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Equity Options Trader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Old Mission

Systematic Equity Options Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$170K - $250K/yr

This Equity Options trader will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing systematic trading strategies across equity options markets. This Equity Options Trader will work closely ...

Old Mission

Systematic Equity Options Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$170K - $250K/yr

This Equity Options trader will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing systematic trading strategies across equity options markets. This Equity Options Trader will work closely ...

IMC

Senior Equity Options Volatility Trader

Chicago, IL · On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

Experienced equity options trader with at least 2 years' experience * Entrepreneurial mindset with a healthy risk appetite, are competitive by nature, and are a fast decision maker * Ability to ...

Fionics

Desk Head - Commodity Options

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

The team includes top talent, with many ex-Optiver, ex-IMC, and ex-Citadel traders and quants. Overview : Exciting opportunity to build a Commodity Options Desk within a highly successful Equity ...

Optiver

US Options Sales Trader

New York, NY · On-site

Our Institutional Trading teams play a key role in this mission, partnering with over 600 ... Deep understanding of the equity options market and key participants across exchanges. * Leverage ...

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$50K

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How much do equity options trader jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for equity options trader in the United States is $105,750.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Equity Options Trader, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Equity Options Trader, you need a strong understanding of financial markets, derivatives pricing, and risk management, typically supported by a degree in finance, mathematics, or economics. Proficiency in trading platforms, data analysis tools like Bloomberg or Excel, and knowledge of regulatory requirements are essential. Strong analytical thinking, decisiveness under pressure, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure accurate trade execution, risk mitigation, and the ability to capitalize on market opportunities in a dynamic environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Equity Options Traders in a fast-paced trading environment?

Equity Options Traders often face challenges such as managing risk in volatile markets, making quick decisions under pressure, and staying updated with rapidly changing market news and regulations. Balancing multiple positions and strategies simultaneously requires strong analytical skills and a high level of attention to detail. Additionally, effective communication with other team members, including risk managers and analysts, is crucial for coordinating strategies and ensuring compliance with trading limits.

What are Equity Options Traders?

Equity Options Traders are financial professionals who buy and sell options contracts on stocks (equities) in financial markets. They analyze market trends, assess risk, and develop trading strategies to profit from price movements in the underlying stocks. These traders may work independently or for financial institutions, and their work often involves quick decision-making, risk management, and staying updated on market news that can impact stock prices and volatility.

How much does an options trader make?

Options traders' earnings vary widely based on experience, skill, and trading success. Entry-level traders may earn around $50,000 to $100,000 annually, while experienced professionals or those working at hedge funds can make several hundred thousand dollars or more per year, often supplemented by bonuses and commissions. Success in this role requires strong analytical skills and knowledge of trading platforms and market strategies.

What is the difference between Equity Options Trader vs Equity Trader?

AspectEquity Options TraderEquity Trader
CredentialsFinance degree, options trading certifications (e.g., Series 7, 63)Finance degree, Series 7, 63
Work EnvironmentTrading desks, financial firms, hedge fundsTrading floors, investment banks, asset management firms
Primary FocusTrading equity options contracts, managing options strategiesTrading stocks and equity securities
Industry UsageInvestment banks, hedge funds, proprietary trading firmsBrokerages, asset managers, investment firms

While both roles involve trading equities, Equity Options Traders specialize in options contracts, requiring specific options trading certifications and strategies. Equity Traders focus on buying and selling stocks directly. The roles often overlap in work environment and credentials but differ in the financial instruments traded and strategic complexity.

More about Equity Options Trader jobs
What cities are hiring for Equity Options Trader jobs? Cities with the most Equity Options Trader job openings:
What states have the most Equity Options Trader jobs? States with the most job openings for Equity Options Trader jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Equity Options Trader jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Equity Options Trader jobs are:
Equity Options Trader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Equity Options Trader job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 32% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 84% Physical, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,750 per year, or $50.8 per hour.
Systematic Equity Options Trader

Systematic Equity Options Trader

Old Mission

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

$170K - $250K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Old Mission is seeking a Systematic Equity Options Trader to join our growing options trading desk in our Chicago HQ. This Equity Options trader will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing systematic trading strategies across equity options markets. This Equity Options Trader will work closely with our quantitative research and technology teams to develop systematic approaches that capitalize on market inefficiencies while effectively managing risk.

Responsibilities

  • Design and implement systematic trading strategies for equity options, including single-name options, index options, and volatility products
  • Build and maintain quantitative models for options pricing, volatility forecasting, and risk management
  • Monitor and optimize existing strategies, identifying opportunities for enhancement and improvement
  • Collaborate with quantitative researchers to translate research insights into production trading strategies
  • Manage portfolio risk through systematic hedging and position management
  • Analyze market microstructure and develop strategies to optimize execution quality
  • Work with technology teams to build robust, scalable trading infrastructure
  • Conduct post-trade analysis to evaluate strategy performance and identify areas for improvement

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, or related quantitative field; advanced degree preferred
  • 4+ years of experience in systematic options trading, quantitative trading, or quantitative research
  • Strong understanding of options pricing theory, Greeks, and volatility dynamics
  • Proficiency in Python or C++ is a prerequisite
  • Experience with statistical analysis, machine learning, and quantitative modeling techniques
  • Must have a strong understanding of the market microstructure and execution algorithms
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience trading equity options or volatility products systematically
  • Knowledge of order book dynamics and high-frequency trading concepts
  • Familiarity with real-time data processing and low-latency systems
  • Track record of developing profitable quantitative trading strategies

Base Salary Range 

$170,000 - $250,000 - Salaries are based on numerous factors such as skills, experience, and education. Our compensation package also includes a discretionary bonus and a comprehensive benefits program for full-time employees. For more information, reach out to your recruiter. 

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