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Discretionary Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Simplex Trading

Volatility Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

People, Process, Trading Edge, and Technology. Simplex is an in-office organization, helping to ... You will manage discretionary positions and work closely with our existing market making team to ...

AQR

Research Analyst - Discretionary Macro

Greenwich, CT · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

The team performs qualitative analysis of macroeconomic fundamentals impacting a broad range of asset classes to implement discretionary trades, model and manage event risk, and identify potential ...

Simplex Trading

Algorithmic Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

This role is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, of which can be a significant portion ... Algorithmic Trader pay range $150,000-$200,000 USD Why us? Founded in Chicago in 2004, Simplex is a ...

Old Mission

Quantitative Trader

New York, NY · On-site

$170K - $225K/yr

Old Mission is a global proprietary trading firm that leverages state-of-the-art technology and ... Competitive salary with discretionary annual bonus * Fully paid private medical, dental, vision ...

Old Mission

Quantitative Trader (ETF)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Old Mission is seeking an International ETF Trader to join our growing team in our Chicago ... Our compensation package also includes a discretionary bonus and a comprehensive benefits program ...

Gelber Group

Experienced Energy Trader

White Plains, NY · On-site +1

$72K - $120K/yr

As an Experienced Discretionary Energy Trader, you will have a real opportunity to have a huge impact on the firm. You will work side by side with other successful and talented individuals to ...

PEAK6 Capital Management

Trader

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$55K - $100K/yr

WHO WE ARE Headquartered in the historic Chicago Board of Trade, PEAK6 Capital Management is a ... This position also may be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in addition to a range of ...

New

Gelber Group

Experienced Energy Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$72K - $120K/yr

As an Experienced Discretionary Energy Trader, you will have a real opportunity to have a huge impact on the firm. You will work side by side with other successful and talented individuals to ...

Anson McCade

Index Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$200,000 USD Discretionary Bonus Onsite WORKING Location: Chicago, Illinois - United States Type: Permanent Our client is a proprietary trading firm specializing in electronic options market making.

Maven

Junior Floor Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

Maven is a market-leading proprietary trading firm allocating internal capital across discretionary, systematic, and market-making strategies. Our collective expertise spans traders, engineers, and ...

PEAK6 Capital Management

Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $100K/yr

WHO WE ARE Headquartered in the historic Chicago Board of Trade, PEAK6 Capital Management is a ... This position also may be eligible for a discretionary annual bonus in addition to a range of ...

Maven - Emerging Talent

Junior Floor Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

Maven is a market-leading proprietary trading firm allocating internal capital across discretionary, systematic, and market-making strategies. Our collective expertise spans traders, engineers, and ...

Maven

Junior Floor Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

Maven is a market-leading proprietary trading firm allocating internal capital across discretionary, systematic, and market-making strategies. Our collective expertise spans traders, engineers, and ...

XR Trading LLC

EXPERIENCED TRADER

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $185K/yr

Job Type Full-time Description XR Trading is a proprietary trading firm with employees in the ... This position is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus as additional compensation as well ...

Gelber Group

Experienced Energy Trader

New York, NY · On-site +1

$72K - $120K/yr

As an Experienced Discretionary Energy Trader, you will have a real opportunity to have a huge impact on the firm. You will work side by side with other successful and talented individuals to ...

Gelber Group

Experienced Energy Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$72K - $120K/yr

As an Experienced Discretionary Energy Trader, you will have a real opportunity to have a huge impact on the firm. You will work side by side with other successful and talented individuals to ...

Gelber Group

Experienced Energy Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$72K - $120K/yr

As an Experienced Discretionary Energy Trader, you will have a real opportunity to have a huge impact on the firm. You will work side by side with other successful and talented individuals to ...

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Discretionary Trader information

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$79K

How much do discretionary trader jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for discretionary trader in the United States is $64,999.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $72,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Discretionary Trader job?

A Discretionary Trader is a financial professional who makes trading decisions based on market analysis, experience, and judgment rather than following automated systems or strict algorithms. They typically use technical and fundamental analysis to identify profitable opportunities while managing risk and capital effectively. Discretionary traders often work for hedge funds, proprietary trading firms, or financial institutions, though some operate independently. Their success depends on their ability to interpret market movements, control emotions, and adapt to changing conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Discretionary Trader position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Discretionary Trader, you need a strong understanding of financial markets, risk management principles, and trading strategies, usually backed by a degree in finance, economics, or a related field. Familiarity with trading platforms, analytical software, charting tools, and sometimes relevant certifications like CFA or Series 7 are valuable. Strong decision-making abilities, resilience under pressure, and disciplined self-motivation distinguish top performers in this role. These qualities are vital for effectively navigating volatile markets and making informed, real-time trading decisions that drive profitability.

