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Desk Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Trader is to implement PanAgora's investment decisions ... The desk is responsible for executing orders across products; Equity, Foreign Exchange, Synthetic ...

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... Trader is to implement PanAgora's investment decisions ... The desk is responsible for executing orders across products; Equity, Foreign Exchange, Synthetic ...

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The Trading Strategy Desk team engages clients in deep trading strategy discussions that combine the principles of fundamental and technical analysis, position management, and ...

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Desk Trader information

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$39.5K

$96.8K

$269.5K

How much do desk trader jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for desk trader in the United States is $96,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $105,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a desk trader?

A Desk Trader is a financial professional who buys and sells securities, such as stocks, bonds, or derivatives, on behalf of clients or their firm, typically from a trading desk within an investment bank, brokerage, or financial institution. Desk Traders monitor market conditions, execute trades, and manage risk in real-time to maximize profits or minimize losses. They often specialize in a specific asset class and work closely with other traders, analysts, and sales staff to achieve their trading objectives.

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

To thrive as a Desk Trader, you need a strong understanding of financial markets, quantitative analysis, and an educational background in finance, economics, or a related field. Proficiency with trading platforms, Bloomberg Terminal, and risk management systems, as well as relevant certifications like FINRA licenses, is typically required. Exceptional decision-making, stress management, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this fast-paced environment. These skills ensure effective trade execution, risk mitigation, and optimal client outcomes in a competitive financial landscape.

How does a desk trader typically collaborate with other teams within a financial institution?

Desk Traders frequently work closely with sales teams, research analysts, and risk management departments to ensure effective trading strategies and client satisfaction. Collaboration with sales enables traders to understand client needs and execute orders efficiently, while coordination with risk management ensures adherence to regulatory and internal risk limits. Additionally, Desk Traders may interact with IT and operations teams to troubleshoot trading platforms and optimize workflow, fostering a dynamic and interconnected work environment.

What is the difference between Desk Trader vs Floor Trader?

AspectDesk TraderFloor Trader
CredentialsTypically requires a finance degree, licensing (e.g., Series 7, 63), and industry experienceOften has similar licensing, with experience on trading floors or in fast-paced environments
Work EnvironmentOffice-based, trading desks with computers and analytical toolsTrading floors with direct interaction, open outcry, and live market activity
Industry UsageCommon in investment banks, hedge funds, and proprietary trading firmsPrimarily used in traditional stock exchanges and commodities markets

While both Desk Traders and Floor Traders execute trades and require similar credentials, Desk Traders typically work in office settings using advanced technology, whereas Floor Traders operate on trading floors with direct market interaction. The choice depends on the work environment preference and specific market focus.

How much does a desk trader get paid?

A desk trader's salary varies based on experience, location, and performance, but typically ranges from $70,000 to over $200,000 annually, including bonuses. Compensation often depends on trading success and the firm's pay structure, which may include base salary, commissions, and performance incentives.

How to get a job on a trading desk?

To get a job on a trading desk, candidates typically need a strong educational background in finance, economics, or related fields, along with relevant internships or experience in trading or financial analysis. Developing skills in financial modeling, understanding market dynamics, and proficiency with trading platforms and tools are also important. Certifications like the CFA can enhance prospects, and networking within the industry can help access opportunities.

What does a desk trader do?

A desk trader is responsible for buying and selling financial securities on behalf of a firm or clients, often working in a trading room environment. They analyze market data, execute trades using trading platforms, and monitor positions to manage risk and maximize profits. Strong analytical skills, knowledge of financial markets, and proficiency with trading tools are essential for this role.
More about Desk Trader jobs

What cities are hiring for Desk Trader jobs?

Cities with the most Desk Trader job openings:

Who are the top companies hiring for Desk Trader jobs?

The top employers for Desk Trader jobs are:

What states have the most Desk Trader jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Desk Trader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,774 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Trade Support | Execution Desk

Susquehanna International Group, LLP

Philadelphia, PA โ€ข On-site

Per diem

Re-posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the trading of Equity Options by executing orders and blotting trades.

  • Compile, reconcile, and maintain data related to electronic and voice trades, positions, and P&L.

  • Act as a liaison between desk traders, dealers, brokers, and other internal teams to ensure seamless communication and trade flow.


Job description

Overview
Our product expertise in equities, fixed income, commodities, related derivatives products, and exchange traded funds (ETF) has helped to make us a market leader. The innovative and energetic operations team that we have in place keeps us there. The Trade Support role for our Execution Desk is designed to provide hands on exposure to the fast paced, dynamic environment of front office trading.
As a key member of the desk, you will work directly with traders and sales traders, supporting daily trading functions and ensuring seamless communication between internal teams, external dealers, exchanges, and clearing firms. This role offers a unique opportunity to learn how markets operate from those actively trading them, while playing a critical part in maintaining accurate positions, profit and loss reporting, and efficient trade flow.
In this role, you will:
  • Support the trading of Equity Options
  • Compile/reconcile data from electronic trades abd voice trades
  • Blotter equity options trades
  • Resolve erroneous and broken trades
  • Assist with maintaining position, P&L and information exchange
  • Act as liaison between desk traders and other dealers, traders or brokers
  • Execute orders per the request of traders

What we're looking for
  • Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a support capacity, ideally on a trading desk or exchange floor preferred
  • Possession of both SIE and Series 57 licenses required; candidates with at least one license and the willingness to obtain the other within 4 months of hire will also be considered
  • Strong proficiency in Excel required; experience with VBA and/or Python preferred
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, critical
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, meet deadlines, and perform well under pressure
  • High School Diploma, or equivalent, required
  • Visa sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position now or in the future

About Susquehanna
Susquehanna is a global quantitative trading firm powered by scientific rigor, curiosity, and innovation. Our culture is intellectually driven and highly collaborative, bringing together researchers, engineers, and traders to design and deploy impactful strategies in our systematic trading environment. To meet the unique challenges of global markets, Susquehanna applies machine learning and advanced quantitative research to vast datasets in order to uncover actionable insights and build effective strategies. By uniting deep market expertise with cutting-edge technology, we excel in solving complex problems and pushing boundaries together.
If you're a recruiting agency and want to partner with us, please reach out to recruiting@sig.com. Any resume or referral submitted in the absence of a signed agreement will not be eligible for an agency fee.
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