connection:
  • Minimum Internet Speed:100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload, in alignment with the FCC's definition of "broadband."
  • Internet Type:Fiber, Cable (e.g., Comcast, Spectrum), or DSL.
  • Not Permissible:Satellite (e.g., Starlink), cellular broadband (hotspot or otherwise), any other wireless technology, or wired dial-up.

When applying to jobs at Symetra you'll be asked to test your internet speed and confirm that your internet connection meets or exceeds Symetra's standard as outlined above.
Identity Verification
Symetra is committed to fair and secure hiring practices. For all roles, candidates will be required (after the initial phone screen) to be on video for all interviews. Symetra will take affirmative steps at key points in the process to verify that a candidate is not seeking employment fraudulently, e.g. through use of a false identity.
Failure to comply with verification procedures may result in:
  • Disqualification from the recruitment process
  • Withdrawal of a job offer
  • Termination of employment and other criminal and/or civil remedies, if fraud is discovered

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