What does a typical day look like for a Discretionary Trader?

A typical day for a Discretionary Trader begins with analyzing global market news and economic data to inform potential trade setups. Throughout the trading day, you will monitor multiple financial instruments, execute trades based on your own analysis and strategies, and adjust positions in response to market movements. Collaboration may occur with research analysts or other traders, particularly in larger firms. At the end of the day, reviewing performance, documenting trade rationale, and refining strategies are essential tasks. This dynamic and fast-paced environment requires a high level of focus, adaptability, and the ability to make quick decisions.

More about Discretionary Trader jobs
What cities are hiring for Discretionary Trader jobs? Cities with the most Discretionary Trader job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Discretionary Trader jobs? The most popular types of Discretionary Trader jobs are:
What states have the most Discretionary Trader jobs? States with the most job openings for Discretionary Trader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Discretionary Trader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Discretionary Trader jobs are:
Discretionary Trader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Discretionary Trader job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,999 per year, or $31.2 per hour.
Volatility Trader

Volatility Trader

Simplex Trading

Chicago, IL • On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Our employees are truly our greatest asset. We have spent years building a team of talented, dedicated technologists, data-driven traders, and expert leaders with an emphasis on our core pillars:People, Process, Trading Edge, and Technology. Simplex is an in-office organization, helping to foster a collaborative and communicative culture.
Position Summary
As a Volatility Trader at Simplex, you will take an analytical approach to identifying market opportunities with favorable risk-reward profiles with the goal of generating trade ideas and enhancing our core market making pricing systems. We expect that you have experience thinking about volatility valuation through a variety of lenses, including analysis of implied-vs-realized, term structure and event pricing, skew surface dynamics, and relative value or cross-asset relationships. You will manage discretionary positions and work closely with our existing market making team to create systematic pricing overlays and improve hedging, risk management, and edge capture.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct research to identify market dislocations, mispricings, or other trading opportunities in the volatility space.
  • Monitor and manage live positions with a focus on order flow dynamics and counterparty behavior.
  • Work closely with Simplex's core market making team to develop systematic approaches to volatility valuation or pricing overlays.
  • Continuously improve the firm's toolset for volatility research, risk management, and P&L attribution.
  • Clearly communicate and document research methodology and trading decisions for collaboration and review.
Required Qualifications
  • Minimum 3-5 years of professional experience in a volatility trading/research or portfolio management role.
  • Demonstrated track record of generating and executing profitable trading ideas.
  • Strong practical foundation in options theory and Bayesian statistics/probability.
  • Strong analytical judgment under uncertainty; able to operate decisively under constraints.
  • Precise technical communication skills; able to concisely present conclusions and articulate associated inputs, assumptions, and process.
  • Sufficient technical skills to independently interface with data and prototype research ideas.

Annual base salary ranges from $150,000 to $200,000, and is influenced by a number of factors, including qualifications and experience. This role is also eligible for an annual discretionary bonus, of which can be a significant portion of total compensation. This full time role is also eligible for other forms of compensation and benefits including health/dental/vision insurance, and 401(k) contributions.
Algorithmic Trader pay range
$150,000-$200,000 USD
Why us?
Founded in Chicago in 2004, Simplex is a leading, technology-driven, proprietary market-making firm. We work with the most advanced technology and software in the market, and we've continued to remain at the forefront of the industry by always focusing on innovation, automation, and data-driven analysis. We also leverage our experience and expertise to make strategic investments and capitalize on opportunities in the venture capital markets with promising, early-stage financial and technology start-ups.
PLUS, the goods!
  • Benefits: Excellent a la carte Medical/Dental/Vision (free employee coverage!), 401(k) match, generous parental leave!
  • The Office: The kitchen is stocked with snacks, and beverages; you also have daily stipends for breakfast and lunch!
  • Tuition Reimbursement: As an investment in our employees' careers and the company's future, we offer educational assistance to provide employees with professional development opportunities that increase their skills and enhance their contributions to the organization!
  • Employee Discounts: To gyms, national brands, and more!
  • Building: We are located in the Federal Reserve building. As a tenant, you have access to a building gym and a full cafeteria. We are easily accessible to all public transportation.
  • Charity Match: We match up to $2,000 a year in donations to the charities of your choice!
  • Fun Events: In-person happy hours, celebrations throughout the year, game nights, video game fun, and so much more!

Simplex is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Simplex and its recruitment partners may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support certain aspects of the recruiting and hiring process. Final hiring decisions are made by humans. For all job postings, Simplex may use AI to review and analyze applications, resumes, interviews, and applicant responses. Simplex complies with applicable federal and state laws governing AI use. Applicants may still request reasonable accommodations. For more information related to AI or to request an accommodation, please contact HR@simplextrading.com.

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