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Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Design refrigeration circuits, control algorithms, refrigerant selections, and system components ... trade studies, tolerance analysis, and FMEA. Ability to define test plans, lead test execution ...

Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$39.5K

$78.7K

$109.3K

How much do freelance algorithmic trading programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance algorithmic trading programmer in Des Moines, IA is $78,722.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance algorithmic trading programmer?

A Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer is a professional who designs, develops, and implements trading algorithms for financial markets on a contract or project basis. They use programming languages like Python, C++, or Java to create automated systems that can execute trades based on predefined strategies without human intervention. These programmers often collaborate with traders, investment firms, or hedge funds to build, backtest, and optimize trading algorithms that aim to maximize profits and minimize risks. Working independently, they may also advise clients on best practices, maintain trading infrastructure, and ensure compliance with relevant financial regulations.

What are some typical challenges freelance algorithmic trading programmers face when working with clients?

Freelance algorithmic trading programmers often encounter challenges such as aligning with clients' diverse strategies, accommodating rapid changes in trading requirements, and ensuring robust backtesting for different market conditions. Effective communication is key, as clients may have varying levels of technical understanding and expectations regarding performance and risk management. Additionally, freelancers must stay updated on compliance standards and platform-specific APIs, which can differ significantly between projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance algorithmic trading programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer, you need strong programming skills (often in Python, C++, or Java), a solid understanding of financial markets, and experience with quantitative analysis. Familiarity with trading platforms (like MetaTrader, NinjaTrader, or Interactive Brokers API), backtesting frameworks, and relevant certifications such as CFA or CQF can be highly valuable. Outstanding problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients set top performers apart. These skills are crucial for building reliable, profitable trading algorithms and translating complex financial requirements into robust, real-world solutions.

What is the difference between Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer vs Quantitative Analyst?

AspectFreelance Algorithmic Trading ProgrammerQuantitative Analyst
CredentialsProgramming skills, trading platform knowledge, sometimes certifications like CQFAdvanced degrees in finance, mathematics, or statistics, certifications like CFA or FRM
Work EnvironmentIndependent, remote, project-basedIn-house or consulting, often office-based
Industry UsageDevelops trading algorithms for clients or personal tradingAnalyzes financial data to inform trading strategies and risk management

While both roles involve quantitative skills and financial markets, Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmers focus on coding and developing trading algorithms independently, whereas Quantitative Analysts analyze data to support trading decisions within organizations.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Algorithmic Trading Programmer job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,722 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Engineer II-Refrigeration

The Wittern Group

Clive, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Design, develop, and test insulation, heating, and refrigeration system architecture for vending equipment.

Perform thermal cabinet analysis and sealed-system performance analysis to support product development and design decisions.

Design refrigeration circuits, control algorithms, refrigerant selections, and system components for new and existing products.

Develop refrigeration systems that meet DOE, NAMA, product performance, reliability, cost, and manufacturing requirements.

Troubleshoot and validate refrigeration system performance during prototype builds, pilot builds, and production transitions.

Support resolution of field and production refrigeration issues in coordination with manufacturing, quality, engineering, and the Vendnet service organization.

Support refrigeration design activities for new product development and continuous improvement projects.

Evaluate refrigeration design changes and recommend improvements to performance, efficiency, reliability, manufacturability, and serviceability.

Support refrigeration test chambers, data acquisition systems, instrumentation, and test equipment used for development and validation activities.

Develop and execute verification and validation test plans for refrigeration development, validation, DOE/NAMA performance requirements, and product approval.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Demonstrated ability to design, analyze, and implement modules, subsystems, or functional elements with increasing ownership from requirements through design, verification, release, and support.

Strong engineering analysis skills, including thermal analysis, electrical troubleshooting, system modeling, trade studies, tolerance analysis, and FMEA.

Ability to define test plans, lead test execution, analyze results, and drive corrective actions.

Ability to create clear engineering documentation, including specifications, drawings, test protocols, validation reports, and technical recommendations.

Ability to conduct design reviews and mentor engineering staff on technical challenges, best practices, and refrigeration system knowledge.

Ability to work effectively with manufacturing, test, quality, procurement, production, and service teams to support manufacturability, assembly, supply chain alignment, and component selection.

Ability to identify, communicate, and help mitigate technical risks; propose alternatives; and support project planning.

Commitment to improving engineering processes, tools, methods, and standards.

Ability to guide interns, co-ops, and junior engineers as needed.

Skilled in Solidworks and Infor or similar packages required. FEA and simulated design experience a plus.

Benefits Include:
401k with Company Match
Medical
Dental
Vision
Disability
Life Insurance
PTO