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Derivatives Trading Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Axiom Talent Platform

OR · On-site

$309K/yr

Collaborating with trading desks, Front Office, Legal, Compliance, and Credit teams on derivatives transactions and regulatory initiatives . * Managing legal, risk, and compliance issues for clients ...

Axiom Talent Platform

Derivatives Attorney

Houston, TX · On-site

$309K/yr

Collaborating with trading desks, Front Office, Legal, Compliance, and Credit teams on derivatives transactions and regulatory initiatives . * Managing legal, risk, and compliance issues for clients ...

MUFG

Derivatives Middle Office Trade Support

New York, NY · Hybrid

$101K - $122K/yr

The Derivatives Middle Office Trade Support Associate/AVP will be responsible for supporting all ... Monitor and reconcile trading activity, identifying and resolving breaks, mismatches, and ...

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How much do derivatives trading jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for derivatives trading in the United States is $57.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50.24 and $67.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is derivatives trading?

Derivatives trading involves buying and selling financial contracts whose value is derived from underlying assets such as stocks, bonds, commodities, currencies, or market indexes. These contracts, which include options, futures, swaps, and forwards, are often used for hedging risk or for speculation. Traders in this field analyze market trends, assess risk, and execute trades to profit from price movements or to manage exposure to price fluctuations. Derivatives trading can occur on exchanges or over-the-counter (OTC), and it requires a strong understanding of both the markets and the specific instruments involved.

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

To thrive as a Derivatives Trader, you need strong quantitative analysis skills, a solid understanding of financial markets, and typically a degree in finance, mathematics, or a related field. Familiarity with trading platforms, financial modeling software (like Excel or Python), and relevant certifications such as CFA or FRM are often required. Exceptional decision-making, risk management, and stress tolerance distinguish top performers in this fast-paced environment. These skills and qualities are vital for making swift, informed trading decisions and effectively managing financial risk.

What is a derivative trader job?

A derivative trader is responsible for buying and selling financial instruments such as options, futures, and swaps that derive their value from underlying assets. They analyze market data, develop trading strategies, and manage risk using trading platforms and financial models. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of financial markets, and relevant certifications like the Series 7 or CFA are often required.

What is the difference between Derivatives Trading vs Derivatives Analysis?

AspectDerivatives TradingDerivatives Analysis
Required CredentialsFinance degree, certifications like CFA or FRMFinance or quantitative degree, certifications like CFA or FRM
Work EnvironmentFast-paced trading floors, financial institutionsResearch firms, financial institutions, analytical teams
Employer & Industry UsageInvestment banks, hedge funds, trading firmsAsset management firms, research departments, banks
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding trading roles, career pathsAnalyzing derivatives, risk assessment careers

While derivatives traders focus on executing trades and managing portfolios, derivatives analysts concentrate on evaluating derivatives' risks and pricing models. Both roles require strong financial knowledge and certifications but differ in daily tasks and work environment.

How much do derivatives traders make?

Derivatives traders' salaries vary based on experience, location, and performance, but they often earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually. Successful traders with strong analytical skills and risk management expertise can earn significantly higher bonuses and commissions, especially in financial hubs or large firms.

Is derivative trading a good career?

Derivatives trading is a specialized finance career involving the buying and selling of financial contracts based on underlying assets. It requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of financial markets, and often a background in finance or economics. Success in this field can lead to high earning potential but also involves significant risk and stress.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in derivatives trading, and how can they be effectively managed?

Professionals in derivatives trading often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing market conditions, high-pressure decision making, and complex risk management requirements. Staying updated on market trends, implementing robust quantitative models, and collaborating closely with risk management teams are essential strategies for managing these challenges effectively. Additionally, maintaining strong communication with colleagues in sales, research, and compliance helps ensure trades are aligned with both client needs and regulatory standards. Continuous learning and adaptability are key to succeeding and advancing in this dynamic field.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

In derivatives trading, highly experienced professionals such as senior traders, hedge fund managers, or proprietary traders can earn $2,000 or more per day through commissions, bonuses, and profit sharing. These roles typically require advanced financial knowledge, risk management skills, and often involve working in fast-paced trading environments with significant capital at stake.
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Derivatives Trading jobs near you
Derivatives Trader (European Hours)

Derivatives Trader (European Hours)

Valkyrie Trading

Chicago, IL

$150K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

What You'll Do:
 
Derivatives Traders are expected to own, maintain, grow, and be responsible for key revenue streams for one or more products on our trading desks. In this role, you will be responsible for all risk and inventory held by the trading team, and expected to leverage your experience and knowledge in making critical decisions in real-time. You will collaborate with team leads, senior traders, junior traders and risk managers to continually improve Valkyrie's trading systems and operations.  You will look to effectuate systemic improvements to the overall trading strategy to ensure the long-term viability and competitiveness of the strategy. 
What You'll Need:
  • 1 year experience on an trading desk in options market making
  • Availability to work between 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.
  • A strong ability to manage and assess risk in a derivatives portfolio
  • A passion for trading and financial markets
  • A desire to develop and innovate the strategies and models that drive our trading activities
  • A tenacious determination to problem solve
  • Strong math and numerical aptitude
  • Entrepreneurial spirit
  • A keen attention to detail
  • Relentless desire to constantly improve
  • Proactive attitude
  • Quantitative analysis skills are a plus
What You'll Get:
  • Competitive salaries and performance bonuses
  • Top-tier medical and dental coverage
  • Relocation assistance packages
  • Generous vacation policy
  • Training opportunities and continuing education
  • Catered lunch, snacks, and beverages
  • Group outings and company parties
  • Casual dress environment
Salary range
  • $150,000-160,000
  • This position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus.
Our Vision
  • Valkyrie's vision is to be an organization where curious, driven, and innovative people are able to compete and win in the world's most competitive landscape - the financial markets.   Daily competition in the financial markets provides the ideal arena to push ourselves further as we are ever striving to grow, improve, and win.  We recognize that there are extraordinary opportunities to be had every day, and by exploring, collaborating, and building, we can accomplish remarkable results together.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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